The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has mandated neck guards for all players beginning the 2026 season, following a growing trend in hockey safety. The rule change comes after American player Adam Johnson died from a skate cut during a game in England in 2023. Goaltenders and skaters must wear neck protection meeting specific cut-resistance standards.
The announcement, made executive vice president of hockey operations Jayna Hefford, emphasizes that player safety and innovation have been central to the league since its inception. In addition to the neck guard requirement, the PWHL is implementing other rule updates for the new season. High-sticking the puck is now permitted without stopping play, and teams will be experimented with the option to choose between a penalty shot or a power play in overtime during exhibition games.
This safety movement extends beyond the PWHL, as the NHL, American Hockey League, ECHL, and International Ice Hockey Federation have all mandated neck guards for players. The league aims to balance competitive play with enhanced player protection as it enters its fourth season.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing