PWHL mandates neck guards for all players this season

The Premier Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has announced that all players will be required to wear neck guards starting this season. This decision comes in response to growing concerns for player safety, particularly following the tragic incident involving Adam Johnson, who died from a skate cut during a game in England in 2023. The league made the announcement just a month before the start of its fourth season.

The new rule specifies that both goaltenders and skaters must wear neck protection that meets certain cut resistance standards. In addition to this safety measure, the league has introduced other rule changes, including allowing high-sticking the puck without a stoppage in play. The PWHL is also testing a new overtime format during exhibition games, where teams can choose between a penalty shot or a power play. This move aligns with similar safety initiatives in other leagues, such as the NHL and the American Hockey League, which have also mandated neck guards for players.