TJ Oshie, a winger with the NHL’s Washington Capitals and co-founder of a hockey apparel company, reflected on Adam Johnson’s final moments on the ice, stirring a cascade of emotions within him. The tragic incident urged Oshie to ponder his approach to safety while competing in the sport.
“I’ve often felt invincible on the ice,” the 36-year-old told CNN Sport. “I tend to dive in headfirst, dealing with injuries later.”
Following Johnson’s untimely demise due to a “freak accident,” Oshie made a significant decision. In a match against the New York Islanders on November 2, he chose to don an undershirt developed by his company, equipped with a protective guard around the neck.
The incident sparked conversations within the hockey community about neck guards, especially considering Johnson’s fatal accident in the UK.
A Sheffield coroner’s report revealed that Johnson suffered a neck wound caused by another player’s skate during a game between the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers. Reflecting on Johnson’s fate, Oshie emphasized thoughts about his family’s future and decided to prioritize his safety on the ice.
Several of Oshie’s Capitals teammates also adopted cut-resistant neck guards in recent weeks, while some organizations mandated neck protection. The English Ice Hockey Association announced mandatory neck guard usage starting next year, and the Pittsburgh Penguins, Johnson’s former NHL team, mandated neck guards for their minor league players.
The Sheffield coroner expressed concern about potential future deaths if neck guards aren’t worn, highlighting an upcoming inquest to determine the preventive role of neck protection in Johnson’s case.
In the NHL, wearing neck guards remains uncommon, often associated with hockey’s perceived toughness, where players may view protective gear as a sign of vulnerability rather than essential safety equipment.
This tragedy has amplified calls for widespread neck guard adoption, prompting brands like Warroad, co-founded by Oshie, to witness soaring demand for their protective gear. The company’s guards, equipped with Kevlar and steel components, guarantee efficient coverage and stiffness around the neck area.
Bauer Hockey also noted a surge in neck guard demand post-Johnson’s incident, emphasizing the importance of developing comfortable yet lifesaving protective gear.
The sport faces a critical juncture in safety evaluation, with advocates like Dr. Mike Stuart advocating for improved neck guard quality to ensure comprehensive coverage and comfort.
While mandates akin to helmet requirements have potential, Stuart remains optimistic that education and evolving attitudes toward safety will lead to broader acceptance and use of protective equipment like neck guards. Younger generations in the sport seem more adaptable and open to safety adaptations than their predecessors, potentially influencing a shift in attitudes toward protective gear.
