Neck Laceration Protection - Mandatory

The USA Hockey Congress today approved legislation requiring the use of neck laceration protection for players in all age classifications, other than adults, in games and practices, as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18, effective August 1, 2024. For clarity, the requirement includes players in the youth, girls and junior age classifications.

USA Hockey has long recommended the use of neck laceration protection, as well as cut-resistant socks, sleeves or undergarments. The USA Hockey Board of Directors asked the organization’s Safety and Protective Equipment Committee in November 2023 to begin the process of recommending potential rule changes related to neck laceration protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

The USA Hockey Congress approved legislation at its Winter Meeting on Jan. 28, 2024, that will require use of neck laceration protection (sometimes referred to as neck guards) for players in all age classifications, other than adults, in games and practices -- as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18 -- beginning August 1, 2024. For clarity, this includes youth, girls and junior age classifications.USA Hockey continues to strongly recommend the use of neck laceration protectors for adult players. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions.

When does the requirement for neck laceration protection go into effect?

USA Hockey will require the use of neck laceration protection on August 1, 2024, for players in all age classifications, except adults, in games and practices – as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18.

What age levels is the requirement for?

Neck laceration protectors are required for players in all age classifications except adults. For clarity, this includes youth, girls and junior age classifications. Please see page 14 of the 2023-24 USA Hockey Annual Guide for the birth years associated with each age classification for the 2023-24 season. The requirement also includes on-ice officials under the age of 18.

Are neck guards required for players competing in USA Hockey’s six disabled hockey disciplines?

Neck laceration protectors are required for all six disabled hockey disciplines.

Where is the best place for me to buy a neck laceration protector?

Pure Hockey is USA Hockey’s exclusive hockey equipment retailer and is a good source for neck laceration protectors. Neck laceration protectors can also be found at other hockey retailers throughout the U.S.