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USA Hockey, which oversees hundreds of youth hockey leagues across the country, will require neck protectors for all of its players starting in August.
The decision, which was announced Monday, comes after the death of Adam Johnson.
Johnson, a Minnesota native, died after an on-ice collision during a hockey game in Sheffield, England in late October. Johnson was cut by a skate blade on his neck and later died from his injuries.
Minnesota Hockey is the governing body of youth and amateur hockey in Minnesota. It is an affiliate of USA Hockey and adheres to its rules. In a statement, Minnesota Hockey said the new rule will apply to all 13 hockey districts and more than 130 member associations.
In a statement, the Minnesota State High School League said it abides by the rules set by the National Federation of State High School Associations. The MSHSL said they strongly recommend the use of neck protection in high school hockey.
The ice hockey rules committee for the National Federation of State High School Associations will meet in April.
Read the full story by Peter Cox at mprnews.org.