AHL implementing mandatory neck protection

The AHL board of governors unanimously approved mandatory cut-resistant neck protection for the 2024-25 season, the league announced Friday.

All skaters, referees, and linespersons will be required to wear approved protection regardless of experience level. Cut-resistant socks and wrist sleeves were mandated for players and officials last season.

Adam Johnson, a former AHL and NHL player, died last year after his neck was cut by a skate during a game in England. Several leagues around the world implemented mandatory neck protection in the aftermath, and a handful of NHLers began to wear neckguards.

However, 78% of 181 NHL players polled by The Athletic in January voted against implementing neck protection at the highest level.