Spain’s Ice Hockey Federation Prioritizes Player Safety with New Neck Protection Mandate
The royal Spanish Ice Sports Federation (RFEDH) is taking significant steps to enhance player safety in ice hockey.A new partnership with Shock Doctor and Iberdrola ensures all players in national leagues and teams receive state-of-the-art neck protection. This initiative aligns with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF)’s updated regulations on mandatory neck protection.
The collaboration provides approximately 1,500 neck protectors across all domestic leagues, including LNHH Lotteries, Iberdrola Liga, LNHH U20, U18, and U15, along with the five national teams participating in international competitions. This proactive move underscores RFEDH’s commitment to athlete well-being.
Neck Protection Now Mandatory in Spanish Ice Hockey
the RFEDH’s decision to implement mandatory neck protection follows the IIHF’s mandate issued on December 4,2023. The mandate requires neck protection in all IIHF competitions for the U20 and U18 categories,starting with the 2024-25 season. Spain is expanding that protection to all levels.
The chosen neck protector, the Hockey Ultra 2.0 by Shock Doctor, features an anatomical design for comfort and aramide fiber for cut resistance. This ensures both high safety standards and player comfort.
Pro Tip: When choosing a neck protector, ensure it fits snugly but allows a full range of motion. A properly fitted protector maximizes safety and comfort.
Statements from key Stakeholders
Frank González, president of the RFEDH, expressed gratitude to Shock Doctor and Iberdrola. He emphasized the project’s importance in reinforcing player safety and complying with international regulations.González stated this reflects a commitment to a safer,modern,and responsible ice hockey environment.
Chris lord, Shock International Brand Manager, highlighted the alignment between the federation’s commitment to safety and Shock Doctor’s mission of providing high-quality protective equipment. He expressed pride in supporting the federation’s efforts.
Andrea Sánchez, responsible sports of Iberdrola, affirmed Iberdrola’s commitment to women’s sports and athlete well-being. She noted the initiative ensures players compete in a safer environment and reflects a continuous commitment to creating optimal conditions for all athletes.
Recent Successes in Spanish Ice Hockey
The implementation of these safety measures comes on the heels of a successful year for Spanish ice hockey. The women’s senior team achieved promotion to Division I, and the men’s senior team maintained its position. Development categories also saw success, with two gold medals in Division IIB (U20 and Male U18) and a bronze in the IB Division (Female U18).
did You know? Ice hockey neck guards can reduce the risk of neck lacerations by up to 88%, according to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Athletic training.
Key Partnerships for Enhanced Safety
The RFEDH’s collaboration with Shock Doctor and Iberdrola signifies a unified approach to prioritize athlete safety. Shock Doctor provides the protective equipment, while Iberdrola supports the initiative as the main sponsor, demonstrating a shared commitment to the well-being of ice hockey players.
These partnerships aren’t just about meeting regulations; they’re about fostering a culture of safety within Spanish ice hockey, ensuring players at all levels can compete with confidence.
Is neck protection enough? What other safety measures should be prioritized in ice hockey?
Context & Evergreen Insights
The push for mandatory neck protection in ice hockey has gained momentum in recent years due to increased awareness of the risk of severe neck lacerations. High-profile incidents,including those in professional leagues,have highlighted the potential for catastrophic injuries.
Beyond neck protection, other safety measures in ice hockey include mandatory helmets, mouthguards, and shoulder pads.Rule changes aimed at reducing risky hits and collisions are also continuously being evaluated and implemented to further protect players.
Comparing Protective Gear Standards
| Protective Gear | Standard Requirements | Enforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Helmets | Must meet ASTM F1045 or HECC standards. | Mandatory in all leagues; inspected before games. |
| Neck guards | Must provide adequate cut-resistant coverage. IIHF compliant | Mandatory in IIHF and many national leagues; spot checks. |
| Mouthguards | Must be properly fitted to protect teeth and jaw. | Highly recommended; may be mandatory in some leagues. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is neck protection now mandatory in Spanish ice hockey?
Neck protection is now mandatory due to the International Ice hockey Federation (IIHF)’s mandate to enhance player safety and prevent potential injuries.
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Which neck protector model is being used?
The hockey Ultra 2.0 neck protector by Shock doctor has been selected for its combination of comfort and high safety standards, including aramide fiber for cut resistance.
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Who is providing the neck protectors?
Shock Doctor, a leading company in sports protective equipment, is providing the neck protectors as part of a collaboration with the RFEDH.
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Which leagues and teams will receive the new neck protection?
All teams in the RFEDH’s domestic leagues, including LNHH Lotteries, Iberdrola Liga, LNHH U20, U18, and U15, as well as the five national teams with international participation, will receive the neck protection.
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what is Iberdrola’s role in this safety initiative?
Iberdrola is the main sponsor of the Fedhielo and is supporting the initiative financially, demonstrating their commitment to the well-being and safety of ice hockey players, particularly in women’s sports.
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When did the IIHF mandate neck protection?
The IIHF issued its mandate for neck protection on December 4, 2023, requiring it for all IIHF competitions in the U20 and U18 categories starting with the 2024-25 season.
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How many neck protectors are being distributed?
Approximately 1,500 neck protectors are being distributed to teams and leagues across Spain as part of this initiative.
What are your thoughts on this new safety measure? Share your comments below and let us know what other steps you think should be taken to improve player safety in ice hockey.
