Two youth hockey organizations in Indiana have declared their decision to mandate the use of neck guards for players following the tragic death of American hockey player Adam Johnson.

The 29-year-old athlete lost his life in what his club termed a “freak accident” during a game in England on October 28, where he sustained a “slashed neck” in the second period.

In response to the incident, starting January 1, the Fort Wayne and South Bend youth hockey groups have made it compulsory for players to wear neck guards.

The Indiana State Hockey Association shared this announcement on social media, emphasizing that the Fort Wayne Amateur Hockey Association specifies the mandatory use of neck guards during practices, including skill sessions and games.