Three Flyers players don neck guards in practice and plan to wear them in games following the tragic on-ice collision that killed Adam Johnson in England: ‘Why would I not put it on?’

Philadelphia Flyers teammates, Cam Atkinson, Travis Sanheim, and Travis Konecny demonstrated their commitment to protection by sporting neck guards during their practice after the devastating loss of American hockey player, Adam Johnson, who lost his life after being cut by an opponent’s skate blade. 

Johnson was playing in England last month when a skate blade collided with his neck, causing a fatal injury. A tragic incident like that serves as a wake-up call to the players who recognize the very real danger that they face in their sport. The importance of precaution and safety came to the forefront of their minds, prompting the decision to wear protective neck guards.

For these players, the decision was a matter of protecting themselves and their families. For Atkinson, who experienced a collision that could have cost him his eye in 2014, the significance of protective gear was painfully clear. Now, they aim to make the use of neck guards common practice across the league. 

The impact of Adam Johnson’s untimely death resonates deeply with all players as they take steps to mitigate similar accidents. This shows their commitment to safety and highlights the importance of ongoing risk management in professional sports.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.