Nottingham hockey player Adam Johnson dies after ‘freak injury’

[Backspin]

Tributes have been paid to a 29-year-old professional ice hockey player who died after a “freak accident” during a Challenge Cup match between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers on Saturday night.


Adam Johnson, originally from Minnesota in the US, died after appearing to suffer a catastrophic cut to his neck from a blade during the match at Sheffield arena.


Witnesses described the accident as horrific leaving many fans in tears as the match was abandoned. Johnson’s team, Nottingham Panthers, confirmed his death on Sunday morning.


In a statement the team said: “The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night.


“The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam’s family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time. Everyone at the club including players, staff, management and ownership are heartbroken.”


The club described Johnson, “our number 47”, as “not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him”.


Witnesses described the incident which led to Johnson’s death as a freak clash. Christian Bennett, a Guardian journalist who was at the match, said: “Two players blindsided each other, just bumped into each other.

[harrybarracuda]

Neck guards in that sport now then.

[Backspin]

^ It will become a bigger issue now. The last time it happened was just 2022. Not that long ago.

Teddy Balkind’s death sparks call for mandatory neck guards



But like any safety kit, some players don't want it. They are uncomfortable. But if it became mandatory, everyone would get used to it

[harrybarracuda]

As predicted:

Neck guards will be compulsory at international level for ice hockey players after Adam Johnson's death.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) said all its events - including the Olympics, and the men's and women's world championships - will now feature the protection for players.

Adam Johnson death: Neck guards to be made compulsory in international ice hockey matches | World News | Sky News

[pickel]

As predicted:

Still optional in the NHL.

[harrybarracuda]

Still optional in the NHL.

For now.

I haven't seen anything from the UK league either.

But hard for them not to follow, surely?