Neck guards are at the front of any hockey conversation after a former National Hockey League player died when an ice skate cut his neck. Youth and adult hockey leagues at the San Diego Ice Arena are considering changes to better protect players. “We want the best and the safest. We follow USA Hockey which is our governing body for hockey so whatever they pass down, we follow it. We’re looking at mandating in the future, 2024-2025 to have neck guards to all of our players," said Craig Sterling, Hockey Director. Currently, neither the American League Hockey nor the National Hockey League require players to wear protective neck equipment. MORE: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/san-diego-hockey-leagues-consider-neck-protection-after-player-death/509-b5d80579-b6bb-4d17-8159-cf27c2eed052