Concussions remain one of the most serious concerns in minor hockey, but experts say there are clear steps coaches, parents, and governing bodies can take to reduce the risk of head injuries among young players.
While the sport continues to evolve with a greater emphasis on speed and skill, physical contact remains a core part of the game. That reality, combined with developing brains and bodies, makes injury prevention in youth hockey critically important.
Nilu Mahavitane, a Physiotherapist in Pickering ONT, says the first step is education, making sure coaches, players, and parents all understand what a concussion is and how to spot the signs.
“We know that early recognition and proper management are crucial,” Mahavitane said. “We need to keep reinforcing the idea that no hit to the head is worth risking long-term brain health.”
Hockey Canada has made concussion education mandatory for coaches at all levels, and several provincial hockey associations now require annual training.
Properly fitted helmets are essential, but they aren’t a magic bullet. No helmet can fully prevent a concussion. But new designs with improved padding and shock absorption can help reduce risk.
Beyond equipment, experts say teaching body-checking techniques especially how to deliver and receive contact safely can play a major role. Several studies have shown that delaying the introduction of body checking until age 15 significantly reduces injury rates.
“Hockey isn’t about taking people out of the game, it’s about keeping them in it,” said Mahavitane.
Officials and leagues also play a critical role in concussion prevention by cracking down on dangerous hits, especially those involving contact to the head or from behind.
Hockey Canada introduced the “zero tolerance” head contact rule in 2011, but critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent across regions and levels of play.
“Penalties need to be called consistently, and the message has to be clear: head contact won’t be tolerated,” said Karen Douglas, a parent advocate with stop concussions
Founded by former NHLer Keith Primeau and neurosurgeon Dr. Karen Johnston, StopConcussions.com is a global concussion awareness and education platform. It works with athletes, coaches, parents and medical professionals to promote safer play and provide tools to recognize and manage head injuries in sport.
“We’re not trying to take contact out of hockey; we’re trying to take reckless, dangerous play out of the game so kids can play hard, have fun, and stay healthy.” said Douglas.
Ultimately, experts say the long-term solution lies in shifting the culture of the game. That means moving away from glorifying big hits and promoting a style of play that values skill and sportsmanship.
Ultimately, experts say the long-term solution lies in shifting the culture of the game. That means moving away from glorifying big hits and promoting a style of play that values skill and sportsmanship.
Former NHLer Eric Lindros, who suffered multiple concussions during his career, has become a vocal advocate for change.
“Concussions are a real and potentially life-impacting injury. They should be taken very seriously,” Lindros said in an interview with Personal health news “If they are diagnosed early and treated with caution, in all likelihood you will make a full recovery.”
Lindros emphasizes that parents, players, coaches, and officials must work together to foster a safer hockey environment starting with the youngest players.
As minor league organizations across the country prepare for another season, experts agree: The future of hockey depends not just on developing better players, but on protecting the health and safety of every child who laces up their skates.
With more awareness, better training, and a shift in mindset, minor hockey can continue to grow while protecting the health of the next generation of players.