WHL to discuss plan to reduce concussions
Posted Sep 13, 2011 10:49 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
With concussions on the forefront of hockey discussions, the WHL is taking steps to ensure it’s players’ careers aren’t ended by blows to the head.
The league created a seven point plan which includes rule changes and education for the players to fully understand the risks of concussions.
WHL Commissioner Ron Robison and all 22 club general managers and head coaches will discuss the first point on the plan, Tuesday in Calgary.
The seminar is intended to fully review the plan in detail and go over new playing rules that coincide with the plan.
The rule changes include the addition of a penalty for “checking to the head” for open ice hits on an unsuspecting opponent where the head is targeted or is the main point of contact.
The WHL also tightened the standard on late hits as well as charging and interference penalties to address players building up speed and hitting an opponent along the boards with excessive force.
