Body checking and injury a fact in minor hockey
Posted Jul 1, 2010 By Emile Therien
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Tweet ThisDear Editor,
A landmark study released on June 8 revealed that 11- and 12- year old hockey players in leagues that allow bodychecking are 2.5 times more likely to get hurt and 3.5 times more likely to suffer a concussion.
This study should serve as a wake-up call for those Canadians concerned with the health and safety of all players, especially minor leaguers, and the future of the game as we know it. The release of these findings coincide with statements made by Toronto neurosurgeon, Charles Tator at a Hockey Canada sponsored concussion seminar who said there has been too much emphasis on 'rock'em, sock'em type of hockey in minor hockey.
The consequences of traumatic hits to the head speak for themselves. Traumatic brain injuries, via hits to the head or bodies colliding against the boards or other bodies can cause: post-concussive symptoms (tinnitus, vertigo, nausea, and unremitting headaches), cognitive disorders (distractibility, antisocial behaviours and development difficulties), depression, personality changes, increased use of substances and alcohol with the rare consequence of psychosis, anxiety disorders and chronic sleep disorders.
Indeed, an emotional debate has been raging for years about our national sport. Should body checking be allowed in minor hockey? According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, 8,000 people were treated for hockey related injuries in Ontario hospital emergency rooms in the 2002-2003 seasons.
The decision to allow body checking in minor hockey is unquestionably jeopardizing this wonderful sport and favourite pastime by turning it into our most dangerous game.
Hockey is an inherently dangerous game. That said, when medical experts and safety advocates say evidenced-based research show injury-prevention and harm-reduction initiatives are good for the health and safety of the game and the players, everyone, and especially Hockey Canada should take note.
Hopefully, it is not too late to change and save the game of hockey in Canada, which has such strong and historical roots. A major overhaul is needed and soon. Who is up to the challenge?
Emile Therien,
Public Health & Safety Advocate,
Past President, Canadian Safety Council
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