ST PAUL, Minn. — Thousands are headed to St. Paul for the MSHSL Boys Hockey Tournament this week, and along with the action on the ice, players can get a look at new equipment next door.
"Looking at all the new things that are out there, so, yeah, love it," Connie Larson, a hockey mom, said.
The Let's Play Hockey Expo at the RiverCentre features all sorts of new equipment for players to try – including one that will be required for some soon.
"I think it's important just for my safety and other people's safety," Connie's son Cy said. "Honestly, when I'm playing, I really don't even know it's there."
Ahead of the curve, Cy has been wearing a neck guard for a few years now. Starting August 1, USA Hockey will require all of their members under 18 – including on-ice officials – to wear the guards.
This includes both practices and games.
"The whole issue with having to wear these neckguards, I don't think is really a surprise to anybody," Connie said.
It's a push for safety as on-ice tragedies continue to happen. It hits home for parents like Rachael Burt.
"So when the young lad, Teddy, passed away in Connecticut," Burt said, tearing up. "It's very, it's pretty serious."
Burt runs Hockey Moms Pro Shop and sells neckguards. She says her own child isn't allowed on the ice until they have one on.
"They're kids playing a sport that they love, but they don't understand how seriously they can get hurt," Burt said. "That's the bottom line."
Burt is one of many trying to help. Scott Brown owns HC Apparel, selling their own neckguards.
"That's what every parent should do, is protect their child," Brown said. "Not overprotect, but protect their child."
It's a reminder the Larsons are sharing as August gets closer.
"One more layer, piece of puzzle, piece of equipment," Connie said.
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