Lowering the shoulder on bodychecking

Anthony Marchie and Michael Cusimano state that a review of the relevant literature shows that disallowing bodychecking in youth hockey is the "best hope for reducing young players' injuries."

The authors state that the risks of concussion and other serious injury make it clear that bodychecking is not necessary for play at the Canadian youth and adolescent levels. The authors add that because bodychecking is such an integral part of professional hockey, it is unlikely to be eliminated.

However, Marchie and Cusimano also conclude that since most physical growth is not complete until age 17 or 18, and variations in body size and strength are most pronounced from age 13 to 15, bodychecking should be banned in hockey until players are at least age 17 or 18 years old.

p. 124 Bodychecking and concussions in ice hockey: Should our youth pay the price?
-- A. Marchie, M.D. Cusimano

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