Ice hockey is among the most fascinating and fast-paced sports, captivating a large fan base in Switzerland. The dynamics and speed on the ice lead to thrilling games full of tension and spectacle. However, behind the glittering facade of this popular sport lies a serious issue: the high number of head injuries with potentially severe consequences for the players.
One example is the case of Eric Blum, a former player for SC Bern. His career came to an abrupt and unexpected end after he sustained a hard check to the head during a game in February 2021. This collision led to a severe concussion, forcing him to prematurely end his career as an active athlete. These tragic events raise an important question: Are ice hockey players adequately protected against head injuries?
To explore this question, the program “NZZ Format” on SRF 1 spoke with a team of experts from various disciplines. Among them are Jonas Hiller from the Players’ Association, Nina Feddermann from BrainCare, the athletic trainer Steven Lingenhag, and the player Marco Lehmann. They discuss the challenges of dealing with concussions in ice hockey and explore possible solutions to improve player safety.
The discussion not only sheds light on the physical and psychological effects of concussions on the affected individuals but also on the preventive measures and protective devices currently used in ice hockey. It becomes clear that despite advances in protective equipment and regulations, the sport is still faced with the inherent risk of serious head injuries.
The panel of experts emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to raise awareness of the risks of concussions and to develop effective strategies for their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. From improving medical care to adjusting game rules and developing innovative protective gear, various approaches are discussed to ensure player safety while also keeping the sport appealing to spectators.
