NILES, Ill. – On average, ten percent of all amateur hockey players will suffer a concussion. In addition, two professional hockey players will suffer a concussion during every ten games. Even with modern equipment, no sure fire remedy exists. But there are some measures that can be taken by players to limit their odds of suffering a concussion on the ice. Jerry’s Hockey Warehouse in suburban Chicago is one of the few hockey equipment retailers that does not sell hockey equipment on-line. By not following the growing trend towards e-commerce sales, long time owner Jerry Kucera is doing his part to help limit concussions suffered by both professional and amateur hockey players. Jerry’s Hockey Warehouse in Niles, Illinois, General Manager John Naanep, claims the personal touch is key to limiting the chances of suffering a concussion. “We highly recommend that hockey players, at all levels, meet with a qualified hockey equipment professional, in order to get properly fitted. As an example, a properly fitted helmet will help prevent a player’s head from jerking back upon impact.” He added, “The quality of helmet foam can also make a difference. We strongly recommend that players wear helmets fitted with EVA foam. This is the same type of foam featured in motorcycle helmets.” Fitting professional hockey players with a helmet is a lengthy and involved process. Players will meet with hockey equipment representatives three to four times during the spring and summer months, in order to get fitted properly. While every effort is taken to properly fit professional hockey players, problems continue to exist. EVA foam is very heavy. According to Naanep, many professional players will strip the foam in order to make their helmets lighter. The need for speed seems to be the desired trade off over potential concussion side effects such as loss of balance, problems walking, lockjaw, and others. Newer helmets now feature Optic Lock. The latch holds the head in position with the use of a retaining strap. Wearing a properly fitted strap is just as important as the foam in the helmet. Naanep believes future equipment will be lighter, safer and easier to use. He claims an off-shoot of a bullet proof chest protector is being used for chest padding. It would seem that the lack of education regarding equipment increases the chances for player injury. Naanep agrees. “Many new players come into our stores with the hopes of buying just the basics; skates, stick, shin guards, cup and helmet. Often times chest padding and shoulder pads are never purchased.” Credit Kucera, Naanep and the staff of Jerry’s Hockey Warehouse for stressing the most important aspect of hockey to help to ensure safety; properly fitted equipment. Jerry’s Hockey Warehouse will someday get into the e-commerce business. But it will be used only as an educational tool. For more information on the proper fitting of hockey equipment, call Jerry’s Hockey Warehouse at 847-584-0700. Contact Thomas.Miller@prohockeynews.com
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