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More than a half million kids play hockey in the U.S., and there’s an ongoing effort to keep them from getting hurt. The national governing body for the sport, USA Hockey, places a priority on educating players, coaches and parents on how to enjoy the sport safely.
Dr. Michael Stuart, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeon, is the organization's chief medical officer. 'Heads Up, Don’t Duck' remains a very important initiative for USA Hockey," says Dr. Stuart, citing a successful part of a training program to help players avoid concussions and spinal cord injuries. Dennis Douda reports for the Mayo Clinic News Network.
Watch: Play a 'heads-up' game for better hockey safety
Journalists: A broadcast-quality video pkg (2:01) is in the downloads. Read the script.
"Heads Up, Don’t Duck" was first launched several years ago after seven players suffered severe neck injuries in a single season – five of which involved spinal cord damage.
