Concussions in young athletes, particularly in contact sports like hockey, present significant long-term health risks (9).
Additionally, studies have shown that female athletes experience higher rates of concussions than male athletes (1).
Despite this, most concussion research has focused on males. Current data suggest that modern helmets are not fully effective at preventing concussions, and improper helmet fit has been linked to more severe concussive symptoms (5). A previous study examining helmet fit among male and female varsity athletes found that, while helmet fit feedback improved the fit for male athletes, it did not have the same effect on females (13). This raises concerns that differences between male and female players may influence helmet fit, particularly in youth players, whose brains are more susceptible to injury (4). This study aims to investigate helmet fit in youth male and female hockey players during the 2025-2026 season and provide helmet fit education to both groups. Using the Helmet Fit Checklist and knowledge survey from Rossi & Andrews (2024), along with a helmet fit behaviour survey, this research will assess helmet fit of youth players, and their knowledge of and attitudes towards helmet fit, considering factors such as comfort, risk assessment, and social pressure. It is hypothesized that female athletes will show less improvement in helmet fit compared to males, potentially due to factors like comfort. This study will provide insights into factors influencing helmet fit and safety behaviours, potentially guiding policies to reduce concussion risks and improve safety in youth hockey.
This study aims to provide valuable insights into the factors influencing helmet fit and helmet-wearing behaviours in youth ice hockey players. By examining differences in helmet fit knowledge between female and male players, as well as psychosocial influences that may exist, this research may contribute to the development of strategies for improving helmet use and reducing concussion risks in youth hockey. Ultimately, the findings may inform future policies and interventions aimed at improving safety in youth hockey, where concussion rates remain high. Furthermore, this study could lay the groundwork for further investigation into the psychosocial factors that influence helmet-wearing behaviours across a variety of contact sports.
