Sports

'Jack's Pledge' aims to lower Minnesota hockey risks

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Jan 16, 2012 at 1:50 pm

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Youth hockey leaders in Minnesota are asking players and coaches to take a safety pledge.

The call comes as two prep hockey players remain hospitalized, paralyzed after being checked from behind.

JACK'S PLEDGE: Read more on youth hockey safety, take the pledge and find out how you can donate to the Jack's Pledge effort

The Minneapolis Storm youth hockey association launched a website Wednesday night encouraging players of all ages across the state and country to sign "Jack's Pledge." It's a commitment to playing safe in tribute to 16-year-old Jack Jablonski, who was hurt Dec. 30.

Coaches are encouraged to take a similar pledge to teach safe play, including keeping players who have committed violent infractions off the ice longer than they're required to sit in the penalty box.

While Jack's Pledge is a grass-roots effort without enforcement measures, the Star Tribune reports (http://bit.ly/AdWbwf ) organizers hope to spark a change in hockey culture.