QMJHL Defenseman Forced to Retire at 19 After Shocking Diagnosis

Hockey is a physically demanding sport that can have lasting health repercussions for its players. A young hockey athlete recently decided to hang up his skates due to the health complications he faced from the game.

Hinkley's health problems stem from multiple concussions. Hockey journalist Rick Westhead managed to get Hinkley's comments on his retirement.

19-year-old Lane Hinkley: «Too many hits, too many punches, too many concussions that I didn't properly heal from. The doctor said my MRI showed there is a 25mm by 17mm lesion on my brain Currently, I am at risk for CTE and early dementia.»

It's distressing to think that a 19-year-old could face severe health issues like CTE and dementia. This concern partly led the QMJHL to implement a significant rule adjustment this past summer.

Earlier in the summer, the QMJHL chose to prohibit fighting in an effort to safeguard its young players and emphasize their talents. The announcement met with mixed reactions from the public.

Even with the absence of fighting, the QMJHL's quality of play remains consistent a few months into the season.

Though the no-fighting rule came too late to aid Lane Hinkley's career, it's a commendable move towards ensuring a safer playing environment. This initiative might influence other leagues in the future.

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31 OCTOBRE \| 89 ANSWERS QMJHL Defenseman Forced to Retire at 19 After Shocking Diagnosis Do you think fighting should be banned in the NHL?
Yes	20	22.5 %
No	69	77.5 %
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