Researchers say a recent examination shows the potential effects of brain injuries on some major-league hockey players.
The examination studied the brain of former NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard, who died earlier this year from an accidental drug overdose.
It showed the 28-year-old player suffered from a brain disease.
CTV News spoke with Winnipeg Jets players who said they are paid lots of money to play hockey, and fighting and hitting are part of how they earn their living.
But, the research is also raising questions about the impact of the game on younger players.
Three-year-old Mason is learning the basics of hockey.
His mom said she does think about the potential dangers that come along with the contact sport.
"I'm definitely concerned - I really hope that the rules are enforced. The hitting is concerning. You don't want any hitting that's not supposed to be there," said Darcie Munday, Mason's mother.
Researchers said an examination of Derek Boogaard's brain showed the 28-year-old suffered from a degenerative brain disease. Had he lived, he likely would have developed a form of dementia in middle age, said researchers.
Medical professionals are calling for changes in the game to protect players. But some said it's unclear what should be done.
"We really just don't know just what is a safe level of trauma to the brain, in terms of frequency and in terms of magnitude," said Blaine Hoshizaki, a hockey concussion expert.
Local pros said the study won't change how they play the game.
"I mean, I can't read too much into that. It is what it is. I mean we're all just trying to make a living so whatever it takes to do that," said Chris Thorburn from the Jets.
"Hockey affords me a good living, and my family a good living, and I know the risks involved," said Tanner Glass from the Jets.
Some aspiring NHL players agree.
"It doesn't really scare me much. I haven't really had a big injury in fighting yet this year, or ever in my career," said Mike Ferland from the Brandon Wheat Kings.
But some said they worry the damage is being done at an earlier age.
A video from a minor league hockey game in May shows a young player taking a hit to the head. He struggles to get up, even with help from his teammates.
Several hockey parents CTV News spoke with said kids should not be taught how to hit until their teenage years.
"I would be happy with (age) 14, even if they extended it a bit," said Darcie Munday.
Some parents told CTV News kids in hockey are learning to hit as early as age 11 and fear their bodies are not able to handle the momentum of collisions on the ice.
Other people who had a similar degenerative brain disease to Derek Boogaard include former NHL players Bob Probert and Rick Martin
- with a report from CTV's Jeff Keele
