A new law in Ontario has been named in honor of a teenage boy who tragically lost his life due to an unsecured soccer net. The law, which requires all soccer nets to be properly secured, aims to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
The law, known as “The Joshua’s Law”, was introduced after 15-year-old Joshua Demarest was fatally struck by a soccer net that had not been properly anchored. The incident occurred in 2018 at a park in Hamilton, Ontario, where Joshua was playing with friends.
According to the new law, all soccer nets must be secured to the ground or a permanent structure at all times when in use. This includes both public and private fields, as well as school and community sports facilities. Failure to comply with the law can result in fines of up to $50,000 for individuals and $500,000 for organizations.
The passing of this law has been welcomed by Joshua’s family, who have been advocating for stricter safety measures for soccer nets since their son’s tragic death. They hope that this law will prevent other families from experiencing the same devastating loss they have endured.
In addition to requiring proper anchoring of soccer nets, the law also mandates that all nets must be inspected regularly to ensure they are secure and in good condition. This responsibility falls on the owners or operators of the fields where the nets are located.
The Ontario Soccer Association has also expressed their support for the new law, stating that safety should always be a top priority in sports. They have urged all soccer clubs and organizations to comply with the law and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents.
The passing of “The Joshua’s Law” serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in sports and the devastating consequences that can result from negligence. It is a step towards creating a safer environment for young athletes and honoring the memory of Joshua Demarest.
