From January 1st, 2014 it will become mandatory for all
players in all age grades up to and including minor to wear mouth guards in all
practice sessions and games. It will become the responsibility of each player
to ensure that they are wearing mouth guards as failure to comply will result
in the player being sent from the field until they satisfy the rules.
The new rule has been introduced to protect players from
damage to their mouths and teeth which can have serious effects in their
development. It is hoped, that with the introduction of the new rules, that the
incidents of injuries to the mouth and teeth will be significantly reduced. If
players do suffer an injury to the mouth or teeth they will not be covered for
that injury as part of the LGFA Injury Fund.
Every player, regardless of the age grade that they play in,
that is a minor or younger must wear the mouthguard when taking part in Ladies
Gaelic football matches or training, this will include schools, colleges and
when a player of minor grade or lower is playing for adult teams.
Speaking about the introduction of the new rules LGFA
president, Pat Quill, said âIt is essential that we protect our players as much
as is possible. The introduction of mouthguards for young players is a sensible
step that ensures that our youngest players can play and train in our sport in
the safest possible way. It is up to each player to ensure that they comply
with the new rule and if a referee notices that a player has failed to comply
with the rule they have the authority to take the appropriate action.â
Mouth guards are freely available at sports and retail
outlets nationwide. Should you need more advice or help in choosing the most
suitable option for you or your daughter please consult with a dental
professional. For a full list of dental professionals go to www.dentists.ie
See below for a list of regulations and FAQâs:
KEY POINTS
Ladies gaelic footballers in all age grades up to and
including minor level must wear a mouth guard from January 1st 2014
It is the responsibility of each individual player to use a
mouth guard
Players will be ordered off in a game for not wearing a
mouth guard and will remain off the pitch until the situation is ratified
Players will not be covered under the Injury Fund if they
donât comply with the mouth guard rule
No Mouthguard? No Game!
ROLE OF THE REFEREE
If a player refuses to comply with a Refereeâs instruction
to wear a mouthguard, she shall be asked to rectify the situation. Should she
refuse to do so the referee shall order her off the field until the situation
is rectified.
ROLE OF THE PLAYER
In all Games and Practice Football Sessions, it shall be
mandatory for, and the responsibility of, each individual player to use a
mouthguard.
ROLE OF THE CLUB
Clubs should ensure that their players, playerâs
parents/guardians, coaches and team mentors are made aware of the mouthguard
rules.
LGFA INJURY FUND
Players will not be covered under the injury fund if they
are not wearing a mouthguard. It is
the responsibility of each individual player to use a
mouthguard.
LIMITATION OF LEGAL LIABILITY
These Rules shall not impose on any Referee, Linesman,
Umpire, Sideline Official, Team Official or Unit any legal duty of care or
legal responsibility (which duty shall remain with individual Players, and if
relevant, Parents, Guardians or other persons legally responsible for them).
SOME QUESTIONS
1. When does the new rule come into effect?
A. From January 1st 2014, players playing in grades up to
and including minor will be required to wear a mouthguard in LGFA games and
practice sessions.
2. What will happen if I am not wearing a mouthguard in a
game?
A. If a player refuses to comply with a Refereeâs
instruction to wear a mouthguard, she will initially be asked to rectify the
situation by the Referee and if the player continues to refuse, the Referee can
order her off until the situation is rectified.
3. Who is responsible for ensuring mouthguards are worn at
training or practice sessions?
A. It is the responsibility of each individual player to use
a mouthguard. Clubs and players should note that players will not be covered
under the Injury Fund if they are not wearing a mouthguard.
4. Do I have to wear a mouthguard whilst playing Second
Level games?
A. Yes, if minor level or below
5. Do I have to wear a mouthguard whilst playing Third Level
games?
A. Yes, if minor level or below
6. Do I have to wear a mouthguard if I am an underage player
playing on a senior team?
A. Yes, all players minor or below must wear a mouthguard at
all times.
7. Does this apply to International Units?
A. Yes. International Units are subject to the General Rules
of the Association.
8. Iâm a referee; do I have to check all playersâ mouths
before a game to ensure compliance?
A. Referees will not be expected to individually check
players before a game; however, if a referee notices that a player is not
wearing a mouthguard, s/he should ask the player to rectify the situation and
if the player continues to refuse, the Referee can order her off until the
situation is rectified.
9. I currently wear orthodontic braces, what are my options?
A. It has been noted that children wearing orthodontic
braces and wishing to play Gaelic football will be particularly concerned about
the rule change; however, the LGFA recommends that these players seek advice
from a range of dental practitioners on the most appropriate solution for them.
The player must request a letter of support from their dental practitioner and
keep this with them.
