Hampshire FA would like to remind all players, team officials and referees that ‘a player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous’.

All items of jewellery (necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, leather bands rubber bands etc) are forbidden and must be removed. Using tape to cover jewellery is not permitted.

Players MUST be inspected before the start of the match and substitutes before they enter the field of play. If a player is wearing or using unauthorised/dangerous equipment or jewellery, the referee must order the player to:

• Remove the item.
• Leave the field of play at the next stoppage if the player is unable or unwilling to comply

A player who refuses to comply or wears the item again must be cautioned.

If a number of players refuse to comply then the referee is quite within his or her rights to not start the game and report the facts to the County FA.

The safety of players is paramount.

In terms of plaster casts; modern protective equipment such as arm protectors made of soft, lightweight padded material are not considered dangerous and are therefore permitted. However, it is the referee on the day that makes the final decision as to the suitability of the equipment and if he or she will allow a player to play. Hard plaster casts are considered to pose a danger to both the wearer and other players – and should not be permitted.

Common sense dictates that if the cast is a hard cast and has the possibility to cause injury then unfortunately the player would not be permitted to play.

Please can all match officials ensure that prior to the start of the game that we check players’ equipment.

Thank you for your continued support.