Protective equipment such as mouthguards, headgear and padding around goal posts helps protect players from injury. Protective equipment must be used for the intended purpose, fit well, be comfortable, not restrict movement in the sport, and be worn at both practice and matches.
Mouthguards
Always wear mouthguards in activities with a risk of collision or body contact. Mouthguards:
- reduce cuts to the lip, mouth and tongue
- protect teeth
- help to prevent jaw injuries.
Headgear
Make sure headgear is approved and appropriate to the sport.
Hard helmets such as those worn when cycling or horse riding help protect the brain from injury in an impact. Wear hard helmets and faceguards in sports involving small, hard balls travelling at high speeds, such as hockey, cricket and lacrosse.
Soft headgear, such as that worn when playing rugby, can help to prevent serious cuts to the scalp and ears.
Bracing and taping
Bracing and taping can provide some protection against injury to joints. Braces are reusable, adjustable and can provide continuous support. Use braces rather than tape, as the effective support provided by taping is generally reduced after 20 minutes of play. Don’t use braces and taping to allow an injured player to play while injured.
Footwear
Good footwear provides protection from impact, and support for the foot and ankle. Make sure footwear:
- fits well to provide support
- has enough cushioning for absorbing impacts
- has a good sole for traction on the surface
- complies with the rules of the game.
Eyewear
Protective eyewear reduces the impact of fast-moving objects such as balls and racquets.
Padding
Padding absorbs impact, minimising the effect of the impact on the player’s body and reducing the risk of injury. Use padding on areas of the body that are likely to have contact with other players or equipment.
Ensure the padding conforms to the rules of the sport. Use protective equipment appropriate to the player’s gender, for example chest protection for women in contact sports such as rugby, or boxes for men in sports such as cricket.
Always use high-density foam padding around goal posts or other areas of high risk.
Buying protective equipment
When buying protective equipment, buy sport-approved items. Don’t alter the equipment, as this will reduce its effectiveness. Avoid sharing protective equipment between players of different sizes. Ensure the equipment complies with the rules of the sport and isn’t a risk to other players.
Last updated:20April2009