Question Number: 20059

Law 18 - Common Sense 9/24/2008

RE: High School

wil jeffries of brownsville pa 15417, pa USA asks...

are you allowed to paint your face in a game?

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

I suspect that the local upcoming Oct 31st tournament will see the usual black and orange faces and green dyed hair to look ferocious. As long as we are not running around screaming Arrrrgh! the face paint could be permitted only if the were no issues of safety. The paint should not be grease paint that comes off if it is rubbed or any combination that could affect the eyes or skin adversely or stain clothing. We had a very interesting debate on kids who painted themselves in black and red and the paint on their faces smeared the NEW white uniforms of the opponents. In the end the league, tournament organizers and the referee's opinion will make the final decision.
Cheers

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

I would say so long as you're not doing something that could be interperted as racist (black face) or some other offensive thing or symbol (swasticka, etc.) then you're probably ok... but it's going to be up to the referee.

I would, however, advise against this. Just play the game as you are with your proper equipment.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

As it's High School, there may be some other arcane rules prohibiting it. I'd clear it with your coach before you simply show up. And whatever it is, be prepared to remove it if anyone complains. Come to think of it, if I were playing against you I'd be wary, not knowing whether your paint is going to stay on your face and not stain my uniform in the event of a collision.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

It will be entirely up to the referee on each game to determine whether face painting is allowed or not. If there are league or high school rules regarding the issue of face painting, the referee will follow them.

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