Question Number: 20310

Law 4 - Players Equipment 10/20/2008

RE: Club Under 18

David Gracia of San Antonio , Texas United States asks...

My son recently had a slight fracture to his wrist. He was fitted with a short cast on his right hand and we have been wrapping it with pads to ensure he doesn't injure other players in the course of games or practice.

This weekend our referee did not allow him to play because USSF regulations state that no one with a cast can play. He went on to say that he would be able to play for his High School without any problems but that the club league followed USSF rules.

I am trying to verify if this correct and if you can direct me to the specific rule that covers this.

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

There is no USSF/FIFA rule to that effect, but many state and local youth associations do have a rule in place which prohibits players with casts from playing in games. STYSA definitely has that rule.

Regardless of whether there is a rule or is no rule, the referee ALWAYS has the authority to keep a player from playing if the referee feels the cast is a danger to the player (reinjury) or to any another player, padded or not. That decision is not appealable.

NFHS allows a player with a cast to play if the player has a signed doctor's release available at the site. A referee can still refuse to let a player play if she feels the cast poses a danger to the players.

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

That is incorrect. USSF has no such rule. The State of Texas might. Here in Georgia, no casts are permitted. USSF policy is that it's up to the referee to decide what is safe