Question Number: 22526

Law 18 - Common Sense 11/16/2009

RE: Competitive Under 16

Jim of Hamilton, NJ USA asks...

Hello,
I was working a tournament game yesterday. When checking in the players, the goalkeeper showed me a hat he intended to wear during the game and asked me if it was ok. I know 'Advice to Referees' says goalkeepers may wear soft hats. I took a look at it and it seemed safe to me. It was a runners cap which is similar to a baseball cap, by is made of a softer, lighter material.
During the game, my AR pointed the cap out to me during the game and I told him I saw it and it's fine. He seemed to have a real problem with me allowing it. What's your take?

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

The question is why is he wearing the hat? If it is because of early morning or late afternoon sun, or rain or some other useful purpose, then there is no issue with him wearing a hat deemed safe by the referee. If he is wearing it backwards because it is his good luck charm, that doesn't cut it.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

It is an issue of safety. Is the brim of the cap made of a hard/unbendable material? If so, it poses a danger to the other players. Most, however, do not.

Caps also are popular as an adornment. When I find a keeper wanting to wear a cap at night (in the warm San Diego evening), it isn't going to happen.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Referee Jim
I'm not really bothered if the goalkeeper wears a cap/hat unless of course it is a danger to himself or an opponent. It has become acceptable that goalkeepers wear baseball caps because of the sun.
I once had a player who could not get his head wet because of ear problems and he wore a knitted waterproof beanie. No issue whatsoever, just that his head sweated more but that was his choice.
Also is a cap/beanie going to injure anyone? I don't think so.