Question Number: 23596

Law 4 - Players Equipment 7/2/2010

RE: club soccer Under 10

Norine of Mission Viejo, Ca USA asks...

Can you tape earrings on newly pierced ears in a club game or scrimmage?

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

No. Taping is not acceptable alternative to removing the jewelry.

I am informed, however, that newly pierced ears do not seal themselves in the relatively short time for a match or scrimmage. If the player wants to participate, the earrings must be removed.

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Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Norine
All forms of jewellery must be removed and taping of same is not allowed in any game at any level.

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Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

You can, but you won't be playing in the game. Have you ever looked at the back side of those things? They're pointy - you wouldn't want someone to be struck in the ear with the ball, which would then drive the post into the neck.

As long as the piercing isn't one or two days fresh, you can probably remove it with no problems for an hour or two. You might want to put a bandage over the exposed hole to keep it clean. But you can't just cover the earring.

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Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

No. I continue to be amazed at players who insist on getting piercings right before or during soccer season. The Law against wearing jewelry does not contemplate a 'time-out' if the jewelry is brand new.

The referee has a duty and obligation to ensure the safety of the players as much as possible. One requirement is that players do not wear jewelry, so the referee is left with no choices. Either the player takes it out, or the player doesn't play. It's simple really.

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