Question Number: 15696

Law 4 - Players Equipment 6/4/2007

RE: Rec High School

Craig Pearson of Adrian, MI USA asks...

For a rec. tournament, the tournament officials would like to identify the players when they register with a plasticized wristband to keep teams from adding players later after the tournament starts. They say they will make the wristbands skin tight and the players are to wear the band during the entire tournament (2 days). Would this be considered a safety concern and would it be a liability for the association that is sponsoring the event?
Thanks,
Craig Pearson

Answer provided by Referee Chuck Fleischer

In my belief this is something to be worried about. The referee is to prevent players from wearing something dangerous to themselves or another player. This constitutes a danger and could break a finger caught under it or even remove the skin of a finger. Granted players never grab hold of each other.

Many contingency Lawyers would love to get hold of this suit, should the worst happen. This is America, do something stupid and get sued. No worries, the insurance company will protect us.

What about Law 4? Why force a referee into disobeying his primary duty??? Oh, never mind -- it's less work, I forgot.

Regards,

Answer provided by Referee Ben Mueller

Yes! Players are not to wear jewlrey which includes bracelts and plastic strips around the wrist. I agree with Mr. Fliescher, find another way to deal with the players adding on teams.

Answer provided by Referee Steve Montanino

Bad idea. This could pose a risk to player safety. Players who grab or get their finger stuck in there are asking for hurt a finger.

This is something I would not reccomend and as a referee I wouldn't allow.