April 2, 2009
RDSA Jewelry Policy
The safety of players in the River Dell Soccer Association (RDSA) is our top priority. We want to inform you that RDSA has a policy which prohibits players from wearing any type of jewelry during games or practice sessions. This policy – which applies to both girls and boys – is effective immediately with the start of the 2008 Fall Recreation season.
Prohibited Jewelry
Prohibited jewelry items include, but are not limited to, the following:
· Earrings (covering them with band-aids or tape is not allowed)
· Necklaces
· Rings
· Bracelets (including string bracelets and the “Live Strong”-type charity bracelets)
· Watches
Other Prohibited Items
Also prohibited as part of this policy are the following items:
· Sunglasses
· Hair clips, barrettes, plastic bands, or ribbons
· Wrist bands
Permitted Items
Permitted items include:
· Soft cloth hair scrunchies
· Terrycloth headbands
· Medical ID bracelets (only if deemed not to be a safety concern by the referee)
K-2 Players with Recently Pierced Ears
Kindergarten through 2nd Grade players with recently pierced ears may tape their earlobes and play at their own risk. For this age group the majority of the playing time is Skills Training; there is less chance for contact.
Eyeglasses are permitted, but players play at their own risk.
NEW IN 2009
Eyeglasses Not Permitted
Eyeglasses are not permitted during practices or games. New Jersey Law “Requires children who wear eyeglasses to wear protective eyewear while participating in certain sports activities (soccer)." Contact lenses are permitted for older players.
Strict Enforcement of this Policy
RDSA is following and enforcing all U.S. Soccer Federation Safety Guidelines because soccer players across the country have experienced serious injuries resulting from wearing jewelry while on the playing field. Because soccer often involves physical contact, any items which could cause cuts to the players wearing them or others are not allowed.
All licensed referees, coaches, and UK Elite trainers have been advised of this policy. The policy will be strictly enforced. Pre-game and pre-practice safety checks will be routine. Any player not in compliance with this policy will be asked to remove the items – no exceptions! Players who do not cooperate will not be allowed to play.
Thank you for complying with this policy to help protect our players. We’re looking forward to an exciting, fun, and safe RDSA Fall soccer season!
Bud Frega
RDSA President