Compulsory Helmets for U17 Shinty Players | |
27 December 2012 The Camanachd Association has confirmed the compulsory wearing of helmets for U17 players from the start of the new shinty season. In a letter to clubs, Camanachd Association Development Officer Ronald Ross said, “Following a consultation process and subsequent discussions, I can confirm that the Camanachd Association will introduce the compulsory wearing of helmets and faceguards for all players aged 17 years or under from the start of the new playing season (March 2013). This ruling has already been in place for a number of years for players aged 14 years or under and has proven successful in reducing the number of injuries within the sport at this level. This rule will now apply to all youth players who participate at U-17 level, U-14 level or who play in a team competing in any competition covered by Bye-laws 2, 3 or 4 with the exception of first shinty games which are not included owing to the use of different camans and balls. Also, any Youth player participating at senior level i.e. Second team or First team, must wear a helmet. The eligible date for under-17 players is 1 January in the year of competition. Each club should already hold a sufficient supply of helmets for their U-14 team and these can be used by their U-17 side as U-17 and U-14 matches do not take place on the same night. However, following the consultation process, the Camanachd Association has agreed to support each individual club through this change and will provide a maximum of 5 Mycro approved helmets per club if a need is demonstrated. We realise that the needs of each club will vary depending on playing numbers, membership etc. Any club wishing to make a bid for up to 5 additional helmets should setting out the case for the number of helmets they require by Friday 8 February 2013. Any club that requires additional helmets to their allocation can purchase them direct from the manufacture at a subsidised rate. It will be the responsibility of those in charge of teams at both junior and senior level to satisfy themselves about the correct age of each child or young person and whether they should wear a helmet and whether any helmet worn is fit for purpose. The Camanachd Association approved helmet, which is recommended to all clubs, meets the requirements of European Council Directive and is manufactured by Mycro.” Anyone seeking further information should contact Ronald Ross direct on 07718 630563. |