Football Federation Australia
National Policy on the Wearing of Jewellery

 

Introduction

This Policy replaces the 2004 version.

Despite Law 4 being quite specific about the wearing of jewellery, it would seem that there are still a number of variances in the application of this law. In order to gain greater consistency the following is a summary of the recommendations created by the Football Federation Australia. It is offered as an Australian interpretation of the law and is National Policy.

Policy Guidelines for Match Officials
  • Law 4 - states:   A player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous to himself or other players (including any kind of jewellery). In summary all players must remove all items of jewellery prior to entering the field of play. This includes anti-discrimination bands, leather necklaces and any other loose wristbands.
  • The taping of wedding rings is no longer permitted.
  • Sweatbands may be worn.

Other Details

  • Earrings:- No earrings are acceptable. The practice of taping earrings is not acceptable.
  • Facial rings:- Any kind of jewellery around the eyes must be removed. Jewellery in any other part of the face must be removed.
  • Necklaces:- All necklaces must be removed Medical alert necklaces only may be worn but they must be taped securely to the chest.
  • Bracelets:- All bracelets [including metal, rope, fabric, etc] must be removed. Medical alert bracelets only may be worn but must have all but the medical information covered by tape.
  • Body Piercing:- Any Piercing not visible to the referee is not of concern. Should the piercing become visible the referee will ensure it is removed.
  • Tongue Piercing:- Rings/studs through the tongue are discouraged for the players' own safety. Should the referee detect a tongue piercing, the referee will ensure it is removed.
  • Rings:- No rings may be worn.
  • Watches:- Players [but not match officials] must remove all watches.
  • Beaded Hair:- If a player is wearing hair beads the hair must be tied in a bun or covered by a hair net. Loose beaded hair should not be allowed.
Referees:- Within the spirit of these guidelines, referees are expected to conform to the standards set for players, with the exception of the need to wear watches.

Any player not complying with this Policy should not be allowed to play.

 

Richard Lorenc

National Refereeing Manager

July 2005