Hurling Helmets 

The GAA would like to remind all players at all levels in all Hurling Games and Hurling Practice Sessions it is mandatory for, and the responsibility of, each individual player to wear a helmet with a facial guard that meets the standards set out in IS:335 or other replacement standard as determined by the National Safety Authority of Ireland (NSAI).

All players are advised that in the event of a head injury occurring, if the helmet being worn does not meet the standard or is modified or altered from the original manufactured state, they are not covered under the terms of the GAA Player Injury Fund.

The attached handout is an information sheet for distribution to players at all levels and is also available on: http://learning.gaa.ie/mouthguardshurlinghelmets

If you have any queries in relation to this matter please do not hesitate to contact me.

Mouthguards 

Since January 1st 2014, it has been mandatory for players in all grades to wear a mouthguard in all Gaelic football games and practice sessions.

The introduction of this rule has led to a drop of 37% in the number of dental injury claims made via the GAA Injury benefit fund, resulting from incidents in Gaelic football training sessions and matches in grades up to Minor in 2013. At adult level a similar drop of 39% has occurred, proving the benefits of wearing a mouthguard in reducing the risk of dental injuries. 

Key Points

~ All Gaelic footballers must wear a mouthguard in practice sessions and matches. 

~ It is the responsibility of each individual player to use a mouthguard

~ A properly fitted mouthguard is the best available protective device for reducing the incidence and severity of sports-related dental injuries

~ Players can be sent-off in a game for not wearing a mouthguard

~ Players will not be covered under the GAA player injury scheme if they don’t comply with the mouthguard rule

~ No Mouthguard? No Game!

Mouthguard Exemption

A player can apply for a mouthguard exempltion application from which can be requested by e-mailing playerwelfare@gaa.ie

The player in question must provide supporting medical evidence clearly stating why a mouthguard cannot be worn

Further information on the above is available at the following link:

http://learning.gaa.ie/mouthguardshurlinghelmets

If you have any queries in relation to the above please do not hesitate to contact Gearóid Devitt - GAA Player Welfare Officer @ gearoid.devitt@gaa.ie / 01-8658610