Introduction 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 National Coaching Panel. It is offered as an Australian interpretation of the law and is now National Policy. Law 4 This Law states that: " Nothing dangerous is to be worn; " No jewellery is to be worn. These directions are also restated in the Additional instructions to referees section of the Law Book. These two statements are related, but not dependant upon each other. The Law is quite specific, however, about no jewellery being worn. Guidelines for Match Officials The following is now Policy within Australia from January 1 2004: 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: For the purposes of this interpretation wedding bands are not considered jewellery and may be worn. Only flat wedding bands will be allowed. All other rings must be removed. Under the safety provisions they must be made safe by taping. 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.

Jewellery Policy