Under certain conditions approval to wear head, face or eye (HFE) protection, during a hockey match, may be granted by England Hockey.
Players wishing to wear HFE protection may receive approval from England Hockey if they are able to meet the following criteria:
- The player has a genuine medical reason for needing HFE protection;
- The player can provide a letter of confirmation from an appropriate medical practitioner
Wearing the HFE protection:
- Should not substantially restrict the player’s normal field of vision;
- Poses no obvious hazard to themselves (the player) or other players;
- Is within the FIH Rules
Please utilise the guidance provided here and the Docusign form to submit a request to England Hockey.
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The guidance outlines acceptable adaptations to the FIH Rules of Hockey – Rule 4 (Players’ clothing and equipment), with specific reference to head, face, and eye (HFE) protection. It clarifies under what conditions England Hockey may permit players to wear such protection.
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According to FIH Rule 4.2:
"Field players are permitted to wear throughout a match, for medical reasons only, a smooth, preferably transparent or single-coloured face mask which closely fits the face, soft protective head covering, or eye protection in the form of plastic goggles with a soft-covered frame and plastic lenses."
The medical reason must be assessed by an appropriate authority, and the player must understand the implications of playing with the condition.
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England Hockey is recognised as the appropriate authority for assessing medical reasons to wear HFE protection in domestic competition.
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To receive approval, the following conditions must be satisfied:
- A genuine medical reason for wearing HFE protection.
- A letter of confirmation from an appropriate medical practitioner.
- The HFE protection must:
- Not substantially restrict the player’s field of vision.
- Pose no obvious hazard to the player or others.
- Be consistent with the FIH Rule 4.2.
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In line with FIH Rule 4.2, the following are acceptable:
- Smooth, preferably transparent or single-coloured face masks that closely fit the face.
- Soft protective head coverings.
- Soft eye protection (e.g. plastic goggles with a soft-covered frame and plastic lenses).
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Yes. England Hockey reserves the right to reassess or withdraw approval to wear HFE protection at any time.
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Yes. It is strongly recommended that players check their personal liability insurance covers the use of HFE protection before wearing it in competition.
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To request approval, please complete the following Docusign link
If you have a question please email health.safety@englandhockey.co.uk
