Applies to all teams, players, coaches and parents. Effective 12 October 2026, for the rest of the 2026/27 season and beyond.
Our position
No jewellery or accessories at training or matches. Remove it or don’t play. Taping or covering is not accepted at Hythe & Dibden YFC.
This includes earrings and studs, rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, fitness trackers, leather and rubber bands, and hard hair clips.
What the Laws say
Law 4 of the Laws of the Game says a player must not use or wear anything dangerous to themselves or another player.
From the 2026/27 season, the Law changed. Accessories are now allowed if they are not dangerous and are safely and securely covered. Dangerous items must still be removed, and it is up to the referee on the day to decide what is dangerous.
Why we’ve gone further
We know approaches vary. Some referees will accept a taped earring; others won’t allow any earrings at all, even clear retainers. Other clubs take different lines too, and some published guidance still shows the older wording.
That means a player could be allowed to play with a taped earring one week and be told to remove it, or sit out, the next. We don’t want any player turned away or disappointed on matchday, so we’ve set one clear rule that will always satisfy any referee.
New piercings
New piercings usually can’t be removed for several weeks. If a player gets a new piercing during the season, they won’t be able to play until it can be taken out. Please plan piercings for the summer break.
Medical and religious items
If an item cannot be removed for medical or religious reasons, please speak to your team manager before matchday. We’ll help you discuss it with the referee, who has the final say.
How we’ll enforce it
- Managers and coaches will check players before training and before kick-off.
- Any player wearing jewellery will be asked to remove it. If they can’t or won’t, they won’t take part.
- Please leave valuables at home. The club can’t take responsibility for lost items.
Questions
Please speak to your team manager or email [email protected].