If a player is wearing a hockey-style mask due to injury, what should the referee do?

The correct response is to disallow the mask and inform the coach because safety regulations set by governing bodies in sports dictate that headgear worn in a game must meet specific standards. A hockey-style mask does not fall under the accepted forms of protective equipment for soccer; it is not designed for the specific requirements and risks presented in soccer.

Referees prioritize the safety of players, and if a piece of equipment is deemed non-compliant with the rules, it must be disallowed to maintain fairness and safety on the field. Informing the coach about the disallowance allows for proper communication and understanding regarding the equipment standards, fostering the player’s respect for the rules while ensuring they can participate safely within the predefined regulations of the game.