Whose Rules?
I will start by saying this is one of the most nettlesome topics I have tackled in this space. The topic is straightforward: Do we enforce the rules as they are written, as they pertain to potential safety risks when those rules clash with the “identity” trappings that players want to exhibit? One example could be the wearing of beads in certain hairdos. Another could be the wearing of attached ethnic jewelry. Another could be the wearing of face coverings for religious reasons.
Obviously, those who write the rules have the safety of players firmly in mind when they meet, discuss and deliberate the creation and amending of game rules. I very much commend them for their work. These dedicated individuals have made the games more competitive, fair, engaging and safe, with safety leading the list of requirements.
View the Officiating In Perspective Video Archive on YouTube