Mouthguards

Monday, January 7, 2013

The GAA recently announced details of the forthcoming national roll-out of the compulsory wearing of mouthguards in all underage grades up to and including minor for Gaelic football matches and practice sessions from 1st January, 2013. In addition, from 1st January, 2014, this rule will apply to all players at all age grades. The move to make the wearing of mouthguards obligatory reiterates the Association's long-term commitment to player welfare.

Research figures indicate that Ireland has one of the highest rates of sport-related oral injuries in the EU, with one third of all adult dental injuries being sports-related. In many sports such as rugby and hockey, the wearing of gumshields is the norm with nearly all Clubs adhering strictly to a 'no gumshield - no game' rule. Significantly, if a player refuses to comply he can be sent-off and players will not be covered under the GAA Player Injury Scheme if they are not wearing a mouthguard. Information on the use of mouthguards for clubs, parents and players can be found at  http://gaa.ie/medical-and-player-welfare/mouthguards/ .

The GAA are also pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached to distribute GAA/GPA mouthguards. The product range includes both boil and bite mouthguards and custom fitted mouthguards. The boil and bite mouthguards are now available to purchase. They come in four categories of protection: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. They are available for purchasing through the following local retailers: Supervalu, Centra, Lifestyle, Elverys and O'Neills.

Please note that the Club Shop in Old Conna also stocks approved mouthguards.