Date:         Wed, 19 Sep 2001 19:42:53 -0400
Reply-To:     [log in to unmask]
Sender:       Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees <[log in to unmask]>
From:         "Robert J. Dickover" <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:      Turbans in High School
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I coach a New York High School Modified soccer team.  I have a player from
India who must wear a tight fitting turban with a soft ball size knot that
protrudes from the area of his forehead just above the hair line. I am told
by this player's mother that he must wear the turban for religious reasons.
Aside from the difficulty that the knot presents in heading the ball, the
National Federation of High School Athletic Associations has a rule that
would seem to make the turban an illegal piece of equipment.  Has anyone
seen a ruling on this matter?  If so, can you provide an internet link to
the source or provide other sources of information on the rulings involving
this matter?  The player's mother has stated that in New Jersey a similar
case appeared and the courts ruled in favor of the player wearing the
headpiece.

Thanks.
Rob D.