I have trouble seeing the medical need for a kid to wear tights, but if they have a legitimate physician's note stating they need it, I'm not saying no. When I was coaching, I once saw a soccer official refuse to let a kid on the opposing team play because he was wearing an insulin pump. I knew that it was legal for him to wear it because I was the person who first brought insulin pumps to the attention of the IHSA several years ago. The kid disconnected to pump and played. Can you imagine what might have happened if that kid went down during the game and had problems? For a pair of tights, I'll just submit a report to the IHSA and let them figure it out.
Also, the same thing for religious reasons. As you might guess, I'm not interfering with someone's religious practice, in fact I'll go out of my way to validate it. If, as many have said, there is no need for tights because pants will suffice, why make an issue? Pants or tights... I going to let them wear the tights. NFHS rules explicitly state no jewelry, however there are exceptions for medical alert bracelets and necklaces, and for crosses or a crucifix. If I err on the side of letting them play, they'll let me know from Bloomington if it was a mistake. I'm sure your state will, too.
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That's my whistle -- and I'm sticking to it!
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