Elbow Pad

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by representing

You're partially right. While it should be assumed that it is for medical purposes, that's the only reason for it to be legal. BUT, if it is used for adornment, then it is illegal. Those arm sleeves are popular on the market ever since Allen Iverson has started wearing one when he was first with the Sixers.

Once again, you are reading too much into the rule. These are legal unless they are not used for medical purposes. The rule says they are used for medical purposes. Your state might want further confirmation of that, but it is not stated in the actual rule what that confirmation should or should not be. My state we do not have to ask. And that was made clear to us last year when the rule was clarified. Your state has the right to require some level of confirmation and based on what I have read that applies. But if a school from your state comes to my state for a tournament or shootout, I am not asking for a note, nor care to see one. The fact they are wearing it is enough for me as the rule is currently written.

Originally Posted by representing

Ok, I'm not so sure about elbow pads anymore. I don't think "pads" fit under "guards, casts, braces and compression sleeves" under rule 3.5.2. However, it doesn't say anything about whether pads are legal or not. So, I I couldn't tell you whether they are legal or not. For now, I will take your word until I talk with the chapter rules interpreter at our next meeting.

Here is a general standard you should use. Unless there is a rule that makes it illegal, it is legal. So if a pad is made for the elbow and worn on the elbow, it is legal.

Originally Posted by representing

But like it was said earlier, elbow pads are very rare, I don't think I've seen an elbow pad in the 6 years I've been officiating. I have seen knee pads, but only in youth leagues on floors that are old, wooden and hard, and will cause floor burns on your body when sliding.

I agree they are rare. But something rarely seen does not make it illegal.

Peace