Jewelry is usually worn to increase self-esteem and can enhance one’s beauty. When it is not worn, many feel as though they are bare. A solution to this problem could be getting permanent jewelry, like a bracelet with the ends welded together, so it can never be taken off. However, athletes cannot get them due to the rules of the sports they play.
While most jewelry is not permitted, this can differ depending on what sport you play. For example, in basketball, no jewelry is allowed and in volleyball, no bracelets, hoop earrings, long necklaces, necklaces with large pendants or rings are permitted. The same rules are in place for many other sports. Even when playing NDB’s newest sport, flag football, no jewelry is permitted either.
Although it can be seen as frustrating to keep having to take off jewelry before every game or practice, it is understandable why it is not allowed. In a contact sport, your bracelets, hoop earrings and necklaces are a danger because they can get pulled on and harm your ears, neck and wrists. Even in non-contact sports, rules state that it is safer to take off your jewelry before playing the game or match.
In some sports, stud earrings are allowed, but it is a big risk to wear them during contact sports because another player could latch on to the stud and tear the earlobe.
Not only does jewelry pose as a threat to athletes, it can also cause damage to the jewelry itself. Your expensive treasures can get bent, broken, scratched, or tarnished due to the rough conditions on the field. When playing indoor sports, such as basketball and volleyball, this can be an issue since jewelry can be harmed if the athlete comes in contact with the hardwood floor. Likewise, when playing outdoor sports, there are also issues of jewelry being scratched or stained because of grass or other coarse surfaces.
While playing, athletes need to be as focused as possible and jewelry often can take away that focus. Jewelry often distracts the other players during matches as well. It is unsafe since many sports require athletes to be alert at all times, and taking off jewelry can be a way to prevent distractions from interrupting game play.
