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Illegally equipped vs. improperly equipped - know the differences
The difference between an illegally equipped and an improperly equipped player is more than just semantics. The terms "illegal" and "improper" carry specific meaning, and officials need to recognize the difference, as they are addressed in very different ways. Some examples of illegal equipment are mentioned in Rule 4.2, but note the statement, "...include, but are not limited to...". Use player safety as your guide to interpret whether equipment not specifically mentioned in Rule 4.2 is legal or not. Improper equipment usually refers to situations that develop during the course of a match, such as a untucked shirt, or an otherwise legal shin guard lying on the field of play.
Rule 4.3 nicely summarizes how illegal and improper equipment are handled by officials. Perhaps the most important distinction is that an illegally equipped player or the coach receives a caution, whereas improperly equipped players are asked to leave the field of play to address the issue. If a improper equipment issue can be rectified quickly ("#8, please tuck in your shirt"), there's no need for the player to leave the field. If, for example, a knee brace strap becomes undone and requires a trainer to assist, send the player off. Remember that an improperly equipped player can be sent off and return at the next dead ball.
In both cases, illegal or improper, play can be stopped immediately when there is a dangerous situation. If the situation is not deemed dangerous by the referee, play can continue and the referee can address the situation at the next dead ball.
A review of Rule 4 will help to reinforce your understanding of illegal and improper equipment.
Rule 4.3 nicely summarizes how illegal and improper equipment are handled by officials. Perhaps the most important distinction is that an illegally equipped player or the coach receives a caution, whereas improperly equipped players are asked to leave the field of play to address the issue. If a improper equipment issue can be rectified quickly ("#8, please tuck in your shirt"), there's no need for the player to leave the field. If, for example, a knee brace strap becomes undone and requires a trainer to assist, send the player off. Remember that an improperly equipped player can be sent off and return at the next dead ball.
In both cases, illegal or improper, play can be stopped immediately when there is a dangerous situation. If the situation is not deemed dangerous by the referee, play can continue and the referee can address the situation at the next dead ball.
A review of Rule 4 will help to reinforce your understanding of illegal and improper equipment.