Non-league club bans ‘micro’ shin pads after ‘unbearable’ injury to forward

After Riley Martin suffered an “unbearable” double-leg break in a South West Peninsula League game at the weekend, Ilfracombe Town, a non-league team, has banned “micro” shin pads.

The Football Association claims that using “mini” shin pads has the potential to “increase the risk of injury” even though there are no current plans to outlaw the use of the pads.

After Martin broke his fibula and tibia during a 50-to-50 challenge with the home goalkeeper, Ilfracombe Town’s Saturday game at Bridport was postponed.

Its initial sound was intolerable, the author claimed. Nick Jupp, chairman of Ilfracombe Town, described it as “a shotgun going off.”

Riley’s wearing of micro shin pads is not at fault, but I believe the injury could have been less severe if he had had more coverage on the shin area with bigger shin pads.

The rules surrounding shin guards are unclear, despite the game’s rules that require them.

They currently require that pads be completely covered by socks, made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic, or similar), and have a good deal of protection.

According to additional FA guidance, “Any portion of the shin that is not covered is not as well protected is considered.”

Because there is a smaller amount of shin covered than a larger shin pad, “micro” or “mini” shin pads may therefore increase the risk of injury.

“We advise that safety is prioritized when weighing the protection provided by shin pads by ensuring a good deal of the shin area is covered and thus protected.”

The lawmaker for football, the International Football Association Board (Ifab), has been contacted for comment.

Ifab has previously stated that it has no intention of altering the rules and that youth players’ parents or guardians must assume full responsibility for their own safety on the field.

A spokesperson stated that “players’ legs are all different sizes and there are so many different materials.”

The use of micro shin pads is now prohibited across all ages and squads, from youth teams to senior teams, according to Ilfracombe Town’s statement.

They continued, “This choice was made in the interests of player safety and welfare, and to make sure that all players are wearing protective gear that complies with required safety standards.”

Not the first team to adopt this course of action.

Similar decisions have been made and have been supported by Penistone Church in Barnsley and a number of other players in the game’s lower reaches.

Jupp, the club’s chairman, added: “I believe clubs need to take serious consideration of player welfare and safety with these micro shin pads. The level of support we have received on social media is incredible.