Section 8: Safety Considerations
Mandatory mouthguard at NCAA level. Goggles strongly recommended (high incidence of stick-strike eye injuries). Goalkeeper full padded equipment mandatory. Concussion protocol: removal + graduated return-to-play assessment for any actual or suspected concussion (head/face strikes from stick or ball are primary risks). Penalty corner safety: ball below backboard height (460 mm) for first shot reduces high-velocity head-strike risk. WBGT-based heat thresholds; lightning detection halts outdoor play. Required: certified athletic trainer at every match; team physician + EMT at championship-level. AED access + emergency action plan at every venue.