Congress to discuss mandatory gum shields

A MOTION calling for the compulsory wearing of gum shields will be discussed at next month’s National Ladies Gaelic Football Association Annual Congress.

The motion, if passed, will make it illegal for ladies footballers in all grades, at club and inter-county levels, to play the game without a protective mouthpiece.

Association President Pat Quill said: “I would prefer to educate players on the wearing of gum shields but delegates will make that decision. I reckon half of our players are wearing them and the other half are not. But with education, the amount of players using gum shields has increased.”