What are the best field hockey goggles for protection and visibility. How have recent rule changes affected goggle requirements in the sport. Where can players find affordable and high-quality field hockey eyewear options.
The Evolution of Field Hockey Goggles: From Mandatory to Optional
Field hockey has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly regarding player safety equipment. One of the most notable shifts has been in the use of protective goggles. Once a mandatory piece of gear, field hockey goggles are now becoming optional in many leagues and competitions. This change has sparked debates about player safety, performance, and the overall impact on the game.
The MIAA (Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association) field hockey committee recently voted 15-0-2 to accept a national federation rule that players will no longer be required to wear goggles or facemasks during games. This decision reflects a growing trend in the sport, as officials and players alike reconsider the benefits and drawbacks of mandatory eyewear.
Why the Change?
Several factors have contributed to the shift away from mandatory goggles:
- Improved visibility for players
- Concerns about improper body alignment caused by goggles
- Advancements in ball and stick technology, reducing the risk of eye injuries
- A desire to align with international field hockey standards
Elizabeth York, principal of Maynard High School, noted that “Goggles have led to lots of improper body alignment. Your natural ability to see the ball with your head up is quite good. So, kids put their heads down and that leads to balls in the air.” This observation highlights the unintended consequences of mandatory goggle use and the potential benefits of allowing players to compete without them.
Choosing the Right Field Hockey Goggles: A Buyer’s Guide
Despite the trend towards optional use, many players still prefer to wear goggles for added protection. When selecting field hockey goggles, there are several factors to consider:
Fit and Comfort
How important is a proper fit for field hockey goggles? A well-fitting pair of goggles is crucial for both comfort and effectiveness. Look for goggles with adjustable straps and padding to ensure a snug, comfortable fit that won’t slip during play.
Visibility
Clear, unobstructed vision is essential in field hockey. Opt for goggles with anti-fog coatings and wide viewing angles to maintain optimal visibility on the field.
Durability
Field hockey can be a rough sport, so choosing goggles made from sturdy, impact-resistant materials is important for longevity and protection.
Compliance with Regulations
Even as goggles become optional in some leagues, it’s important to ensure that any eyewear used meets the safety standards set by governing bodies like the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).
Top Brands in Field Hockey Goggles
Several manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in the field hockey goggle market. Some of the most popular brands include:
- STX
- Cascade
- Under Armour
- Harrow
These brands offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. STX, for example, is known for its 4Sight+ line, which provides excellent visibility and protection. Cascade’s Poly Pro goggles are another popular choice, offering durability and comfort.
Finding Affordable Field Hockey Goggles: New and Used Options
For players looking to purchase field hockey goggles, there are numerous options available at various price points. Online marketplaces like SidelineSwap offer both new and used goggles, often at significant discounts compared to retail prices.
New Goggles
Brand new goggles typically range from $25 to $50, with some high-end models costing up to $60. These offer the latest technology and materials, ensuring maximum protection and comfort.
Used Goggles
Used goggles can be an excellent option for budget-conscious players. Prices for used goggles on SidelineSwap generally range from $15 to $30, offering significant savings. When purchasing used goggles, it’s important to carefully inspect the condition and ensure they still meet safety standards.
The Impact of Goggle Use on Player Performance
The debate over mandatory goggle use in field hockey extends beyond safety concerns to questions of player performance and skill development. Some argue that goggles can hinder a player’s natural field vision and ball control abilities.
Vision and Awareness
How do goggles affect a player’s field awareness? While goggles provide eye protection, they can also create blind spots and limit peripheral vision. This can impact a player’s ability to see teammates, opponents, and the ball, potentially affecting overall game performance.
Skill Development
There are concerns that reliance on goggles may lead to poor technique, particularly in terms of head position and ball control. Players may develop habits of looking down at the ball rather than maintaining an upright posture, which can lead to less effective play and increase the risk of high balls.
Adapting to International Standards
As field hockey continues to grow as a global sport, there’s a push to align equipment standards across different levels of play. Many international competitions do not require goggles, and some argue that mandatory goggle use in youth and high school play may put players at a disadvantage when competing at higher levels.
Safety Considerations in the Goggle Debate
While the trend is moving towards optional goggle use, safety remains a paramount concern in field hockey. The decision to make goggles optional has not been without controversy, and it’s important to consider the potential risks and benefits.
Eye Injury Prevention
Goggles have been effective in reducing eye injuries in field hockey. A study published in the journal “Pediatrics” found that the introduction of mandatory protective eyewear in high school field hockey led to a significant decrease in eye and orbital injuries.
Risk Assessment
Are the risks of playing without goggles outweighed by the benefits? This is a question that players, parents, and officials must carefully consider. While goggles provide protection, they may also contribute to other issues such as improper technique or reduced field awareness.
Alternative Safety Measures
As goggle use becomes optional, it’s important to consider other ways to maintain player safety. This may include:
- Improved player education on proper techniques and safety awareness
- Enhanced referee training to better identify and penalize dangerous play
- Continued development of safer equipment, such as balls and sticks designed to reduce injury risk
The Future of Field Hockey Equipment and Safety
As the sport of field hockey continues to evolve, so too will the equipment and safety standards associated with it. The current trend towards optional goggle use may be just the beginning of broader changes in how the sport approaches player protection and performance enhancement.
Technological Advancements
What new technologies might impact field hockey safety in the future? We may see the development of new materials that offer better protection with less impact on visibility and comfort. Smart fabrics that can detect and absorb impact, or even augmented reality systems that enhance player awareness without physical barriers, could revolutionize the way we think about safety equipment in field hockey.
Personalized Protection
As our understanding of sports injuries and individual physiology improves, we may move towards more personalized approaches to player protection. This could involve custom-fitted equipment or individualized risk assessments to determine the most appropriate safety measures for each player.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
Field hockey, like many sports, must navigate the delicate balance between preserving its traditional aspects and embracing innovations that can improve the game. The goggle debate is just one example of how the sport is grappling with these issues, and it’s likely that similar discussions will continue to shape the future of field hockey equipment and rules.
As the field hockey community continues to debate and refine its approach to player safety and equipment regulations, it’s clear that the sport is in a period of significant transition. Whether goggles remain a common sight on the field or become a relic of the past, the ultimate goal remains the same: to create a safe, enjoyable, and competitive environment for players at all levels of the game.
Players, coaches, and parents should stay informed about the latest developments in field hockey safety and equipment regulations. By understanding the pros and cons of different approaches to player protection, stakeholders can make informed decisions that balance safety concerns with performance goals and the overall enjoyment of the sport.
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MIAA field hockey committee has clear view on dropping goggles, votes to end requirement
MIAA FIELD HOCKEY COMMITTEE
By Jake Levin Globe Correspondent,Updated October 24, 2022, 7:49 p.
m.
Share on FacebookShare on TwitterA mask proved beneficial for Andover’s Mia Batchelder when Longmeadow’s Kate Grinstead followed through on her shot attempt in a recent nonleague matchup between two of the state’s top programs.Winslow Townson for The Boston Globe
FRANKLIN — Does health and safety outweigh having a clearer view without goggles when playing field hockey?
On Tuesday morning, the MIAA field hockey committee voted overwhelmingly, 15-0-2, to accept a national federation rule that players will no longer be required to wear goggles or a facemask during games.
The proposed rule change, which still must clear the association’s sports medicine committee, has merit in allowing players the option to continue to give themselves an extra layer of security, but also allowing players the option for better vision of the field, free of restraints, and the chance to undo habits developed by the mandate.
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“Goggles have led to lots of improper body alignment,” Maynard principal Elizabeth York said.
“Your natural ability to see the ball with your head up is quite good. So, kids put their heads down and that leads to balls in the air.”
Patty Rowe, the committee’s officials’ rep and one of two voters who abstained from the proposal (at-large member Mary Lou Thomas, also an official, was the other) said that from an officiating standpoint, the only thing that concerns her is whether or not the players are wearing a legal pair.
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“I never mind safety equipment, but give us the proper equipment,” Rowe said. “If it saves one person’s eyesight, it’s worth wearing.”
Longtime Rockport coach Mary Ryan said she’d give her players the opportunity to wear them, but not require them – although she could be overruled by her athletic director.
Concern over the safety of players on penalty corner units, a high-leverage portion of the game which creates scoring chances and harder-hit balls, was also a point of discussion.
“We allow soccer players to have a ball kicked at their head every day,” Quaboag coach John O’Neill said. “In field hockey, at least we’re taking as much of a preventative measure as we possibly can. At least allowing opportunity for facemasks to be worn. We all know the primary area is that circle area, kids are winding up and letting it go. So why not give more facial cover than less facial cover?”
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Other notes from Tuesday’s meeting:
▪ Regarding penalty corners, what happens when a corner comes after the clock expires at the end of regulation — but the defending team has not yet re-gained possession?
With margin of victory impacting a team’s power ranking, repeated corners after the clock strikes 0:00 in say, a 2-1 game, becomes relevant for the postseason.
MIAA associate executive director Sherry Bryant said that game rules won’t be changed due to power rankings.
▪ Malden recently became the first school to announce its intentions to field a boys’ 7-on-7 team.
The school will host a free clinic on Saturday in conjunction with USA Field Hockey as part of an effort to continue to grow the boys’ game in the state; the first five schools to register boys’ field hockey teams will be equipped with gear on behalf of USA Field Hockey.
As more schools begin fielding their own teams — or forming co-op programs — will boys’ field hockey become a fall or spring sport?
“How long do we wait to see if it grows?” Bryant wondered. “I think we could have many more of them, if folks take the time to pursue the co-ops. This isn’t about convincing boys on the girls’ team to play, this is another opportunity to jump in on what’s the third-most popular sport in the world.”
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North Brookfield is currently fielding a fall field hockey team with only five girls, but six boys.
▪ No leagues in the state play overtime games in the regular season. However, the option does exist under NFHS guidelines, with the understanding that the maximum length of a match will be 60 minutes.
In that case, teams playing four 15-minute quarters would instead play four quarters 12:30 in length, followed by a 10-minute overtime period.
The committee voted against extending the maximum length of a game to 70 minutes, 11-3-1.
▪ Mary Ryan, who also serves as MIAA tournament director for field hockey, was re-elected as chair of the committee. Katherine Hennessy, representing the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, was elected as vice chair, and Patty Rose, officials’ rep, was elected secretary.
What will Rubin and Baltika be like in the RPL? Who is there to look at? – BLUES – Blogs
Ilya Vasiliev evaluates.
Before the start of the new season of the RPL (including the fantasy tournament), we figure out what to expect from newcomers to the league.
Who are the leaders there, what style do the teams play and who to take if you need players as a manager in Fantasy – you can climb up with good picks from debutant teams.
Features of Baltika: 5-3-2 Ignashevich, questions on defense, Lazarev and Musaev – bright youth
Baltika played several test matches: lost to Shinnik (0:1), unexpectedly defeated Lokomotiv (1:0), took out its farm to Baltika-BFU (8:2) and defeated Isloch (5:0). Head coach Sergey Ignashevich used 5-3-2 with flank pressure and the readiness of midfielders to climb high .
His Baltika is comfortable when the opponents start with crosses during plays from their own goal, but when the other team has possession for a long time, problems arise: the midfielders often lose players behind their backs, and the defense does not always compensate for the gaps between the lines.
Most likely, 25-year-old Yevhen Latyshonok will become the main goalkeeper: he played at the training camp plus played 20 matches in the last season of the First League. In two years in the FNL, the keeper saved three penalties out of seven (another one was Oleg Ivanov’s miss for Rubin), and this spring he prevented 2.
1 expected goals (nine missed opponents at 11.1 xG, data – DataHub).
At the training camp, Ignashevich played Nikola Radmanovac, Alexander Putsko and Alexander Zhirov, who returned to Russia, in defense. They went out in a trio against Shinnik, Loko and Isloch (reservists started with Baltika-BFU). But the quality of the defense at the training camp was questionable.
A possible shadow hero is 21-year-old right lateral Vladislav Lazarev. Last season he scored seven goals, made four assists and earned one penalty . Lazarev came out in the center of midfield (at the training camp he was tried on the right flank): he scored from a free kick, put two goals in touch from the summer (both left and right), punished with dribble shots from behind the penalty area and ran into it well. In addition, Vladislav was one of two Baltika penalties, but converted one of the two.
At the training camp, the three midfielders are also stable: Yan Kazaev – a defensive midfielder with a powerful tackle volume in the FNL, Artur Galoyan and Sergey Pryakhin – a little higher.
The main trumps ahead: Gedeon Guzina, the top scorer of the First League with 14 goals and Tamerlan Musaev (9+8). Tamerlane is also 21, he will certainly sparkle in the RPL: athletic, with powerful volume in the other half, hits from different situations from two legs, plays along with his back to the goal, beats and takes free throws (besides, he is inexpensive in fantasy for a forward – 6.5).
Guzina (two out of four attempts) and Lazarev are among the possible penalty takers, they scored last season. Other experienced candidates include rookie Angelo Henriquez (eight out of 11 in his career, three out of four last season), Tamerlan Musaev (two out of two while still in the youth league, suddenly trusted as one of the top scorers), Artur Galoyan (four out of four in the last three seasons) and Tigran Avanesyan (seven out of eight in the MFL).
What’s going on with Rubin: closed training camp, three CBs, Lisakovich and Fameye – penalty takers
Rashid Rakhimov trained Rubin behind closed doors: defeated KAMAZ (5:1), drew with Torpedo (1:1), lost to Krylia (0:1, the only match with broadcast), and two hours later took revenge with a different squad (2:1).
In the summer, nine people left the team: among them Ilya Samoshnikov, Alan Dzagoev and Alexander Belenov. Rubin signed four defenders Igor Vuyachich and Maciej Rybus (the Pole is still injured), midfielder Uguchukva Iva and striker Mirlind Daku. We proceed from the interview, the match with Krylia and the tactics of the last season, we conclude: Rakhimov will leave the top three central defenders .
Yuri Dyupin is the main candidate for the gate. He played 15 clean sheets out of 29 in the FNL (he can always get points with saves), although in the RPL he will miss Rubin for sure much more.
Alexander Martynovich, Alexei Gritsaenko and Yegor Teslenko were the main three of the Central West under Rakhimov in the First League, although the coach diluted the combination at the training camp to see new options. The focus is on Teslenko. Last season, Yegor scored three goals after the set pieces (Gritsaenko – one), but the performance left just after the appointment of Rakhimov.
