Non-League Paper Programme: Horror injury sparks action on micro shinpads

Football’s latest trend accessory, the micro shin pad, is going out of fashion faster than a John Barnes free-kick, it seems.

As the name suggests, “micro” or “mini” pads, as they are also known, are modern-day shin guards that cover a smaller amount of the shin, about the size of a Custard Cream biscuit.

But last week, we reported that a number of Step 5 and 6 clubs had imposed bans prohibiting their use following a horror injury suffered by young Ilfracombe Town winger Riley Malin.

Malin suffered a double leg break after coming off worse in a 50/50 challenge against Bridport, forcing their South West Peninsula League Premier East match to be abandoned.

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Ban

Micro shinpads were blamed and, as a result, the Bluebirds, along with Bridport and the likes of Bude Town and Dobwalls FC, announced that they implemented an immediate and non-negotiable ban on the use of micro shin pads across all age groups and squads.

Ilfracombe said the decision had been made in the “interest of player safety and welfare”, and to ensure that all players are “equipped with protective gear that meets required safety standards”.

Showcased by Premier League stars such as Jack Grealish, the micro shinpad is now a popular item in dressing rooms up and down the country at amateur, grass roots and junior level.

FA guidance for shin pads in community football states that such protection is a “compulsory” piece of equipment, but stops short of prohibiting micro versions.

“The amount of shin physically covered is an important consideration, as any part of the shin that is not covered is not as well protected,” the guidance says.

“’Micro’ or ‘Mini’ shin pads may therefore increase the risk of injury due to the smaller amount of shin covered compared to larger sized shin pads.”

Final straw

Malin’s injury proved the final straw for Ilfracombe, who said in a statement: “All players must wear regulation-sized, fully protective shin pads for all matches, training sessions, and club-sanctioned activities.

“Any player found wearing micro shin pads—or any shin protection that does not meet accepted safety standards—will not be permitted to participate until compliant equipment is worn.

“The incident at Bridport highlighted the unacceptable risk posed by inadequate protective equipment. The club has a duty of care to every player, and this measure is essential to maintaining safe and responsible playing conditions.”

Their stance has been emulated by South West Peninsula League rivals Bude Town.

They added: “This decision has been made to ensure player safety and welfare across all elements of competitive football, whether that be matches or training.

“Players will not be able to play for Bude Town Football Club unless compliant equipment is worn and we need the co-operation from players, coaches and parents/guardians to enforce this decision.”

Support

Since our article, a number of other clubs have followed suit and also publicly come out in support of the ban.

Isthmian South Central side Binfield said: “Following recent reviews of match-day equipment and reports within the press highlighting the ineffectiveness of micro shin pads, the club is introducing a full ban on micro shin pads, effective immediately.

“Whilst we recognise that The FA has not yet put a ban in place to this effect, we at Binfield FC strongly believe that micro shin pads do not provide adequate protection and significantly increase the risk of injury.

“To maintain a safe playing environment for all, all players must wear appropriately sized shin pads for training sessions and competitive fixtures.

“We ask all players, parents, and coaches to support this policy and ensure suitable equipment is worn at all times.

“The club will continue to prioritise player welfare and appreciates your cooperation in upholding these standards.”

Taking a stance

And clubs at Step 7 are also taking a stance.

Beaminster FC, who play in the Dorset Football League, said that their new shin pad policy was “a non-negotiable policy”.

“Managers/coaches and club officials present on the day will be asked to check that players are wearing appropriately sized shin guards that comply with this new policy,” they said.

“Failure to comply will result in the player being withdrawn from the fixture.”

And Lyme Regis FC, who play in the Devon and Exeter Premier, added: “Player safety is our highest priority, and this policy reflects our commitment to ensuring a safe and responsible playing environment for everyone at the club.”

With Ilfracombe’s stance gathering support all the time, don’t be surprised others make a stand, thus forcing the relevant governing bodies into making a firmer decision in time.

Safety, not vanity must be the order of the day here, and if a blanket ban prevents just one injury as suffered by Riley Malin, then common sense will have prevailed.

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