The National Federation of High Schools provides detailed guidelines about what can and cannot be worn as part of a high school athlete's uniform. These rules cover everything from protective equipment to adornments such as wristbands -- and Power Balance bracelets.
Power Balance Bracelets Legality
A recent trend in professional sports has shown athletes using and endorsing Power Balance bracelets as a means of enhanced performance. In turn, many high school athletes have begun looking into the potential benefits on their personal performance. But before spending the money, it's important to reference the uniform rules for the sport you play. The NFHS is in charge of governing interscholastic athletics in the United States, and one of their roles is to monitor each sport and provide rules and guidelines for their play.
NFHS Rules Regarding Adornments
To decrease the amount of adornments and "bling" worn by student athletes, the NFHS has issued the following directive that applies to all high school football players: "Illegal equipment shall always include but is not limited to: .... Uniform adornments, with the exception of: (b) Moisture-absorbing sweatbands, when worn on the wrist beginning at the base of the thumb and extending no more than 3 inches toward the elbow."
NFHS Guidelines Regarding Jewelry
Additional guidelines are given to clarify the few instances when jewelry can be worn by a participant, but those guidelines do not allow for the use of power balance bracelets. "Religious and medical alert medals are not considered jewelry. A religious medal must be taped and worn under the uniform. A medical-alert medal must be taped and may be visible."
Penalty for Use
Failure to comply with these rules could result in a 15-yard penalty for the offending player's team. In addition, the player will be removed from competition until the offending piece is removed.
Use in Practice
Practices are not governed by the same rules as games and are instead under the rules of the head coach, athletic director, and school board. Consult the head coach for more information regarding the use of Power Balance bracelets in practice.
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