New Year’s Resolution: Make Player Safety a Priority with Game Guard Gumshields

Every year, I kick off January with a mix of excitement and determination. I jot down my list of New Year’s resolutions—hit the gym, eat healthier, reduce screen time, etc. But, by the end of the month, those good intentions just seem to fade away.

A New Year’s Resolution for Coaches

Sound familiar? This year, I want to advocate for a resolution that should stick, especially for sports coaches!

Make Wearing UKCA/CE Approved Gumshields Mandatory for All Your Players

Prioritising player safety is a commitment worth sticking to. While safety and compliance might not seem thrilling, they are crucial when you consider their impact. Whether you’re a PE teacher or a volunteer running an amateur sports club, ensuring players are adequately protected with quality mouthguards can prevent life-altering injuries.

And one of the best ways to do that? Start by making UKCA and CE-approved gumshields non-negotiable.

Why UKCA and CE-Approved Gumshields?

Not all gumshields are created equal. So, how do you know if yours will protect your players? This is where UKCA and CE approvals come in. These certifications signify that a product has undergone rigorous testing to meet strict safety standards.

The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark is the UK's post-Brexit replacement for the CE mark, which remains applicable in the European Economic Area (EEA). Both marks ensure a product meets essential health, safety, and environmental regulations. For gumshields, this means they are designed to absorb impact and protect teeth, gums, and jaws from serious injuries like knocked-out teeth and fractured jaws.

Why Safety Should Come First

Many coaches and schools operate on tight budgets, but cutting corners on safety is never an option. A properly certified mouthguard is your first line of defence against dental injuries. A poorly fitted gumshield, or one without proper certification, can do more harm than good, putting players at risk.

Why This Should Be Your New Year’s Resolution

While many New Year’s resolutions fade by February, making gumshields mandatory is one that can’t be overlooked. Think of it as more than a compliance tick-box; it’s about creating a culture of safety in your school or club. As a coach, your responsibility for players’ well-being includes recommending UKCA and CE-approved mouthguards—an easy yet impactful way to protect them.

By making this resolution stick, you ensure players can focus on the game, knowing they are protected. Parents will also appreciate knowing their children are safe on the field with a reliable gum guard.

The Importance of Community Awareness

It’s essential to create awareness within your community about the benefits of using gumshields. Hold informational sessions for parents and players that explain the importance of safety gear. Share statistics about injuries that could have been prevented through proper equipment. When the entire community is on board, the culture of safety becomes stronger.

Promote Safety in Every Practice

Incorporate discussions about safety gear into your regular coaching sessions. Remind players to properly wear their gumshields not just during matches but also during practice. Players often forget about this crucial piece of equipment when they’re in training mode, which can lead to unnecessary risks.

Lead by Example

As a coach, you set the tone for what is acceptable on your team. If you wear a gumshield during practice and games, your players are more likely to do the same. Show them that safety is a priority by advocating for its use myself.

Join Our Club

Game Guard is committed to player safety without breaking the bank. Our UKCA & CE-approved gumshields offer high-quality protection at affordable prices, ensuring safety without compromise. Whether you need a mouthguard for kids, a junior gum shield, or a rugby mouth guard, we have you covered.

As you set your resolutions this year, prioritise protecting your players with Game Guard gumshields—they’ll thank you when they take a hit and walk away smiling!

Join the Game Guard Club today for exclusive updates and offers!

Pack of 10 - Game Guard Gumshields - Mixed Flavours - Clear

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