Beginning this year, boys’ field lacrosse players must wear protectors for commotio cordis (cardiac arrest due to a blow to the heart area) that meet the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) ND200 standard and contain an SEI certification mark.
In 2021, USA Lacrosse, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), and NCAA required all goalies in girls’ and boys’ lacrosse to wear protectors that meet the standard. This year, USA Lacrosse, NFHS, and NCAA have extended this requirement to all field players in boys’ lacrosse.
NOCSAE is an independent and nonprofit standards development body with the sole mission to enhance athletic safety through scientific research and the creation of performance standards for athletic equipment.
Boys’ Lax Shoulder Pads Must Meet NOCSAE ND200 Standards
The NOCSAE has released new rules that state all lacrosse shoulder pads must meet specific safety standards to be worn during play. Any lacrosse shoulder pad purchased must be NOCSAE certified and contain an SEI certification mark. The SEI certification mark is found on many protective sports equipment products and signifies compliance with NOCSAE testing standards.
The SEI certification mark ensures that shoulder pads and other protective equipment that bear it will perform as intended by minimizing risks of injury to athletes.
Why Pads with an SEI Certification Mark are Important
The SEI certification mark ensures that shoulder pads and other protective equipment that bear it will perform as intended by minimizing risks of injury to athletes.
Boys’ Lax Players Can no longer Use Any Other Type of
Shoulder Pad Protection
Lacrosse shoulder pads and chest protectors that don’t meet a new standard to reduce commotio cordis risk are illegal starting January 1, 2022. According to the new rules, players cannot wear non-SEI compliant shoulder pads in any competition event or sanctioned practice, including high school and college play. Boys’ field players are no longer allowed to use any other type of protector.
Where To Buy These Protectors? The Good Sport of course!
The Good Sport is well stocked with Maverik’s MAX EKG SPEED PAD which meets NOCSAE standards and is SEI certified. If you have questions concerning your current shoulder pads, please feel free to stop by the store. We will be more than happy to take a look!