Attitudes of College Football Coaches Regarding NCAA Mouthguard Regulations and Player Compliance

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the attitudes of Division 1‐A college head football coaches regarding the NCAA mouthguard regulations, current patterns of use by players, and responsibility for enforcement; and to compare the coaches' responses with those of officials studied previously. Methods: A 15‐item questionnaire was mailed to all 106 Division 1‐A football coaches to assess their attitudes. Percent frequency distributions of coaches' responses to each item were computed and compared to the officials' responses. Results: Responses were received from 98 coaches (92.45%). While 87 percent of coaches reported having a team dentist, the majority reported that the team trainer was responsible for selecting the type of mouthguard used. Most coaches (53%) reported that all players wore mouthguards, but that quarterbacks were least compliant. Most coaches reported that mouthguard rules were beneficial in determining player compliance and resulted in more frequent use. Seventy‐four percent would warn the player of a violation themselves, yet only 26 percent felt the coach had the greatest influence on players wearing mouthguards. Seventy‐six percent felt the current enforcement of the rules is appropriate. Coaches opinions varied from those of officials. Conclusions: Coaches view themselves, the players, or the trainer as most responsible for players wearing mouthguards, not referees. This finding coincides with the officials' opinion that the coaches should be accountable.