The old mouthguard rule (Rule 3-4(c)) stated that mouthguards are mandatory,
and that any violation be assessed a 10 min misconduct.  The old rule is
more severe than the new one, which allows a single warning to a team before
assessing a 10 minute misconduct on the next and subsequent violations.  The
new rule is given more "teeth" by allowing the opposing team to challenge a
player's compliance with the new rule.  Challenging a mouthguard now uses
the same procedure as challenging a stick.  Allowing challenges will force
the referee to be strict about calling mouthguard violations, or risk being
forced to call it when a mouthguard is challenged.  Most referees will
prefer to make the call on their own and not have the players force the
issue.
 
I can't wait for the season to start.  Perhaps we can generate more
interesting dialogue.
 
p.s.  I feel Wisconsin may be a bit underrated.
Jay, Miranda, and Norah Kleven
 
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