As a regular volunteer coach at my son’s rugby club, I know firsthand the challenges of keeping players safe. It can feel like a constant uphill struggle, from convincing parents to invest in a gumshield to dealing with kids' complaints about discomfort.
I get it—parents are busy juggling a million things, so spending on a gumshield might not seem like a top priority.
But as coaches, we see the bigger picture. It's not just about enforcing a rule—it's about ensuring kids stay safe, giving parents peace of mind, and allowing players to enjoy the game without facing avoidable setbacks.
A gumshield may seem like a small investment, but its impact on player safety is huge.
Let’s work together to make the case: protecting young players is worth it.
Speaking Their Language
Parents are busy. Between school drop-offs, after-school activities, and everyday chaos, safety messages can get lost. The key to resonating with parents is keeping it simple and relatable.
Rather than diving into jargon, I always frame the conversation around what parents care about most: their child’s well-being.
"Would you let your child ride a bike without a helmet? Then why let them play rugby without a gumshield?"
This analogy often makes the point crystal clear.
Mouthguards for kids—whether a boil-and-bite gum shield or a custom-fit one—are their helmets for contact sports.
Addressing Common Pushbacks
One of the biggest barriers I’ve encountered is the misconception that gum shields are unnecessary or uncomfortable. When parents say, “My child doesn’t like wearing one,” I explain how Game Guard boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a comfortable, custom fit. Our UKCA- and CE-approved gumshields are designed to meet kids' needs, ensuring protection without compromising comfort.
And then there’s cost. It’s tempting to skimp on something that might get lost or chewed up, but explaining the long-term savings—in avoided dental bills—usually puts things into perspective. Affordable options like Game Guard’s boil-and-bite junior gum shields are a practical solution.
Making It Easier for Parents
To help parents act, schools and clubs can:
Provide guidance: Share clear information on why gumshields are essential and how to choose the right gumshield.
Run fitting sessions: Partner with suppliers to host mouthguard fitting days at your school or club.
Send reminders: A quick email or newsletter mention before the season starts can make all the difference.
Changing the Narrative
I’ve learned that getting parents on board is about painting a picture of the "what ifs" while empowering them with solutions.
Imagine this: It’s a bright Saturday morning, the first rugby match of the season. Your players are geared up, every one of them wearing a mouthguard. You feel at ease knowing you’ve done everything to ensure their safety. That’s the goal.
Together, we can protect young smiles and ensure the love of sports is never overshadowed by preventable injuries.
Let’s make mouthguards—whether it’s a gum shield for rugby, hockey, or football—a non-negotiable part of the kit.
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