WVSSAC officials say Guardian Caps are legal

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) — Less than two weeks after the death of a middle school football player in Boone County , calls continue to grow for better safety equipment on the field.

Cohen Craddock, 13, died after a hard hit the head during practice, and his dad as well as some West Virginia legislator and even Gov. Jim Justice (R) have called for the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission (WVSSAC) to look into the death and make any necessary changes .

When it comes to policy for that equipment, the WVSSAC officials say that high schools in West Virginia can use guardian helmets or Guardian Caps, which are soft padded shells that go over traditional football helmets for added safety.

WVSSAC officials advised schools to check with helmet manufacturers to make sure the caps do not void their warranty. Guardian Caps are considered to be add-ons to helmets, which can be considered to compromise the integrity of the helmet.

South Charleston High School, uses Guardian Caps during practice, mandating them for running backs, linemen and linebackers, as they are the players that face the most contact.

South Charleston secures the funds through fundraising.

South Charleston head coach, Dustin Resler told WBOY’s Charleston affiliate WOWK 13 News that they have around 40 Guardian Caps for players to use.

The caps cost $60 each when purchased in bulk and $75 when bought individually. The caps can be purchased at Retailers like Dicks Sporting Goods and Academy Sports + Outdoors or ordered online on the Guardian Caps website or on Amazon.

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