This rugby head guard was made in 2003 and shows the innovative design and construction used in the production of protective sports gear and reflect an increasing understanding of the biomechanics of the body when playing sport.

The wearing of protective equipment to prevent injury when playing and practising sport is increasing. The use of protective equipment is mandatory in many sports such as cricket and baseball and voluntary in sports such as rugby. Protective equipment ranges from headguards, eyewear and mouthguards to shin padding, gloves and genital protectors.

This model represents the transition from traditional sponge padded cross-top skull caps with tape, tied off under the chin, which were in vogue for more than 30 years to the current style, featuring compression-molded EVA foam with poly-urethane cover and 'hook and loop' fastened chin strap.

The design of these products has gradually progressed and manufacturers are continuously looking for ways to improve protective equipment and make them more flexible, protective and lighter.

This headguard was displayed in the 'Sport: more than heroes and legends' exhibition (September 2003 - July 2004) as part of a suite of protective sports equipment.

Written by Erika Dicker
Assistant Curator, 2007.

The headguard was made by Madison Sport Pty Ltd in China in 2003. Madison Sport Pty Ltd is an Australian company that specialises in protective sporting equipment. They are based in Queensland.

This headguard was displayed in the 'Sport: more than heroes and legends' exhibition (September 2003 - July 2004) as part of a suite of protective sports equipment.

Rugby league headguard, with packaging, vinyl / velcro / cord, made by Madison Sport Pty Ltd, China, 2003

This headguard is made of black padded vinyl with a velcro strap and black cord. The text 'Madison" is printed white across the forehead.

This model represents the transition from traditional sponge padded cross-top skull caps with tape, tied off under the chin, which were in vogue for more than 30 years to the current style, featuring compression-molded EVA foam with poly-urethane cover and 'hook and loop' fastened chin strap.

There is also packaging for this object which consists of a plastic box with colour printed cardboard label insert featuring photographs and endorsements from various rugby players and product information on the back.

Made: Madison Sport Pty Ltd; China; 2003

Two white fabric labels inside guard 'L/CHINA', 'DISCLAIMER...'.

2007/178/4

2003

150 mm

180 mm

250 mm