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Ref Blows Call On Head Scarf

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 19, 2007

When we Americans think of women's soccer, the image of Brandi Chastain ripping off her T-shirt - to reveal the sports bra underneath - in celebration of the United States' World Cup victory in 1999 quickly comes to mind.

Lately, however, many Muslim girls are taking up the sport, and they are not likely to engage in any Chastain-like display of skin. Their religion requires them to remain covered in public in many circumstances.

Last week Iman Khalil, a 15-year-old Muslim girl, was forced to sit out a youth soccer tournament in Palm Harbor because a referee felt her hijab - a head scarf worn as part of her faith - violated uniform rules.

Soccer guidelines stipulate that players should not wear anything that poses a danger to themselves or others. It's up to local associations - and referees - to interpret that. In this case, the ref blew the call.

Allowing Kahlil to play, which her teammates and opposing players supported, should not have been a difficult decision. Head scarfs don't present a safety danger or give a player an unfair advantage.

The sports clothing giant Nike, it should be noted, is manufacturing scarves and swim caps designed for Muslim women who participate in sports.

Khalil was allowed to return to the field last Sunday after the referee's decision was overturned by the league. Her fellow players don't fear her head scarf or her religion. Score a delayed goal for tolerance and common sense.

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