Be the Referee: Volleyball Jewelry
By
Paige Winne
MHSAA Marketing & Social Media Coordinator
September 6, 2023
Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials.
Below is this week's segment – Volleyball Jewelry - Listen
There’s a new rule in volleyball regarding the wearing of jewelry.
Previously, participants were not allowed to wear stud or post-like jewelry, such as earrings, even if they were covered by tape.
But now, stud or post-like jewelry, worn above the chin, is allowed. Stud earrings are now allowed to be worn during play – and do not need to be covered by tape.
Hoop-style jewelry, such as hoop earrings, are still not allowed, even if covered by tape. If a player is wearing hoop earrings, the coach will be issued an administrative yellow card for the first offense and a red card for a second offense in that set.
Items such as a medical-alert medal or a religious medal must be taped to the body and can be visible during play.
Previous Editions
Aug. 30: Football Rules Similarities - Listen
Aug. 23: Football Rules Differences - Listen
What's My Why: Official Clint Abbott
May 18, 2026
Clint Abbott, Newaygo
Abbott is completing his 43rd year as an MHSAA registered official and this school year officiated basketball and volleyball. He's also been registered in baseball, soccer, softball and track & field for a season or more since beginning with the MHSAA in 1975-76.
I really enjoy it. What I love about it is just getting out, working with the crew, teamwork, giving back to the game.
I really enjoy the student-athletes today. It’s a little different world than when I first started out, but I still enjoy it, still enjoy giving back to them. Love to watch them compete and participate, and then just love to see new officials come in – and we hope we can have more that we can train and we can mentor.
So, absolutely love this game. I hope we can keep going for many years.
“What’s My Why” is a weekly feature telling the stories of MHSAA-registered officials in their own words. If you’re an MHSAA official and would like to share your reason why, please submit a 15 to 45-second video, taken horizontally, to director of officials Sam Davis at [email protected].
Don't miss Officiate Michigan Day 2026, July 25 in Grand Rapids! Check out MHSAA.com/OMD to register and learn more.