Athletes in which of the following sports are required by the NCAA and NFHS to wear mouth guards?

• A. Basketball, soccer, baseball, and swimming
• B. Field hockey, tackle football, ice hockey, and lacrosse
• C. Running, tennis, golf, and cross country
• D. Volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics, and rugby

Answer: (B)

Mouthguards are specifically mandated for certain contact sports to protect athletes from dental injuries and concussions. In particular, field hockey, tackle football, ice hockey, and lacrosse are all sports characterized by high levels of physical contact and the potential for collisions, making mouthguards a crucial piece of protective equipment. The NCAA and NFHS regulations focus on ensuring athlete safety in these environments where the risk of oral and facial injuries is significantly heightened.

The other listed sports in the incorrect options either lack the same level of physical contact needed to justify the universal requirement for mouthguards or have different safety protocols in place. For example, basketball and soccer, while they do involve some contact, do not pose the same risk of dental injuries as those in option B. This highlights the importance of context when determining which sports require such protective gear.