College Lacrosse Star Still Sidelined Because Head Can’t Fit in NCAA Helmet

Goalie Alex Chu's head has a circumference of more than 25.inches.

ANNAPOLIS, MD - JUNE 06:  Chesapeake Bayhawks player's stick, gloves and helmet on the field before a MLL lacrosse game against the Denver Outlaws at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on June 6, 2015 in Annapolis, Maryland.  (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
ANNAPOLIS, MD - JUNE 06: Chesapeake Bayhawks player's stick, gloves and helmet on the field before a MLL lacrosse game against the Denver Outlaws at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on June 6, 2015 in Annapolis, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Getty Images

Wheaton College freshman athlete Alex Chu has a good head on his shoulders – but it’s keeping him off the lacrosse field.

A goalie who was a star player at Nipmuck Regional High School, Chu has a head with a circumference of more than 25 inches.

That size is too big to fit into an NCAA-regulation helmet (they only go up to 24 inches) so Chu has been sidelined and unable to take part in any practices with his college team.

Chu, 19, was able to play in high school when a lacrosse equipment company called Cascade joined portions of two helmets to make one large one. To use the custom-made helmet, Chu got a special waiver.

However, the NCAA has been unwilling to grant Chu – who would not fit into any NCAA-approved helmets even if he shaved his head – a similar waiver thus far.

 “It’s frustrating,” Chu said. “I love lacrosse. Being part of a team is so special. This is the longest I’ve ever gone without playing. It’s kind of crazy. I just want a fair shot.”

For a look at Chu and his massive dome, here’s a local news report about his situation.

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