An American flag and a memorial patch may be worn on the uniform jerseys of athletic teams of the Alabama High School Athletic Association during this time of healing in our country, Executive Director Dan Washburn said Sunday.

"We know that more and more Americans are looking for ways to show their respect for the families and friends of the victims of last week’s attacks on our country," Washburn said, "and under our rules a memorial patch as well as the American flag can be worn on uniform jerseys if they meet certain specifications. This would be a great way for our schools to show patriotism and express their concern for the loss of life during this emotional time.

"We join all of America during this time of healing in expressing our deepest sympathy to all the American families affected by these tragedies," he concluded.

The AHSAA conducts its athletic programs under National Federation of State High School Association rules that permit an American Flag and a memorial patch to be worn, provided they meet the specifications in the language that follows:

"An American Flag, not to exceed 2 x 3 inches, and either a commemorative or memorial patch, not to exceed 4 square inches, may be worn on the jersey provided neither the flag nor the patch interferes with the visibility of the number."

Other than the 4-square-inch maximum limitation, no other restrictions exist on the memorial patch except for basketball jerseys. NFHS basketball rules permit a commemorative/memorial patch to be worn on the jersey, provided it is not a number and it is worn above the neckline or in the side insert.