A significant change has swept through the world of sports, particularly within the New York Yankees organization. On Friday morning, the franchise announced a revision to its grooming policy, permitting players to maintain “well-groomed beards” moving forward.

Hal Steinbrenner, the owner of the Yankees, shared in a statement, “In recent weeks, I’ve engaged in conversations with numerous players, both past and present, from various eras, to gather their insights on our long-standing facial hair and grooming rules. I truly value their candid and diverse viewpoints.”

He added, “These discussions are part of an ongoing internal review that has taken place over several years. Ultimately, the final decision is mine, and after thorough contemplation, we have decided to update our policy to allow players and uniformed staff to sport well-groomed beards. It feels like the right moment to move beyond the comfort of our previous regulations.”

This grooming rule had been enforced since 1976 when George Steinbrenner, Hal’s father, established it for the team. Under the previous guidelines, players were allowed to have mustaches, but their hair had to be kept above the collar of their uniforms.

Notably, new Yankees closer Devin Williams arrived at spring training with a full beard and expressed his frustration over the need to shave for team photos. Fortunately for him—and the rest of the team—this new policy means he can keep his beard without concern.

This story will be updated.

(Photo: New York Yankees / Getty Images)