Softball pitcher protective mask should be mandatory

It is time for the bodies of Directors of fast pitch softball adult softball and youth to require all softball pitchers and 3 third basemen wear a protective mask softball. While the real risk of being beaten about the face with a line unit is light, the severity of the injury can be blindness or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1991 reported that over 100,000 cases of facial trauma in children younger than 14 years, while participating in sport with a surprisingly high incidence of pitchers of the woman who gets hit with a batted ball.

Let me give a couple of real life examples I have witnessed firsthand. A few years back to softball team of my daughters was just a team of 10 years (although they were good), we had the opportunity to play a team of Junior High School Varsity. During that game, one of our 10 year old girls hit a line shot back at the pitcher. The pitcher was only able to move his head enough that the ball bounced off the side of the head just above the ear. He immediately fell to the ground and everyone rushed the field to look around. Fortunately, the ball had looked out of place a strong impact on the line. Only suffered a more severe abrasion on his head, a swollen ear, and a pretty good size knot on his head. I understand I'm talking about a pretty athletic girl of 14, only had the opportunity to react and turn the head about 45 degrees to avoid a batted ball by a 10 year old girl.

Just this season I was watching a game of fast pitch softball for 12 year old girls. I was sitting by the father of the 3rd base and we were discussing how fear is that the coach have to play 3rd base so close to home plate. 3rd Base near Many play now 20 feet inside 3rd base and even more when the coach thinks the other team is going to bunt. Later that same inning, a batter ripped a line of 18 inches directly on the head of his daughter. Not even have time to waver. Honestly, it was so sudden that he had no time to duck or move his hands for protection. The father, relieved that his daughter was fine, he said, "That's all. Tonight I am online and buy a mask. He will not play 3rd base again without one."
One might think that a protective mask only applies to girls softball, but it would be naive. Just two years ago, I met a man who played recreational slow-pitch softball. He proceeded to tell me that stills plays softball, but it can no longer launch. He had been beaten in the right eye socket with a batted ball and could not run the risk of being attacked again. Are you ready for this, it took three surgeries and 189 stitches to repair the damage to the eye socket, nose and cheeks. I do not know his exact age, but I suspect he was in his late 20's or early 30's, when the injury occurred.

The softball game is the most participated sport in the U.S. Given the level of participation and the potential severity of the injury side, it only makes sense that players in high-risk positions should be required to wear a protective mask softball face. The sad reality is that most people do not use safety clothing until are required to do so. A couple of years ago, face masks on batting helmets became mandatory. In the year prior to that rule, the team my daughter's softball was the only team in our fast pitch softball league who voluntarily wear masks on batting helmets. That's just a team of approximately 50 teams.

I'm not sure why more players do not wear protective Face Mask. I suspect that some parents are unaware it exists and that many other parents do not want to spend $ 40.00 because the odds are very slim. Imagine what the cost might be for a trip to the emergency room a week in hospital and two or three re-constructive surgery. That is only the real financial cost. Also consider the possibility of losing sight in one eye, or mental damage associated with having scars from 189 stitches. These costs can not be measured.

Now that has been made aware of the issue of safety, severity of injury, knowledge that there's softball protective masks on the market, what will your position be? Want to be proactive with your local league? If the coach is going to be proactive with your computer? Finally, going to be proactive with your daughter, or with yourself if you play softball?

Slow pitch softball and fast pitch softball are great games. I hope you will take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and those who are responsible.

About the Author

Jim Moyer authored http://www.mysoftballcoach.com. Having coached over 500 fastpitch softball games, Jim has made his unique knowledge available to all parents and coaches. At the site are numerous softball tips, softball drills, and softball strategies.

For more on this subject & other softball equipment reviews visit http://www.mysoftballcoach.com/softball-equipment.html

Kitty Litter Facial Mask : Deep Cleansing

TSD Airsoft Face Mask, Black $15.54 Black 2 piece detachable tactical airsoft face mask. Perforated aluminum eye shield, low profile silicon plastic. Eye shield can be used separately. Made just for Airsoft gaming Protects face and eyes Light weight construction for comfort and mobility Made in Taiwan

TSD Airsoft Face Mask, Green $15.54 Green 2 piece detachable tactical airsoft face mask. Perforated aluminum eye shield, low profile silicon plastic. Eye shield can be used separately. Made just for Airsoft gaming Protects face and eyes Light weight construction for comfort and mobility Made in Taiwan

Crosman Tactical Airsoft/Paintball Face Mask $19.14 Airsoft/paintball face mask Wide, clear visibility through 1-piece goggles Shatterproof goggles have anti-fogging lenses & can be worn over glasses Rubber frame around goggles Lightweight mask is vented & has an adjustable nylon strap

Save Phace Diablo Mask, Dope Series $65.99 Strike fear into battlefield competitors with the Save Phace Diablo Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Diablo Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Standard Open Cell Foam-Non Replaceable Protective Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Clear Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace Intimidator Mask, Diss Series $53.99 Prepare for battle with the Save Phace Intimidator Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Intimidator Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Open Cell Foam Protective High Gloss Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace Jungle Justice mask, Diss series $53.99 Prepare for battle with the Save Phace Jungle Justice Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Jungle Justice Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Open Cell Foam Protective High Gloss Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace OSC Mask, Diss Series $53.99 Prepare for battle with the Save Phace OSC Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace OSC Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Open Cell Foam Protective High Gloss Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace Phantom Mask, Diss Series $53.99 Prepare for battle with the Save Phace Phantom Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Phantom Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Open Cell Foam Protective High Gloss Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace Scar Phace Mask, Diss Series $53.99 Strike fear into battlefield opponents with the Save Phace Scar Phace Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Scar Phace Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Open Cell Foam Protective High Gloss Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

Save Phace Voodoo Magic Mask, Dope Series $65.99 Strike fear into battlefield competitors with the Save Phace Voodoo Magic Mask . This uniquely designed protective face mask is made with durable, high quality plastic material that can deflect stray BBs with ease. The mask features an interchangeable polycarbonate lens with military grade AF+AS+UV coatings, and an adjustable strap with Sure Grip Technology. Attention Customers: The Save Phace Voodoo Magic Mask does not come with a Mask Stuff Bag or Phace Mask Protectant Kit. Features: Standard Open Cell Foam-Non Replaceable Protective Clear Coat Comes with Single Pane Clear Lens 30 day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty

TSD Airsoft/Paintball Full-Face Mask, Goggle Lens $21.54 A must for all skirmishers! Full face protection from flying BBs Clear goggle lens Adjustable goggle strap Full ventilation for breathing Sturdy plastic construction

Save Phace Flesh Phace Mask, OU812 Series $71.99 Replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam Protective clear coat Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with thermal pane clear lens & storing bag This Save Phace tactical mask gives you a unique look on the battlefield while protecting your eyes, face & teeth from stray shots. The interior of the mask is comfortably padded with replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam material and the adjustable strap features Sure Grip Technology for a comfortable fit. Pick up this mask for your next airsoft skirmish!

Save Phace Ghost Stalker Mask, Dope Series $65.99 Standard open cell foam-non replaceable Protective Clear Coat Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with clear thermal lens Stuff sack sold separately Protect your eyes, face & teeth from stray fire in the battlefield with this Save Phace tactical mask. The mask is made with durable plastic material for maximum protection, and the interior is lined with standard open cell foam for a comfortable fit that won’t slip. Pick up this mask for your next airsoft skirmish!

Save Phace WarLord Mask, So Phat Series $89.99 Soft plush replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with clear thermal lens & Nice Stuff bag Incl. thermal dark smoked replacement lens Pick up this Save Phace tactical mask and protect your eyes, face & teeth from stray shots in the battlefield. The interior of the mask is lined with foam material for a comfortable fit that won’t slip. The mask also comes with a thermal dark smoked lens & a Nice Stuff bag for easy transport on and off the battlefield.

Save Phace DIGI Camo Mask, So Phat Series $89.99 Soft plush replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with clear thermal lens & Nice Stuff bag Incl. thermal yellow replacement lens This digital camo Save Phace mask will protect your eyes, face and teeth from stray shots in the battlefield. The mask is made with durable plastic material and has a soft plush foam interior that fits comfortably on your face. The lens is also interchangeable and has military grade AF+AS+UV coatings. Pick up this mask for your next airsoft skirmish!

Save Phace Carnage Mask, OU812 Series $71.99 Replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam Protective clear coat Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with thermal pane clear lens & storing bag Protect your eyes, face & teeth from stray shots during intense airsoft skirmishes. This unique tactical mask from Save Phace is made with durable plastic material and has a foam interior lining for a comfortable fit. A storing bag is also included for easy transport on and off the battlefield.

Save Phace Shadow Mask, OU812 Series $71.99 Replaceable, washable & interchangeable foam Protective clear coat Durable plastic material Interchangeable polycarbonate lens w/ military grade AF+AS+UV coatings Adjustable strap w/ Sure Grip Technology Comes with thermal pane clear lens & storing bag Protect your eyes, face & teeth from stray shots during intense airsoft skirmishes. This unique tactical mask from Save Phace is made with durable plastic material and has a foam interior lining for a comfortable fit. A storing bag is also included for easy transport on and off the battlefield.

Scott Vectra Airsoft/Paintball Full Goggle Mask $31.14 This is the Vectra Goggle System which comes complete with visor, hypo-allergenic foam and high quality non-slip strap. It is made by Scott USA, one of the largest goggle manufacturers in the world! Designed so it can be worn over most glasses. A solid faceplate that wraps around your head and full ear protection complete this well designed system. The ASTM approved single lens is easy to remove and features an anti-fog coating that will last without scratching. Features: – Comes with removable visor – Fits over glasses – 170 degree field of vision – light weight, full face protection – Scratch Resistant – Anti-Fog Treated – Closed Cell Foam

UTG Web Gas Mask/Tools Bag, Black $8.39 Web gas mask/tools bag Polyester material Black 0.4 lbs 10.5"x8"x4" Carry a gas mask or spare tools with this black polyester storage bag. The bag secures your items with UTG web straps, Velcro and a patterned UTG buckle. 10.5"x8"x4" in size. Attaches to your MOLLE vest.

Game Face / Classic Army GF15A4 AEG, Black $179.94 Full-/Semi-Auto, Metal Gears

Game Face Elite Combat CO2 Blowback pistol $119.99 Full-Metal, Semi-Auto, 26rd Mag

Game Face GFM4 AEG Airsoft Rifle, Black $167.94 Sportline, Battery, Charger

Game Face / Classic Army GF15A4 AEG, Clear & Black $203.94 Full-/Semi-Auto, Metal Gears

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 5000 rds, Orange $29.94 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.25g 5000 rds Orange Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 5000 rds, White $29.94 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.25g 5000 rds White Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 2200 rds, Orange $9.59 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.20g 2200 rds orange Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 2200 rds, White $9.59 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.20g 2200 rds White Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 5000 rds, Orange $23.99 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.20g 5000 rds Orange Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 5000 rds, White $23.99 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.20g 5000 rds White Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 2200 rds, Orange $10.79 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.25g 2200 rds Orange Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Biodegradable Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 2200 rds, White $10.79 6mm marking airsoft BBs Biodegradable 0.25g 2200 rds White Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 2200 rds, Orange $11.99 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.20g 2200 rds Orange Comes in a bottle Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 2200 rds, White $8.39 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.20g 2200 rds White Comes in a bottle Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 5000 rds, Orange $15.59 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.20g 5000 rds Orange Comes in a bottle Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.20g, 5000 rds, White $15.59 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.20g 5000 rds White Comes in a box Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 2200 rds, Orange $8.99 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.25g 2200 rds Orange Comes in a bottle Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 2200 rds, White $8.99 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.25g 2200 rds White Comes in a bottle Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 5000 rds, Orange $16.79 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.25g 5000 rds Orange Comes in a box Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Game Face Verdict 6mm Marking Airsoft BBs, 0.25g, 5000 rds, White $16.79 6mm marking airsoft BBs 0.25g 5000 rds White Comes in a box Solid-core BB with intensely pigmented, dry, lubricant coating Coating transfers to target on impact; leaves a small, bright mark to confirm hits Non-toxic, water soluble and cleans up quickly No special handling or temperature limits No residue from handling No issues with moisture

Birchwood Casey Zombie Darkotic Fine Print Splattering Target, 12"x18", 8ct $11.94 Zombie Darkotic Fine Print splattering target 12"x18" Each hit results in a white halo around the impact 8ct That mask won’t fool anyone. Zombies — they’re not very smart! This zombie will creep you out, so commence to shootin’ — but remember to aim for the head. It’s the only guarantee they’ll stay dead. Permanently. Forever.

Crosman Airsoft Target Board $15.54 This target game board features the same scoring as the dart board. The target is designed specifically for plastic airsoft BBs. The special adhesive rubber pad lets the BBs stick to the target face and automatically slide down into the tray underneath. For airsoft use only.

Franzen Security Gun Combination Trigger Lock, Universal $13.19 Combination trigger lock Works on most firearms, airguns & airsoft guns Universal fit Ergonomic design facilitates rapid installation No keys to lose; set your own personal combination Complies with applicable laws Set multiple combination trigger locks with same combination The lock is set to to open at "000" Instructions for setting the combination: Put the lock in the open position by twisting the face of the lock (the half that displays the combination). Locate the set pin on the side of the lock. Using a ballpoint pen, push in the set pin and hold. Turn the dials one at a time to set your own code. Release the set pin after your code is set. Pull apart the lock halves and place the half with the combination over the triggerguard. Match the other half on the opposite side of the triggerguard and fit the shafts together. Press the lock together until it’s unmovable. Remove by dialing the combination, twisting the face of the lock and pulling it apart.

CodeName: Thunder DVD $3.54 A groundbreaking production based on the "CODENAME: Thunder" twenty-four hour Airsoft event, this film’s in-your-face action sequences are underscored by a raging soundtrack performed by cutting-edge bands. Presented in digital sound, "CODENAME: Thunder" explodes with high-tech graphics and interactive menus that will compel adrenaline junkies to watch again and again.

AirForce Scuba Refill Clamp with Gauge $78.6 Scuba yoke fill station 1/4" AirForce tank adapter Fits scuba tank with standard k-valve 1" diameter micro-gauge reads from 1-5,000 psi across one-third of the gauge face Product may not look exactly like the one shown. Universal! Fits long- & short-necked scuba tanks!

Radians Dagger Goggles, Clear, Anti-Fog $10.74 Radians goggles Clear Polycarbonate lens Anti-fog Closed seal foam padding Adjustable elastic head strap These Radian goggles let you see clearly and shoot safely in outdoor weather. The closed seal foam padding secures these goggles comfortably to your face and the impact resistant polycarbonate lens protects your eyes from stray shots. Pick up a pair for your next trip to the shooting range! Polycarbonate safety glasses protect your eyes from impact, but the glasses deteriorate due to scratches, light, etc., and should be replaced after 2 years.

Smith & Wesson 38 Special Safety Glasses, Black Frame, Clear Lens $9.59 Safety glasses Black frame Clear lens Ergonomic contoured temples Sure-grip rubber temple inserts Meets or exceeds ANSI Z87.1 requirements Protect your eyes from stray shots with these Smith & Wesson safety glasses. These glasses are lightweight & stylish and have ergonomic contoured temples for superior comfort. The sure-grip rubber temple inserts let the glasses fit securely & comfortably on your face. Pick up these safety glasses today! Polycarbonate safety glasses protect your eyes from impact, but the glasses deteriorate due to scratches, light, etc., and should be replaced after 2 years.

Kalashnikov Pocketknife, Silver Patina Handle, Silver Logo & Star, Non-Serrated Blade $23.94 Kalashnikov pocketknife Clip-point blade w/ non-serrated edge 440 grade stainless steel Silver patina handle Silver face & star Made in Serbia 8.18" open 5" closed 3.38" blade 7.2 oz This Kalashnikov pocketknife is built with high-quality craftsmanship and care. The handle is made of zinc alloy and features an engraved star and official logo galvanically coated in silver. The blade is made of 440 grade stainless steel. Each knife is made and assembled in Serbia with the approval of Mikhail T. Kalashnikov himself. Pick one up today!