quote:
Originally posted by Rob T:
In order to protect his nose as it heals, we are planning to get him a face mask. Now the question arises - are there any restrictions on using them? I don't see any specific rules any where regarding them.
I don't think anyone would have an issue with them being used if he is playing IF or OF - but what about pitching?
Years ago, my son was poked in the eye pretty badly (football). I got him an eye shield the next day. The first game, first play, yellow flag, tweet, and he's coming off the field. 15 yards, unsportmanlike conduct. What?
They were playing under state rules. He got flagged because the shield did not have a NOCSAE stamp, thus was considered a 'medical device'. Refs ask the coaches before the game- 'any casts, splints, wooden legs or other medical devices?' Medical devices require a doctor's note. Coach didn't report son's eye shield. (Son didn't have a note, any way.)
So, the shield had to come off before son could go back in the game. That week, he got a note from his doctor. He wore a shield for the next four years, so, every year he got a note for the shield when he got his physical.
I don't know how the fielders' masks are marked, but I found this. Take a look at it. Note: it says some are marked 'not for baseball'. Make sure you get the right one.
NOCSAE standards for fielders masks Hope your son heals quickly. If I were you, I'd get a doctor's note, just to be sure. Give it to the coach, or whoever presents the line-up and make sure they tell the umpire before every game.
