Softball Pitcher's Face Mask Should Be Mandatory
By guest author: Jim Moyer
The time has come for the Sanctioning bodies of adult softball and youth fastpitch softball to require all softball pitchers and 3rd basemen to wear a protective softball face mask. While the actual risk of being hit in the face with a line drive is slight, the severity of the injury can be blindness or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1991 reported that more than 100,000 cases of facial trauma occurred in children younger than 14 years while they participated in sports activities with a surprisingly high incidence of female pitchers that are hit with a batted ball.
A couple of real life examples that I have witnessed first hand. A few years back when my daughters softball team was just a 10 year old team, we had the opportunity to play a High School Junior Varsity team. During that game, one of our 10 year old girls hit a line shot back at the pitcher. The pitcher was just able to move her head enough that the ball glanced off the side of her head just above her ear. She immediately fell to the ground and everyone rushed the field to see about her. Fortunately the ball had glanced off of her rather than a straight on blunt impact. She only suffered from a rather severe abrasion on her head, a swollen ear, and a pretty good size knot on her head. Understand that I'm talking about a fairly athletic 14 year old girl only had the chance to react and turn her head about 45 degrees to avoid a ball hit by a 10 year old girl.
Just this season I was watching a fastpitch softball game of 12 year old girls. I was sitting by the father of the 3rd baseman and we were discussing how scary it is that coach's have the 3rd baseman play so close to home plate. Many 3rd baseman now play about 20 feet inside 3rd base and even closer when the coach thinks the other team is going to bunt. Later that same inning, a batter ripped a line drive about 18 inches directly over his daughter's head. She didn't even have time to flinch. Honestly, it was so sudden she didn't have time to duck or move her hands for protection. The dad, relieved that his daughter was okay, said, "That's it. I'm online tonight and will buy a protective face mask. She won't play 3rd base again without one."
One might think a protective face mask is only applicable to girls softball, but that would be naive. Just two years ago, I met a man that played recreational slow pitch softball. He proceeded to tell me that he still plays softball but he can no longer pitch. He had been struck in his right eye socket with a batted ball and could not risk being struck again. Are you ready for this, it took three surgeries and 189 stitches to repair the damage to his eye socket, nose, and cheek. I don't know his exact age, but I suspect he was in his late 20's or early 30's when the injury occurred.
The game of softball is the most participated sport in the U.S. Given this level of participation and the possible severity of facial injuries, it just makes sense that players in high risk positions should be required to wear a softball protective face mask. The unfortunate reality is that most people will not wear safety gear until they are required to do so. A couple of years ago, face masks on batting helmets became mandatory. In the year prior to that rule, my daughter's softball team was the only team in our fastpitch softball league that voluntarily put face masks on batting helmets. That's just one team out of approximately 50 teams.
I'm not sure why more players don't wear the protective face mask. I suspect some parents are not aware that it exists and many other parents don't want to spend the $40.00 because the odds are so slim. Imagine what the cost might be for a trip to the emergency room, a week in the hospital, and two or three re-constructive surgeries. That's just the actual financial cost. Also consider the potential of losing sight in one eye, or the mental damage associated with having scars from 189 stitches. Those costs can't be measured.
Now that you have been made aware of the safety issue, the severity of the injury, the knowledge that there are softball protective face masks on the market, what will your position be? Will you be proactive with your local league? If you coach, will you be proactive with your team? Finally, will you be proactive with your daughter, or with yourself if you play softball?
Slow pitch softball and fastpitch softball are great games. I hope you will take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and those you are responsible for. For more information regarding softball game face protective masks, please see http://www.mysoftballcoach.com/game-face.html.
Jim Moyer is the author of http://www.mysoftballcoach.com Having coached over 500 youth fastpitch softball games, Jim decided to put the information online to allow parent/coaches to draw on his unique experience.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Moyer
=====================
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Thursday, September 15, 2011
Monday, September 12, 2011
Episode 47 - Fastpitch Drills - Fastpitch Softball TV Show
Episode 47 - Fastpitch Drills - Fastpitch Softball TV Show
Uploaded by FastpitchTV
On this episode Learn what my favorite fastpitch softball drill is, as well as the favorite drills of some Olympians, hall of fame coaches, and pro fastpitch players.
Visit the Fastpitch TV Show's website at http://Fastpitch.TV
You can find our softball iPhone App at http://FastpitchApps.com
Don't forget to visit our other softball websites
The Fastpitch Radio Show - http://Fastpitch.FM
The Fastpitch News Blog - http://Fastpitch.US
Free fastpitch video drills http://FastpitchDrills.com
A search engine for softball - http://FastpitchSearch.com
This content is provided with a Creative Commons Share-Alike License. Feel free to use this content, in whole or in part, in any manner you like so long as you give credit to Gary leland, Fastpitch.TV and link to http://fastpitch.tv
For softball training videos, training aids, softball equipment, or softball bats visit http://softballjunk.com/.
Gary leland is a new media producer of fastpitch softball. information. For advertising information send him an email to FastpitchTV@Gmail.com, or visit his personal website site at http://garyleland.com for more information on Gary.
Add The Fastpitch Softball TV Show to your social network of choice at http://fastpitch.tv.
Our Facebook page is http://Facebook.com/FastpitchTV
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Feel free to email questions for future shows to FastpitchTV@gmail.com. You may also leave questions, or comments on our call in line 209-softbal.
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Friday, August 19, 2011
Easton Synergy VCS Softball Bats
Easton Synergy VCS Softball Bats
Uploaded by TeamExpress A demonstration of Easton's visual composite technology used on its softball bats. For more info, visit www.softball.com.
=======================
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SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Episode 52 - Infielder Faceguards Review - The Fastpitch Softball TV Show
Episode 52 - Infielder Faceguards Review - The Fastpitch Softball TV Show
Uploaded by FastpitchTV
http://Fastpitch.TV - On this episode the Batbusters softball team helps us review fastpitch faceguards for infielders. See which one they choose as their favorite. They choose from the D Mask, The Rip it, The Gamerface, and The Bangers.
All the facemasks in this video can be found at http://www.FastpitchFaceguards.com
Visit the Fastpitch TV Show's website at http://Fastpitch.TV
You can find our softball iPhone App at http://FastpitchApps.com
Don't forget to visit our other softball websites
The Fastpitch Radio Show - http://Fastpitch.FM
The Fastpitch News Blog - http://Fastpitch.US
Free fastpitch video drills http://FastpitchDrills.com
A search engine for softball - http://FastpitchSearch
This content is provided with a Creative Commons Share-Alike License. Feel free to use this content, in whole or in part, in any manner you like so long as you give credit to Gary leland, Fastpitch.TV and link to http://fastpitch.tv
For softball training videos, training aids, softball equipment, or softball bats visit http://softballjunk.com/.
Gary leland is a new media producer of fastpitch softball. information. For advertising information send him an email to FastpitchTV@Gmail.com, or visit his personal website site at http://garyleland.com for more information on Gary
Add The Fastpitch Softball TV Show to your social network of choice at http://fastpitch.tv.
Our Facebook page is http://Facebook.com/FastpitchTV
Our Twitter page is http://Twitter.com/FastpitchTV
Feel free to email questions for future shows to FastpitchTV@gmail.com. You may also leave questions, or comments on our call in line 209-softbal.
======================
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Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
===================
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment
Monday, August 1, 2011
SoftballSavings.com - Worth Hand-Eye Softball Training Bat
SoftballSavings.com - Worth Hand-Eye Softball Training Bat
Uploaded by BaseballSavings
http://www.softballsavings.com/
Worth Softball Training Bat...Focus On Improvement!
You know you have to work hard to play your best, but why not make it fun with Worth's training aids. The Worth 5-Tool Fast Pitch Softball Training Bat will take you from OK to excellent in no time!
Worth 5-Tool Fast Pitch Softball Training Bat features: * 1" undersized barrel for improving hand-eye coordination * 33" length * Precision balanced to feel like -10 bat * Includes six 5" plastic trainers * Includes drills and instructions
Worth Training Aids...Condition To Win!
====================
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Monday, July 18, 2011
Essential Information For Choosing the Perfect Softball Bat
Essential Information For Choosing the Perfect Softball Bat
By guest author: Allison H.
Whether you prefer to stay in the field, or you live for your turn at bat, all softball players must have a bat. There are tons of bats to choose from, but hopefully this guide can help you understand the different materials bats are made of and the different game standards when it comes to choosing a bat. Enjoy!
Aluminum alloy - Like most products, with higher quality the material you can expect better performance. Also, more affordable aluminum alloy bats are comprised of higher quality matter and last much longer than they have in the past. Technology has made great strides over time as well so you can pick from a variety of different kinds that might support your style, however, technology is helpful, but make sure you pick a bat that feels good in your hands /when you swing it!
Composite - Some bats are 100% composite, while some have composite handles and alloy barrels. Check the description of the bat to find out exactly what it's made up of, as there is no standard formula for composite materials. Again, give it a swing and really grip it to evaluate the feel of the bat.
Wood - Typically, wood bats are made of ash, maple, bamboo, or even maple composite wood. Some players swear by wooden bats, while others despise them. It's all a matter of personal preference.
Slow Pitch - Slow Pitch bats generally are about 34 inches long with varying drop*, but check with your coach to confirm any specific regulations your league may have.
Fast Pitch - Fast Pitch bats cannot be more than 34 inches long, and 2-1/4 inches in diameter. Plus, the allowable drop* is no more than 12.
* The drop is calculated by taking the length of the bat (in inches) and subtracting the weight in ounces.
Youth Bats - Commonly used in Little League, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripkin, Dixie, and Pony.
T-Ball Bats - Ideal for ages 4 - 6.
Barrel size - The Slowpitch and Fastpitch softball bat barrel standard is 2-1/4 inches. Smaller barrels however are lighter and provide an increased swing speed that many players find attractive,
Bat taper - Is the diameter of the bat's handle. Standard bats are tapered 31/32 of an inch. Other bats provide a smaller taper for those who want a light bat, and a larger taper for those who prefer a heavier bat.
Grip - Aluminum bats offer different grip options that vary by manufacturer. Synthetic or Natural leather provide a more secure grip as they are a bit more tacky. Some bats offer cushioned grips that reduce shock significantly.
As I always say, research is key. Be sure to identify what you need, investigate all softball equipment available, and then pick what is best for you! Training is also an essential part of a great game, so be sure to look for more information on softball training to improve your skills even further.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_H.
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Allison H.
Whether you prefer to stay in the field, or you live for your turn at bat, all softball players must have a bat. There are tons of bats to choose from, but hopefully this guide can help you understand the different materials bats are made of and the different game standards when it comes to choosing a bat. Enjoy!
Aluminum alloy - Like most products, with higher quality the material you can expect better performance. Also, more affordable aluminum alloy bats are comprised of higher quality matter and last much longer than they have in the past. Technology has made great strides over time as well so you can pick from a variety of different kinds that might support your style, however, technology is helpful, but make sure you pick a bat that feels good in your hands /when you swing it!
Composite - Some bats are 100% composite, while some have composite handles and alloy barrels. Check the description of the bat to find out exactly what it's made up of, as there is no standard formula for composite materials. Again, give it a swing and really grip it to evaluate the feel of the bat.
Wood - Typically, wood bats are made of ash, maple, bamboo, or even maple composite wood. Some players swear by wooden bats, while others despise them. It's all a matter of personal preference.
Slow Pitch - Slow Pitch bats generally are about 34 inches long with varying drop*, but check with your coach to confirm any specific regulations your league may have.
Fast Pitch - Fast Pitch bats cannot be more than 34 inches long, and 2-1/4 inches in diameter. Plus, the allowable drop* is no more than 12.
* The drop is calculated by taking the length of the bat (in inches) and subtracting the weight in ounces.
Youth Bats - Commonly used in Little League, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripkin, Dixie, and Pony.
T-Ball Bats - Ideal for ages 4 - 6.
Barrel size - The Slowpitch and Fastpitch softball bat barrel standard is 2-1/4 inches. Smaller barrels however are lighter and provide an increased swing speed that many players find attractive,
Bat taper - Is the diameter of the bat's handle. Standard bats are tapered 31/32 of an inch. Other bats provide a smaller taper for those who want a light bat, and a larger taper for those who prefer a heavier bat.
Grip - Aluminum bats offer different grip options that vary by manufacturer. Synthetic or Natural leather provide a more secure grip as they are a bit more tacky. Some bats offer cushioned grips that reduce shock significantly.
As I always say, research is key. Be sure to identify what you need, investigate all softball equipment available, and then pick what is best for you! Training is also an essential part of a great game, so be sure to look for more information on softball training to improve your skills even further.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_H.
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Jessica Mendoza Softball Training - HIT: Slapping - softball : Softball.com
Jessica Mendoza Softball Training - HIT: Slapping - softball : Softball.com
Softball Jessica Mendoza Louisville Slugger USA
Jessica talks about how to slap in fastpitch softball.
Footwaork, hands, mechanics.
=====
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
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