My daughter has worn a Rip-It since she was 8 (13 now). We had our entire team wear it with out question at the time. They were little and really couldn't argue. The parents liked the idea of the safety. Now that she is older, she will not wear one in the OF, that bothers me a little, but seeing her not wear one in practice is what really bugs me. I have seen a few girls get hit in the face, two of the three were just playing catch in practice. Not paying attention. To busy chit chatting. When she is on the mound or any IF position (mostly 3B and 1B) she wears it with out question.
I once saw a pitcher (10U) get struck in the face with a line drive. She was wearing one of the plastic masks, unknown brand. She was hit so hard the ball struck the top part of the mask and did not touch her skin but still left a a golf ball sized hematoma under her skin. She went right to the ER. She was ok, no concussion and was pitching again by Sunday. Very lucky.
