Quote:
Originally posted by PAblue87
As I stated I do work Oddi's H.S. games. Our group had instructed us not to let him on the field to coach a base. He may make pitching changes, etc as long as the ball is dead. But, the ruling just came out that the PIAA has overturned their dicision and he may coach third. Are we supposed to go against the state association and use individual judgment.
Also, Oddi does wear the metal crutch that has the clasps at the top that go around the forearm.
It is not a discrimination against handicaped to not let him on the field, the PIAA was simply looking at a safety issue. However, what happens if a player, even one of his base runners, does get injured. Who is responsible for the lawsuit? Does this now fall in the lap of the PIAA, the umpires, or Oddi himself? It seems to me taht by walking on the field Oddi is taking responsibility for his own personal injury, he believes that he is capable pf being on the field, and who is to say he is not. But as I said Who takes the blame if someone else is hurt?
[Edited by PAblue87 on Mar 26th, 2001 at 12:15 PM]
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This is an interesting discussion. How mobile is Coach Oddi? I think this is more of a critical issue than the mere fact that he has crutches. Personally, I would be reluctant to allow a coach with crutches or wheelchair (I don't recall specifics but I did hear a few years ago of the case of a coach using a wheelchair) to be actively involved on the field. If the case has gone to court or school authorities and under ADA the coach is permitted to be in the coaching box I would permit same. I recall the ad several years ago featuring a Vietnam Vet with two artificial legs who played basketball. The modern litigious society dictates flexibiity in applying "rules".