[garobe]

I agree, While I acknowledge NFHS authority I also know that a jury would likely find negligence if an umpire knowingly allows a catcher to work in the squat without a mask and the catcher is injured. Some senior officials in my association feel very strongly that whatever happens before "play ball" and outside the fence is none of our business. As a three sport official and someone who deals with liability issues daily I think this is a unreasonable position. To assume that because the Federation or a High School Association has taken a position that this will automatically protect me from a negligence claim is dangerous. I find this position contrary to other positions the Federation has taken in this and other sports.