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Originally Posted by NCASAUmp
So what's a clipboard?  |
Something that IS part of the game and allowed by rule that will fly away when hit and IS NOT something that is excluded by rule that is strapped to the body which means there is minimal or any give when another body makes contact.
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And that's the case here as well. However, as I said before, the emphasis around here is more on participation and less on the strict letter of the rule. Uniform rules are completely relaxed, no one gets in a twist if a player steps out of the dugout for a smoke, etc. The leagues here have every right to use ASA rules, then adapt the tempo to their liking. This is what they want, so that's what they get.
Well, we're now talking about two different things here: communication devices and safety issues. Safety issues should always be addressed when the umpire identifies one, but the rule regarding communications equipment on the field says nothing about safety. It's a logical extension, yes, and one worthy of our attention. However, if I don't judge the alert radio to be a safety issue, then what's the issue?
I'm not giving EMTs or firefighters special status here. I'm using their example because A) they came to mind first and B) they're more likely than anyone else to have such a device required by their jobs.
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Yeah, I get local rules. I have been dealing with local rules for 44 years now. I am also aware of the participation angle. This isn't brain surgery and, no, I didn't stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. And if you want to hang your hat on it, that's fine. But I don't buy it.
I am also familiar with ASA Rule 12, It is no brainer since ASA, like every other softball sanctioning body, is providing sanctioning and a suggested set of rules, not a parenting and babysitting service, though some would believe many of the participants need just that.
However, are not most "participation"-oriented rules enacted for safety reasons? No metal spikes, no sliding, no double-wall bats and even in some cases, no permanent bases. And before you say it, I really don't care what is or isn't in your area, these are exceptions in many local rules.
So, the participating Lil' Johnnie cannot make it to work the next couple of days because he sustained a concussion when he tripped over 3B and hit is head on the coach's (Asst. Fire Chief) radio which was attached to his belt.
You want to allow items for participation purposes that are specifically excluded by rule and may be a safety issue, yet you have a problem with participants not wearing their sunglasses on their faces. If certain rules want to be amended, they need to be published.
Yes, I'm talking safety because while you choosing to ignore the "communication" issue (4.7.C.5), you may overlooking 4.7.C.1 which specifically states what a coach may have in the coach's box.
Of course, I'm not going to ask them to empty their pockets which is where any device necessary to another job may be kept. For that matter, I'm not going to ask them to open a windbreaker or light jacket to see what is under it, either.
If your local league wants to amend/adjust the rules to allow certain things, that is fine, but it is their responsibility to address so you do not intentionally overlook something that could land you in court just because that is what the players may want.