HSM...sorry, I've got to ask ?

[GarthB]

Originally posted by 3appleshigh
Was the first, being up in Toronto, he saw many a hockey goalie and thought it could be converted to baseball, he worked with a company and they produced the All-Star mask, He started wearing it and it has quite quickly caught on. It is a much safer option, as well as reducing the strain on the neck.

The larger view is an improvement, it is not important or nessessary, but it is an improvement. Since much if not all of what we do is based on site why not consider an option that improves it? Just saying I don't need it is not simply a good enough reason to shrug off the idea of the mask as stupid for any sane individual. However what we often deal with here are egomaniacal Umpires rather than sane individuals. People with a nobody's going to tell me I'm worng, or that some thing is better that what I choose to wear, I am all knowing and all seeing. There are actually people on here who will QUIT the profession simply out of SPITE. If what you say is true that the helmet is no better than the mask, tell me why it is worse. Why is it so bad that were you unable to get what you have been used to that you then need to never again put the blue shirt on and call a game. Who are the silly ones now?

I haven't the foggiest notion to whom you are making your comments. I've seen no one make the comments you are attributing to whomever and I've never heard of anyone threatening to quit over this issue.

Since you didn't address your comments to anyone, I'll answer.

I tried a helmet for three plate appearances and did not like it. It was heavier than my mask, hotter than my mask, and despite claims by others, not as easy to take off and put back on as my maske before and after plays. Also, I saw no advantage to any perception of improved viewing area. I gave it away and went back to my mask.

I have never argued the additional protection a helmet provides. I have stated that I don't need it. I don't work fields with overhead screens and I don't flinch or turn my head on fouls wild pitches or passed balls. I take all shots straight on and have never been injured by doing so. My mask has flown off my head on an extremely hard foul, but that it as it should be. I never felt it leaving.

In short, I've tried the helmet and I don't care for it. I'm sorry if that offends anyone. I prefer the protection, feel, convenience and look of my mask. So, shoot me.

I have never told anyone they should not wear a helmet. I would only ask that the helmet police please stop telling me TO wear one. Please.

Who are the silly ones now? Those who rush out and buy anything based on it being the latest, newest, shiniest, most popular item.

"Gee, Dad, EVERYONE is getting one."

If you feel you need added protection, buy a helmet. I don't care. But, again, please just leave me out of it.

Thank you.

[Edited by GarthB on Nov 23rd, 2005 at 07:36 PM]