Protective Face Shield

[IRISHMAFIA]

In more than 20 years of umpiring slowpitch, I have never been hit in the face or head with a ball off the bat.

I have only had a couple of close calls, but nothing I did not easily avoid. I work a true slot and am always in a set position.

I don't know how you work the plate, but I have found that those who have issues avoiding the ball are often those who stand erect instead of dropping to the top of the strike zone. Not saying this is your issue, just stating personal experience and observation.