CGSL introduces new face masks policy (effective August 1, 2023):

• ALL pitchers will be required to wear a fielding face mask during games and/or live pitching during practices. This applies to every pitcher in all age levels: 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U.
• ALL infield players (1st base, 2nd base, 3rd base, shortstop) are strongly recommended to wear fielding face masks during practice and games. This applies to all age levels: 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U.
• ALL outfield positions, for all age levels, are also highly encouraged to wear fielding face masks.

This policy is based on growing safety concerns throughout the softball community, and is not exclusive to CGSL. Several other local and regional leagues have implemented similar policies.

A study published by the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, states "being hit by a ball was the most common mechanism of injury (52.4%) and accounted for most of face (89.6%) and head (75.7%) injuries." Pitchers and third base are especially vulnerable to fast moving balls. Additional articles can be found in the Rip-It Blog.