This photo depicts the proper wear of the “dangling” throat protector, as required in all levels of Little League Baseball and Softball. Notice the catcher is wearing a mask that includes the wire extension. If the catcher in the photo were to lift his head up, the wire extension would move up with the mask, exposing the throat – if not for the “dangling” throat protector, which would remain in a down position.

We have observed catcher's helmets without any type of "dangling" throat protector, as well as throat protectors secured so tightly to the lower frame bar that they cannot move or "dangle" to protect the catcher's throat. We have observed them secured so that the throat protector is sticking straight out at a 90-degree angle, providing no protection for the catcher's throat area.

All of these are totally unacceptable.

The "dangling" throat protector should be properly and securely attached so that when the catcher looks up or his/her head is tilted upward that the throat protector will be able to remain down so that the catcher's throat area has some protection. A ball (from a foul or from a pitch in the dirt) or even a bat could possibly come up under the catcher's helmet and cause a severe injury.

To be properly attached, the “dangling” type throat protector should be securely attached from one-fourth of an inch to no more than three-fourths of an inch below the lowest bar or frame of the catchers mask. The throat protector should swing freely and smoothly under the mask when tapped with a finger while holding the catcher's mask/helmet in the hand.

The "dangling" style throat protector is required on any and all types of catchers’ helmets/masks in all divisions of Little League Baseball and Softball. So whether you have the standard frame, the extended frame, the hockey style, etc., the "dangling" throat protector is required.

Yes, even on the extended frame masks – because when a catcher tilts his/her head upward, the frame goes with it – exposing the throat. That is whey a properly positioned “dangling” throat protector is required.

This is a mandatory safety requirement and MUST be strictly enforced at all times by managers, coaches, league officials and umpires. There is NO reason or excuse for not having a properly attached "dangling" throat protector on all catcher's helmets/mask.

Remember, umpires can get rule updates, interpretations, useful tips like these and much more, by signing up for the Little League Umpire Registry. Click here for more details: http://www.littleleague.org/umpires/index.asp

Also, chartered Little Leagues can order a copy of the Little League E-Rules CD, which now includes videos of selected rules. Click here for more details: http://www.littleleague.org/media/rule_example.asp