NFHS Softball and Throat Guards

[UmpRandy]

Just getting up and running for calling some fast pitch using NFHS rules.

"A throat protector that is part of or attached to the mask shall be worn and extend far enough to adequately protect the throat."  

Does the throat "extension" on many of the catchers masks meet this criteria?  

It also seems the words "adequately protect the throat" is also up for interpretation as I've been tagged in the throat even with the slight throat extension on my mask. I now have a dangling throat protector.

 

 

[MB_Ump]

Extension on most masks fine-dangling not required.

[umptwo]

In actual high school softball I've only ever seen players with hockey-style mask/helmet and yes, the extended throat on those "counts", and no additional dangling protector is required.  Think it applies to traditional mask extension too, but again, that has been a moot point.  Rule could be worded better.