SOFTBALL INJURY INCIDENTS 

63,795 – Average number of injuries per year in softball, which means the sport produces the seventh most injuries out of 33 sports analyzed.

94,273 – Number of softball injuries reported in 2015.

1,686 – Average number of concussions per year.

8,529 – Average number of face injuries per year.

4,884 – Average number of head injuries per year, concussion and non-concussion related.

605 – Number of injuries which required complete hospitalization.

52 – Average number of injuries in which the patient was held for observation.

26 – Average number of softball-related deaths per year.

18.7 – Number of injuries per 100,000 participants.

The highest incidence of injuries occurs in players between 13-17 years old.

Statistics provided by: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, which collects data from United States-based hospitals with a required emergency room visit. These numbers include any type of softball played, ranging from recreational to scholastic to professional.

Pros of wearing

Overall safety and protection, inexpensive equipment

Cons of wearing

Discomfort, appearance of mask and sweat

The most popular brand of face guard comes from a Florida-based brand called Rip-It, with many of them retailing from between $30-$50 – with the price depending on features such as extra padding, an extra ponytail strap and extra chin cup. (Courtesy photo from Rip-It)