Sports Insight

So currently each model of each batting helmet that C-Flap attaches to would tech- nically need to be tested and certified — and every year when new batting helmet models come on the market they would also have to be separately tested with the C-Flap. Markwort's argument is that since there is no standard for the C-Flap, there is no required testing for it. Any batting helmet with a C–Flap on it that is tested and certified by a NOCSAE/SEI approved lab and certified by SEI to meet the standard for baseball batter's helmet actually meets the standard, with no additional cost or time requirement than is needed to pass the helmet standard. However, the overriding control is with the original equipment manufacturer, (OEM). "The OEM has the choice to accept or not accept any accessory product on its products that are certified by SEI to meet the NOCSAE standard for that product," explains Gregg Hartley, of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), who sits on the NOCSAE board. "If the OEM accepts the accessory product, the original product is still SEI certified to the NOCSAE standard." "Our position regarding the C-Flap remains the same," notes Elliot Hopkins, director of sports, sanctioning and student services for National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS). "If the baseball helmet manufac- turers approve the addition of products to their helmet, they honor their warranty and it meets the NOCSAE performance standard with it attached, then we would consider allowing the C-Flap." In the meantime, C-Flap remains illegal to use in games sanctioned by the major youth baseball associations ranging from Babe Ruth to Little League to Cal Ripken for one reason — if not certified by NOCSAE, there is no insurance liability If a player gets hurt wearing a helmet with a C-Flap. NOCSAE Need to Know In less than a year's time, beginning January 1, 2020, all chest protectors worn in high school baseball and all NFHS-licensed baseballs must meet the NOCSAE standard and have the NOCSAE seal/stamp on them. Some baseball makers have already made the complete transition to produc- ing NOCSAE-stamped baseballs for NFHS play. For this year only, any NFHS-licensed baseball, whether or not it has the NOCSAE seal/stamp, can be sold by team dealers and used in NFHS baseball games. n sportsinsightmag.com January/February 2019 Sports Insight • 17 "The OEM has the choice to accept or not accept any accessory product on its products that are certified by SEI to meet the NOCSAE standard for that product." Gregg Hartley, SFIA NEW FROM OLD HICKORY C2 - Two Piece Composite A1 - One Piece Aluminum OLDHICKORYBATS.COM • Engineered to produce faster swing speeds • Barrel designed for maximum distance and exit velocity • Available now BASEBALL

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