A whole new world has opened up to women as far as sports are concerned. Just a generation or two ago, women had few opportunities to compete in sports. Basketball and softball were just starting to open up and women could also compete in golf and tennis. But even as the competitive world was just beginning to open up, women could not compete freely. Instead of getting encouragement from parents, teachers and other authority, they were often met with veiled laughter or well-meaning questions. Women have thrived since the sports world opened up to them, including contact sports like lacrosse. The game is one of skill, grace and aggression. It is dangerous, but using proper equipment can prevent serious injuries. Goggles are required in women's lacrosse to prevent serious eye injuries and it's clear that they are very useful and do their prescribed job.
What to Look for
Lacrosse is a game that features long sticks and an eight-ounce hard rubber ball. There are serious opportunities for injuries to the eyes and facial area since the game is played by throwing, catching and carrying the ball at head height or higher. Men's lacrosse features heavy duty masks, but women's lacrosse requires the players to wear protective goggles. The goggles are usually made of hard, unbreakable plastic with non-fog lenses. The key is making sure of a proper fit. They should not be too tight or too loose. If they are too tight, they will pinch the nose, ears and side of the head. They should be secure on the head but do not have to be any tighter than that. For lacrosse players who have had previous eye injuries, the goggles can be secured with metal reinforcements that would add extra protection.
Common Pitfalls
Goggles clearly do not provide the same level of protection that helmets do in men's lacrosse. The differences in the rules of the women's and men's versions are supposed to prevent inadvertent head shots in the women's game, but accidents happen occasionally. As a result, women's heads are far more vulnerable in a game where emotions can run hot and reckless behavior is not out of the question.
Member Comments