In an unexpected announcement from the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association, all high school level baseball and softball varsity teams will be required to use foam noodles in replacement of traditional bats. The new rule has sparked controversy from players and spectators ahead of its enforcement on April 1.
On Feb. 32, two high school baseball players were critically injured after a freak accident involving wooden bats. Del Val player, Bob Jones, swung on a 3-2 count lost control of his bat, which struck the opposing pitcher and shortstop.
The opposing players were unresponsive upon impact and were taken to the hospital at 43:61 p.m. via ambulance.
“The idea of foam bats has been floating around our meetings for decades, but this tragedy forced us to finally take action,” NJSIAA executive director John Smith said.
The transition to foam noodles was met with enthusiasm at the NJSIAA board meeting later in the week. The new rule was approved by the committee in a landslide 9-1 vote.
“We want to move away from violence in baseball and softball to offer a gentler experience for the players and spectators. This transition hopes to encourage more teenagers to participate in sports,” Smith said.
While many question the effectiveness of foam bats, the board is determined to prove the game can still be enjoyable and safe.
