Face Masks

I am looking for pros and cons on face masks for various age groups (9/10, 11/12. 13/14. 15/16).Some in our association (300 hardballers, 200 fast pitch softballers) are agressively questioning the lack of masks, particularly in the younger groups. I have tried to do some research on-line, but have come up with little.Based upon what I have seen, it appears that the vast majority of face injuries are the result of improper glasses. This is a league information issue but primary equipment responsibility would fall upon the parents. On the other hand, it is true that I have occassionally seen a child hit in the face by a pitched ball or a foul ball. We of course coach the proper turn away technique, but successful learning is no doubt a "bell curve."I have also been concerned that masks may obscure vision to some extent. Thus, while perhaps reducing instances of balls to the face, they may increase the instances of being hit elsewhere.In any event, if anyone has any hard data, or knows of any research info on this question, I would appreciate the help.