If you use write-on cards like me, you may have struggled to find just the right pen to use.

I don’t like the standard Sharpie because you have to manually remove the cap and either put it in your mouth, or your other hand. I ended up either looking ridiculous or having both hands full.

So I was happy when I discovered the retractable Sharpie markers. But alas, I solved one problem and created another. It turns out the “clicker” on the Sharpie retractable pen is so long you can’t close the flap on your jersey pocket (images 1 and 2). Of course, you could simply put the pen in your shorts pocket, but that didn’t suit me.

The search continued until I found the Bic Mark-It retractable permanent marker (image 3). The construction of the cap on the Bic allows the pocket flap to close completely (image 4).

These markers are hard to find in stores. I’ve looked in my local Wal-Mart, Staples, and Office Max without luck. Fortunately, they are available online through Amazon.com (and others, I’m sure).

Another important refereeing problem solved.