Fast-Pitch Playing Rules

Release of liabilty form

In consideration of being allowed to participate in any way in the PREIMER ATHLETIC COMPETITION athletics/sports program, related events and activities, the undersigned acknowledges, appreciates, and agrees that:

1. The risk of injury and/or illness from the activities involved in the program is significant, including the potential for permanent paralysis and death, and while particular rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce the risk, the risk of serious injury does exist;

2. The risk to have contact with individuals, who have been exposed to and/or have been diagnosed with one or more communicable diseases, including but not limited to COVID-19 or other medical conditions, diseases, or maladies does exist, and it is impossible to eliminate the risk that I could be exposed to and/or become infected through contact with or close proximity with an individual with a communicable disease;

3. I KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS, both known and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume all full responsibility for my participation;

4. I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions for participation. If, however, I observe any unusual significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself or youth participant from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest official immediately; and

5. 1, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives, and next of kin, HEREBY RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS THE PREIMER ATHLETIC COMPETITION LLC, their officers, officials, agents and/or employees, other participants, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, owners and lessors of the premises used to conduct the event ("Releasees"), WITH RESPECT TO ANY AND ALL INJURY, ILLNESS, DISABILITY, DEATH, or loss or damage to person or property, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE,

6. I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT BEFORE ACKNOWLEDGING THE CHECKBOX BELOW, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY AGREEING TO IT ON MY OWN BEHALF OR ON BEHALF OF THE YOUTH PARTICIPANT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS GUARDIAN ACCOUNT, AND I SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT BY ADULT PARTICIPANT: By acknowledging and agreeing to the checkbox below, I agree and verify the following: 1) / consent and agree to assume the risks of participation in these programs; and 2) that I specifically agree to the release as provided herein of all the Releasees, and, for myself, my heirs, assigns and next of kin, I release and agree to indemnify the Releasees from any and all liabilities incident to my involvement or participation in these programs EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT BY PARENTS AND/OR LEGAL GUARDIANS OF YOUTH PARTICIPANTS: By acknowledging and agreeing to the checkbox below, I agree to and verify the following: 1) I am the parent or legal guardian for the youth participant(s) associated with this guardian account, 2) that the date of birth of the youth participant associated with this guardian account is correct, 3) that as parent/legal guardian with legal responsibility for this youth participant, I consent and agree to assume the risks of his/her participation in these programs; and 4) that I specifically agree to his/her release as provided herein of all the Releasees, and, for myself, my heirs, assigns and next of kin, 1 release and agree to indemnify the Releasees from any and all liabilities incident to this youth participant's involvement or participation in these programs as provided above EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE.

I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT.

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PREMIER ATHLETIC COMPETITION™

PROCEDURAL MANUAL 2021

This copy of the PAC Sports Procedural Manual became effective on January 1, 2021. PAC Sports does have the authority to make emergency changes from time to time and highly recommends that you review the official copy of the PAC Sports Procedural Manual which can be found on the PAC Sports website at www.playpacsports.com. In the event a conflict in language between this printed version of the Procedural Manual found on the PAC Sports website controls. If there is incorrect information regarding this Procedural Manual published or issued via voice, written, electronic or any other form of communication, whether by PAC Sports personnel or not, the provisions and intent of the Procedural Manual found on the website will always prevail.

PLEASE REVIEW THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT
PAC SPORTS CODE PREAMBLE
WARNING, DISCLOSURE & DISCLAIMER

One of the primary purposes of PAC Sports’ official playing rules (including its equipment standards) and PAC Sports’ Code is to promote competitive balance and to preserve the integrity of amateur sports. PAC Sports’ Official Playing Rules, Bylaws, Code and Procedural Manual should not be considered a guarantee that participants, spectators or others will be safe or free from injury or harm. There are risks and dangers incidental to sports, including specifically (but not limited to) the danger of being injured by thrown bats, thrown balls, batted balls or other objects that poses a risk to its participants, spectators and other persons at or near PAC Sports events or practices. Sports are vigorous at times involving severe cardiovascular stress and violent physical contact. Sports involve certain risk, including but not limited to death, serious neck and spinal injuries resulting in complete or partial paralysis, brain damage and serious injury to virtually all bones, joints, muscles and internal organs, and equipment provided for the protection of the participants may be inadequate to prevent serious injury. It is further disclosed that sports involve a particularly high risk of ankle, knee, head, and neck injury. In addition, participation in PAC Sports events may involve activities incidental thereto, including but not limited to, travel to and from the site activity, participation at sites that may be remote from available medical assistance, and possible reckless conduct of other participants. Participants engaging in sports and activities incidental to sports do so with knowledge of the danger involved and agree to accept any and all inherent risks of property damage, personal injury, or death. Parents, family, guests, participants and spectators assume all risk and danger of personal injury, losses, damages to person or property and all hazards arising from, incidental to or related in any way to the participating sport. DISCLAIMER: PAC Sports, ITS OFFICIALS, AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, SPONSORS, VOLUNTEERS, CONTRACTORS, LOCAL ASSOCIATIONS AND AFFILIATES ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INJURY (INCLUDING DEATH) OR LOSS OF PROPERTY TO ANY PERSON SUFFERED WHILE WATCHING, PLAYING, PRACTICING, OR IN ANY OTHER WAY AT OR INVOLVED IN PARTICIPATING SPORT FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE ON THE PART OF PAC SPORTS OR ITS AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, SPONSORS, VOLUNTEERS, THE OWNERS AND LESSORS OF THE PREMISES AND ALL OTHERS WHO ARE INVOLVED AND INCLUDING THE RECKLESS CONDUCT OF OTHER PARTICIPANTS. PAC SPORTS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY FOR ANY INJURY OR PROPERTY LOSS RELATED IN ANY WAY TO THE OFFERED SPORTS. This warning, disclosure and disclaimer are intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by applicable laws. If any portion is held invalid the remainder of the warning, disclosure and disclaimer will continue in full legal force and effect.

PAC SPORTS STRATEGIC PLAN SUMMARY

VISION	Become a premier National Governing Body in the United States.
MISSION	Host the highest quality amateur & adult events nationwide while providing meaningful content & features to players, families, and coaches.
	We develop, administer and promote sporting events to provide opportunities for participation and the best possible experience for those involved.

VALUES

■ Teamwork
■ Fair Play
■ Common Good

■ Promotion and Education
■ Sportsmanship & Civility

GOALS

■ Ensure our future success by improving the leadership and governance of our organization.
■ Continue and enhance our focus on the player, the quality of the game, quality of service, and overall service.
■ Be accountable to each other and our sports in our mutual efforts to become a premier National Governing Body.
■ Identify, recognize, and provide exposure for talented players and teams through showcase tournaments.
■ Collaborate with our players, officials, parents, affiliates, and organizations to provide the best sanctioning system that fits the industry’s needs.
■ Create an internationally recognized, world class venue that meets our needs, and supports our mission and vision.

ARTICLE	SUBJECT	PAGE

PART ONE
MISSION AND DEFINITION

101	Name	6
102	Mission Statement	6
103	Objectives	6
104	Principles	7
105	Jurisdiction	7
106	Definitions	8
107	Regulations	9
108	Age Eligiblity	10

PART TWO
ORGANIZATION

201	Membership	10
202	Regions & Local Associations	12
203	State Director	14
204	Umpires	15
205	Complaint Procedures & Protest	15

PART THREE
THE RULES

Rule 1	Playing Field	16
Rule 2	Equipment	17
Rule 3	Definitions	25
Rule 4	The Game	34
Rule 5	Players and Substitutes	39
Rule 6	Pitching Rule	44
Rule 7	Batting	47
Rule 8	Base Running	51
Rule 9	Appeals	64
Rule 10	Dead Ball- Suspension of Play	67
Rule 11	Sporting Behavior	69
Rule 12	Coach/Manager or Player Ejection	71
Rule 13	Protest	71
Rule 14	Umpires	72
Rule 15	10 and Under Youth Rule Exceptions	75
Rule 16	Coach Pitch and Machine Pitch Rules	76
Rule 17	T-Ball Rules	79
Communicable Disease Procedures	82
Americans with Disabilities Act	83
PAC SPORTS POLICY RE	84

PREMIER ATHLETIC COMPETITION CODE
(Adopted January1, 2021)

PART 1
MISSION AND DEFINITIONS

Article 101	NAME. The name of the association shall be ‘ Premier Athletic Competition‘, hereinafter referred to as the Association or PAC Sports. The Association shall also do business as PAC.
Article 102	MISSION STATEMENT. Host the highest quality amateur & adult events nationwide while providing meaningful content & features to players, families, and coaches. We develop, administer, and promote sporting events to provide opportunities for participation and the best possible experience for those involved.
Article 103	OBJECTIVES. The objectives of PAC Sports shall be: To promote amateur & adult events for all persons regardless of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, national origin or ancestry. To establish uniform rules and regulations for each individual sport sanctioned through PAC. To encourage sporting events to be conducted in accordance with the spirit of true sportsmanship free from bullying, hazing, harassment (including sexual harassment), emotional misconduct, physical misconduct, and sexual misconduct(including child sexual abuse) and establish principles for ethical behavior and matters relating to conflict of interest as provided by the PAC Sports Council andBoard of Directors. To collaborate with amateur and adult sport organizations to provide the highest quality sanctioning system that fits the industry’s needs. To promote and conduct annual amateur & adult post-season championships. To identify, recognize, and provide exposure for talented athletes via showcases. To educate and train in the proper skills of play and rules of sports sanctioned by PAC through promoting, organizing, and conducting clinics, seminars and training courses.
Article 104	PRINCIPLES. It shall be the responsibility of each member of PAC Sports to strive to fulfill the goals of PAC Sportsand to promote amateur & adult sports. At a minimum, each member of PAC: Shall follow the rules and regulations of PAC Sports as established by the PACSports Bylaws, Code, Procedural Manual and Playing Rules. Shall support Pac Sports’ programs that promote the sports and educate players, Coaches, officials, volunteers, and the public about the game. Shall act at all times with the utmost civility and sportsmanlike conduct, promoting wholesome, safe competition. Shall strive to provide programs that encompass fairness to the participants and promote fair play and sportsmanship. Shall take seriously their responsibility as a role model and encourage competitiveness in a positive manner.
Article 105	JURISDICTION. Premier Athletic Competition is recognized as a governing body ofamateur and adult sports in the United States. PAC Sports operates sanctioned sport leagues and tournaments across the United States. PAC agrees to operate by each individual StateLaw Shall follow the rules and regulations of PAC Sports as established by the PACSports Bylaws, Code, Procedural Manual and Playing Rules. Shall support Pac Sports’ programs that promote the sports and educate players, Coaches, officials, volunteers, and the public about the game. Shall act at all times with the utmost civility and sportsmanlike conduct, promoting wholesome, safe competition. Shall strive to provide programs that encompass fairness to the participants and promote fair play and sportsmanship. Shall take seriously their responsibility as a role model and encourage competitiveness in a positive manner.
Article 106	DEFINITIONS. Whenever used in this Code, unless otherwise specifically mentioned, the following words, terms and phrases are defined to mean: 1) Association is Premier Athletic Competition, the national organization. 1) NIT/Super NIT/Global is a tournament or competition from which the winner or the winner and other selected teams may qualify for a berth to higher levels of play of this Association. 2) Classification is is level of play within a division. 3) Division refers to the different levels of competition 4) Code is the operating regulations of PAC Sports. 5) Commissioner is the commissioner of a local association. A commissioner is the principal liaison between a local association area and PAC Sports. 6) Ineligible Person/Team is a team, player, manager, official, or member who is not eligible to participate in PAC Sports sanctioned events,(A suspended person is included in this definition). 1) Participation in Tournament Play is being available at the tournament and registering a team online at www.playpacsports.com.Participation in sanctioned events is being available to play, coach, manage, umpire and assist in the organization or otherwise be a part of a sanctioned event other than as an observer. 2) Additional Player, Guest Player or Pick-up Player is a player that has been added to a team's roster and meets all the requirements set forth in Article 304 of this Code. 3) Player Release is for a player that has participated on a team in a PAC sanctioned event. Players may be released from a team after participating in a sanctioned event. 1) Qualified Team is a team who has earned and accepted a berth to a PAC post-season event. 1) Sanctioned Tournament is a tournament approved by PAC Sports or a local association. 2) Substitute Team is a team eligible to replace a qualifying team in the next level of championship play.When the qualifying team is unable to advance,the substitute team must be the next highest finishing eligible team from the qualifying tournament. A substitute team may not replace a previous year’s defending champion or a returning team in the current season’s championship play. 3) Suspended Person/Team is a player, manager, official, team or other PAC Sports member who has been found in violation of this Code and is therefore ineligible toparticipate in PAC Sports sanctioned events. 1) Team refers to but shall not be limited to the following: players, coaches, managers, trainers, scorekeepers and sponsors. 2) Team Personnel is defined as all coaches, managers, scorekeepers and other on field assistants that are required to meet the eligibility requirementsof PAC Sports. NOTE. State Directors, National Directors, Executive Board Members, Executive Committee Members, National Committee Members, or Tournament Directors shall not be eligible to participate in the program as a team manager, team coach, team sponsor or player without the approval of PAC Sports Vice President of Baseball Operations. 3) Tournament Staff refers to a PAC Sports Representative, TournamentDirector, Umpire In Chief, Assistant Umpire in Chief and Umpire Coordinator. 1) Unsportsmanlike and Unprofessional Conduct refers to conduct that is detrimental or unbecoming to the purposes and objectives of PAC Sports and/or its local associations. PAC Sports is the national organization.
Article 107	REGULATIONS. Operating Regulations. The Operating regulations of the Association are defined in this document, hereinafter referred to as the PAC SportsCode, which isdivided into three parts as follows: Part 01 Articles 101 - 199 Mission and Definitions Part 02 Articles 201 - 299 Organization Part 03 Articles 301 - 399 Eligibility, Competition, Leagues & Tournaments Order of Business. Current President’s rules of order shall be the parliamentary law for all meetings of the association. All meetings are open except when in executive session
Article 108	Age Qualification and Tournament Eligibility. Age eligibility: A players age as of Dec 31^st is the youngest age that player can participate in. A full season is from Aug 1^st to July 31^st. Example the 2023 season start Aug 1^st of 2022 and ends July 31^st of 2023. So the age of any player as of Dec 31^st of 2022 is the youngest age that player can participate in form Aug 1^st 2022 to July 31^st 2023. Players may play up one even age division above the youngest age eligibility. 4u eligible can play no higher than 6u 6u eligible can play no higher than 8u 8u eligible can play no higher than 10u 10u eligible can play no higher than 12u 12u eligible can play no higher than 14u No restriction on 14u and up.

PART 2
ORGANIZATION

Article 201	MEMBERSHIP. Upon proper application and qualification, membership in PAC Sports shall be available to state or metro associations, individuals, teams, umpires, scorekeepers as further defined in this Code and organizations on a voluntary basis who agree to be governed by the Bylaws, Code, Procedural Manual, rules and regulations of PAC Sports. Team Membership. A team must register online with PAC Sports in order to participate in PAC Sports events. Registration fees shall be paid seasonally. The PAC Sports fast pitch season begins August 1st and concludes July 31st. Individual Membership. Individuals can acquire a basic membership in PAC Sports with no fee to the PAC Sports website. Fees are as follows. League play- Free All other play- $15 annually (January 1st - December 31st each year) Umpire Membership. An umpire may become a member by paying his/her annual membership fee into the PAC Sports organization. Umpires become members of PAC Sports on a voluntary basis and agree to be governed by the Bylaws, Code, Procedural Manual, Rules and Regulations of PAC. Registration by an umpire does not establish an employer/employee relationship and no umpire is considered an employee of PAC Sports or the local association, but instead acting as in independent contractor. Membership is on an annual basis and shall expire December 31st of each year. Umpire memberships may be declared or revoked for unethical, immoral or unprofessional conduct. Before declining or revoking memberships, the umpire must be given ahearing procedure. Included with membership is general liability and accidental medical insurance while officiating with PAC Sports. In addition, umpires may choose to purchase optional insurance that shall cover them during non-PAC Sports contests To educate and train in the proper skills of play and rules of sports sanctioned by PAC through promoting, organizing, and conducting clinics, seminars and training courses.
Article 202	REGIONS & LOCAL ASSOCIATIONS. Local Associations. . The geographical area of the United States shall be divided into state and metro associations each of which shall be represented by a State Director who shall act as a liaison between such area and PAC Sports. Local Associations are defined as follows: State Associations Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Central California Northern California Southern California Colorado Connecticut Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho 1Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland-DC-Delaware Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania
Article 203	STATE DIRECTORS. A local association commissioner is the principal liaison between a local association and PAC Sports
Article 204	UMPIRES. All leagues and tournaments played under the jurisdiction and administration of PAC Sports shall utilize umpires whom are registered with the Association. Postseason Play Only PAC Sports-member umpires may be used in postseason play. Conduct. Use of Tobacco. Umpires may not smoke or use tobacco like products on the playing field. This includes but is not limited to chewing, dipping and spitting. Use of Alcohol. Umpires may not consume alcoholic beverages on a game day until assignments have been completed.
Article 205	COMPLAINT PROCEDURE/PROTEST. Umpires shall work to settle all situations on the field. Protests shall be allowed for age and pitching violations or rule interpretations only. Uniform numbers cannot be protested. Protests must be declared to the Umpire-in-Chief and then to the League/Tournament Director before the next pitch following the dispute. If a call to be protested is the last recorded out of a game or on a game ending play, the protest MUST be filed prior to the Umpires and the protesting team leaving the field of play. No protest shall be allowed following the game. League/Tournament officials shall rule on all protests and their decisions shall be final. The Protest fee shall be $100.00 CASH. The fee shall be returned only if the protest is upheld. Leagues may develop their own fee structure and methods of recording and settling protests Protest on uniforms shall not be allowed. League, State Directors, or directors appointed by a State Director, shall determine uniform legality. Violation of the uniform shall result in the violator being allowed to immediately conform or be removed from the game. Team managers/ coaches may wear athletic type clothing.

PART 3 THE RULES

PAC SPORTS FASTPITCH SOFTBALL RULES

RULE 1. PLAYING FIELD

The Fastpitch Field Diagram Base and Pitching Measurement – 60’ bases

Sec 1. Pitching, base path distances and recommended field distances.

DIVISIONS	FEMALE PITCHING DISTANCE	BASE PATH RADIUS	PLAYING FIELD
COACH PITCH	35FT	60FT	150-200FT
MACHINE PITCH	35FT	60FT	150-200FT
8 & OPEN	35FT	60FT	150-200FT
9 & OPEN	35FT	60FT	150-200FT
10 & OPEN	35FT	60FT	200FT
11 & OPEN	40FT	60FT	200FT
12 & OPEN	40FT	60FT	200FT
13 & OPEN	43FT	60FT	200FT
14 & OPEN	43FT	60FT	200FT
15 & OPEN	43FT	60FT	200-225FT
16 & OPEN	43FT	60FT	200-225FT
18 & OPEN	43FT	60FT	200-225FT

NOTE: Every effort should be made by the Umpire to obtain the correct dimensions. If the base distances or the pitching distance is found to be at the wrong dimensions during the course of the game, the error shall be corrected immediately, with no penalty. The game shall continue and shall not be protested for this reason

Sec 2. The softball field shall contain a 60-foot square infield diamond and an outfield area that may or may not be enclosed by a fence. All lines on the playing field shall be marked with a material, which is not injurious to the eyes or skin. Lime or caustic material of any kind is prohibited. The catcher’s box, bases, coach’s boxes, batter’s boxes and three foot first base line shall be as in the “The Field Diagram''. The infield and outfield, including the boundary marks from the apex of home plate to 1st and 3rd, and their extended foul lines, are fair ground. All other areas are foul grounds. The recommended width of all marked (chalked) lines on the playing field is 2 1/2 inch.

Home Plate shall be a 5 sided slab of whitened rubber or other suitable similar material. The sides shall be 8 ½ inches long, the edge facing the pitcher shall be 17 inches wide and parallel to the pitcher’s plate. The sides facing the catcher shall be 12 inches long and on the foul lines.
First, Second, Third Base shall be 15 inches square, made of canvas or other suitable material and not more than 5 inches high. Each base shall be securely attached to the ground.
The Double First Base may be used. This base shall be 15 by 30 inches and made of canvas or other suitable material and not more than 5 inches high. Half the base is white [over fair territory] and half is orange [over foul territory].
The Pitching Plate shall be a rectangular slab of whitened rubber or suitable material, 24 inches by 6 inches. It shall be set in the ground with the top flush with the playing surface.
The batter’s box shall be 7 feet long. The front of the batter’s box shall be 4 feet forward from the center of home plate and 3 feet wide starting 6 inches from the plate.
Catcher’s Box shall be 10 feet in length from the rear outside corners of the batter’s box and 8 feet, 5 inches wide.
Three foot running lane is a line drawn 3 feet from and parallel to the first base foul line starting halfway between home and first base and extending to first base.
Pitcher’s Circle shall be a circle which is 16 feet in diameter (8-ft. radius) drawn from the mid-point of the front edge of the pitcher’s plate.
Coach’s Boxes shall be 8 feet from the foul lines, and 15 feet long from the back edge of the first and third base extending toward home plate and 3 feet wide.
On-deck circles shall be circular, 2 ½ foot radius, a safe distance to the side and away from home plate; at least 30 feet if space allows. Neither team’s players shall warm up in the other team’s on-deck circle. The on deck circle does not have to be occupied, but if a player wishes to warm up, they shall do so in their team’s on-deck circle.

RULE 2.EQUIPMENT

(Youth 12U and younger) The sole may be smooth, have soft or hard rubber cleats. Shoe sole or heel protectors other than the standard shoe plate are prohibited. In all divisions 12 and Under and younger, metal cleats and metal toe plates are prohibited. PENALTY: In divisions which do not allow metal cleats and toe plates, a player who participates with metal cleats or toe plates where prohibited is subject to penalties as per Rule 11 Sportsmanship. Metal cleats and toe plates must be removed prior to continuing play.
(Adult or 13U and older ) The sole may be smooth, have soft or hard rubber cleats or rectangular metal cleats. Shoes with detachable cleats that screw into the sole of the shoe are allowed. Pitching toes are allowed for all players as long as the pitching toes are securely fastened.

Caps are optional, however when worn they must be all alike and worn with the Bill forward. Caps, visors and headbands may be mixed. If worn, a headband must be one piece, and a single solid color. Plastic visors and bandannas are prohibited
Any exposed undergarment becomes part of the uniform and must be solid color. All exposed undershirts must be the same color. All exposed undershorts (sliders) must be the same color.
Non duplicating numbers will be required at all national and World Series qualifying tournaments. 0 and 00, 1 and 01 are examples of different numbers. The numbers must be minimum of three inches in size and clearly visible.
Coaches must be neatly attired. Base coaches do not have to be identically dressed.

Sec 1. BATTING HELMET
In the Youth program, NOCSAE approved batting helmets with extended ear flaps, which cover both ears and temples are mandatory for all batters, on deck batters, base runners, non-adult base coach, non-adult bat & ball shaggers in live ball territory, even if the ball is dead. All fastpitch batting helmets shall be equipped with a NOCSAE-approved face protector. The phrase, “Meets NOCSAE Standard at the time of manufacture” must be permanently affixed to the face protector. If an eye shield is worn attached to the batting helmet, it must be constructed of a molded rigid material that is clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) allowable light transmission. A chinstrap is optional.
Sec 2. CATCHER’S EQUIPMENT
In the Youth program, the catcher shall wear a NOCSAE approved head protector (with dual earflaps), an approved mask with throat protector, a body chest protector and shin guards. If a hockey style NOCSAE approved catcher’s helmet is used, a separate throat protector is not needed. In all divisions, if an eye shield is worn attached to the catcher’s helmet, it must be constructed of a molded, rigid material that is clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) allowable light transmission.
Sec 3. THE BALL The official ball to be used shall have raised seams and shall be of spherical design with a smooth surface. The center or core of the ball shall be of a material and design traditionally used to make softballs, or of other material, or design, approved by the PAC SPORTS. The cover shall be of horsehide, cowhide, or other material approved by PAC SPORTS and shall be cemented to the core and stitched with cotton, linen, or nylon or any other material approved by PAC SPORTS. A multiple layer core design ball or a multiple material core design ball may be approved at the sole discretion of the PAC SPORTS on a case-by-case basis. The stitch color must be blue. The internal composition of the core and the material of the cover must be clearly printed on the ball and the words “Official Fastpitch Softball” must be clearly printed on the ball.
FASTPITCH (12”) OPTIC YELLOW COVER ONLY -BLUE STITCH Ball Compression: Maximum of 375# COR: 46.25 +/- 0.75 Circumference: 12 +/- 1/8” Weight: 6.6 +/- 0.30 oz. FASTPITCH (11”) OPTIC YELLOW COVER ONLY -BLUE STITCH Ball Compression: Maximum of 375# COR: 46.25 +/- 0.75 Circumference: 11 +/- 1/8” Weight: 6.0 +/- 0.20 oz.
All 10 year old and younger divisions shall use the 11-inch softball. All other programs shall use the 12-inch softball. Altered Balls and the potential of a ball being altered and those suspected of altering, owning or using an altered ball (or determined to have altered, owned or used an Altered Ball) shall be viewed as falling under the same rules in place for Altered bats.
Sec 4. SHOES Shoes are required equipment for all participants. All players must wear shoes with plastic, nylon, canvas, leather or similar synthetic material uppers. Spikes must not extend in excess of 3/4 -inch from the sole and may not be round.
Sec 5. JEWELRY (Youth only – 18 & Under and younger) Exposed jewelry, which is judged by the umpire as dangerous, is not permitted and must be removed. Medical alert items are not considered jewelry. If worn, they must be taped to the body so medical alert information remains visible. Flat, unadorned items with no sharp edges or points, such as bobby pins, barrettes, and hair clips (no longer than 2 inches) may be worn as hair control devices. Coaches wristbands (play indicators) are legal but must be worn as designed. Violations are penalized per Rule 11 - Sporting Behavior.
Sec 6. PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT Equipment such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, etc., is prohibited. EXCEPTION: See ADA protocol on Page 75. Casts, splints and braces may be worn, if padded. Any equipment deemed distracting or dangerous by the Tournament Director or Umpire shall be prohibited.
Sec 7. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT As a general rule, PAC SPORTS continues its long standing policy of permitting players to determine the use of the protective equipment when they deem it appropriate. PAC SPORTS encourages players to utilize any protective equipment that they deem appropriate. Such protective equipment will be allowed in PAC SPORTS sanctioned play, unless by rule or by Director/Umpire ruling such protective equipment is disallowed as unsafe or as providing an unfair competitive advantage. If used, the equipment must not be detached. Detached equipment can result in an obstruction or interference ruling. Repeated acts could be grounds for ejection. Defensive face masks – While the use of defensive face masks is optional, if they are worn, they must meet the transparency requirements applicable to batting and catching helmets. If an eye shield is attached, it must be constructed of a molded, rigid material that is clear and permits 100 per cent (no tint) allowable light transmission.
Sec 8. UNIFORMS At all national and world qualifying tournaments, teams must wear identical uniforms. This includes jerseys, long pants or shorts and leggings. Whether long pants or shorts are worn, all team members must be uniformed alike. NOTE: Tournament directors may, on an individual basis, permit a player to participate while wearing a different style uniform for religious reasons, inclement weather, etc. Players shall wear uniforms properly and as designed by the manufacturer.
Sec 9. GLOVES/MITTS Gloves/mitts made of leather shall be worn by all fielders. The glove/mitt worn by the catcher may be any size. The glove/mitt may be any combination of colors except the color of the game ball or optic. Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color. A gray, white or optic colored circle on the outside or inside of the glove/mitt that gives the appearance of a ball is illegal. A glove/mitt that is judged to be distracting by the Umpire is illegal. The glove/mitt worn by all fielders except the catcher shall conform to the following maximum specifications: Height measured from the bottom edge or heel straight up across the center of the palm to a line even with the highest point of the glove/mitt: 14 inches Width of palm measured from the bottom edge of the webbing farthest from the thumb in a horizontal line to the outside of the little finger edge of the glove/mitt: 8 inches Webbing measured across the top end or along any line parallel to the top: 5 3/4 inches
Sec. 10. THE OFFICIAL BAT It shall be round in cross section, straight in length and measure not more than 34 inches long, including tape or other grip additions to the bat, shall have a knob at the end of its handle, and not more than 2-1/4 inches in diameter at its largest part. Its weight shall not exceed 31-ounces, including tape or grip addition to the bat. The bat shall have a grip of tape or some other material to facilitate holding the bat during the batter’s swing. The grip shall be not less than 10 inches long for 32”-34” long bats and not less than 8” long for smaller bats, nor extend to touch the taper or barrel of the bat. All key graphics, including USSSA and BPF markings, must be permanent and cannot be applied as decals or by any other method that would allow the key graphics to be easily removed or added to the bat. A. Material. THE BAT may be made of hard wood of one piece, or laminated from sections of hardwood bonded together with adhesive in such a way that the grain directions of all the pieces are essentially parallel to the length of the bat. THE BAT may also be made of aluminum or other metals, fiberglass, graphite or composite materials. B. Construction. The bat may be made in pieces from different materials but must have a closed barrel end, a taper, a handle and a taper. The bat may be modular with interchangeable parts, subject to additional safety and tampering requirements as set forth in the standard USSSA Bat Licensing Agreement. The knob portion must be welded or mechanically attached to the bat. Only PAC Sports approved bats, PAC Sports approved weighted bats or PAC Sports approved bat weight attachments, may be used by the on deck batter while loosening up on the field. C. Official Softball. Authorized bat manufacturers shall mark their products with the words ``Official Softball”. For wood bats only, authorized bat manufacturers may mark their products with the word “Softball”. D. Other Criteria for Legal PAC Sports Bats. 1. The performance standard for all non-wooden bats will be a Bat Performance Factor (BPF) of 1.20, or less under the ASTM BPF testing standards. All bats made by Licensed Softball Bat Manufacturers that have the new 1.20 BPF Mark on the taper of the bat will be legal in PAC Sports sanctioned play. Any USA/ASA certified stamped bats are also considered legal bats for PAC Sports sanctioned events. Wood bats, however, that are made by Licensed Softball Bat Manufacturer will be legal in PAC Sports sanctioned play without any 1.20 BPF mark being required Any bat on the PAC Sports Withdrawn And/Or Non-Compliant List Shall be an illegal bat. 2. Any addition to the handle or knob area of a bat is altering the bat if and only if it adds any length to the bat or adds more than half an ounce of weight to the bat. Tournament Directors at the request of PAC Sports National Office may, however, allow for up to an inch increase in length and up to an ounce increase in weight for an addition to the knob area that is placed on bats in a tournament for the purpose of gathering swing/batted ball data (such as bat speed) for PAC Sports National Office, provided that the Tournament Director insures that the addition is securely added to the knob and will not create any significant safety concern. E. Altered Bat Director Inspection and Suspension. A PAC Sports Director may at any time ask to inspect a bat that has been brought into the location of a PAC Sports sanctioned event or any other PAC Sports facility. The owner and/or user may either: 1. Withhold the bat from inspection and accept an immediate two year (automatic life for second time offenders under EI and/or E) suspension from PAC Sports sanctioned activities with no right to appeal; or, 2. Allow the Director to inspect the bat and reach a conclusion as to whether or not the bat might be altered. EI. Altered Bat Determination by Altered Bat Committee Chairman or manufacturer. If, after making the inspection of a potential altered bat, the Director in their discretion decides that the bat might be an altered bat, the suspected offending owner and/or user and may either: 1. Withhold the bat from further examination by the PAC Sports Altered Bat Committee Chairman or Manufacturer of the bat and accept an immediate two year (up to life for second time offenders under sections E and/or EI) suspension from PAC Sports sanctioned activities with no right to appeal; or 2. Allow the Director to send the bat to the PAC Sports Altered Bat Committee Chairman and/or Manufacturer of the bat for a determination as to whether or not the bat is altered. If the Manufacturer or the PAC Sports Altered Bat Committee Chairman determines that the bat has been altered, the Altered Bat Committee Chairman in consultation with the Director who inspected the bat at the PAC Sports facility may suspend a first time offender for up to five (5) years from PAC Sports play. For a second time offender under E and/or EI, any such suspension will be for life F. Ownership and Knowledge of Bat Being Altered. The responsibility for knowing whether a bat is altered is that of the users and the owner of the bat. If an individual uses an altered bat in PAC Sports sanctioned play or is the owner of an altered bat that is brought into a PAC Sports facility, the suspensions under this Rule 2, Section 10 will be imposed without regard to what the individual actually knew about the altered bat. An individual must know that their bat is not an altered bat, if they bring it into a PAC Sports facility or use it in a PAC Sports sanctioned activity. If not, the individual can be suspended from PAC Sports activities for using or owning an altered bat. The fact that the individual did not know that the bat was altered is not a factor in imposing the suspension. The only question is whether the bat is altered or whether the owner/user has refused to let the bat be examined to determine if it is altered. After the Director, Altered Bat Committee and Manufacturer examination of a bat to determine if it is altered have all been completed, or upon the decision of the owner/user to not allow further inspection of the bat under E or EI, above, the bat shall be returned to the owner. If no one claims to be the owner, PAC Sports shall retain the bat. Once the bat has been returned to the owner, no appeal can be made with respect to whether the bat is altered or not. G. Investigation Cooperation. Any coach, manager, player or other person who fails to cooperate in the investigation by PAC Sports of a potential or actual altered bat shall be subject to an unsportsmanlike conduct suspension. A manager or coach of a team that has more than one of their team’s bats determined to be altered (or not allowed to be inspected upon request for an altered bat inspection under E and/or EI, above) shall be subject to an unsportsmanlike conduct suspension. H. Awards and Coach Suspensions If an owner/user chooses to submit a suspected altered bat to the PAC Sports Altered Bat Committee or the Manufacturer no awards will be given to the team until the bat is determined not to be altered. If the bat is found to be altered, no awards or berth will be given and the team will be placed last in the standings and the listed manager and coaches may be suspended for unsportsmanlike conduct. I. Participation in, Profits from, or Encouraging the Altering of PAC Sports marked Bats. Anyone who participates in, profits from, or encourages the altering of marked bats shall be suspended indefinitely from all PAC Sports activities, until the offending party has satisfied all requests of the Altered Bat Committee with respect to their altered bat activities including but not limited to publicly swearing under penalties of perjury to never again participate in, profit from, or encourage the altering of a marked bats. Violation of such an oath shall result in permanent suspension from all PAC Sports activities. J. Compression Testing. Failure of an approved compression testing device test shall result in the offending bat being removed from play for the duration of the tournament or league game, not longer without the permission of the owner/user—such as in the case of an allowed altered bat determination under section EI. Multiple failures of such compression testing may in the discretion of PAC Sports be viewed as unsportsmanlike conduct of the owner/user, coaches, manager and team. K. Custom Bats. No approved manufacturer may make a custom bat for a player or a team. All marked bats made by an approved manufacturer must be available to the public for purchase. Individualized graphics (such as a team name, different color, player name or number only changes for a team or player), however, do not constitute custom bats for purposes of this section K. L. Worn/Abused/Damaged/Foreign Substance Bats Not Allowed in PAC Sports Sanctioned Play. 1. No bat is legal for PAC Sports sanctioned play, if it is damaged in any way. Damaged bats include those with damage to the knob or end cap, those which have loose knobs or end caps, and those with cracks or dents in the bat material. The bat shall not have exposed rivets, pins, rough or sharp edges or any form of exterior fastener that would present a hazard. Bats shall be free of rattles and burrs. For example, if the end cap is in any way loose or appears damaged, the bat should be removed from play for being a damaged bat. If an end plug has come out or the knob has come off, the only way that such a bat is legal in PAC Sports play, is if the knob or end cap is replaced by the manufacturer. Replacement by anyone else results in an altered bat with potential suspension for the owner/user of the bat. 2. No bat is legal for PAC Sports sanctioned play, if any of the graphics of the bat have worn off. For example, even if the only graphics that have worn off are not Key Graphic Information and are only items such as the patent no., a manufacturer logo, or the approval mark of another association, the bat should be removed from play for being too worn. 3. No bat is legal for PAC Sports sanctioned play, if the paint has been worn through and the actual bat material is showing. For example, if at the end of the barrel next to the taper where there are no graphics the bat paint is worn off and the underlying bat material is exposed, that bat should be removed from play for being too worn. 4. No bat is legal for PAC Sports sanctioned play, if there is a foreign substance on the barrel or taper of a baseball or softball bat. Foreign substances included among other substances, pine tar, stick-em type products and even dirt or mud, but only if the substance adds to the thickness of the barrel or covers Key Graphic Information such as the 1.20 BPF mark, the serial number of the bat, the model or manufacturer name, official softball, etc.. Players are responsible for their equipment and must clean such substances off of their bats so that the substance does not add to the thickness of the bat or obscure any Key Graphics Information about the bat. For example, while bats will surely get dirt on them under normal use and may have pine tar added to the grip, if the dirt or pine tar obscures Key Graphic Information or adds to the thickness of the bat, such bats cannot be used in PAC Sports play until the dirt or pine tar has been removed to the extent necessary to make all such Key Graphic Information readable and the bat not have increased thickness. If Key Graphic Information about a bat cannot be read, the bat should not be used in PAC Sports play. 5. If any removed bat under these section L rules is brought back into play at any PAC Sports sanctioned event at any time, the owner and user of such bat may be suspended for up to one year for unsporting behavior. And if the foreign substance or the wear/abuse/damage is apparent enough that the batter should have been aware of it, the batter may be so suspended for bringing such a bat into the batter’s box without having been warned in advance. Players are responsible for their equipment and must not use equipment that is even potentially illegal for use in PAC Sports sanctioned play. 6. In addition to the player being suspended for unsporting behavior, coaches of youth teams may also be suspended when their players attempt to bat with such bats. Also, coaches of adult teams which have multiple offenses under this rule may also be so suspended for failing to have their team follow PAC Sports equipment rules. Please be reminded that unsporting behavior can result in a game or tournament suspension in the discretion of the Umpire or tournament director and up to a year suspension in the discretion of the state director M. Youth Player Altered Bats. The parents or legal guardians of a youth player suspended under section E and/or EI shall be suspended for life from all PAC Sports sanctioned activities. As such, even after their suspension has ended under E and/or EI, the player can not participate in PAC Sports sanctioned activities until the player is 18 years old. In addition to any other penalties under this Rule 2, Section 10, any coach or manager of a youth team that has more than one suspension imposed under sections E and/or EI. will be suspended from all PAC Sports activities for life. Sec 11. BAT WARMERS Bat Warmers approved by PAC Sports are permitted. Sec 12. WARM-UP BAT No player may use more than two bats when warming up in the on-deck circle. A warm-up bat shall have all parts permanently and securely attached at the time of manufacture and at the time of use. Devices added to a bat for warm up purposes shall be commercially manufactured specifically for a softball bat and shall be securely attached, so as not to disengage during use. Such Devices shall take, but not exceed, the general shape and size of a bat including the grip. Only approved bats, approved weighted bats, or approved bat weight attachments may be used in loosening up. Nothing such as a donut or fan may be used when loosening up.
RULE 3 : DEFINITIONS ABSENT PLAYER. The absent player is the position that is created in the batting order when a player is withdrawn and no substitutes are available to replace her. The absent player is also the ninth, unfilled position in the batting order when a team begins the game with only eight players. A team who has an absent player is playing short-handed. ALTERED BALL is one which has had its physical structure changed in any way, including (but not limited to) balls that have been frozen, micro-waved, heated, melted, cooled, recovered, restitched, surface modified to be rougher or softer, etc. ALTERED BAT is a bat that has had its physical structure changed, including, but not limited to: 1. The bat has had the surface of the barrel or the taper changed in any way such as by addition of graphics, painting, repainting, removal of bat material or paint by any means including but not limited to sandpapering or applying a solvent to the surface such as fingernail polish remover or by any other means. 2. The bat has had the plug or the knob removed/replaced or changed in any way. 3. The bat has had anything removed or added or inserted to the inside or outside of the bat other than tape at the handle or knob. Choke-up devices are not permitted. Other examples of altering a bat would be changing or replacing manufacturers markings or replacing the handle of a bat with a new handle.. Replacing the grip, adding tape or adding a build up to the handle is not considered altering a bat. NOTE: Except when conforming to Rule 2 (Equipment). 4. The bat has been subjected to pressure in a manner that exceeds that of striking the bat at game speed swing speed against an approved ball traveling at game speeds. Such pressure would include, but is not limited to, compressing the bat, rolling the bat, vicing the bat or hitting the bat against an object such as a tree or pole. The bat has in any other way had its on field performance improved by physically changing the bat (other than by hitting the bat at game condition swing speeds against an approved ball traveling at game condition speeds). BALL. The ball is one of the playing implements. The term is also used to designate a pitch, which is not touched by the bat and is not a strike. BASE LINE. A base line is an imaginary direct line between the bases. BASE ON BALLS. If a batter receives four balls, the batter is awarded a base on balls (often referred to as a “walk”) and shall go immediately to first base before time-out can be called. The defense may not notify the Umpire nor cause illegal pitch(es) to intentionally walk a batter. A team may intentionally walk a batter; however, they must throw four pitches. They cannot simply declare to put the batter on base nor can the pitcher commit repeated illegal pitches. BASE PATH. A base path is a direct line between a base and the runner’s position at the time a defensive player is attempting (or about to attempt) to tag a runner. BAT, ILLEGAL. An illegal bat is one that does not meet the requirements of Rule 2-10 (The Official Bat). BAT, NON-APPROVED. A non-approved bat is a bat that does not bear the current A 1.20 BPF “thumbprint” certification mark, or a bat that is listed on the Withdrawn/Non-Compliant Bat List. EXCEPTION: Wood bats per Rule 2-10-D. BATTED BALL. A batted ball is any ball that comes in contact with the bat. It need not be intentional. A. A FLY BALL is a batted ball that rises to an appreciable height above the ground. B. A LINE DRIVE is a batted ball which travels parallel or nearly so with the ground through most of its flight. C. A GROUND BALL is one that is neither a fly nor a line drive. BATTER. The offensive player whose turn it is to bat. The batter has completed their time at bat when they are put out or become a batter-runner. BATTER-RUNNER. The batter-runner is a player who has finished their time at bat and has left the batter’s box (both feet touching completely outside the box) but has not yet been put out or reached first base. BATTER’S BOX. The batter’s box is the area including the lines in which the batter is positioned while at bat. BATTING ORDER. The batting order is the official listing of offensive players by first and last name, in the order in which they are to bat. Uniform number and defensive position shall be listed on the lineup sheet. BLOCKED BALL. A blocked ball is a live ball, pitched, batted or thrown, which is touched, stopped or handled by a person not engaged in the game; or touches any object which is not part of the official equipment or official playing area; or touches loose equipment BUNT. A bunt is a legally batted ball, which occurs when the batter does not swing to hit the ball, but holds the bat in the path of the ball to tap it slowly to the infield BUNT, ATTEMPTED. An attempted bunt (“offer”) is any movement of the bat toward the ball when the ball is over or near the plate area. Holding the bat in the strike zone is considered an attempt to bunt. In order to take a pitch, the bat must be pulled back away from the ball. If an attempted bunt results in a foul ball, it is treated as any other foul ball, if the batter has two strikes and this happens, the batter is out BUNT, DRAG. A drag bunt is a bunt where the batter attempts to bunt the ball by running forward in the batter box, carrying the bat with her. The movement of the bat is in conjunction with the batter’s forward movement. CATCH. A catch is the act of a fielder getting secure possession in a hand or glove of a live ball in flight and firmly holding it. A. In establishing a valid catch, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough to prove complete control of it and that the release of the ball is voluntary and intentional. 1. If a player drops the ball after reaching into the glove to remove it or while in the act of throwing, it is a valid catch. 2. It is considered a catch if a fielder catches the ball before leaving the live ball area by stepping or falling into a bench, dugout, stand, bleacher or over any boundary or barrier, such as a fence, rope, chalk line, or a pre-game determined imaginary boundary line of the field of play. Falling into does not include merely running against such an object. 3. A fielder who is out of play may come back to live ball territory and make a valid play. 4. A collapsible fence is considered in play. B. A Catch shall not be credited when 1. The fielder traps the ball. 2. A fielder catches a batted, pitched or thrown ball with anything other than the hand(s) or properly worn glove. A cap, protector, mask, pocket or other part of the uniform may not be used to catch the ball. A ball prevented from hitting the ground by a player’s equipment (providing it is in its proper place) or body shall not be ruled caught until the ball is securely held in the player’s hand(s) or glove/mitt. 3. The fielder uses any equipment or part of their uniform that is displaced from its proper position to play on a batted ball. 4. A fielder is out of play while: a. One foot is entirely touching out of play. NOTE: an out of play line is in play. b. Any other part of the body is touching out of play. c. In the air after being out of play. 5. The fielder is standing on the fence as it is lying on the ground beyond the original plane of the home-run fence when they contact the ball. 6. The ball strikes anything or anyone other than another defensive player while it is in flight even though it is then caught by a defensive player. 7. Immediately after a catch, the fielder collides with another player, Umpire or fence, or falls to the ground and fails to maintain possession of the ball CATCHER’S BOX. The catcher’s box is area in which the catcher must remain from the time the pitcher steps on the pitcher’s plate until the pitch is released. The catcher’s body and equipment are considered within the box unless touching the ground outside the box. COACH’S BOX. The coach’s box is the area to which the two base coaches (one per box) are restricted prior to release of the pitch. CONFERENCE, CHARGED. A charged conference takes place when a coach or bench personnel requests time-out to meet with offensive or defensive personnel. CONFERENCE, PRE-GAME. A pre-game conference is a meeting involving the Umpires and the coaches near home plate. Team captains may also attend. CONFINES OF THE PLAYING FIELD. The confines of the playing field includes the field of play, the designated dugout/bench area, and any enclosed or clearly marked area that is designated as a warmup area that is adjacent to the field and within the view of the umpire(s). CROW HOP. A crow hop is the act in which the pitcher’s pivot foot leaves the pitcher’s plate and replants prior to delivery of the pitch. DEAD BALL. It is a dead ball when the ball is not in play. The ball is not considered in play again until the pitcher is in possession of the ball and is stationed within the 16-foot circle and the Plate Umpire calls “Play Ball.” DEAD-BALLAREA. The dead-ball area is beyond any real boundary, such as a fence, rope, chalk line, any stands, bleachers, dugouts, players’ bench or designated media area; or any imaginary boundary line as determined in the pregame conference. If a ball becomes lodged in a fence or backstop, it is considered to be in dead-ball area. DESIGNATED PLAYER (DP). The Primary Role of the DP is to play offense (bats/runs) for the FLEX. The DP may play defense at any position. DUGOUT. An out-of-play area reserved for rostered players, coaches, and official representatives of the team only. EJECTED. A player or coach removed from the game by the Umpire, usually for an unsportsmanlike act or conduct. A flagrant act will require the coach to leave the grounds for the remainder of the game. Any ejected player or coach discovered participating in the game would constitute a forfeit. FAIR BALL. A fair ball is a batted ball which: A. Settles or is touched on or over fair territory between home and first base or home and third base; B. Is on or over fair territory including any part of first and third base when bounding to the outfield. C. Touches first, second or third bases. D. While on or over fair territory touches the person of any Umpire or player or their clothing or equipment except the batter in the batter’s box. E. While over fair territory passes out of the playing field in flight. F. First falls or is touched on or over fair territory beyond first or third base. G. While over fair territory, an offensive player interferes with a defensive player attempting to field a batted ball. NOTE: A fair fly shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and the foul line, including the foul pole, and not as to whether the fielder is in fair or foul territory at the time the fielder touches the ball. It does not matter whether the ball first touches fair or foul territory as long as it does not touch anything foreign to the natural ground in foul territory and complies with all other aspects of a fair ball. FAIR TERRITORY. Fair territory is that part of the playing field within, and including, the foul lines from home plate to the bottom of the playing field fence and perpendicularly upwards. FIELDER. A fielder is any player of the team in the field. FLEX. The Primary Role of the FLEX is to play defense only which can be at any defensive position. The FLEX player is placed in the FLEX position, a non-batting position listed last in the lineup. The FLEX may remain in the FLEX position for the entire game, or may assume the DP’s position in the batting order and play offense (bat/run). FORCE PLAY. A force play is a play on the batter-runner at first base, or any other runner who loses the right to the base occupied and is forced to advance because the batter became a batter-runner. For a given runner, a force play ends as soon as the batter-runner reaches first base or any other runner reaches the next base or a following runner is put out. When a forced runner, after touching the next base, retreats for any reason toward the base they last occupied, the force play is reinstated. FORFEIT. A forfeited game is one awarded to the opponent of the offending team. The score shall be recorded in accordance with Rule 4-7-B. FOUL BALL. A foul ball is a batted ball which: A. Settles or is touched on or over foul territory between home and first base, or between home and third base. B. Bounds past first or third base on or over foul territory. C. First falls on foul territory beyond first or third base. D. While on or over foul territory touches the person of an Umpire, a player or any object foreign to the natural ground or contacts the batter in the batter’s box. E. Is in foul territory when a base runner in foul territory interferes with a defensive player’s attempt to field a batted ball. F. Touches the batter or the bat in the batter’s hand(s) a second time while the batter is still within the batter’s box FOUL TERRITORY. Foul territory is that part of the playing field outside the foul lines and perpendicularly upwards. FOUL TIP. A foul tip is a batted ball, which goes directly and speedily from the bat to the catcher’s mitt or hand and is legally caught by the catcher. The ball remains live. NOTE: Any batted ball that travels directly from the bat to any part of the catcher’s body or equipment other than the hand(s) or glove/mitt, is a foul ball and dead. It is not a foul tip. GAME. A. A regulation game is seven innings (term at bat) unless extra inning(s) are necessary because of a tie score, or unless shortened because the home team does not require its half of the seventh inning or only a fraction of it, or because of weather or darkness. B. A called game is one that is ended by order of the Umpire. C. A suspended game is a game to be completed at a later time. ILLEGAL PLAYER. A player who takes a position in the lineup, either on offense or defense, who does not have a legal right to the position. INELIGIBLE PLAYER. A player who is unregistered or who does not meet requirements to register. Examples of an ineligible player but not limited to are: 1. Playing under an assumed name. 2. Players not on the team roster. 3. Violating divisional age requirements. IN FLIGHT. A batted or thrown ball is in flight until it has touched the ground or some object on fair or foul ground, or it has touched a person other than a fielder. INFIELD. The infield is that portion of the field in fair territory that is normally skinned and covered by infielders. INFIELD FLY. An infield fly is a fair fly (not including a line drive or an attempted bunt) which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort (rule does not preclude outfielders from being allowed to make the catch); and provided the hit is made before two are out and at a time when first and second base or all bases are occupied. INFIELDER. An infielder is a fielder who defends the skinned area of the field around first, second, third or shortstop areas. They usually are the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, pitcher and catcher. INITIAL PLAY. A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted ball, a ball which could become fair or a foul fly ball when the fielder has a reasonable chance to gain control of a ground ball that no other fielder (except the pitcher) has touched or a reasonable chance to catch the ball in flight after it touches another fielder. The fielder is still considered to be making an initial play if the fielder fails to gain control of the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach (in any direction) of the spot of the initial play. INNING A. An inning is that portion of the game, which includes a time at bat for each team. B. A half inning is the interval during which one team is on offense (batting) and the other is on defense (fielding). A half inning ends when there is a third out or when, in the last inning, the winning run is scored. In either case, if there is a delayed out declared by the Umpire for a base running infraction, a possible fourth out may be recognized for the inning, depending on the circumstances. A new half inning begins immediately after the end of the previous half inning. C. An extra inning is one, which extends the game beyond regulation play in an attempt to break a tie score. INTERFERENCE. Interference is an act which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play. A. Offensive interference is interference (physical or verbal) by the team at bat, or when a runner creates malicious contact with any fielder with or without the ball, in or out of the baseline; or when a coach physically assists a runner during playing action. B. Umpire interference is when the Umpire inadvertently moves so as to hinder a catcher’s attempt to throw or when a fair, untouched ball touches an Umpire before the closest infielder has a reasonable opportunity to field the ball. C. Spectator interference is any action by a spectator, which impedes the progress of the game. LEAP. A leap is when both feet are airborne OBSTRUCTION. Obstruction is the act of a defensive team member which hinders a runner or changes the pattern of play or when a catcher or fielder hinders a batter unless the fielder is in possession of the ball or making an initial play on a batted ball. The act may be intentional or unintentional, physical or verbal. A. It is catcher obstruction when a catcher hinders or prevents a batter from swinging at a pitch. B. A fake tag is an act by a defensive player that simulates an attempt to tag a runner. Faking a tag is considered obstruction. ON-DECK BATTER. The on-deck batter is the offensive player who follows the batter in the batting order. ON-DECK CIRCLE. An on-deck circle for each team is a circle 5 feet in diameter located a safe distance to the side and away from home plate, at least 30 feet if space allows. OUTFIELD. The outfield is that portion of the field beyond the infield. OUTFIELDER. An outfielder is a fielder who defends the outfield PASSED BALL. A passed ball is a pitch which the catcher fails to stop or control with ordinary effort and which enables a runner to advance. PIVOT FOOT. The pitcher’s pivot foot is that foot which is in contact with the ground, as opposed to the non-pivot foot, which the pitcher uses to step toward home plate. PLAY BALL. Play ball is the term used by the Plate Umpire to indicate that play shall start and shall not be declared until all defensive players are in fair territory except the catcher, who must be in the catcher’s box, and all runners are properly on base. QUICK PITCH. A quick pitch is a pitch made by the pitcher with the obvious attempt to catch the batter off balance. This would be before the batter takes a desired position in the batter’s box or while the batter is still off balance as a result of the previous pitch. RESTRICTED TO THE BENCH. A player or coach who has been confined to the dugout/bench area for the remainder of the game. It is generally as a result of an infraction of a playing rule (not an unsportsmanlike act or conduct). RUNNER. A runner is an offensive player who has reached first base and has not yet been put out. SACRIFICE. A sacrifice is a bunt which enables any runner to advance, or a fly ball which enables a runner to score; but, in either case, results in the batter-runner being put out before reaching first base or would have resulted in the batter-runner being put out if the hit had been fielded without error and provided two were not out when the ball was hit. A sacrifice is not listed as a “time-at-bat.” SHORT-HANDED. Short-handed refers to a team's status when batting: A. fewer batters than listed on the original lineup card presented at the pregame conference, or B. less than 9 batters. SLAP HIT. A slap hit occurs when the batter gives the appearance of bunting, using a modified swing or slap at the ball as it approaches home plate. If an attempt to “SLAP” is a foul ball, it is treated the same as any other foul ball including an attempt by the batter with two strikes. SLIDE. A legal slide can be either feet first or head first. If a runner slides feet first, at least one leg and buttock shall be on the ground. If a runner slides, the runner shall be within reach of the base with either a hand or a foot when the slide is completed. A slide is illegal if: A. The runner uses a rolling, cross-body or pop-up slide into the fielder. B. The runner’s raised leg is higher than the fielder’s knee when the fielder is in a standing position. C. The runner goes beyond the base and makes contact with or alters the play of the fielder. D. The runner slashes or kicks the fielder with either leg. E. The runner tries to injure the fielder. OVER SLIDE. An over slide is the act of an offensive player when, as a runner, over slides a base the player is attempting to reach. It is usually caused when the player’s momentum causes the player to lose contact with the base leaving the player in jeopardy. The batter-runner may over slide first base without being in jeopardy. STARTING PLAYER. A starting player is one of the first nine, ten, eleven or twelve (if using the optional DP/FLEX and/or APs) listed on the lineup card that is approved by the Plate Umpire. If a team uses Roster Batting, all players listed are considered starting players. STRIKE ZONE. The strike zone is that space over home plate, which is between the batter’s forward armpit and the top of the knees when the batter assumes a natural batting stance. Any part of the ball passing through the strike zone in flight shall be considered a strike; the Umpire shall determine the batter’s strike zone according to the batter’s usual stance STRIKEOUT. A strikeout is the result of the pitcher getting a third strike charged to a batter. In Fastpitch, this usually results in the batter being out. Anytime first base is unoccupied, or there are two outs, and the third strike is not caught before the ball touches the ground, the batter-runner is entitled to advance. See exception in 10 & Under and Younger Section. SUBSTITUTE. Any member of a team’s roster who is not listed as a starting player; a starting player who re-enters the game; or a FLEX who enters the lineup on offense. TAG OUT. A tag out is the putting out of a runner (including the batter-runner), who is not touching a base, by touching the runner with a live ball or with the glove or hand when the live ball is securely held therein by a fielder. The ball is not considered as having been held securely if it is juggled or dropped after the touching unless the runner deliberately knocks the ball from the hand of the fielder. THROW. A throw is the act of voluntarily losing possession through having the ball leave the hand for a purpose other than a pitch. It may result in the ball being bounced, handed, rolled, tossed or thrown. THROW OUT. A throw out is a putout caused by a throw to first base to retire a batter runner, or to any other base to which a runner is forced or is required to retouch TImE. “Time” is the command of the Umpire to suspend play. The ball becomes dead when it is given. TRAP. A batted fly ball or line drive is considered trapped if it hits the ground or a fence on a short hop before being caught. A thrown ball is considered trapped if it is caught but the ball is on the ground and the glove/mitt/hand is over, rather than under, it and the fielder does not have secure possession. A pitched ball is considered trapped if it is a strike but touches the ground on a short hop before being caught by the catcher. TURN AT BAT. A turn at bat begins when a player first enters the batter’s box and continues until the player is substituted for, put out, or becomes a batter-runner while at bat. WILD PITCH. A wild pitch is a pitch that cannot be handled by the catcher with ordinary effort
RULE 4. THE GAME Sec 1. FITNESS of GROUNDS The Umpires are the sole judges of the fitness of the grounds. The Umpire and/or Tournament Director shall suspend play if the weather or other conditions make play unsafe. Sec 2. RUN SCORES A. A runner scores one run each time the runner legally touches first, second, third bases and home plate or a runner starting at second in a tiebreaker inning touches third and home. B. On a game-ending out-of- the park home run, ground-rule double, or awarded bases for overthrows into dead ball territory or detached player equipment, all runs shall score as if the game were to continue. In these cases, the winning margin may be more than one run. EXCEPTION: it is not possible for the winning margin to exceed the RUN RULE limits C. Runs scored would not count: 1. When the third out is a force out. 2. When the third out is a batted ball in flight that is caught or prevented from being caught by interference. 3. If a base running infarction were the third out, runs scored by the following runner(s) would not count 4. When a runner crosses home plate after a preceding runner is declared the third out for a base running infraction. 5. With two outs, if the base missed were the first to which the batter or runner was forced to advance, no runs would score. Sec 3. TIME LIMITS Tournament Directors and League Officials may establish time limits such that a game will consist of seven (7) innings or the amount of time specified, whichever comes first. No new inning will begin once the time limit has expired. Any inning which has been started prior to the time limit expiring will be completed. The time begins when the pre-game conference ends and the home team is allowed to take the field. A new inning begins as soon as the third out is recorded in the previous inning. If the game is still tied after the time limit has expired, the tie breaker rule shall be in effect at the start of the next inning. In the Youth Program, the recommended time limit is 60-90 minutes. Pace of Play. 1. Intentional Stalling.It will be at the umpire’s discretion to determine whether or not a team is intentionally stalling a game in order to reflect the outcome of the game in their favour. Umpires shall have the authority to stop the official game clock in order to keep a team from using stall tactics. In a case of Intentional Stalling of a Game, the follow penalties shall apply: 1. First Offense: Official game clock shall be paused & Warning shall be issued. 2. Second Offense: Official game clock shall be paused & the head coach of the offending team shall be ejected from the game. 3. Third Offense: Official game clock shall be paused & umpire is directed to retrieve the on-site tournament director. At the tournament directors’ discretion, the team being accused of intentionally stalling can be forfeited from the game and will no longer be able to qualify for championship play 2. NOTE: To eliminate stall tactics occurring late in the game, umpires shall pause the Official Game Clock when a mid-inning substitution occurs to the pitcher or catcher during the last five (5) minutes of regulation play. The game clock shall resume once the umpire puts the ball back in play. 3. Warm-Up Pitches. A new pitcher entering the game for his/her first (1st) inning shall be granted eight (8) warm-up pitches. Returning pitchers shall be granted five (5) warm-up pitches between innings. 4. Tie – Breaker Procedure. In the event that a game ends in a tie, the following tie-breaker procedure shall be utilized: a. Last batter of the previous inning will go to 1st base, next to last batter will go to 2nd base, the next hitter after that will go to 3rd base. b. The offensive team shall start the inning with one (1) out. NOTE. Pool play games shall be allowed one (1) extra inning to determine a winner of the game. If no winner is declared after the one (1) extra inning, the pool play game shall result in a tie. Bracket play games shall be played out until a winner can be determined. ADDITIONAL NOTE. The tie-breaker procedure listed in this Code shall not apply to Championship games. All extra innings in Championship games shall be played out as normal Sec 4. The RUN RULE awards a win to a team that has a 12 runs lead after 3 completed innings or 2 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead, 10 runs after 4 completed innings or 3 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead, 8 runs lead after 5 completed innings or 4 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead. ● Sec 5. REGULATION GAME ○ A game ends when the team behind in score has completed its turn at bat in the seventh inning, in any extra inning, or the time limit has expired. If the home team scores a go ahead run in the bottom of the seventh inning, in any extra inning or the time limit has expired the game is terminated at that point. ○ If a game is suspended and later resumed, it will be continued from the point of suspension, with the lineup and batting order of each team exactly the same as at the point of suspension. ○ If a game ends because of weather conditions and the Tournament Director feels that the possibility of resuming the game is not likely, it is then a regulation game provided: ■ 1. Three full innings have been played; or if the home team has scored an equal or greater number of runs in two or two and a fraction turns at bat than the visiting team has scored in their three-inning turn. ■ 2. Play has gone beyond three full innings and is called when the teams have not had an equal number of completed turns at bat. The score shall be the same as it was at the end of the last completed inning; unless the home team in its half of the incomplete inning, scores a run (or runs) which equals or exceeds the opponent’s score, in which case, the final score shall be as recorded when the game is called. Sec 7. FORFEITED GAME ● A game shall be forfeited to the offended team by the Tournament Director when a team: ○ 1. Is late in appearing or in beginning play after the Umpire calls “Play Ball.” ○ 2. Refuses to continue play after the game has started. ○ 3. Delays more than one minute in resuming play after the Umpire calls “Play ball” or in obeying the Umpire’s order to remove a player for violation of the rules. ○ 4. Persists in tactics designed to delay or shorten the game. ○ 5. Willfully and persistently violates any one of the rules after being warned by the Umpire. ○ 6. Can not provide the required number of eligible players to start or continue a game Score of a forfeited game is 7 to 0 unless the game is forfeited after the number of innings required for a regulation game and the offending team is behind, then the score remains as recorded. If the offending team is leading, the score shall be 7 to 0. All individual and team averages shall be included in the official records, except that no pitcher shall be credited with a victory or charged with a loss in such a game if it is not a regulation game. Sec 8. CHARGED CONFERENCE A. Defense - Each team when on defense, may be granted not more than three charged conferences without penalty during a seven-inning game to permit coaches or their representatives from the bench to confer with a defensive player or players. In any extra inning game, each team shall be permitted one charged conference without penalty each inning while on defense. The number of charged conferences is not cumulative. A coach, player, substitute or an attendant may make a request for time for a conference. This defensive team charged conference is effective when the ball first becomes live at the start of each half inning. PENALTY: After three charged conferences in a seven inning game, or for any charged conference in excess of one in each extra inning, the pitcher shall be removed as a pitcher for the duration of the game. B. Offense - Each team, when on offense, may be granted not more than one charged conference per inning to permit the coach or any of that team’s personnel to confer with the base runners, the batter, the ondeck batter or other offensive team personnel. The Umpire shall deny any subsequent offensive team request for charged conferences. This offensive team charged conference rule is effective when the ball first becomes live in each half inning. When a defensive player requests time to speak to one or more defensive players, base runners may not abandon the vicinity of their bases without it being a charged offensive conference. NOTE: If either team is charged with a conference, base runners are no longer restricted to the vicinity of their bases. C. Not charged ● 1. Time granted for an obviously incapacitated player shall not constitute a charged conference. ● 2. A conference is not charged when the pitcher is removed as a pitcher. ● 3. If a dugout representative confers with any player during a charged conference of the other team and is ready to play ball when the other team is ready D. Pre-game Conference - The pre-game conference shall be conducted by the plate Umpire. At least one adult coach from each team must attend. The pre-game meeting should begin approximately five minutes prior to the game and before the home team takes the field. There shall be no ball hit or thrown in live ball territory during this meeting. The purpose of the pre-game conference is to 1. Exchange and check each team’s lineup cards. 2. Discusses ground rules. 3. Identify the head coach 4. Have coaches verify that their players are legally and properly equipped RULE 5. PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES 1. Sec 1. PLAYERS -A team shall consist of at least nine players, whose positions shall be designated as; (1) Pitcher, (2) Catcher, (3) First Baseman, (4) Second Baseman, (5) Third Baseman, (6) Shortstop, (7) Left Fielder, (8) Center Fielder, (9) Right Fielder. In addition, a team may optionally include a DP/FLEX and/or up to two Additional Players (APs). The maximum number of players in the lineup is 12; the maximum number of batters in the batting order is 11. A. A team must have the required number of players present in the dugout or team area to start or continue a game. B. The team’s lineup card shall include first name, last name, jersey number, position and batting order of each starting player and should include each eligible substitute. First and last name of the eligible player takes precedence over jersey number if there is a discrepancy on the lineup card. All listed starters must be present in the team area. Lineups become official after they have been exchanged, verified and then accepted by the Plate Umpire during the pregame conference. C. Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at any time. D. (Non-ELITE SELECT divisions): ROSTER BATTING OPTION Teams may utilize additional APs to bat their entire roster (i.e., ALL players present; no DP/FLEX allowed) subject to the restrictions of Rules 5.2 and 5.3. Under Roster Batting, player(s) arriving late shall be placed in the lineup in the following priority: ● 1. to fill any Absent Player (automatic out) position ● 2. if no Absent Player position exists, then the late arrival will be placed last in the batting order (i.e. - a team batting 13 will add the late arrival in the 14th batting position) Roster Batting must be declared at the pregame conference, and all players physically present must be listed in the batting order. If a player is physically present but is unable to play because of injury or illness, that player shall be ineligible for the entire game if the team elects Roster Batting Sec 2. SHORT-HANDED RULE: Playing short-handed is an exception to Rule 5-1 above. A team shall be allowed to play with one batting position unfilled, provided they have a minimum of 8 batters present. The vacant batting position will be designated as the absent player. Whenever the absent player is scheduled to bat, an out shall be declared. A team may play short-handed under the following circumstances: A. A team may continue a game with one fewer batter than is listed in the starting batting order, whenever a player leaves the game (for any reason) and no substitutes are available. If a team falls below 8 batters, a forfeit shall be declared. 1. If the absent player is the batter or a runner, she shall be declared out. EXCEPTION: if the absent player was injured while a batter-runner or runner, the absent player may be replaced by the last completed at bat (LCAB) as defined in Rule 8-3-B, to fulfill her baserunning responsibility. However, this exception does not apply to any future at-bat. 2. An absent player may not return to the lineup. EXCEPTION: a player who left under the Blood Rule may re-enter, subject to Rule 5-6. B. A team may begin the game short-handed. The absent player must be listed in the ninth (9th) batting position. Under no circumstances shall a team be allowed to have less than eight (8) players in the batting order. C. The team may not play short-handed if an eligible substitute arrives. Upon arrival, she must be inserted in the absent player’s position in the batting order. (Non-ELITE SELECT divisions): A team may drop more than 1 batting position (i.e., may have multiple absent players), provided the lineup is maintained with at least 8 batters physically present. All other restrictions above apply. If a team has multiple absent players and an eligible substitute arrives, she must enter the game immediately in the first available absent player position due up in the batting order. Sec 3. ADDITIONALPLAYER - up to two Additional Players (APs) can be used to increase the batting order to 10 or 11 batters. (Non-ELITE SELECT divisions) Teams may use additional APs to bat their entire roster, subject to the restrictions of Rules 5-2 and 5-3. The AP(s) will be placed in the batting order in the positions to be occupied. The AP(s) can also be used on defense (only 9 defensive players in the field), but must keep the same position in the batting order. The AP(s), if used, must be selected prior to the start of the game, and their name(s) must be included on the lineup card presented to the Umpire. Failure to declare the use of the AP(s) prior to the game precludes the use of the AP(s) in that game. If a pinch hitter or pinch-runner is used for an AP, that player becomes the new AP. The original AP(s) may re-enter like any other player under the re-entry rule. If an AP is used, the position must be used the entire game. Sec 4. DP/FLEX - A team may use the Designated Player (DP)/FLEX option provided it is made known prior to the start of the game. A. The DP’s name is indicated on the lineup as one of the batters in the batting order. B. The name of the player for whom the DP is batting (FLEX player) will be placed last in the FLEX position (non-batting) following the last batter in the lineup. C. The DP must remain in the same position in the lineup for the entire game. D. The DP may be substituted for at any time by a legal substitute or the FLEX player. If the DP is replaced on offense by the FLEX player, the DP will leave the game. This reduces the number of players in the lineup by one. However the number of batters does not change. If replaced by a substitute, both the DP position and FLEX position remain in the lineup. E. A DP may re-enter one time, as long as the DP returns to the original position in the batting order. If the DP re-enters or a substitute enters as the DP and the FLEX player was batting in the DP’s spot, the FLEX player can either return to the FLEX position and play defense only, or leave the game. F. The DP may play defense at any position. The DP may play defense for a player other than the FLEX player. That player will continue to bat but not play defense, and is not considered to have left the game. The DP may play defense for the FLEX player and the FLEX player is considered to have left the game, reducing the number of players by eliminating the FLEX position in the lineup. G. The FLEX player may be substituted for at any time by a legal substitute and the FLEX position remains in the lineup. If the FLEX player is not playing defense, the non-batting FLEX position is eliminated and the FLEX player is out of the game. EXCEPTION: The FLEX may play offense-only (i.e., offense, but not defense) IF both these conditions are met: 1. The FLEX is properly inserted into the batting order in the DP’s batting position, AND 2. The lineup is sufficient size (at least 1 AP) to field 9 players on defense without the FLEX’s participation. The FLEX can be re-established if the FLEX player re-enters or is substituted for. H. The FLEX player may re-enter the game one time provided they return to the non-batting position or to the DP’s position in the lineup. 1. If returning to the FLEX position, the FLEX player will play defense only for any player. 2. If returning to the DP position, the FLEX player will play offense and can play defense in any position. The FLEX position is suspended. I. If the FLEX player re-enters or a substitute enters as the FLEX player and the DP was playing defense in the FLEX player’s spot, 1. The DP can return to batting only, play defense for another player and the FLEX position is re-established or 2. The DP can leave the game if the FLEX plays offense for the DP. J. Placing the FLEX player into one of the batting positions for someone other than the DP’s position is considered an illegal player penalized per Rule 5-7. Sec 5. SUBSTITUTE - A player who replaces a player that is in the game (offense or defense) is a substitute. Teams are required to immediately report all substitutions to the Plate Umpire. Upon notification by either team, the Umpire shall announce the legal substitute and make the appropriate lineup card changes. An unreported legal substitute brought to the Umpire’s attention will result in a penalty, all prior play shall stand. PENALTY: For unreported substitution, First offense: A team warning is issued. Second offense: The head coach is ejected for the remainder of the game only. The DP may go in and out of the game for any player (including the FLEX), at any defensive position, any time and any number of times without it counting as a substitution for anyone except the FLEX. This movement in and out of the game must be reported to the plate Umpire to avoid an unreported player violation. The FLEX may go in and out of the DP’s position in the batting order any time and any number of times. This action counts as a substitution for the DP. This movement in and out of the game must be reported to the plate Umpire to avoid an unreported player violation. A player may be removed as a pitcher and returned as a pitcher once per inning, provided the return as a pitcher does not violate either the pitching, substitution, or charged conference rule. Sec 6. RE-ENTRY: Any player may be withdrawn from the game and re-entered once, provided such player occupies the same batting position whenever in the line-up. A violation results in an illegal substitution which is penalized per Rule 5-7-A. A substitute who is withdrawn may re-enter once. Sec 7. ILLEGALPLAYER is a player who enters the line–up without the right to an offensive or defensive position. Examples of an Illegal player(s), but not limited to, are: A. Starter and/or substitute who re-enters in an incorrect batting position. B. Starter and/or substitute who re-enters a second time. C. Using a player to pitch who was removed from the pitching position because of Rule 4-8-A PENALTY. D. Placing the FLEX player in one of the first 11 positions in the batting order for someone other than the DP The use of an illegal player is handled as a protest that can be made at any time, while the player is in the game. A player will not violate the illegal player provision until he/she enters the game and one (1) pitch is thrown. Any action before one pitch is thrown is correctable. PENALTY: An illegal player violation results in the immediate ejection of the illegal player and the head coach. In addition, the following penalties will apply: A. If the illegal player has completed a turn at bat and before the next pitch, the illegal player is called out. Any advance by any runner as a result of the illegal player becoming a batter-runner is nullified. Any additional outs recorded on the play stand. B. If the illegal player is a baserunner and is still on base, the illegal player is called out. C. If the illegal player has made a defensive play and before the next pitch (or the defensive team or the Umpires have left the field), the offensive team has the option of 1) the result of the play or 2) replaying the last pitch. NOTE: The illegal player can be legally replaced by any eligible substitute Sec 8. INELIGIBLE PLAYER: The penalty for using an ineligible player is a forfeit of a game in progress. For use of an ineligible player in a game previously completed, see Rule 13-5. Sec 9. INJURED PLAYER A. During a live ball situation, when a player becomes injured such that, in the Umpire’s judgment, immediate attention is required, the Umpire shall call “DEAD BALL” and allow or seek first aid. EFFECT: Award any bases that would have been reached in the Umpire’s judgment. B. A player who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the game and shall not return to play that day until obtaining written medical clearance from a licensed medical doctor to return to play in accordance with the PAC Sports concussion policy Sec 10. BLOOD RULE A Player/Substitute, Manager, Coach, Trainer, Batboy or other Team member or Umpire who is bleeding or who has an open wound shall be prohibited from participating further in the game until the bleeding is stopped and the wound covered.in accordance with PAC Sports Communicable Disease Procedures Protocol. A. If treatment can be administered in a reasonable amount of time, the individual would not have to leave the game. The amount of time is determined by the Umpire’s judgment. B. If excessive time is involved, the re-entry rule would apply to players. C. If there is an excessive amount of blood on the uniform or if a bandage becomes blood soaked, in the judgment of the Umpire, the uniform/bandage must be changed before the individual may participate. RULE 6. PITCHING RULE Sec 1. A legal pitch shall conform to the following: A. Prior to the pitch, the pitcher shall take a position with their pivot foot in contact with the pitcher's plate and their non-pivot foot in contact with or behind the pitcher's plate. Both feet must be on the ground within or partially within the 24-inch length of the pitcher's plate. The hands must be apart. The pitcher may not take the pitching position on the pitcher’s plate without possession of the ball, and the pitcher may not simulate pitching with or without the ball when near the pitcher’s plate. B. Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must take a position with the ball in the glove or pitching hand, with the hands separated. C. While in this position, the pitcher shall take (or simulate taking) a signal from the catcher. D. After completing “C” above, the pitcher shall bring the hands together in front of the body for not more than 10 seconds before releasing the ball. The hands may be motionless or moving. NOTE: Before the pitch starts, the pitcher may remove them self from the pitching position by stepping back from the pitcher’s plate with both feet (either foot may be removed first) or by requesting time. E. The Pitch: 1. The pitch begins and cannot be discontinued when the hands are separated once they have been placed together. 2. Any step back with the non-pivot foot must begin before the start of the pitch (6.1.E.1). Once the pitch has started (the hands separate), the pitcher shall take not more than one step which must be forward, toward the batter and simultaneous with the delivery. EXCEPTION: When removing self from the pitcher's position (6.1.D NOTE) NOTE: "Toward" is interpreted as within or partially within the 24- inch length of the pitcher's plate. 3. The pivot foot may remain in contact with or may push off and drag away from the pitching plate prior to the front foot touching the ground, as long as the pivot foot remains in contact with the ground. Pushing off with the pivot foot from a place other than the pitcher’s plate is illegal NOTE 1: It is not a step if the pitcher slides their foot in any direction on the pitcher’s plate, provided contact is maintained. NOTE 2: Techniques such as the “crow hop” and “the leap” are illegal. NOTE 3: If a hole has been created in front of the pitcher’s plate, the pivot foot may be no higher than the level plane of the ground. F. A LEGAL DELIVERY - shall be a pitched ball that is delivered to the batter with an underhand motion. 1. The release of the ball and the follow-through of the hand and wrist must be forward past the vertical line of the body. 2. The hand shall be below the hip and the wrist not farther from the body than the elbow. 3. The pitch shall be delivered on the throwing arm side of the body and not behind the back or between the legs. 4. The pitch is completed with a step toward the batter. G. THE PITCHER MAY USE ANY WINDUP DESIRED PROVIDED: 1. No motion to pitch is made without immediately delivering the ball to the batter. 2. The pitcher does not use a rocker action in which, after having the ball in both hands in pitching position, the pitcher removes one hand from the ball, takes a backward and forward swing and returns the ball to both hands in front of the body. 3. The pitcher does not use a windup in which there is a stop or reversal of the forward motion. 4. The pitcher does not make more than one and one half revolutions of the arm in the windmill pitch. A pitcher may drop the pitching arm to the side and to the rear before starting the windmill motion. The ball does not have to be released the first time past the hip. 5. The pitcher does not continue to wind up after taking the forward step or after the ball is released. NOTE: Continuation of the windup is considered any action that, after the ball is released, causes the arm to continue to rotate past the shoulder. H. The pitcher shall not wear any item on the pitching hand, wrist, arm or thigh that the Umpire judges to be distracting. If a pitcher wears a batting helmet while on defense, the outer covering and shield shall be a non glare surface. I. Foreign Substance on the ball/Items on pitcher. The pitcher shall not at any time be allowed to use any moisture or foreign substance on the ball, the pitching hand or fingers nor do anything to deface the ball. A pitcher who licks their fingers must wipe the fingers off before bringing them in contact with the ball. 1. Under the supervision and control of the Umpire, the pitcher may use following items to dry the hand which is in contact with the ball: dirt (but not chalk), powdered resin, or an approved drying agent. When using these items, the pitcher is not required to wipe the hand prior to contacting the ball; when using any other substance, the pitcher must wipe the pitching hand prior to contacting the ball. No tacky or sticky substances can be used as a substitute for a powdered drying agent. No other player or team personnel shall apply moisture or a foreign substance to the ball nor do anything to deface the ball. 2. The pitcher’s fingers, hand, wrist, forearm or elbow may be taped for injury, providing such tape is a neutral color. EFFECT Sec 1. A – I – Illegal Pitch J. The pitcher shall not deliberately drop, roll, bounce, etc, the ball while in the pitching position in order to prevent the batter from striking it. PENALTY: The ball is dead at the end of playing action. The batter is awarded a ball which may be declined by the offensive coach. FIRST OFFENSE is a team warning. SECOND OFFENSE and any subsequent violation the offender is restricted to the bench for the remainder of the game and their current head coach shall be ejected. K. Once the ball has been returned to the pitcher to prepare for the next pitch or the Umpire says “play”, the pitcher has 20 seconds to release the next pitch. PENALTY: Dead ball; a ball on the batter L. At the beginning of an inning or when a pitcher relieves another pitcher, one minute may be used to deliver not more than five practice pitches (or throws) to the catcher, or some other teammate. For excessive warm-up pitches (or throws), a pitcher shall be penalized by awarding a ball to the batter for each pitch in excess of five. EXCEPTION: This does not apply if the umpire delays the start of play due to substitution, conference, injuries, or other umpire responsibilities. A pitcher returning to pitch in the same half-inning shall not be allowed warm-up pitches. M. If the ball slips from the pitcher’s hand during the back swing or forward motion, a ball is called on the batter. In either case, the ball remains in play and runners may advance at their own risk. Sec 2. CATCHER and DEFENSIVE POSITIONING A. A catcher shall be inside the lines of the catcher’s box and all other defensive players positioned in fair territory when the pitcher takes their position to pitch and when the pitch is released. PENALTY: An illegal pitch is called. B. The catcher shall return the ball directly to the pitcher after each pitch, except after a strikeout or a putout made by the catcher, or to play on a base runner. PENALTY: The batter is awarded a ball. EXCEPTION: Intentionally violating the rule in order to walk the batter without pitching shall not result in a ball being awarded to the batter. C. A fielder shall not take a position in the batter’s line of vision or, with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter. A pitch does not have to be released. EFFECT: The offending player shall be ejected from the game. Sec 3 ILLEGAL PITCH An illegal pitch is a pitch that violates the pitching rule or is an effect for a rules violation. When an illegal pitch occurs, it shall be called immediately by the plate or base umpire. If an illegal pitch occurs but the pitch is not released, it is a dead ball. If the pitch is released, the umpire calls “illegal” loud enough nearby players to hear. Simultaneously, the Umpire gives the delayed dead-ball signal and waits to suspend play until the play has been completed. Failure of players to hear the call shall not void the call. A. Effect: The pitch is declared a ball. B. If the batter reaches first base safely and all other runners advance at least one base, the play stands, and the illegal pitch is canceled. No option is given. C. If the batter does not reach first base safely or if any runner fails to advance at least one base, the coach of the offensive team has the option of taking the result of the play or accepting the effect for an illegal pitch. D. If a batter is hit by an illegal pitch not swung at, the batter is awarded first base, and other base runners advance one base, only if forced. E. If ball four is an illegal pitch, the batter is awarded first base, and other base runners advance one base, only if forced. F. The Umpire who called the illegal pitch shall explain the violation to the coach if requested. Sec 4. NO PITCH shall be declared when: A. The pitcher pitches during the suspension of play. B. A runner is called out for leaving a base too soon. C. The pitcher attempts a quick return of the ball before the batter is in position or is off balance as a result of a previous pitch. D. The pitcher pitches before a runner has retouched their base after being legitimately off that base. E. A player, manager or coach calls time, employs any other word or phrase, or commits any act while the ball is live and in play for the obvious purpose of trying to make the pitcher commit an illegal pitch. The Umpire shall penalize according to Rule 11-2-S governing Sporting Behavior.. EFFECT- A-E: The ball is dead, and all subsequent action on that pitch is canceled RULE 7. BATTING Sec 1. ON-DECK BATTER. A. The on-deck batter may take a position within the lines of the on-deck circle nearest the offensive team bench. No player is permitted to warm up in the other team’s on-deck circle. B. The on-deck batter may loosen up with no more than two official softball bats, an approved warm-up bat, or a combination not to exceed two. Any detachable piece placed on the bat must be approved. C. The on-deck batter may leave the on-deck circle: 1. When the on-deck batter becomes the batter. 2. To direct runners advancing from third to home plate. D. The on-deck batter may not interfere with the defensive player’s opportunity to make an out. 1. If it involves a runner, the runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference shall be declared out. 2. If it is with the fielder fielding a fly ball, the batter is out. NOTE: When the interference is with a thrown ball, the ball is dead and the runner closest to home is declared out. If no play is obvious, no player is out, but runners shall return to the last base touched at the time of interference. Sec 2. POSITION AND BATTING ORDER Each player of the team at bat shall become the batter and shall take their position within the batter’s box (on either side of home base) in the order in which their name appears on the lineup card as delivered to the Umpire and the opposing team prior to the game. The order shall be followed during the entire game except that an entering substitute shall take the replaced player’s place in the batting order. A batter is in proper order if the batter follows the preceding player in the lineup, even though such preceding batter may have batted out of order. An improper batter is considered to be at bat as soon as they enter the batter’s box and one pitch has been thrown. When an improper batter’s infraction is first discovered, time may be requested and the improper batter replaced by the proper batter who will assume the improper batter’s ball and strike count, provided the infraction is detected before the improper batter is put out or becomes a base runner. Sec 3. LEAD OFF BATTER. After the first inning, the first batter in each inning shall be the player whose name follows that of the last batter who completed their time at bat in the preceding inning. Sec 4. BATTING POSITION. A. Prior to the pitch, the batter must have both feet completely in the batter’s box. The batter may touch the lines, but no part of the foot may be outside the lines prior to the pitch. B. After the ball is in play, the batter may not step out of the batter’s box to stop play unless time has been granted by the Umpire. EFFECT: All action will continue and the pitch will be called Sec 5. A STRIKE is charged to the batter when: A. A pitched ball enters any part of the strike zone in flight and is not struck at. B. A pitched ball, in the Umpire’s judgment, is prevented from entering the strike zone by any actions of the batter. C. A pitched ball is struck at and missed. D. A pitched ball becomes a foul ball when the batter has less than two strikes. NOTE: A batted ball that contacts the batter in the batter’s box is a foul ball. E. A pitched ball becomes a foul tip (even on a third strike) or a foul from an attempted bunt. F. A penalty strike is called because a batter delays. Sec 6. A BALL is credited to the batter when a pitch is not touched by the bat and is not a strike or when there is an illegal pitch or for catcher / pitcher’s delay. Sec 7. A foul hit or fair hit, which may be a bunt, occurs when a pitch is touched by the bat of the batter who is in the batter’s box. EXCEPTION: Foul Tip. Sec 8. A batter shall not delay the game by failing to promptly take their position in the batter’s box within 10 seconds of the pitcher having the ball in the pitching circle, or by stepping out of the box when the pitcher is on the pitcher’s plate. PENALTY: If a pitcher is committed to delivering the pitch, the batter leaves the box at the risk of having a strike called while being out of position. For failure of the batter to be ready within 10 seconds after the ball has been returned to the pitcher, the Umpire shall call a strike. If it is the third strike, the Umpire shall call time and declare the batter out. NOTE 1: After entering the batter’s box, the batter leaves it at the risk of being charged with delay. The batter may request time-out if the batter desires to step out for a valid reason and, if granted, the 10 seconds count will begin anew when the ball is declared live. The Umpire is authorized to refuse to grant time-out if the batter repeatedly causes delay or if their leaving the batter’s box appears to be an attempt to worry the pitcher or to gain some other advantage. NOTE 2: If the pitcher stops or hesitates in their delivery as a result of the batter stepping out of the box or holding up their hand to request time, it shall not be an illegal pitch. However, if the batter steps out of the box or holds up their hand to request time and the pitcher legally delivers the ball, it shall be called a strike and the ball remains live. If a pitch is not delivered, a rule has been violated by both the batter and the pitcher. The Umpire shall call time, declare, “no-pitch” and begin play again. If the Umpire judges the batter’s action to be a deliberate attempt to create an illegal pitch, the Umpire shall penalize according to Rule 11-2-S governing Sporting Behavior.. Sec 9. A batter shall not hit the ball fair or foul while either foot is touching the ground completely outside the lines of the batter’s box or while touching the plate. PENALTY: The ball becomes dead immediately. The batter is out Sec 10. A batter shall not disconcert the pitcher by stepping out of the box on one side of home plate to the box on the other side while the pitcher is in position ready to pitch. PENALTY: The ball becomes dead immediately. The batter is out. Sec 11. A batter shall not intentionally move to get hit by the pitch. PENALTY: The batter remains at bat (pitch is a ball or strike), unless the pitch was a third strike or ball four. Sec 12. A batter shall not interfere with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by leaning over home plate, by stepping out of the batter’s box, by making any other movement which hinders action at home or the catcher’s attempt to play on a runner, or by failing to make a reasonable effort to vacate congested area when there is a throw to home and there is time for the batter to move away. PENALTY: Dead ball; the batter is out. Sec 13. If the bat breaks and is hit by the ball or hits a runner or a fielder, no interference will be called. If a whole bat is thrown and interferes with a defensive player attempting a play, interference shall be called. PENALTY: The batter is out and runners return. If, in the Umpire’s judgment, interference prevented a possible double play, two may be declared out (the batter throwing the bat and the runner closest to home). Sec 14. A batter shall be called out when: A. The batter enters the box with an illegal bat, or has completed their turn at bat using that bat and before the next pitch, legal or illegal. EFFECT: The ball is dead immediately. On a batted ball, any runners not put out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. Base runner advances because of a stolen base, wild pitch, or passed ball stand. The bat shall be removed from the team’s possession. When the illegal bat is an altered or non-approved bat, the batter and head coach are also ejected. For all other illegal bats: First Offense, Team Warning; Subsequent Offense, Player Restricted to the Dugout and the Coach is Ejected. NOTE: There is no violation if a bat is damaged or shatters during an at bat due to bat-ball contact which occurs after the batter enters the box. However, the damaged bat shall be removed from the team's possession upon discovery. B. A third strike is caught before the ball touches the ground. C. A bunt on a third strike is foul. D. A third strike (in flight) is not caught, provided a runner occupies first base at the time of the pitch and there are less than two outs. NOTE: If there are two outs or if no runner occupies first base, the batter is not out unless the third strike is caught. The batter is entitled to try to reach first base before being tagged out or thrown out. E. If a team is playing short per Rule 5-2 and the absent player’s turn to bat is reached. F. After hitting or bunting a ball, the bat hits the ball a second time while the ball is on or over fair territory, or is on or over foul territory and, in the Umpire’s judgment, had a chance to become a fair ball, the ball is dead, no runner(s) advance and the batter is out. EXCEPTION: If the bat and ball accidentally come in contact with each other a second time while the batter is holding the bat in the batter’s box, it is a foul ball. NOTE: If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory and, in the Umpire’s judgment, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball, the batter is not out and the ball is live and in play. G. When an entire foot is touching the ground completely outside the lines of the batter’s box when the ball makes contact with the bat. H. When any part of a foot is touching home plate when the ball makes contact with the bat. I. When a batter leaves the box, but has returned to the box and makes contact with the ball. PENALTY: In A, C and F-I, the ball is dead and the batter is declared out. Runners must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. EXCEPTION: In A, base runner advances because of a stolen base, wild pitch, or passed ball stand. RULE 8. BASE RUNNING Sec 1. Stealing of bases permitted. Sec 2. The LOOK-BACK RULE is in effect when the ball is live, the batter-runner has touched first base or has been declared out, and the pitcher has possession of the ball (e.g. has the ball in their hand, glove, under arm or chin, between their legs) within the 16-foot circle. Any runner(s) in motion may continue without stopping or may stop once. Any runner who is stopped or stops their motion must immediately move directly back to the last base touched or attempt to advance to the next base. Once the runner stops at a base for any reason, they may not move off that base. A batter-runner who overruns first and does not without delay attempt to advance to second is committed to return to first and stop. The runner, off base, may not stand motionless. There does not need to be any motion or recognition by the pitcher. Failure of the runner to respond as indicated shall cause the Umpire to signal the runner out. The ball shall be declared dead. If the pitcher no longer has possession of the ball within the 16-foot circle, the pitcher makes an attempt on any of the runners or a fake throw is made, this rule does not apply. Being in the 16-foot circle is defined as both feet within or partially within the line. The feet may touch the line and extend outside the line. When the pitcher is in the pitcher’s circle and a runner(s) is off the base, the pitcher is considered to be playing on the runner(s) when the throwing arm is raised or any forward movement of the body is made toward the runner. Movement of the head is not considered an attempted play. EFFECT: The ball becomes dead immediately. The runner is out Sec 3. COURTESY RUNNER A. The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or catcher any time after they reach base other than by substitution. The same runner may not be used for both positions in the same inning. Neither the pitcher nor the catcher will be required to leave under such circumstances B. Players who have participated in the game in any other capacity are not entitled to serve as a courtesy runner (i.e., the courtesy runner must be an unused substitute). (Non-ELITE SELECT divisions): if, and only if, no eligible substitute is available, then, and only then, the Last Completed at Bat (LCAB) may serve as a courtesy runner, subject to all other applicable restrictions (cannot run for both positions in the same inning, etc). NOTE: If an eligible substitute is physically present but is unable to courtesy run because of injury or illness, that player shall be ineligible for the entire game if the team utilizes the LCAB courtesy runner option. The LCAB courtesy runner is determined at the time the courtesy runner is requested, skipping batters 1. currently on base, 2. who are the pitcher or catcher of record, or 3. who have already courtesy run for the other position in the same inning. In the first inning, if no eligible substitutes are available to courtesy run, the LCAB courtesy runner shall be the person furthest away in the batting order (i.e., the LCAB courtesy runner for the lead off batter is the last batter listed in the lineup). PENALTY: If an ineligible or incorrect courtesy runner is utilized and is discovered while still on base, the courtesy runner shall be called out and a team warning issued. On the second offense, the head coach is ejected for the remainder of the game only. C. A runner put in for any player other than the pitcher or catcher will be considered a substitute player. D. A player may not run as a courtesy runner and be used as a substitute for another player in that half inning. EXCEPTION: If there is an injury and there is no substitute available, the courtesy runner must be used as a substitute and take the place of the injured player. Should the courtesy runner be on base, the pitcher or catcher for whom the courtesy runner is running must run in their place. E. Once a courtesy runner is designated for that half inning, no other courtesy runner or the pitcher or catcher may return to run for the original courtesy runner. Should an injury occur, another courtesy runner or the pitcher or catcher may run until they score or are put out. F. The courtesy runner is not permitted to be used for the DP unless the DP is the pitcher or catcher of record. G. In the top of the first inning only, the pitcher and catcher are identified as those players listed as the pitcher and catcher; both must face at least the first batter on defense (one pitch). Thereafter, the pitcher and catcher are identified as the last players who physically played that position on defense. The pitcher or catcher must reach base legally by any means other than substitution in order to be eligible for a courtesy runner. EXCEPTION: When an injury or disqualification occurs in the top of the first inning to the pitcher/catcher identified on the lineup card and she is unable to face the first batter in the bottom of the first inning, the player who ran for her is retroactively her substitute (unless the substitute was an LCAB courtesy runner), no longer a courtesy runner. All substitution rules apply, but the pitcher/catcher has left the game and may not return to the original pitching/catching position. PENALTY Unreported courtesy runner: An unreported courtesy runner is treated the same as an unreported substitute. The team is warned and further violations result in the ejection of the coach. Sec 4. A batter becomes a batter runner with the right to attempt to score by advancing to first, second and third and then home plate in the listed order when: A. Hitting a fair ball. NOTE: Batter becomes a runner when entitled to run. B. Charged with a third strike. NOTE: if a third strike is caught before the ball touches the ground, the batter is out an instant after becoming a runner. See exception in Rule 15-8-4-B for 8U and Younger Divisions. C. A fourth ball is called by the Umpire. D. A pitched ball, legal or illegal, hits the batter’s person or clothing. EFFECT: The ball is dead immediately. EXCEPTIONS: 1. If the batter swings or the ball enters the strike zone, or the batter prevents the ball from entering the strike zone, a strike is called, and if it is the third strike, the batter is out. 2. If the batter intentionally moves to get hit by the pitch, it is a strike or ball depending on location of the pitch. NOTE: 1. If a batter’s loose garment, such as a shirt that is not buttoned is hit by a pitched ball, the batter is not entitled to first base. 2. It does not matter if the ball strikes the ground before hitting the batter. 3. The batter’s hands are not considered part of the bat. 4. If a batter swings and the ball hits their hands which send it into fair or foul territory, the ball is dead immediately; A strike is called on the batter; and if it is the third strike, the batter is out E. The catcher or any infielder obstructs him. Obstruction on the batter is a delayed dead ball. The coach or captain of the team at bat, after being informed by the Plate Umpire of the obstruction, shall indicate to the Umpire whether they elect to accept the result of the play or to accept the penalty of awarding the batter first base and advancing all other runners only if forced. Such election shall be made before the next pitch (legal or illegal) or before the infielders leave the diamond. Obstruction of the batter (before the batter has become a batter-runner) is ignored if the batter-runner reaches first and all other runners advance at least one base. NOTE 1: Any runner attempting to advance (i.e., steal or squeeze) on a catcher’s or any infielder’s obstruction of the batter shall be awarded the base the runner is attempting. If a runner is not attempting to advance on the catcher’s obstruction, the runner shall not be entitled to the next base, unless forced to advance because of the batter being awarded first base. NOTE 2: If obstruction is enforced, all other runners on the play will return to the base occupied at time of the pitch unless forced to advance because of the batter being awarded first base. NOTE 3: If the obstruction penalty is not enforced, all other runners advance at their own risk. Sec 5. A batter-runner is awarded first base if: A. A fourth ball is called. B. Hit by a pitched ball as provided in Rule 8-4-D. C. The catcher or any infielder obstructs him. D. A fair ball, other than an infield fly, becomes dead and provided a preceding runner or retired runner does not interfere in such a way as to prevent an obvious double play. NOTE: Unless awarded first base as above, a batter-runner is entitled to first base only if the batter-runner reaches it before being tagged out, thrown out or called out for hitting an infield fly. E. Hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitates the batter-runner prior to reaching first base unless interference is ruled. Sec 6. Touching bases in legal order A. An advancing runner shall touch first, second, third and then home plate in order. B. A returning runner shall retouch the bases in reverse order. When an uncaught foul ball causes the ball to become dead, the runner need not touch intervening bases. C. Any runner who misses a base while advancing may not return to touch the missed base if a following runner has scored. NOTE: Any runner who misses the first base to which they are advancing and who is later called out shall be considered as having advanced one base. D. When a runner passes a base, the runner is considered to have touched the base for purposes of awarded bases. E. When a runner dislodges a base from its proper position, neither the runner nor the succeeding runner(s) in the same series of plays are compelled to follow a base out of position. F. A runner shall not run bases in reverse order either to confuse the fielders or to make a travesty of the game. EFFECT: The ball is dead and the runner is out. G. Two runners may not occupy the same base simultaneously. EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base shall be entitled to it, unless forced to advance. The other runner may be put out by being touched with the ball. H. Failure of a PRECEDING runner to touch a base or to legally tag up on a caught fly ball, and who is declared out, does not affect the status of a SUCCEEDING runner who touches bases in proper order. If the failure to touch a base in regular order or to legally tag up on a caught fly ball is the third out of the inning, no SUCCEEDING runner may score a run. I. No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left too soon after a following runner has scored or once the runner leaves the field of play. J. Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched prior to advancing to awarded bases. K. Awarded bases must be touched in legal order. Sec 7. A Runner may advance with liability to be put out. A. When the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand on the delivery. B. On a thrown ball or a fair batted ball that is not blocked. C. On a thrown ball that hits an Umpire. D. If a batted ball (fair or foul other than a foul tip) is caught, the initial contact of the ball by a fielder releases the runner(s) from the base(s) occupied at the time of the pitch. E. If a fair ball strikes an Umpire or a runner after having passed an infielder other than the pitcher, and provided no other fielder had a chance to make an out, or when a fair batted ball has been touched by an infielder, including the pitcher, and the runner did not intentionally interfere with the batted ball or the fielder attempting to field the batted ball. EFFECT- Section 7: The ball is in play. Sec 8. A Runner becomes liable to be put out when: A. with the ball in play or on awarded bases, the runner fails to touch a base before attempting to make the next base. B. after overrunning first base, the runner attempts to continue to second base. C. after dislodging a base, a runner attempts to continue to the next base. Sec 9. If a batter-runner is entitled to return to first base after overrunning, or if a runner fails to touch home plate, and if either such runner desires to return to such base, the runner shall return immediately. Sec 10. A batter-runner who reaches first base safely and then overruns or over slides may immediately return without liability of being put out, provided they do not feint or attempt to advance to second. NOTE 1: When a walk or uncaught third strike occurs in which the batter is entitled to run, it is treated the same as a batted ball. The batter-runner may continue past first base and is entitled to run toward second base as long as they do not stop at first base, if the pitcher has possession of the ball in the 16- foot circle. If the runner stops after rounding first base, the runner must comply with the Look Back Rule (Rule 8-2). NOTE 2: A player who is awarded first base on a base on balls may continue on down the first base line after touching first base and immediately return without liability of being put out, if there is no feint or attempt to advance to second. They may also round first base and go directly to second base without stopping. If the runner does stop, the runner must comply with the Look Back Rule (Rule 8-2). Sec 11. A runner acquires the right to the proper unoccupied base if the runner touches it before being put out. The runner is then entitled to this base until being put out, or until legally touching the next base while it is unoccupied or until a following runner is forced to advance to the base occupied. Sec 12. Each runner shall touch their base after the ball becomes dead. All awarded bases must be touched in their proper order. The runner returns to the base they had reached or passed when the ball became dead. In the event of interference, a runner returns to the base they had legally reached at the time of the interference. If the interference does not cause the batter to be out and any other runner cannot return to the base last legally occupied at the time of the interference, they are advanced to the next base. EXCEPTION: The runner returns to the base occupied at the time of the pitch if their advance was during an uncaught foul. Sec 13. When a runner is obstructed while advancing or returning to a base, by a fielder who neither has the ball nor is attempting an initial play on a batted ball, it shall be a delayed dead-ball. EFFECT: If the obstructed runner is put out prior to reaching the base that would have been reached had there not been obstruction, a dead ball is declared and the Umpire shall award the obstructed runner, and each other runner affected by the obstruction, the bases they would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, had there been no obstruction. A. If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the delayed dead ball is terminated and the runner advances with liability to be put out. B. If any preceding runner is forced to advance by the awarding of a base or bases to an obstructed runner, the Umpire shall award this preceding runner the necessary base or bases. C. The penalty for faking a tag is obstruction. D. An obstructed runner may not be called out between the two bases where the runner was obstructed except as follows: 1. The obstructed runner obtains the base they would have been awarded had there been no obstruction and there is a subsequent play. The obstructed runner is no longer protected if they leave the base. 2. The obstructed runner commits an act of interference or malicious contact 3. The obstructed runner passes another runner. 4. A proper appeal is made for leaving a base too soon or for missing a base. However, if obstruction occurred while the runner was returning to touch the base, she is protected if, in the umpire’s judgment, the obstruction prevented her return prior to the appeal. NOTE: When obstruction occurs, the Umpire gives the delayed dead-ball signal and calls out “obstruction.” If an award is to be made, the ball becomes dead when time is taken to make the award. Sec 14. AWARDED BASES All awarded bases must be touched. Each runner including the batter-runner is awarded: A. Four bases (home base): 1. If a fair-batted ball goes over a fence between the foul poles without touching the ground. 2. If a fair-batted ball hits a foul pole above the fence. 3. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by a spectator. 4. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by an illegal glove/mitt. 5. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by detached player equipment, which is thrown, tossed, kicked or held by a fielder. B. Three bases: 1. If a fair-batted ball (other than in item a) is touched by an illegal glove/mitt or by detached player equipment which is thrown, tossed, held or kicked by a fielder, provided the ball when touched: a. Is on or over fair ground. b. Is a fair ball, while on or over foul ground. c. Is over foul ground in a situation that it might become a fair ball. C. Two bases: 1. If a fair-batted ball becomes dead because of bouncing over or, when passing through a fence, becomes blocked. 2. If a live thrown ball, including a pitch, is touched by an illegal glove/mitt or detached player equipment which is thrown, held, tossed or kicked by a fielder. 3. If a live thrown ball (not by a pitcher from the pitcher’s plate as in item D) goes into a stand for spectators, or a players’ bench, or over or through or lodges in a fence. 4. If the fielder, in the judgment of the Umpire, intentionally touches loose equipment left on or near the field by the defensive team. 5. If the fielder intentionally carries a live ball into dead-ball territory. NOTE: If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner. D. One base: 1. If a pitch by the pitcher from the pitching position on the pitcher’s plate goes into a dead-ball area, becomes blocked (unless blocked by the offensive team), or lodges in an Umpire’s equipment. 2. If a fielder loses possession of the ball on a tag play and the ball enters dead-ball area. 3. If forced from the base occupied by a following runner who must advance because a batter receives a fourth ball, is hit by a pitched ball or hits a fair ball which becomes dead. 4. If a runner is attempting to steal or the runner is forced from the base occupied by a batter-runner or runner who must advance because the catcher or any fielder obstructed a batter (such as stepping on or across home plate, pushing the batter to reach the pitch, or touching the bat). Instances may occur when the infraction may be ignored or when the batter may be awarded first base. 5. If the fielder unintentionally carries a live ball into dead-ball territory. NOTE 1: Illegal use of detached player equipment, as in items a, b or c, does not cause ball to immediately become dead. If each runner advances to or beyond the base that each would have reached as a result of the award, the infraction is ignored. NOTE 2: If a ball is touched with an illegal glove or mitt, any runner who advances on the play beyond the base they would be awarded does so at their own risk and may be put out. E. The Umpire shall impose such penalties and/or make any awards as in the Umpire’s judgment will nullify the following acts: 1. Spectator interference. When there is spectator interference with any thrown or batted ball, the ball shall be dead at the moment of interference. EXCEPTION: It is not spectator interference if a spectator physically hinders a fielder who is reaching into a dead ball area to make a play on a batted or thrown ball. 2. Blocked ball caused by the defense Sec 15. An award is from the base determined as follows: A. The pitch: 1. If any pitch (batted or unbatted) is followed by a dead ball before the pitcher is in the 16-foot circle for the next pitch and before there is any throw by the fielding team. 2. For a runner required to tag up after a caught fly ball. B. The infraction: 1. For use of detached player equipment or ball touches an illegal glove. 2. For fielder losing possession of the ball. 3. Obstruction. C. The time the ball last left the hand of the thrower (in any situation other than A or B). Sec 16. A runner must return to their base when. A. a batted ball is foul. B. an illegally batted ball is declared by the Umpire. C. A batter, batter-runner or runner is called out for interference. Each other runner shall return to the last base which, in the Umpire’s judgment, was legally touched by the runner at the time of the interference. D. any part of the batter’s person or clothing is touched by a pitched ball that is swung at and missed. E. a batter is hit by a pitched ball, unless forced. F. when an intentionally dropped ball is ruled EFFECT- Section 16 A-F: The ball is dead and each runner must return to their base without liability to be put out, except when forced to go to the next base because the batter became a batter-runner. G. when the Plate Umpire interferes with the catcher’s attempt to throw out a runner stealing, or an attempted pick off play. EFFECT: Delayed dead ball. If the runner is ruled out, the ball remains live. If the runner is not out, all runners return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. It is not Umpire interference if, on a passed ball or wild pitch, the Umpire gets hit by a thrown ball from the catcher. The ball is live. Sec 17. The batter-runner is out: A. When interfering with the catcher’s attempt to field the ball after a third strike. B. When a batted ball in flight is caught by a fielder, or such catch is prevented by a spectator reaching into the field enclosure. C. When a fair fly, fair line drive or a fair bunted ball in flight is intentionally dropped by an infielder with at least first base occupied and less than two outs; the ball is dead and the runners shall return to their respective bases. NOTE: In this situation, the batter is not out if the infielder permits a fair fly ball, line drive or a fair bunted ball in flight to drop untouched to the ground, except when the infield-fly rule applies. D. If, after a third strike or a fair hit, any fielder, while holding the ball, tags out the batter-runner before the batter-runner touches first base; or if any fielder, while holding the ball securely in a hand, touches first base or touches first base with the ball before the batter-runner touches first base. E. When they run outside the three-foot running lane (last half of the distance from home plate to first base) while the ball is being fielded or thrown to first base. EXCEPTION: This infraction is ignored if it is to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field the batted ball or if the act does not interfere with a fielder or a throw. F. When they contact the ball a second time in fair or foul territory, if, in the Umpire’s judgment, the ball had a chance to become fair. G. When they move backward toward home plate to avoid or delay being tagged out. The ball is dead and base runners must return to the last base touched at the time of the infraction. H. When they hit a fair fly and the infield fly rule is declared. EFFECT - The ball is live, the batter is out if the batted ball is fair. If the ball is caught, each runner may tag up and advance with the liability to be put out once the batted ball is touched the same as on any caught fly ball. If a declared infield fly is not caught, the ball is live, the batter-runner is out which removes all force plays, and each runner may advance with liability to be put out without needing to retouch their base(s). NOTE: When an infield fly is not initially called, the batter-runner may be declared out if brought to the umpire’s attention before the next pitch. See exception in Rule 15-8-17-H (8U and Younger Fastpitch Divisions). I. When any coach or member of the offensive team other than runners interferes with a fielder making an initial play. J. When, after becoming a batter-runner, they do not attempt to reach first base before all infielders leave the diamond, the half-inning ends, or they give up by entering the bench or dugout area. EFFECT: Ball remains Live K. When they are an illegal player and are discovered. Sec 18. Any runner is out when the runner: A. Runs more than three feet away from the base path to avoid being tagged, or to hinder a fielder while the runner is advancing or returning to a base. EXCEPTION: This is not an infraction if a fielder, attempting to make an initial play on a batted ball, is in the runner’s proper path and if the runner runs behind the fielder to avoid interfering. NOTE: When a play is being made on a runner or batter-runner, the runner establishes their base path as directly between the runner’s position and the base toward which the runner is moving. B. slides illegally and causes illegal contact and/or illegally alters the actions of a fielder in the immediate act of making a play on her. PENALTY: The runner is out and the ball is dead immediately and interference is called. NOTE: Runners are never required to slide but, if the runner elects to slide, the slide shall be legal. C. does not legally attempt to avoid a fielder in the immediate act of making a play on her. PENALTY: The runner is out and the ball remains live unless interference is called. NOTE: Jumping, hurdling, and leaping are all legal attempts to avoid a fielder only if the fielder is lying on the ground. D. Performs Malicious contact (always supersedes obstruction). E. does not attempt to avoid the fielder on a force play. NOTE: a legal slide is considered an attempt to avoid. F. Interferes intentionally with a throw or thrown ball. G. Hinders a fielder’s initial play on a batted ball. H. Is prevented from being put out by an illegal act by anyone connected with the team. NOTE 1: If, in the judgment of the Umpire, this interference is an attempt to prevent a double play and occurs before the runner is put out, the immediate trailing runner shall also be called out. NOTE 2: If a retired runner interferes and, in the judgment of the Umpire, another runner could have been put out, the Umpire shall declare the runner closest to home out. NOTE 3: If the batter-runner interferes, the Umpire shall call the batter runner and the runner who has advanced the nearest to home base out. NOTE 4: If two fielders try to field a batted ball and the runner contacts one or both, the Umpire shall decide which one is entitled to field the ball and that fielder only is entitled to protection. NOTE 5: If a batted ball is misplayed but the fielder is still making an initial play and the runner contacts the fielder, this is interference. If the misplayed ball bounds away so that it is no longer within a step and a reach (in any direction) and contact then occurs as the fielder and runner collide, this is obstruction. I. Is tagged out. EXCEPTIONS: If a batter-runner safely touches first base and then over slides or overruns it, the batter-runner may immediately return to first base without liability of being tagged out, provided there was no feint or attempt to advance to second. Also, if any base comes loose from its fastening when any runner contacts it, such runner cannot be tagged out because the base slides away from the runner. NOTE: The ball is not securely held if it is dropped or juggled after the runner is touched, unless the ball was deliberately knocked from the fielder’s hand by the runner. J. Does not retouch a base left before a caught fly ball is touched or touches a missed base if properly appealed. It is not necessary for a runner to retouch the base after a foul tip. K. Is not in contact with the base at the time a pitched ball leaves the pitcher’s hand. However, if the pitcher does not allow sufficient time for a runner to return to base, the runner shall not be called out for being off the base before the pitcher releases the ball. The runner may advance as though the base was left legally. L. Violates the Look Back Rule M. Fails to reach the next base before a fielder either tags the runner out, or holds the ball while touching such base, after the runner has been forced from the base occupied because the batter became a runner. EXCEPTION: No runner may be forced out if a runner who follows in the batting order is first put out, including a batter-runner who is out for an infield fly. N. Is contacted by a fair-batted ball before it touches or passes an infielder, or after it passes any infielder, except the pitcher, and the Umpire judges that another infielder has a play. EFFECT: The ball is dead and the batter is awarded first base. All base runners return to the base occupied at the time of the infraction, unless forced. EXCEPTION: If a runner is touching a base when hit by a batted fair ball, the runner is not out unless they intentionally interfere with the ball or an infielder making a play. The ball is dead or live depending on whether the closest fielder is in front of the base (live) or behind the base (dead). NOTE 1: When the infield-fly rule is in effect, if a runner is hit by an infield fly when not touching a base, both the runner and the batter are out. NOTE 2: When a runner is hit with a fair batted ball after it is touched or has passed an infielder, except the pitcher, and the Umpire judges that another infielder had no opportunity to make a play, the runner is not out and the ball remains live. O. Is detected passing an unobstructed preceding runner before such runner is out (including awarded bases). P. Is detected running bases in reverse to confuse opponents or to make a travesty of the game. Q. After at least touching first base, the runner leaves the baseline, obviously abandoning their effort to touch the next base. R. Is detected taking a position for a running start behind and not in contact with a base. S. Is properly appealed when a runner is on or beyond a succeeding base when the ball is declared dead after having left a base too soon on a caught fly ball; or having failed to touch a preceding base; or continuing and touching a succeeding base after the ball become dead. NOTE: A runner shall not be declared out if the fielder deliberately throws or carries the ball into dead-ball territory to prevent that runner, who has touched or advanced beyond a succeeding base, from returning to a missed base or a base left too soon. T. The runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases in regular or reverse order and the ball is returned to the infield and properly appealed. If the runner put out is the batter-runner at first base, or any other runner forced to advance because the batter became a batter-runner, this is a force out. U. Intentionally contacts a fair ball that an infielder has missed. V. They are an illegal player and are discovered while still on base. W. Prior to a pitch (legal or illegal) to the next batter, the runner was discovered having used an illegal, altered or non-approved bat. EXCEPTION: If the bat is a damaged bat (not altered or non-approved), the damage is presumed to have occurred when the ball was hit and the runner is not liable; however, the damaged bat is removed. EFFECT: Any runner not put out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. Any runners put out prior to discovery shall remain out. First offense: Team Warning; Subsequent Offense; Player Restricted to Dugout; Coach Ejected. For Altered and Non-Approved Bats, the Player and Coach are ejected on the first offense. The runner is also out because of actions of other team members such as: X. A runner on base leaves the game without an eligible substitute available. EXCEPTION: Injured runner departing per Rule 5-2-A-1. Y. When anyone other than another runner physically assists them while the ball is in play. Z. When a Coach intentionally interferes with a live, batted ball or thrown ball. AA. When the offensive team causes a blocked ball. EFFECT: The runner closest to home is out. If no play is obvious, no player is out, but all runners shall return to the last base touched when the ball became dead. AB. When a Coach runs in the direction of Home Plate or any other base, on or near a baseline, while the fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted ball or on a thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw in their direction. Sec 19. Double First Base The Double First Base shall consist of a base in fair territory that is white in color and a base in foul territory that is colored. A. A batted ball hitting or bounding over any part of the white portion is declared fair. A batted ball hitting or bounding over only the colored portion is declared foul. B. Whenever a play is being made on the batter-runner, the defense must use the white portion and the batter-runner the colored portion. 1. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion when there is a play being made at first base, it is treated the same as missing the base. The batter-runner is out providing the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner returning to first base. Once the runner returns to the white or colored portion, no appeal can be made. 2. If the defense touches only the colored portion, it is treated the same as being off the base. EXCEPTIONS: The defense and batter runner can use either portion when: 1. The ball is thrown from the foul side of first base line. 2. On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base. 3. On any fair batted ball or errant throw that pulls the defense to foul territory. C. If there is a force play by an infielder on the batter-runner, who touches only the white portion and collides with the fielder about to catch a thrown ball while on the white, interference is ruled. PENALTY: The ball is dead, the batter-runner is out, and all other runners are returned to the base last occupied at the time of interference. D. When no play is being attempted at first base, the batter-runner may touch the white or colored base. E. After the batter-runner initially reaches first base, the runner and any fielder may use the white or colored base. This shall include but is not limited to: 1. The runner returning to first base. 2. The runner tagging up on a fly ball. 3. The fielder making a play on a returning runner. RULE 9. APPEALS An appeal is a play or rule violation on which the Umpire does not make a ruling until requested by a coach or player Sec 1. Types of appeals: A. Missing a base, either advancing or returning (live or dead-ball appeal). B. Leaving a base on a caught fly ball before the ball is first touched (live or dead-ball appeal). C. Batting out of order (dead-ball appeal only). D. Attempting to advance to second base after making the turn at first base overrunning first base (live-ball appeal only). Sec 2. Live ball appeal (before Umpire calls time). Any fielder can appeal a runner once. A Live Ball Appeal may be made by touching the runner (A & B & D above) or touching the base (A & B above). The ball is live and all runners may advance with liability of being put out. Sec 3. Dead ball appeal. Once all runners have completed their advancement and time has been called, the coach or any defensive player, with or without the ball, may make a verbal appeal on a runner missing a base or leaving a base too soon on a caught fly ball. The administering Umpire should then make a decision on the play. A. If the ball has gone out of play, runners must be given the opportunity to complete their base running responsibilities before the dead-ball appeal can be made. B. If “play ball” has been declared by the Umpire and the pitcher then requests an appeal, the Umpire would again call “time” and allow the appeal. Sec 4. The appeals must be made: A. before the next legal or illegal pitch; B. at the end of an inning, before all infielders have left fair territory and the catcher vacates their normal fielding position; or C. on the last play of the game, before the Umpires leave the field of play. Sec 5. Advancing Runners A. Runners may advance during a live-ball appeal play. B. No runner may advance on a dead ball appeal. C. No runner is out if they step off base during a dead ball appeal. Sec 6. A runner may not return to touch a missed base or one left too soon on a caught fly ball if: A. She has advanced, touched and remains a base beyond the base missed or left too soon and the ball becomes dead. B. She has left the field of play; or C. a following runner has scored. Sec 7. More Than One Appeal. More than one appeal play may be made but guessing games should not be allowed. Sec 8. Force Out. If an appeal is honored at a base to which a runner was forced to advance, no runs would score if it was the third out. Sec 9. Fourth-Out Appeal. An appeal may be made after the third out as long as it is made properly. (i.e. one out with runner on first and third. The batter hits a fly ball that is caught. Each runner leaves their base before the caught ball is touched. An appeal is made at first base for the third out. The defensive team then makes an appeal at third base before the infielders leave the infield. The runner on third would then be declared out also, and the run would not count.) Sec 10. Batting Out Of Order A batter shall be called out on appeal when they fail to bat in their proper turn and another batter completes a time at bat in their place. NOTE: Only the defensive team may appeal batting out of order after the batter has completed their time at bat. A. When an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out and the defensive team appeals to the Umpire before the next pitch (legal or illegal), or before the infielders leave the diamond if a half inning is ended, batting out of order is declared and results in the following: 1. The proper batter is declared out. 2. The improper batter is taken off base. If the batter is out on the play, the out does not stand because the out for batting out of order supersedes an out by the improper batter on a play. 3. Any outs made on the play on other runners stand. Any runner not put out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. 4. No runs may score on the play. 5. The next batter is the player who follows in the batting order the player who was declared out for not batting in the proper order. NOTE: If a runner advances because of a stolen base, wild pitch or passed ball while the improper batter is at bat, such advance is legal. B. If an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out and a legal or illegal pitch has been delivered to the succeeding batter, or all infielders have left the diamond if a half-inning has ended and, in all cases, before an appeal is made, the improper batter becomes the proper batter and the results of their time at bat become legal. C. When the proper batter is called out because they failed to bat in turn, the next batter shall be the batter whose name follows that of the proper batter who was called out. D. When an improper batter becomes a proper batter because no appeal is properly made as above, the next batter shall be the batter whose name follows that of such legalized improper batter. The instant an improper batter’s actions are legalized, the batting order picks up with the name following that of the legalized improper batter. NOTE: When several players bat out of order before discovery so that a player’s time at bat occurs while they are a runner, such player remains on base, but is NOT out as a batter RULE 10. DEAD BALL- SUSPENSION OF PLAY Sec 1. The ball becomes dead immediately when: A. A pitch touches a batter or the batter’s clothing. NOTE: the ball becomes dead even though the batter strikes at it. B. The ball is illegally batted or comes in contact with the bat a second time. except if the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory as in Rule 7-14-F NOTE. C. The batter is discovered with an illegal bat. D. Any batted ball, while on or over foul ground. 1. Touches any object other than the ground or any person other than a fielder. 2. Goes directly from the bat to the catcher’s protector, mask or person without first touching the catcher’s glove or hand. 3. Becomes an uncaught foul. E. There is interference by a batter, a runner or a retired runner. F. A fair ball, which is on or over fair ground. 1. Touches a runner or an Umpire before touching any fielder and before passing any fielder other than the pitcher. 2. Touches a runner after passing through or by an infielder and another infielder could have made a play on the ball. 3. Touches a spectator. 4. Goes over, through or wedges in the field fence. G. A pitch or any other thrown ball 1. Is touched by a spectator. 2. Is touched by nonparticipating team personnel. 3. Goes into a stand or player’s bench (even if it rebounds to the field). 4. Goes over or through or wedges in the field fence. 5. Lodges in an Umpire’s or catcher’s equipment or touches loose equipment. H. The Umpire handles a live ball, calls “Time” for inspecting the ball, or for any other reason. I. A fielder, after catching a fair or foul ball (fly or line drive), leaves the field of play by stepping with both feet or by falling into a designated dead-ball area (i.e., bench, dugout, stand/bleacher, etc.). NOTE: if a chalk line is used to designate an “out-of-play” area, the line is considered in play. If a fielder is touching the line, they are in the field of play and may make a catch. When the fielder completely unintentionally leaves the live-ball area and then re-establishes himself within live-ball territory (one foot touching out of the play line), a catch would be allowed. If the fielder unintentionally leaves a live-ball area with both feet after making a catch, the ball becomes dead and all base runners are awarded one base from the time of the pitch. Two bases shall be awarded each runner if a fielder intentionally leaves the live-ball area with both feet. J. Any personnel connected with the offensive team requests “Time” or uses any other command or commits an act for the purpose of trying to cause the opposing pitcher to commit an illegal pitch. K. An infielder intentionally drops a fair fly. EXCEPTION: Infield Fly Rule. L. A runner interferes with a fielder attempting to catch a foul fly. M. The batter-runner moves backward toward home plate to avoid or delay being tagged out. N. A batted, thrown or pitched ball touches in an occupied designated media area (a ball that passes through a dead-ball area in flight is not considered dead). O. An illegal pitch occurs, but no pitch is delivered to the batter. P. The Umpire calls Time Out for an Injured Player per Rule 5-9-A. Sec 2. It is a delayed dead ball when: A. An illegal pitch is delivered. B. A catcher or any fielder obstructs a batter or obstructs the ball through use of detached play equipment. C. The Umpire interferes with the catcher who is attempting to throw. EFFECT: If the runner is not out, they are returned to the last base attained before the interference occurred. D. A coach physically assists a runner. E. A ball touches an illegal glove/mitt. F. Any one who is required to wear a batting helmet deliberately removes the helmet while the ball is live. Sec 3. The ball becomes dead when time is taken to make an award when a catcher or any fielder illegally obstructs a runner. Sec 4. After a dead-ball situation, the ball becomes live when it is held by the pitcher within the 16-foot circle and the Umpire calls and/or signals “Play Ball”. Sec 5. “Time” shall be called by the Umpire and play suspended: A. When the Umpire and/ or Tournament Director considers the weather or ground conditions unfit for play. NOTE: After 30 minutes, the Umpire and/ or Tournament Director may declare the game ended or suspended. B. When a player, bench personnel or spectator is ordered from the field of play, or player is ordered to secure protective equipment. C. When a player or coach is granted time for a substitution, conference with the pitcher, or for similar cause. D. When play is suspended for any other cause, including an award of a base after an infraction, inspection of the ball, or the ending of a half-inning. Sec 6. When the ball becomes dead: A. No action by the defense during that time can cause a player to be put out, except a proper dead-ball appeal. B. A runner may not advance, nor return to a base that was not touched or that the runner was not in contact with on a caught fly ball during a live ball if the runner had advanced to or beyond a succeeding base. C. Any runner may advance when awarded a base or bases for an act, which occurred before the ball became dead. All awarded bases must be touched RULE 11. SPORTING BEHAVIOR Sec 1. All players and coaches will be expected to behave in a sporting manner at all times. Any player, coach or parent / fan whose conduct is unbecoming or abusive will at a minimum be warned and may be removed from the playing field or stands at the discretion of the Tournament Officials or the Umpires. Foul or abusive language will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This includes a team forfeiting or being removed from the tournament if necessary. Sec 2. A coach, player, substitute, attendant or other bench personnel shall not: A. Fake a tag without the ball. B. Carelessly throw a bat. C. Fail to wear or deliberately remove a helmet when it is required to be worn. D. Wear metal cleats or metal toe plates where prohibited. E. Wear jewelry or any exposed ornament which in the umpire's judgment is dangerous while participating in the game. F. Hit the ball to teammates on defense after the game has started. G. Use electronic communication, television monitoring or replay equipment during the course of the game. Electronic scorebooks may be used to record the current game. H. Use tobacco products in any form. I. Be in possession of any object in the coach’s box other than a scorebook, which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes only. J. Be outside the designated dugout/bench or bullpen areas unless they are a batter, runner, on-deck batter, in the coach’s box or one of the nine players on defense. NOTE: A single on-deck batter shall remain in their team’s on-deck circle while the opposing pitcher is warming up. K. Enter the batter’s box with an illegal bat. PENALTY A-K: FIRST OFFENSE is a team warning. SECOND OFFENSE and any subsequent violation the offender is restricted to the bench for the remainder of the game and their current head coach shall be ejected. In K, if the illegal bat is altered or non-approved, the player and head coach are immediately ejected. NOTE: a reminder at home plate by the Umpire does not constitute a warning for either team. L. Using words or actions to incite spectators to demonstrations. M. Using intimidating tactics, or baiting or taunting. NOTE: PAC Sports disapproves of any form of taunting which is intended or designed to embarrass, ridicule or demean others under circumstances including race, religion, gender or national origin. N. Behaving in any manner not in accordance with the spirit of fair play. O. Be located in the area behind the catcher while the opposing pitcher and catcher are in their positions. P. Charge an Umpire. Q. Use amplifiers or bullhorns for coaching purpose during the course of the game. R. Argue ball and strike calls or other Umpire judgment calls. S. Call “time”, employ any other word or phrase, or commit any act for the purpose of causing an illegal pitch. T. Commit any other unsporting act. PENALTY L-T: If it is the FIRST OFFENSE and is judged to be of a minor nature, an offending player may be warned or an offending coach may be restricted to the bench. If not minor or a subsequent offense, the Umpire shall eject the offender from the game. Failure to comply shall result in the game being forfeited. Any coach restricted to the bench shall be ejected for further misconduct. A restricted coach may leave the bench/dugout to attend to a player who becomes ill or injured. U. Curse or use profanity V. Deliberately throw a bat, helmet or any other piece of equipment. W. Initiate malicious contact. X. Engage in a fight. NOTE: Fighting is any attempt by a player or nonplayer to strike or engage an opponent in a combative manner unrelated to softball. Such acts include, but are not limited to, attempts to strike an opponent(s) with arm(s), hand(s), leg(s) or foot (feet), whether or not there is contact. Y. Leaving their positions or bench area when a fight has broken out. Coaches who enter the field to restrain combatants from their team shall not be considered to have violated this rule. Z. A coach, player, substitute, attendant or other bench personnel shall not bring the rule book (hard copy or electronic) onto the playing field while the game is in progress to discuss/dispute the umpire(s) ruling and/or decision. PENALTY U-Z: The Umpire shall eject the offender from the game. Failure to comply shall result in the game being forfeited. A player ejected for malicious contact is declared out unless they have already scored. RULE 12. COACH/MANAGER OR PLAYER EJECTION Sec 1. A coach/manager who is ejected shall leave the vicinity (out of sight and out of sound) of the playing area immediately and is prohibited from any further contact (direct or indirect) with the team during the remainder of the game. The ejected coach/manager must sit out the remainder of that game and the following game which must be actually played (i.e. - a non-played forfeit game will not satisfy the sit out requirement). They are barred from coaching in the tournament until that team has completed their next game. Sec 2. A player ejected must sit out the remainder of that game. The player is eligible to play in the team’s next game. Any youth player who is restricted to the bench or ejected shall remain in the dugout/bench area under adult supervision. Sec 3. Anyone ejected will be asked to leave the park at the discretion of the Umpire and Tournament Director. RULE 13. PROTEST Sec 1. Umpires will work to settle all problems on the field. Protests from the offended team will be allowed for rule interpretations and Player eligibility only. Sec 2. The Tournament Director may at their discretion charge a protest fee of $100. Protests of player eligibility shall be charged per player. Sec 3. The Plate Umpire shall suspend all action and notify the Tournament Officials of any protest. Tournament officials and the UIC will rule on all protests and their decision will be final. Sec 4. Rule interpretation protests must be declared to the Plate Umpire before the next pitch following the dispute. No rule interpretation protest will be allowed once the Umpires have left the field at the end of the game. In tournament play, all rule interpretations protests must be settled, before any play can be resumed. Sec 5. Player eligibility protests made during the game must be declared to the Plate Umpire. Player eligibility protests made after the game must be declared to the tournament director. During pool play, protests on player eligibility must be made before pool play has concluded and bracket seedings have been established. During bracket play, protests on player eligibility must be made before either team has begun their next game. If a player eligibility protest cannot be resolved at the time of the protest, the game shall be completed. A. If the eligibility protest is upheld before the game is completed: the offending team loses the game, is ejected from the tournament, is placed last in the standings and forfeits all awards, sponsor travel money and berths that would have been awarded at that tournament. B. If the eligibility protest is upheld after the game is completed but during the tournament: the game shall stand as played. However the offending team is ejected from the tournament, and assumes the same penalties as above. C. If the eligibility protest is upheld after the tournament is completed, the team shall be placed last in the tournament standings and the standings shall be adjusted accordingly. RULE 14. UMPIRES Sec 1. All tournaments and leagues played under the jurisdiction and administration of the PAC Sports Fastpitch program shall utilize only Umpires who are currently registered with the association. Sec 2. The Umpire should not be connected in any way with either team. Sec 3. The Umpire should be sure of the date, time and location of the game and should arrive at the field 30 minutes before the game time, prepared to work. Sec 4. The official Umpire uniform standard for sanctioned play includes approved and licensed products, which allow for freedom of movement. The official uniform shall consist of: A. Mesh pullover shirt. If a shirt is worn under the Umpire shirt, it shall be plain, short sleeve, and white, black or match the pullover shirt’s primary color. Long sleeve shirts may be worn, but must match the pullover shirt color. B. Umpire cap. C. Long heather gray slacks with black socks. Shin guards may not be exposed. D. Gray or black ball bag. Only the Plate Umpire shall wear a ball bag. E. Black belt. F. Black polished shoes and black shoelaces; solid black socks. G. Licensed windbreaker jackets may be worn as outside apparel. NOTE: If two or more Umpires are used per game, they must be dressed alike. H. The Umpire behind the plate must wear a mask. Sec 5. game officials include the Plate Umpire and may include one, two or three Base Umpires. Any Umpire has the authority to order a player, coach, or team attendant to do or refrain from doing anything, which affects the administering of these rules, and to enforce prescribed penalties. The National Fastpitch Program Committee strongly recommends there be at least two Umpires. Sec 6. Umpire jurisdiction begins upon the arrival of one Umpire within the confines of the field and ends when the Umpires leave the playing field at the conclusion of the game. Sec 7. If there is only one Umpire, that Umpire has complete jurisdiction in administering the rules and shall take a position behind the catcher. The only exception will be the 8 & Under Machine Pitch, where the Umpire feeds the pitching machine. Sec 8. Any Umpire’s decision, which involves judgment, such as whether a hit is fair or foul, whether a pitch is a strike or ball, or whether a runner is safe, or out, is final. If there is a reasonable doubt about some decision being in conflict with the rules, the coach or captain may ask that the correct ruling be made. The Umpire making the decision may ask another Umpire for information before making a final decision. The use of videotape by game officials for the purpose of making calls or rendering decision is prohibited. No Umpire shall criticize or interfere with another Umpire’s decision unless asked by the one making it. NOTE: The Plate Umpire sometimes asks for aid from the Base Umpire when there is a question as to whether a batter’s half-swing is to be called a strike. As an aid in deciding, the Umpire shall note whether the swing carried the barrel portion of the bat in front of the batter’s body and in the direction of the infield, but the final decision is based on whether the batter actually struck at the ball. Sec 9. No Umpire may be replaced during a game unless he or she becomes ill or injured. Sec 10. The Umpire’s right to disqualify players or remove nonplayers for objecting to decisions or for unsportsmanlike conduct is absolute. Sec 11. Umpires shall not use tobacco products in any form in the vicinity of the playing field. Sec 12. The Plate Umpire shall stand behind the catcher. The Plate Umpire shall make all decisions except those commonly reserved for the Base Umpire. The duties of the Plate Umpire shall include the following: A. Inspect condition of the field B. Conduct Pre-Game Conference. Ask both coaches if their teams are legally and properly equipped, receive lineup cards from both teams, announce special ground rules and formulate such if the two teams cannot agree, designate the dugout/bench area, and, if necessary, designate the official scorekeeper. C. Ensure that each player takes their glove and other loose equipment to the bench at the end of their team’s time in the field. D. Call “Play Ball” and give a beckoning hand signal to start the game or to resume play, and call “Time” whenever the ball becomes dead. E. Call and count balls and strikes, F. Signal fair hits, and call out “foul ball” while signaling each foul hit, G. Make all decisions on the batter. H. When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the Plate Umpire immediately announces it for the benefit of the runners. If the ball is near the base line the Umpire shall declare, “Infield fly, if fair.” I. Eject a player or send a coach from the field of play if it becomes necessary. J. Announce each substitute. K. Call the game if conditions become unfit for play. L. Penalize for rule infractions, such as illegal pitch, interference, delay, unwarranted disputing of a decision, unsporting behavior or defacement of the ball by the pitcher. M. Have the authority to make decisions on any situation not specifically covered in the rules. N. Forfeit the game for prescribed infraction by spectators, players or attendants. O. When a game is played under the auspices of an organization which permits protests to be filed, the Plate Umpire shall report the protest to the organization along with all related conditions at the time of the protested play, provided the protest is brought to the attention of an Umpire by the offended team at the time of the play and before the next pitch after such play. EXCEPTION: Protests resulting from the last play of the game shall be brought to the attention of an Umpire by the offended team prior to leaving the field. The Plate Umpire shall then inform the coach of the opposing team and the official scorekeeper. NOTE: If there is a question about a rule that was possibly misapplied, the team’s coach or captain shall inform the Umpire at the time of the play and before a pitch to the next batter of the team currently at bat or before the first batter for the team that was on defense, if the teams have changed positions; or before the Umpire leaves the field, if the play in question was the last play of the game. P. Keep a record of substitutions, courtesy runners, defensive team charged conferences, ejections/restrictions and team warnings for each team. Q. Penalize for jewelry violation. R. Rectify any situation in which an Umpire’s decision that was delayed or reversed has placed either team in jeopardy. S. Correct a scorekeeping error if brought to attention before the Umpires leave the field when the game is over. Sec 13. The Base Umpire(s) shall assist the Plate Umpire in administering the rules. The Base Umpire shall make all decisions on the bases except those reserved for the Plate Umpire as defined above. The Base Umpire shall have concurrent jurisdiction with the Plate Umpire in calling time, illegal pitches, defacement or discoloration of ball by any player, when a fly ball is caught, or in disqualifying any player for unsporting behavior or an infraction as prescribed by the rules. In some instances, the Base Umpire will rule on the ball being fair or foul. When there is only one Base Umpire that Umpire typically, but not solely, makes all decisions at first and second base. The Base Umpire will also make some decisions at third base. If a play takes the Base Umpire beyond the infield, the Plate Umpire will make all calls on the bases. NOTE 1: A player ejected for malicious contact is declared out unless they have already scored. NOTE 2: All coach ejections except noted by * result in the coach being barred from participation for the remainder of the game in progress PLUS the coach is barred from participation until their NEXT game is completed. NOTE 3: There is no violation if a bat is damaged or shatters during an at-bat due to bat-ball contact which occurs after the batter enters the box. However, the damaged bat shall be removed from the team's possession upon discovery RULE 15. 10 & UNDER AND YOUNGER RULE EXCEPTIONS 1.1 The pitching distance shall be 35 feet. 2.3 The 11-inch softball shall be used. 8.1 (8 & Under and Younger). Stealing: A runner may steal as explained below: a. A runner on 1st or 2nd can advance/steal only one base per pitch even in the event of an overthrow in live ball territory. If they advance more than one base, they are liable to be put out. At end of the play, if the runner is safe and has advanced more than one base, the umpire will return the runner to the correct base. b. A runner cannot steal home. If they advance home they are liable to be put out. At end of play if the runner is safe and has advanced the umpire will return the runner to the correct base. c. A batter runner, who has received a base on balls, cannot attempt to steal second base. d. Awarded bases will apply to all runners. This includes an overthrow into dead ball territory. e. Runners can only score on: i. A batted ball ii. A base on balls or hit batter with bases loaded iii. An awarded base when the ball goes out of play to include a pitch that goes out of play 8.4.B (8 & Under and Younger) The batter is out on a third strike. If a batter strikes out and the ball is not caught, the batter is out and cannot advance to first base. The ball remains live. 8.17.H (8 & Under and Younger) The infield fly rule will not be used. RULE 16. COACH PITCH and MACHINE PITCH RULES 1. Ball: 11-inch approved ball, optic yellow in color with a maximum compression of 375# and a COR rating of 46.25 +/- 0.75 will be used. 2. Innings: A regulation game shall be seven (7) innings for World Series play. 3. Time Limits: World Series and 7 inning games shall have a 75 minute limit. Games can end in a tie during pool play. Bracket games that are tied at the end of regulation or upon completion of an inning with time expired shall go to the International Tie-Breaker method. 4. Runs per Inning: A maximum of 6 runs can be scored each inning by each team. 5. Run Rule: As per Rule 4 Section 4, the run rule will be 12 runs after 3 innings, 10 runs after 4 innings, and 8 runs after 5 innings. If time has expired and either team is behind and cannot catch up or go ahead, the game shall be over immediately. 6. Offensive Lineup: The batting lineup may be any number from eight (8) to all players present. An automatic out will be taken if only eight (8) batters. When batting more than eight (8), if any position in the batting order is left open due to injury, illness, or ejection it will be an automatic out if a sub is not available. 7. Defensive Positions: The defensive team must have a minimum of eight (8) and a maximum of ten (10) defensive players in the field, but no more than six (6), including the catcher, can be positioned inside the infield baselines. NOTE: The use of a DP/Flex is not allowed.All players listed on the lineup card will hit. Coach pitch only: The player pitcher must have at least one foot in the pitcher’s circle when the batter’s coach is pitching. No other defensive players may be positioned inside the pitcher’s circle at the same time. The outfield is defined as the turf area on a regulation sized youth field or at least 10 feet beyond the baselines for other playing surfaces. Machine Pitch only: At the start of the pitch, one player shall be in the pitcher’s position on either side of the pitching machine with one foot on the sideline of the 6 foot diameter circle. The pitcher cannot leave their position until the ball comes out of the machine. 8. Batting: The batter will receive five pitches or three swinging strikes, whichever occurs first. Each pitch will count as one of the five even if the batter does not swing. If the fifth pitch is hit (not bunted) foul the batter will remain at bat as long as they continue to foul off pitches. a. The batter is out on a third strike whether caught or uncaught. b. There shall be no Base on Balls (walk) awarded. c. Hitters hit by a pitch will not be awarded 1st base. d. Bunting is NOT allowed. PENALTY: The ball is dead, and the batter is out if the ball is contacted. All other runners must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. 9. The infield fly rule is not in effect. The ball remains “live” with all runners in jeopardy of being put out or advancing. 10. A runner may not leave a base until the pitch: a. (Travel ball) leaves the pitcher’s hand/pitching machine. b. (Rec/All-Stars) reaches home plate. PENALTY: The ball is dead, a “no pitch” is declared, and the runner is declared out. A runner who leaves a base on a pitch is at liability to be put out, even on a non-batted ball. She may return to her original base (unless forced to advance because the batter becomes a batter-runner), or she may attempt to advance to a subsequent base. However, if the ball is not batted, at the conclusion of a play involving a non-batted ball (i.e; an attempted pickoff), all outs stand, but any runners not put out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. 11. A runner may not steal a base. At the conclusion of any play involving a NON-BATTED ball, the ball is dead, all advances shall be nullified, and the runners shall be returned to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. However, all outs shall stand. 12. Time will be called when: a. (Travel ball) a defensive player has possession of the ball in advance of the lead runner. b. (Rec/All-Stars) a defensive player has possession of the ball in advance of the lead runner, OR the ball is returned to the player-pitcher with at least one foot on (or inside of) the line of the pitcher’s circle. If a runner is more than halfway to the next base when time is called, the runner will be awarded the next base. If they are not halfway to the next base when time is called they will be returned to the previous base safely. The defensive team may have a maximum of 3 defensive conferences per game. 13. Additional Coaches: In addition to base coaches, only a coach in the pitcher’s circle is allowed on the field of play. The coach pitcher must deliver the pitch with one foot in contact with the pitching plate. The pitching coach/machine pitch coach may only coach the batter prior to the pitch. He/she may not coach the batter-runner at ANY time. PENALTY: The batter is charged with a PITCH Machine Pitch only: after a batter hits the ball, the pitching coach shall make an attempt to duck or crouch behind the pitching machine and should stay inside the circle away from the play. Coach pitch only: The pitching coach must make an effort to avoid interfering with the play. If in the umpire’s judgment, a coach interferes unintentionally with the batted ball and/or defensive play, the ball will be declared dead and the pitch replayed. If in the umpire’s judgment, a coach interferes intentionally, the lead runner is out and the play replayed. If there are no runners, the batter is out. Machine Pitch only rules: 14. A batted ball that hits the pitching machine shall be ruled a dead ball and the batter is awarded 1st base. 15. No defensive player may reach into or enter the pitcher’s circle. If a player reaches into or enters the pitcher’s circle a dead ball will be called and the batter is awarded 1st base. 16. Pitching Machine - the pitching machine shall be set as follows: a. Distance for center of the machine shall be thirty five (35) feet. Speed for the machine shall be set between 37-40 for 7/8U. b. Prior to each game, the umpire will have each coach feed at least one pitch and obtain a consensus that the machine is set correctly. The umpire may adjust the machine only at the top of the inning if he/she believes it is needed unless the machine has been hit and is not set correctly. c. A coach can’t adjust the pitching machine without umpire approval. First offense will be a warning. The second offense will be automatic removal from the pitching coach position. RULE 17. T BALL RULES 1. Ball: 11-inch ball will be used. 2. Distances: a. The pitching rubber shall be set at thirty-five (35) feet for T-Ball. b. A Restraining Arc is thirty-five (35) feet from the point of home plate. c. The catcher’s arc is ten (10) feet from the point of home plate. d. The base length is sixty (60) feet. 3. Innings: A regulation game shall be five (5) innings. The Tiebreaker Procedure will be used in the 6th inning or in any inning that begins after time has expired. 4. Time Limits: There will be a 55 minute time limit. 5. Runs per Inning: A maximum of 6 runs can be scored each inning for each team 6. Run Rule: If either team is behind and cannot catch up or go ahead, the game shall be over immediately. Effectively that is 13 runs after 3 innings, 7 runs after 4 innings 7. Offensive Lineup: The batting lineup may be any number from nine up. If a player is removed for any reason other than ejection, the spot in the batting order will be skipped with no out recorded. 8. Defensive Positions: The defensive team must have a minimum of eight (8) and may have a maximum of ten (10) players in the field. a. Defensive players must remain behind the pitcher’s plate line extended until the batter has hit the ball. b. One player shall be in the pitcher’s position on the pitching mound with at least one foot within 8 feet of the pitcher’s plate at the start of each play. The pitcher cannot leave its position until the ball is hit off the “T”. c. The Pitcher must wear a helmet with face mask or game face protective gear. d. Six fielders including the catcher must be in the infield. The rest must be in the outfield. The outfield is defined as at least 10 feet outside of the base lines in fair territory. e. Catchers must wear protective gear as prescribed in Rule 2.2. f. Defensive players are encouraged to wear helmets with face masks or game face protective gear. 9. The “T” will be provided by the ballpark or Tournament. No outside “T” will be allowed. 10. Offensive. The batter will be allowed three (3) swings. If the batter misses the ball it will be counted as a swing. If the ball goes foul, or the ball does not go over the 10’Tee Arc, this will be considered a swing. If the batter fouls a third strike, the batter will be called out. a. Bunting is NOT allowed. . b. The batter will be allowed only one practice swing prior to each swing in the batter’s box. Any excess practice swings will be a called strike. c. All offensive players must wear NOCSAE Batter/batting helmets with face mask & chin straps while on the playing field. 11. There is no infield fly rule. 12. A runner may not leave a base until the ball is hit off the “T”. Penalty for leaving early; runner will be called out... 13. On a hit ball there is no limit on bases allowed. 14. Stealing: A runner may not steal. A runner may not leave a base until the ball is hit off the “T”. Penalty for leaving early; runner will be called out. 15. Time will be called when a defensive player has possession of the ball in advance of the lead runner or the ball is returned to the player pitcher with at least a foot inside the pitcher’s circle. If a runner is more than halfway to the next base when time is called, the runner will be awarded the next base. a. There is no look-back rule. b. This rule does not preclude the Umpire from calling or granting time in situations such as when a runner has slid into a base, requests time, no other runners are advancing, or there is an injured player. 16. Additional Coaches: In addition to base coaches, other coaches are allowed on the field of play. a. The “Tee-Coach” may provide assistance to the batter prior to the Umpire placing the ball on the “T”. Thereafter the coach must not assist the batter/runners vocally or with hand gestures. The “Tee Coach” will then be responsible for removing the tee and bat from the baseline. Failure to remove the tee from home plate or interfering with the play at home will result in the runner coming home being called out. b. One coach will be allowed to stand in the on-deck circle while on defense. No other defensive coaches will be allowed on the field. COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PROCEDURES While risk of one athlete infecting another with HIV/AIDS during competition is close to non-existent there is a remote risk that other blood borne infectious diseases can be transmitted. For example Hepatitis B can be present in blood as well as in other body fluids. Procedures for reducing the potential for transmission of these infectious agents should not be limited to the following: 1.The bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered, and if there is an excessive amount of blood on the uniform, it must be changed before the athlete may participate. 2.Routine use of gloves or other precautions to prevent skin and mucous membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated. 3.Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if contaminated (in contact) with blood or other body fluids. Wash hands immediately after removing gloves. 4.Clean all blood contaminated surfaces and equipment with a solution made from proper dilution of household bleach (CDC recommends 1- 100) or other disinfectants before competition resumes. 5. Practice proper disposal procedures to prevent injuries caused by needles, scalpels, and other sharp instruments or devices. 6. Although saliva has not been implicated in HIV transmission, to minimize the need for emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, mouthpieces, resuscitation bags or other ventilation devices should be available for use. 7. Athletic trainers/coaches with bleeding or oozing skin conditions should refrain from all direct athletic care until the condition is resolved. 8.Contaminated towels should be properly disposed of/disinfected. 9. Follow acceptable guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and when handling bloody dressings, mouth guards, and other articles containing body fluids. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT All of the Rules contained herein shall be subject to requests for reasonable modification for purposes of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or other applicable law. Unless otherwise required by law, for the purpose of Rule 20, a “disability” is defined as a physical or mental impairment limiting one or more major life activities. Reasonable modifications will be provided to disabled participants who satisfy all of the essential skills, abilities, and eligibility requirements for participation in the activity either in spite of a disability or with reasonable accommodation for a disability. Reasonable modifications do not include the following: 1. Any modification which would change the fundamental nature of the activity; 2. Any modification which would result in an excessive financial or administrative burden to the governing body, the local association or the league; 3. Any modification which would provide the participant with an unfair competitive advantage; or 4. Any modification which would pose a significant risk to the health or safety of the participant making the request for the modification, or to the health or safety of other participants. Any participant who, because of a disability, would like a reasonable modification to the Rules in order to participate should advise the applicable Local Association Member, league, tournament or state director, and/or event organizer of the following: 1. The requested modification; and 2. How the modification will address the specific disability. It is highly recommended that any request for reasonable modification be made at least two weeks in advance of the game, event or tournament to allow a reasonable inquiry to be made. Such an inquiry will include consideration of the participant’s specific circumstances and the purpose of the rule, policy or practice at issue. Although attempts will be made to evaluate requests with less notice, it cannot be guaranteed that without two-weeks’ notice a reasonable modification can be provided. PAC SPORTS POLICY RE: FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL CONCUSSION LAWS PAC Sports, as a sanctioning body of athletic events, shares the concerns being raised on a national and local level regarding concussions and concussion symptoms in participants, coaches/managers and umpires/referees in PAC Sports sanctioned activities. PAC Sports encourages its directors, umpires, coaches, referees, teams, team managers, and all adults involved in youth activities and participants to learn all they can about concussions in athletics and requires each of them and each of the PAC Sports directors to follow all federal, state and local laws (including concussion training and reaction laws) with regard to athletic competition sanctioned by PAC Sports. In addition, PAC Sports hereby adds the following to the rule books of each PAC Sports sport which does not defer to another organization for its rule book. Upon becoming aware that a participant or coach/manager of any team has received a suspected concussion (or has been struck in the head area with any significant force), the Team Manager will not allow that person to participate in any PAC Sports sanctioned event and if occurring during a PAC Sports sanctioned event, shall have that person removed from the playing field of any PAC Sports sanctioned event. Upon becoming aware that a participant, coach/manager or umpire/referee has received a suspected concussion (or has been struck in the head area with any significant force), an umpire/referee or director will have that person removed from the playing field of any PAC Sports sanctioned event. Without a written medical clearance from a licensed medical doctor to return to play, such persons will not be allowed to return to the PAC Sports playing field in a PAC Sports sanctioned event. For participants and coaches/managers, the medical written medical consent must be presented to the Team Manager/Director and retained permanently by the Team Manager/PAC Sports State Director. For umpires/referees, the medical written consent must be presented to the Tournament Director/UIC and Complex Director and retained permanently by the PAC Sports State Director. Any Team Manager, who allows a coach/manager or participant back on a PAC Sports sanctioned event playing field without first obtaining the required written consent, may be suspended by the State Director for up to one year and upon request of the State Director, may be suspended for a longer duration by the PAC Sports disbarment committee. State Directors allowing an umpire/referee back on the field of play without the necessary consent will be subject to being disciplined as determined by the PAC Sports Board of Directors. In the event of severe head trauma in a PAC Sports sanctioned activity, the injured person will not be moved and an ambulance will be called, unless otherwise directed by a qualified medical professional. The parent or guardian of the injured person, however, will not be bound by this protocol and may choose a different approach consistent with their legal rights as the parent or guardian.

PREMIER ATHLETIC COMPETITION™

PLEASE REVIEW THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT

PAC SPORTS CODE PREAMBLE

WARNING, DISCLOSURE & DISCLAIMER

PAC SPORTS STRATEGIC PLAN SUMMARY

VISION

MISSION

VALUES

GOALS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART ONEMISSION AND DEFINITION

PART TWOORGANIZATION

PART THREETHE RULES

PREMIER ATHLETIC COMPETITION CODE (Adopted January1, 2021) PART 1 MISSION AND DEFINITIONS

Age Qualification and Tournament Eligibility.

PART 2ORGANIZATION

PART 3 THE RULES PAC SPORTS FASTPITCH SOFTBALL RULES RULE 1. PLAYING FIELD

RULE 2.EQUIPMENT

RULE 3 : DEFINITIONS

RULE 4. THE GAME

RULE 6. PITCHING RULE

RULE 7. BATTING

RULE 8. BASE RUNNING

RULE 9. APPEALS

RULE 10. DEAD BALL- SUSPENSION OF PLAY

RULE 11. SPORTING BEHAVIOR

RULE 12. COACH/MANAGER OR PLAYER EJECTION

RULE 13. PROTEST

RULE 14. UMPIRES

RULE 15. 10 & UNDER AND YOUNGER RULE EXCEPTIONS

RULE 16. COACH PITCH and MACHINE PITCH RULES

RULE 17. T BALL RULES

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PROCEDURES

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

PAC SPORTS POLICY RE: FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL CONCUSSION LAWS