Rules and Guidelines for Coaches and Umpires Length of Game- Each game will be 7 innings for Div I, and 6 innings for Div II or until dusk (umpire discretion). In order to end a game prior to the last inning, umpire must give a 1 inning warning (at the top of the inning). A game must go a least four complete innings to be an official game. In order to avoid ties, the international tie -breaker rule is in effect. If a game is tied and due to weather / lack of daylight, the following inning will be the last inning; or if all the innings have been completed, the next team at bat should begin as usual, but the last player to have batted in the preceding inning will start (as a base runner) from second base. (See ASA rules). Rain Cancellations – Once the game has started, all cancellations are at the discretion of the umpire. If the game is shortened by rain, it must go at least 2 innings to be suspended. If the game does not go the two innings, it will be replayed from the beginning at a later date. Check with HGS board member to cancel a game earlier in the day due to weather conditions. Warm-Ups – At the beginning of each half inning the pitcher will be allowed no more than 5 warm-up pitches. Catchers should be geared up and ready when there are two outs in the inning if possible. If the catcher is on deck, they should have shin guards on. Innings Pitched – Pitchers will be allowed to pitch a maximum of 4 innings per game. If removed from pitching, the player may re-enter the game as a pitcher, as long as she has not pitched 4 innings. One pitch in an inning constitutes an inning pitched. Pitchers may not exceed 10 innings per week (Sunday-Saturday). The Pitch – The windmill pitching is allowed with no more than one revolution. The pitcher will be removed after hitting three batters in an inning, or 6 batters in one game. Distance – Division I will pitch from 40’ and Division II will pitch from 35’. Strike Zone – The strike zone is an area over home plate between the batters shoulders and knees. Please note the strike zone is where the ball crosses over home plate, NOT where the catcher receives the ball. Base Running: Stealing – Sliding – Players must slide (or avoid) into bases and home plate when there is a play. It is legal for a base runner to leave the baseline to avoid a collision with a defensive player who is not attempting to make an out. Division II only – On an overthrow to any base, the runner may advance only one base, unless the fielder attempts to get the runner out. A return of the ball to the pitcher ends the play. Hitting Bunting – Bunting will be allowed. Slash bunting is prohibited. Dropped 3rd Strike Rule – The dropped 3rd strike rule will be in effect for Division I only. The rule states that the batter can attempt to go to 1st base after a 3rd strike is dropped by the catcher only when: a. A runner does not occupy 1st base with 1 out or no outs b. With 2 outs the batter / runner may advance to (1st base) on the 3rd dropped strike whether 1st base is occupied nor not A team at bat will consist of one of the following: a. 3 outs are made b. 6 runs are scored c. Each player may bat once per inning maximum d. B and C will be waived if the final inning (no run limit, no limit on batters) e. The umpire and coaches will check with each other between innings as to the current score so there are no questions at the end of the game. Substitutions will be made between innings except for injuries or sickness. Please have your substitutions in mind ahead of time to keep the game moving. Forfeit - If a team is unable to field the minimum of 8 players within 10 minutes of the scheduled game time, the game will be forfeited. If a team is required to forfeit because of a lack of players, coaches are encouraged to borrow players and continue the game in order to maximize playing time. Teams will utilize players who are not regular members may not be credited with an official win. All Players will remain on the bench except the batter and the on- deck batter. Throwing of bats and helmets will not be tolerated. (See code of Conduct Policy). Uniforms – Each player will be given a team shirt. Softball pants are recommended. If a player is wearing shorts, they must be knee length AND sliding shorts must be worn underneath the shorts with knee high softball socks pulled up to the knee. Hanson Softball provides recreational activities for community youth while promoting sportsmanship and the teaching of values through team competition. We also encourage healthy living through exercise.
Hanson Girls Softball -2009
Division I, grades 6-9
Division II, grades 3-5
Division I girls will be allowed to steal all bases and home. A runner should not leave (lead or steal) the base until the ball is released from the pitchers hand. A runner will be called out for leaving early. Continuation on walks is allowed in Div I.
Division II girls will be able to steal 2nd base only, when the ball passes over home plate -No continuation on walks (Division II only).
ALL Girls must play in the Infield at least once per game
ALL OTHER RULES REFER TO THE ASA RULES
Contact Information:
Hanson Girls Softball
PO Box 142
Hanson, MA. 02341
hgs_softball@yahoo.com
Thank you and please check back for updates throughout the season.
