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2D Softball Rules
The following rules are the official 2D Sports Softball rules that will be in effect at all Regional and National tournaments. Local areas may modify these rules to conform to their local high high school and recreational league ONLY. Safety rules are NOT FLEXIBLE. We will adhere to all safety rules in their fullest, including all safety rules that are mandated by the governing body of softball. In order to keep 2D Sports Softball Rulebook as streamlined as possible, we will refer back to the National Federation of High School’s (NFHS) rulebook for all rules and case studies.
THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF THE RULES
The restrictions which the rules place upon the players are intended to create a balance of play; to provide equal opportunity between offense and defense; and to create an atmosphere of sporting behavior and fair play.
Therefore, it is important to know the intent and purpose of the rules so that it may be intelligently applied in each situation. A player or a team should not be permitted an advantage that is not intended by a rule. Neither should play be permitted to develop which may lead to placing a player or a team at a disadvantage not intended by a rule.
Definitions
1.1 Altered bat: When the physical structure of a legal softball bat has been changed.
1.2 Appeal: A play or rule violation on which the umpire does not make a ruling until requested by a coach or player. Judgment calls (Balls, Strikes, Safe, or Outs) are not appealable.
1.3 Base runner: An offensive batter that has just put the ball in play becomes a base runner.
1.4 Bunt: When a batter taps the pitched ball and attempts to put the ball in play. The bat does not have to remain still to be considered a bunt attempt.
1.5 Conference: Anytime a head coach gets permission to suspend play to talk to the players. Only 1 offensive or defensive conference allowed per 1⁄2 inning without penalty. On the second defensive conference in a 1⁄2 inning the pitcher must be replaced. Replacement pitcher must pitch to at least one batter. The replaced pitcher may go back into the pitcher’s position once per 1⁄2 innings.
1.6 Stalling: Umpire has a right to end a conference early if the umpire determines a team is trying to stall a game. This call will not be questioned or appealed by a coach.
1.7 5 Minute Rule: Umpire will stop the clock if a time out is called by either team or an injury occurs to a player in the last 5 minutes of the game. The umpire will have the official time.
1.8 Leap A “Leap” is defined as an act by the pitcher which causes both feet to be airborne at the same time on the initial move and move from the pitcher’s plate.
1.9 Crow Hop, or Replant: A “Crow Hop” is defined as the act of a pitcher who steps, hops, or drags off the front of the pitcher’s plate, replants the pivot foot, establishing a second starting point, pushes off from the newly-established point and completes the delivery.
1.9 Dead ball: When the ball is not in play. Umpire will declare, “Dead ball.”
1.10 Fake tag: When a defensive player makes the motion of tagging a base runner when there is no actual play being made. Penalty could be ejection of the offending player.
1.11 Foul tip: A foul tip is a batted ball that goes sharply and directly from the bat to the catcher’s mitt or hand and is legally caught by the catcher. It is a strike and remains a live ball.
1.12 Hit by pitch: When the pitched ball hits the batter and the batter is not swinging at the ball or a strike is not called. Dead ball results with the batter advancing to first base.
1.13 Illegal bats: A bat that does not meet the requirements of an official bat as dictated by National Federation of State High School Associations.
1.14 Infield fly rule: A batted pop fly in the infield with 1 or less outs when a base runner occupies at 1st and 2nd base or 1st, 2nd, and 3rd base. When umpire feels the ball can be caught by reasonable effort he indicates or verbalizes infield fly, and the batter is out.
1.15 Live ball: Any and all times that the ball is in play or until the umpire calls “time” or “dead ball”.
1.16 Age Groups: Age Groups are the age of a player on 1/1 of the Seasonal Year. Seasonal year begins on 8/01 of the calendar year and runs until 7/31 of the following year
1.17 Age Up Date: All Players must age up on 8/01 of the Calendar year. Example: a girl turns 17 on 01/02 of the seasonal year she can play 16U until 07/31 of the calendar year and then on 08/01 must start playing 18U. Example 2: a girl turns 17 between 8/01 of the calendar year and
12/31 of the calendar year she must as of 8/01 of the calendar year begin playing 18U for the Seasonal Year.
1.18 Age up date will apply to all events starting on 8/1 or later each year.
Playing Down in the Fall is no longer permitted:
1.19 All 8U players, all 10U infielders, and 12U corners (1st and 3rd) must wear protective face guards. Face Guards ae optional for 14U and up.
1.20 ALL teams must have online roster.
1.21 Pickup Players will be required to be added online.
We will not mention the very basics, which are universal. Balls, strikes, outs, foul ball, fair ball, home run, triple, double, single, walk, strike out, etc. These are some of the fundamental parts of the game that have been a part of the game since it was invented.
2.1 The plate is considered fair territory. A hit ball that hits the plate and remains fair or rests on the plate is considered a fair ball.
2.2 The strike zone is when a pitched ball crosses any part of the plate in width and crosses anywhere from the batter’s knees to her solar plex.
2.3The run rule will be 12 runs after 3 innings, 10 runs after 4 innings, and 8 runs after 5 innings.
2.5 A runs per inning limit may be used at the tournament director’s discretion.
2.6 Tied game after innings specified have expired or after game time limit has expired: Tournaments should use International Tiebreaker. (The last completed at bat in the previous inning becomes a base runner at second base. Play until a winner is determined).
2.7 Determining home team:
Tournaments should use coin toss before the start of the game or have the highest seeded team as Home Team.
2.8 When the ball is “dead”:
1. When “no pitch” is called by the umpire.
2. When a fly ball in foul territory is not caught.
3. Offensive interference.
4. When the batter or base runner is hit by the batted ball before the ball has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher, or if it passes an infielder and any fielder has an opportunity to make an out.
5. When the umpire calls “time”.
6. Buckets are allowed on the field for the purpose of calling signals only. If a ball hits the bucket or the bucket interferes with a fielder. Then interference, blocked ball or obstruction will be declared on the offending team as deemed necessary in the umpire’s judgment.
2.9 When the ball is “live”:
1. Any batted fair ball.
Batters can be intentionally walked at any time during their at bat.
2. Any fair ball that is in the playable field of play.
3. Any and all times before an umpire calls “time”.
4. When an umpire is hit by a thrown ball or batted ball.
5. When a base coach is accidentally hit by a thrown ball.
2.10 Protests
Protests will be decided at the time they occur, (before the next pitch. Game will be halted and a ruling made. Then, if applicable, the game will continue. After consulting with the game umpire, the final decision will be that of the tournament director or the acting director in the Tournament director’s absence. See also Official Protest Section
2.11 Intentional Walk
Intentional Walk before a pitch has been thrown will be considered a pitch for protest purposes.
2.12 Illness
If a girl is removed from a game due to sickness or injury they may not reenter that game but can resume playing the next game.
3.1 Before the pitcher pitches the ball, she must do the following:
1. Have possession of the ball in either the pitching hand or the glove hand.
2. Have both hands separated as she steps onto the rubber.
3. Pitchers Pivot Foot must be in contact with the Pitchers rubber.
4. Pitcher must take or simulate taking signs while on the rubber from the catcher only.
5. On the pitch delivery the pivot foot may slide across the pitcher’s plate.
6. If the “Start Back” style of pitching is used the Pitcher must step back before the pitch begins.
7. If the “Step Back” style of pitching is used the Pitcher must begin the Step Back motion as or before the hand are being separated.
3.2 The pitch begins when the hands are no longer separated. The pitch delivery can be aborted by pitcher stepping off the rubber in a backward step with her plant foot.
3.3 The delivery must start no less than one second and no more than 10 seconds after the hands are in contact with each other.
3.4 Pitcher’s delivery:
1. Windmill or Slingshot style is acceptable.
2. Arm movement must be an underhand motion.
3. Pitchers may use the Start Back, Step Back, or Traditional (start with both feet touching the rubber).
4. The hand shall be below the hip and the wrist not farther from the body than the elbow.
5. A “Crow Hop” is replanting the pivot foot and pushing off again. “Crow Hop” and
Replanting the pivot foot is not permitted during the pitching delivery.
6. Leaping is Legal.
3.5 Pitcher cannot stop her motion before the ball leaves her hand.
3.6 If the pitcher stops her wind up (unless the umpire calls time) without releasing the ball, an illegal pitch will be called and a ball will be awarded to the batter. No action by a batter, coach, or fan can cause the pitcher to throw an illegal pitch.
3.7 Pitcher cannot have anything distracting on her pitching arm, hand, or wrist. Any sweatband must be flesh in color on pitching wrist or arm. Pitcher’s uniform, equipment and/or accessories must be worn properly. A pitcher is prohibited from wearing or using any item that, in the umpire’s judgment, distracts the batter.
3.8 Pitcher can ask the umpire for a different ball at any given time before the start of her pitch. During wet conditions, a coach may request permission to towel dry the balls for the pitcher.
3.9 Intentional Walk: If the pitcher desires to intentionally walk a batter, she can at any time during the players at bat notify the umpire of her intentions and the walk will be granted by the umpire. No pitches need to be thrown to the intentionally walked batter.
2D Sports Softball will use the following basic rules for batting and base running:
4.1 The girl is considered the batter when she takes her place in the batter’s box.
4.2 The batter can call time by lifting her hand. The umpire can grant the batter time out. If time is not granted, she will take the called pitch.
4.3 Batting out of order can be appealed to the umpire by the defense:
1. Infraction appealed during illegal batter: the correct batter takes over and assumes the pitch count.
2. Infraction appealed after illegal batter has batted but before next pitch: the girl that should have batted is out and any base advances will return to their position prior to the illegal batter’s bat. The correct spot in the lineup will be the batter that follows the girl called out. Example: (Batter #5 is the girl called out. The correct spot in the lineup would now be Batter #6.)
3. Infraction appealed after illegal batter has batted and after next pitch: the play stands. All base runners remain where they are.
4. Batter positions on the lineup sheet are determined by the player’s name and not the jersey number. Improperly recorded position numbers and player numbers are correctable errors.
4.4 The batter is out when the following happens:
1. Batter steps on the plate when hitting the ball in fair or foul territory.
2. Batter steps out of the batter’s box when hitting ball in fair or foul territory.
3. Batter fouls off third strike while trying to bunt.
4. Catcher catches third strike foul tip.
4.5 The batter can advance to first base when the following happens:
1. Batter is pitched 4 balls.
2. Batter is hit by pitch (unless the ball is in the strike zone or swung at).
3. Catcher drops third strike with one or less outs with no base runner occupying first base or with two outs regardless of occupation of first base. A Ball that hits the dirt and caught by the catcher is considered a dropped third strike. Exception to dropped 3rd strike: If the batter enters the Dead ball area, she will be called out. The dead ball area is considered outside of the fence surrounding the field or in the dugout.
4. When the catcher interferes with the batter’s bat while batter is swinging at the pitched ball, or anytime during a pitch. If the ball is put in play during the interference, the offensive coach has the option to take the result of the play or the interference.
4.6 The base runner must run the bases in order when advancing or retreating.
4.7 When a base runner misses a bag, the play is appealable to the umpire by the defensive coach or any player on the field. Appeal must be made before the next pitch (except coach pitch) is delivered.
4.8 If a base runner attempts to advance to the next base while the pitcher has possession of the ball in the pitcher’s circle, she must continue to the next base. Any attempt to retreat back to the previous base (without pitcher attempting to make a play on the base runner) will result in the base runner being called out. This is called “hesitation” or “look back” rule. The base runner can turn the corner and immediately look for the ball. This is not an attempt to advance to the next base.
4.9 Base runners may attempt to steal only after the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand during her delivery of the pitch.
4.10 Base runner cannot run more than 3 feet out the base path to avoid a tag. This will result in base runner being called out. The base path is the path between the runner and a direct line to the next base.
4.11 Base runner should avoid contact with the defensive player at any base if there is a defensive play being made. This is for the safety of the girls. Any aggressive act will result in the base runner being called out or at the umpires dissection the runner may be ejected from the game. Base runners are not required to slide but if a base runner elects to slide it must be a legal slide.
4.12 No defensive player may block a base, home plate, or the base path without having possession of the ball.
4.13 Base runner cannot interfere with a defensive player making a play on the ball. This results in the runner being called out and all base runners returning to previous bag before the interference occurred (unless forced to advance). The batter/runner is deemed safe at first base.
4.14 If a batted ball hits a base runner prior to passing or being touched by a defensive player (non-pitcher unless the pitcher touches the ball or makes a play on the ball), the base runner is called out. In addition, if the runner interferes with an attempt by the defense to field the ball, the base runner will be called out.
4.15 Base runner must retouch her base during a caught fly ball and cannot advance to the next base until the ball is touched by the defensive player’s glove or body.
4.16 Obstruction: Obstruction is any act committed by a player, coach, or fan that impedes the
batter for a fair opportunity to hit the ball or to hinder a runner from reaching the next base. This obstruction can be physical, visual, or verbal.
4.17 Interference: Interference is any act committed by a player, coach, or fan that impedes the defensive team from making a play on the ball. This interference can be physical, visual, or verbal. A checked swing or attempted bunt with the bat pulled back is not considered interference.
4.18 On deck batters may use either on deck circle.
Rosters are required at all 2D Sports Sanctioned Events.
5.2 Online Rosters are required.
Penalty: If a team’s roster is not online and anyone protests a player’s eligibility then the protest will be upheld and the team without the roster online will forfeit the game and the player will be disqualified from playing that weekend.
5.3 Pickup players are allowed but the team must add the player online.
5.4 Teams cannot play down in age group.
5.5 Players can play down in classification, but cannot play in the Pitchers position in Class C Events.
Penalty player is ejected from the event and team forfeits the game.
5.6 Players can only play on 1 2D Sports Softball team on any given weekend. Penalty team forfeits game and player is ejected from the event.
1) Exception: Players can play in 2 separate events on a weekend but only when both events are a 1 day event only and start on separate days. Example: an event starts and ends on a Saturday then the players may play in an event that starts and finishes on the next day, Sunday
5.7 Team must start with nine defensive players.
5.8 2D Sports Softball also has the option of using “Extra Players (EP)”. Using nine regular players and up to three “EP”. There would be 10, 11 or 12 total players on the lineup sheet. Any nine can be used in the field with 10, 11 or 12 batters. (This lineup is designed to get more players in the game). Three of the players would have EP as their position. Any of the 10, 11 or 12 players can be used for defense. The coach can change the defensive players at any time using the 10, 11 or 12 players on the bench. In addition to the 3 EPs allowed under 2D Sports Softball rules, teams may also add a “DP/FLEX” player to their lineups.
For purposes of simplicity, if a coach chooses to use a DP/FLEX and only 9 batters, one of the 9 batters will be considered a DP. 8U can also use DP/FLEX but must bat 10 batters Exception: If the DP/FLEX is used, the flex player must remain on defense throughout the game, unless inserted into the batting lineup “once” for the DP, or replaced on defense, in which case the FLEX position would be eliminated for the remainder of the game.
5.10 Substitute players shall be listed on the lineup sheet. They can be used at any given time during the game. The original player (starter) can re-enter the game at any given time. The starter and the substitute may each re-enter once.
5.10 Courtesy runners are allowed for pitchers and catchers. Determination for the courtesy runner will be as follows:
1. Any player listed on the lineup sheet that is not currently in the batting order. If a player was in the batting order at any time of the game then they are the second choice for a sub, the sub that has not been in the batting order will be the 1st choice to be the courtesy runner. Flex is listed as in the lineup so she cannot be considered a
sub for this rule.
3. Courtesy runners can only run for either the Pitcher or Catcher per half inning. They cannot run for both.
4. In the top half or the bottom half of the First inning and there is no completed at bat then the courtesy runner will be the player in the last position in the batting lineup.
5.11 All lineup sheets will be turned in at the start of the game. One copy will be given to the plate umpire and one copy will be given to the opposing team. If a player is lost to injury or illness, that space in the lineup will be scratched through. Exception: if there are less than 9 players on the lineup sheet, the player’s spot will not be scratched through. Instead, the affected spot will be an out when that spot comes up in the order. If there is a substitute player available, the substitute will go in that spot. There is no out penalty as long as there are at least 9 players left on the lineup.
5.9 Lineups are required before the start of the game, Players may not be added to the lineup after the 1st Pitch of the game.
2. If all players listed on the lineup sheet are currently in the batting order then the courtesy runner will be the last player that come up to bat in the inning. If the last out is a pitcher or catcher, the courtesy runner will revert to the batter immediately preceding her in the batting order.
5.12 Any player ejected from the game will result in an out when that spot in the lineup comes up, unless there is a substitute player available to go in that spot. Minimum requirements for fielding a team are still active. A team must have a minimum of 9 players on the lineup card, but can finish with a minimum of 8 players. The missing player in the batting order would be an out. Less than 8 fieldable players on the team will result in forfeit for that team.
5.13 A player’s age on January 1st of the seasonal year determines the age classification in which the player is eligible to participate. Seasonal years will run from 8/1 until 7/31 of the following year. Teams and players will required to Age-Up 8/1 of the calendar year. Example: if a girl will turn 9 on 12/30 of the current year, she must play as a 10U player. Example: if a girl turns 9 after 1/1 of the seasonal year, she can play 8U until the seasonal year ends.
5.14 Age groups will be broken down as follows:
6-Under, 8-Under, 10-Under, 12-Under, 13- Under, 14-Under, 15-Under, 16-Under, 18-Under, 18-Over, 16/18 Combined.
This is the equipment to be used while playing in official 2D Sports Softball events. Equipment must be standard approved equipment that is properly marked with “Official Softball” or similar markings that certify the equipment. All official safety equipment must be used. If there are any deviation from these equipment rules then all liability will be the responsibly of the head coach of the team.
6.1 All bats must be unaltered official softball bats. The umpire will check all bats prior to the game. Any illegal bats will be removed from the dugout prior to the game. National High School Federation maintains a list of illegal bats and 2D Sports Softball will enforce this. Use of an illegal bat will result in an automatic out for the player using the bat and the coach restricted to the dugout for the remainder of that game. If it happens the second time the Coach will be ejected from the game.
6.2 A legally stamped game ball or the equivalent must be used in all 2D Sports Softball sanctioned events. All 12-Under through 18-Over division balls must be 12” in diameter with .47 C.O.R. and .375 compression. 8-Under and 10-Under must use 11”diameter with .47 C.O.R. and .375 compression. Core and compression must be clearly visible on the ball.
6.3 Non-compliance will lead to offending coach being ejected from the game.
6.4 All batting helmets and catching gear must be approved and in original condition. Numbers and personalized designs are okay. PLAYER SAFETY IS THE MAIN CONCERN.
6.5 Shoes and socks must be worn and plastic cleats are recommended. Metal cleats are allowed for 14-U, 16-U, 18-U, 18-Over, and 16/18U divisions. Coaches may wear open toed shoes.
6.6 Hats and visors are permissible. They are optional between each individual player.
6.7 Jewelry is permitted at the discretion of the umpires.
6.8 Hair bows, braided hair, and other types of hair decoration are allowed as long as they do not create a safety hazard for a player on either team.
6.9 Numbers must be worn on uniforms, with no 2 players on a team having the same number. 09 and 9 are considered as separate numbers
6.10 Multi Colored Gloves are allowed as long as they are not the same color as the softball.
6.11 All 6U & 8U players are required to wear face shields, 10U infielders are required to wear face shields and 12U pitchers 1st and 3rd are required to wear face shields. 14U and older face shields are recommended but do not have to be worn. Heart Guards are not required.
7.1 There will be a 16-foot diameter circle drawn evenly around the pitching rubber.
7.2 The batter’s box will be to the left and to the right of the plate. They will be 3 feet wide and 7 feet long with Four feet toward the pitching rubber from the center of the plate.
7.3 Base lines will extend out 3 feet on both sides of the base parallel to the centerline.
7.4 Coaching boxes and on-deck batter’s boxes are suggested.
8.1 The umpire is responsible to keep control of the game.
8.2 The umpire has the right to eject any player, coach, or fan from a game for any unsportsmanlike behavior.
8.3 Any judgment call that the umpire makes cannot be protested.
8.4 Any call made that may be a misinterpretation of the rules can be protested.
8.5 A head coach can appeal to the plate umpire in the case of a batter on whether or not a check swing was checked or not. The plate umpire does not have to grant the appeal.
8.6 The umpire can suspend play for any reason: acts of nature, unruly conduct, etc.
8.7 Everyone has the responsibility to ensure sportsmanship in all events. An unruly fan may place the entire team in jeopardy of ejection or possible forfeit.
6-Under TEE-Ball Rules:
1. Each half inning will end with 3 outs or with 10 batters, whichever comes first. 2. Free substitution on the field. There will be no more than 6 players in the infield.
3. Two defensive coaches may be present in the field to assist his or her team with positioning on the field. During play the coach must be behind the deepest fielder and may not interfere with the game. If a coach touches the ball or a player, interference will be called and each runner will be awarded the base that she was running to plus one additional base. The umpire will rule on the play whether interference should be called on the coach.
4. All infield defensive players except the pitcher must remain no closer than 10’ in front of an imaginary line drawn on the baseline between first base and second base and between second base and third base until the ball is in play. The pitcher must stay in the circle with at least one foot in the pitcher’s circle until the ball is hit. The outfielders must be 10’ behind the imaginary base line before pitch is thrown.
5. If the ball is fielded and overthrown during at attempt to make a play at a base, runners will be allowed only one additional base provided the ball is retrieved and immediately returned to the pitcher in the pitcher’s circle. If a fielder gets the ball after the overthrow and makes an attempt to make a play on the runner, the ball remains live and runners may advance.
6. The batter will have a maximum of 5 swings from the Tee unless the 5th and consecutive swings are foul. A coach will be allowed at the plate to assist the batter with the Tee.
7. “Time” will be called by the umpire when the team in the field has returned the ball to the pitcher in the pitcher’s circle and the player has control of the ball or when the runners have stopped.
8. All players present when the game begins will be included in the batting lineup. Teams will “bat the roster”. If a player arrives after the game has started, she will be added to the
bottom of the batting order. No pinch runners will be allowed unless a player is injured.
9. A batter must hit the ball at least 10 feet in order for it to be ruled a fair ball. The distance shall be designated by an arc drawn between the two foul lines. Incidental contact with the Tee is allowed as long as the ball is also hit and is fair.
10. In the event that the tenth batter hits the ball, the defensive team may end the inning with an out on the lead runner regardless of the number of outs already made. Returning the ball to the pitcher in the circle will result in time being called.
11. There will be no walks.
12. There will be no infield fly rule.
13. Fielders CANNOT STAND on a base unless they are receiving a throw.
14. A throw is considered as the ball being thrown overhand to another player. Rolling the ball is not allowed and will not be considered a throw. (No “bowling” is allowed)
15. There will be no base stealing.
16. Catchers may not throw down on runners on any base
17. 6U can use a combination of coach Pitch and Tee-Ball rules (coach gets 3 pitches then the batter can get 2 swings with the ball on the tee).
18. All infielders MUST wear a face shield.
6-Under and 8-Under Coach Pitch Rules:
1. 6 runs or 3 outs per 1⁄2 inning. Following the 3rd out or 8th run scored, all play is stopped
in order to prevent injury.
2. There will be 10 defensive players allowed on the field. There must be no more
than 6 infielders. The outfielders must play at least 10 feet beyond the bases. If a team has 10 defensive players they must also bat 10. DP Flex rule can only be used if batting at least 10 and have the 11th girl listed as a flex
3. 5 pitches or 3 swinging strikes, 5th and consecutive fouls will not be counted against the 5 pitch count.
4. If the coach pitcher is hit by the ball it is a do over no pitch. The batter will return to the batter’s box and assume the count that was on them before the pitch.
5. The Player-Pitcher must remain in the pitching circle until the ball is pitched. The Pitcher-Player may not interfere with Coach-Pitcher. The Coach-Pitcher may pitch at any distance inside the 16 foot pitching circle and within the boundaries of the 24 inch pitching rubber. To clarify, the Coach-Pitcher must be touching or be directly in front of the pitching rubber with both feet inside the pitching circle and use a straight ahead pitching approach. Coach-Pitchers may not pitch from either side of the pitching rubber so as to gain the advantage of a directional hit. Penalty: If at any time prior to release of the ball, the Coach-Pitcher steps outside of the pitching circle or is outside the imaginary 24 inch pitching rubber boundaries, a strike will be called on the batter.
6. While the ball is in play, all runners are free to advance at their own risk. Play is stopped on defense by stopping the lead runner. Once the lead runner has been stopped, the ball is no longer in play. The ball is thrown to the pitcher’s circle and no runner may advance.
Example #1: Runner “A” is at 2nd base when the batter (Runner “B”) hits the ball. Runner “A” then runs and reaches third base safely, while the ball is fielded and is thrown to the 3rd baseman. The 3rd baseman now possesses the ball and is capable of tagging Runner “A” out if she was to attempt to advance. The Umpire declares play stopped. The ball is then thrown to the pitching circle and Runner “B” is halted at 1st base.
Example #2: Using the same scenario as Example #1, Runner “A” is at 2nd base when the batter (Runner “B”) hits the ball. However, Runner “A” is tagged out prior to reaching 3rd base. In this scenario, the ball is not dead, but rather Runner “B” would now become the lead runner and may continue to advance at her own risk until she is declared out or her progress is stopped by the defense. The umpire then declares play stopped and the ball is thrown to the pitching circle.
7. Balls must be approved. (COR 0.47 – 375 Compression 11 inch. Optic yellow)
8. Two coaches can stand in the outfield in foul ball area only 15 feet beyond the bases, one on each side of the field.
9. Runners may leave the base when the coach releases the pitch.
10. Run rule is 12 runs after 3rd inning, 10 runs after 4th inning, and 8 runs after 5th inning.
11. Unlimited amount of players on the roster.
12. Teams can bat up to 13 players. Lineup may consist of 10 players with up to 3 EPs.
13. If the Coach Pitcher interferes with a defensive player trying to make a play on the ball, it will be considered a dead ball out and no runners can advance.
14. There will be no base stealing. Throwing down in back of a runner is allowed but if the catcher throws down behind a runner then the catcher is making a play on the runner and ALL runners may advance.
Example 1: Runner on first breaks toward 2nd base when the pitcher coach pitches the ball, catcher catches the ball and returns it to the pitcher. Runner must retreat to 1st base. Example 2: Runner on first breaks toward 2nd base when the pitcher coach pitches the ball, catcher catches the ball and throws at runner off of 1st base. Runner may advance to 2nd or retreat to 1st base, in either example runner can be tagged out. If 2nd or 3rd base are occupied then those runners can also advance with the risk of being tagged out.
15. Bunting and Slapping are allowed.
16. NO SMASH Hitting (Faking a bunt and then hitting away)
17. There will be no “Infield Fly Rule” or “Intentional Walk” for 8-Under.
18. A throw is considered as the ball being thrown overhand or underhanded to another player. Rolling the ball is not allowed and will not be considered a throw. If in the umpires’ judgement the ball was rolled to another player then the runner will be declared safe.
19. The Catcher may not catch a foul ball unless they are in the catcher’s box when the pitch is thrown and in the normal Catchers position. If the Catcher is not in the normal Catchers position, this will not be considered a caught foul ball. IF THE GIRL DECIDES TO PLACE HERSELF ANYWHERE OTHER THAN THE CATCHER’S BOX AND CATCH A FOUL, IT IS CONSIDERED A NON CAUGHT FOUL BALL.
20. All Players MUST wear a face shield
8-Under Modified Girl Pitch Rules:
1. The Player-Pitcher will pitch 5 pitches or until there are 3 balls on the batter, whichever comes first. If the batter does not hit the ball or strike out, then a coach assume the count on the batter and will have the opportunity to pitch up to 3 pitches. If the batter fouls off the second pitch from the coach, she will remain at bat until she hits the ball fair or strikes out.
2. There will be no walks. The batter must hit the ball or strike out. The only time a batter may take first base is if she is hit by a Player pitch.
3. The umpire will record balls and strikes on the batter.
4. The pitching distance will be 35 feet with an 8-foot circle.
5. The bases will be set at 60 feet.
6. All batters and runners must wear a batting helmet.
7. There will be 10 players on Offense and defense. The Player-Pitcher will remain in the pitching circle when the coach pitches.
8. Catchers must wear full protective equipment (mask-throat protector, chest protector, shin guards).
9. If the catcher does not occupy the catcher’s box in the squatted position until the Coach-Pitcher pitches the ball, they will not be allowed to catch a foul ball and have it considered an out. It would be considered a dead ball foul.
10. A throw is considered as the ball being thrown overhand to another player. Rolling the ball is not allowed and will not be considered a throw.
11. There will be no base stealing, or throwing behind the base runners.
12. There will be no infield fly rule.
13. All Players MUST wear a face shield.
10.4 8-Under Machine Pitch Rules:
1. 5 hittable pitches = 5 strikes (if the ball is fouled off on the last pitch, then the batter continues to bat). A ball that is not hittable will be called a no pitch by the umpire.
2. The runner may lead off when the ball leaves the machine.
3. There will be 10 defensive players allowed on the field. There will be 4 outfielders behind the base path. The pitcher must have one foot in the circle and be even with the pitching machine.
4. A minimum of 9 players for either team. . If a team has 10 defensive players they must also bat 10. DP Flex rule can only be used if batting at least 10 and have the 11th give listed as a flex
5. Two coaches are allowed on the field in the outfield.
6. The Machine will be set at approximately 35 MPH.
7. Bunting and stealing will be allowed. NO SMASH Hitting (Faking a bunt and then hitting away)
8. The bases will be set at 60 feet.
9. Time will be called when the ball is back in the pitcher’s circle.
10. One base will be awarded on any overthrow trying to pick off a runner.
11. A throw is considered as the ball being thrown overhand to another player. Rolling the ball is not allowed and will not be considered a throw.
12. Runners will not be allowed to steal home. If the ball is hit and it hits the pitching machine or coach, it is an automatic one base for all runners.
13. Play stops when the ball is back in the pitching circle or the lead runner is stopped.
14. 8 foot circle around the machine
15. All players MUST wear a face shield.
10-Under Special Rules
1. An 11” diameter game ball must be used in all 2D Sports Softball sanctioned
events.
2. The pitching distance will be 35 feet.
3. 10-Under teams will play by the same rules as older age divisions, with the only exception being the ball size and pitching distance.
4. Heart Guards are recommended for the Pitchers
High School Division Special Rules
1. High School group is a combined age group of 16-U and 18-U.
2D Sports Softball Sportsmanship Guidelines
Sportsmanship Guidelines:
1. If a player gets hurt, after the play has stopped the umpire shall call Dead Ball. Until Dead Ball is called on an injury the runners may advance at their own risk. Safety of the players is taken very seriously and should be monitored by all coaches and umpires.
2. Unsportsmanlike behavior by a player, coach or fan is an ejectable offense.
3. Umpires should be fair, impartial, use good judgment and never speak rudely or out of turn to a player, coach or fan. An umpire puts a human element into the game. They are subject to making errors the same as coaches and players are subject to making mistakes. In the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship we will not allow anyone to show disrespect towards them because of their decisions. 2D Sports Softball will do their part by pursuing the best decision makers to call 2D Sports Softball events.
4. Coaches will follow the rules of sportsmanship, never stall a game, be a graceful winner and loser, and never speak rudely or out of turn to a player, coach, fan or umpire. Coaches are also responsible for the sportsmanship of their own players and fans. Coaches should not tolerate unsportsmanlike conduct from their own players or fans.
12.1 Team Classifications
1. Class A – Teams that are in the top 20% of the top points in their age group nationally will be considered Class “A” Teams.
2. Class B – Teams that are within the 80% – 41% of the points in their age group nationally will be classified as “B” Teams
3. Class C – Teams that are in the bottom 40% of the points in their age group nationally will be classified as “C” Teams
4. Teams that are formed and / or play in a non-drafted league will be consider as a class “C” Team
5. Team classifications based on points can cause true “C” or “B” teams to be bumped up in class. If this happens to your team contact your local 2D Sports Softball director to have them evaluate your team to see if you can be reclassified.
12.2 Pickup Players
1. Pickup Players must be listed on the team roster as pickup Players.
2. Pickup players may play down in Classification. But players “playing down” may not play in the pitchers position in class “C” events.
SEEDING RULES
- Pool play overall record (winning percentage)
- If two teams are tied -Head to Head winner
- If three teams are tied – If one team has defeated both other teams, that team advances. If not go to #4.
- Total runs allowed in pool play.
- If still tied – Total runs scored in pool play
- If still tied – Total runs allowed minus game with most runs allowed in pool play
- If still tied – Total runs allowed minus two games with most runs allowed in pool play
- If still tied – Runs scored inning by inning starting with first game until one team has more runs after a complete inning starting with pool games
- Second place teams will always be taken ahead of 3rd place teams for wild cards, 3rd place ahead of 4th place, etc.
TIE BREAKERS – Games in pool play that are tied after time limit has expired shall be recorded as a tie. If a bracket game is tied after time has expired, the game will be continued using the International Tie Breaker Rule:
International Tie Breaker Rule:
The player, who had the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2nd base. A substitute may be inserted. A courtesy runner may be used for the pitcher or catcher. This procedure would be done at the beginning of each half inning; until a winner is determined.
*these general rules are subject to change for specific tournaments and will be pre-determined by the tournament director(s).
FORFEIT – Any forfeit in pool play will result in the forfeiting team being placed as the last seed in the tournament.
The tournament committee will rule on all forfeits. No team should benefit from the result of a forfeit in an unfair manner. This rule could result in a dispute and the tournament committee reserves the right to look at and rule in the fairest possible way. The committee’s decision will be final.
It is the coaches’ decision if he/she wants to protest a ruling during a game. The official rules of protesting a game must be adhered to for the protest to be considered. A check written to the 2Dsports for $300 must be submitted to the Umpire in order for the game to be halted and the protest considered by the Tournament Director. If the protesting team is correct, the protest check will be returned. A coach/team cannot protest based on an umpire’s judgment call.
2D SPORTS ‘BACK THE BLUE’ POLICIES:
Zero tolerance policy on verbal and physical abuse of umpires; including profanity or consistent berating of officials during the game.
Zero tolerance policy on verbal and physical abuse/altercations with opposing coaches and fans; including profanity or consistent verbal altercations throughout the game.
Zero tolerance policy on verbal and physical abuse of event staff; including facility workers, directors, and event staff
In the event of an altercation:
- one warning will be issued by umpire and/or director
- if behavior continues, fan will be ejected along with the head coach of the team
Zero tolerance policy on excessive ejections of coaches from games.
In the event of a coach ejection:
- The director and umpire will review the ejection; if deemed excessive, the coach will be suspended a minimum of 1 game (at the discretion of the director and umpire in chief)
All teams participating in 2DSports Tournaments are required to carry team/participant liability insurance coverage. 2DSports carries event insurance policies for all 2DSports tournaments venues; this liability insurance covers all individuals in attendance at the tournament except the participants (who are covered by a team insurance policy).
2D Sports must be named as ‘additionally insured’ on the certificate. (this can be requested from the insurance provider, free of charge).
2D Sports 10946 Whispering Path Drive, Shreveport LA 71106
- Minimum Insurance Requirements:
- General Liability $1,000,000 occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate
- Participant Medical $25,000 each participant
- Include the name of the team registered in the tournament(s) on the Certificate – a certificate for each team is required
CANCELLATION POLICY
If a coach/manager removes his team less than 1-week prior to a tournament, that team forfeits the full tournament entry fee.
INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURE
In the event of inclement weather, an email and/or text message will be sent to the contact submitted online of each participating team; updated information will be posted on softball.2dsports.org and the mobile app regarding any changes in schedule.
REFUND POLICY
After a team has played two games, there will not be a refund/credit. If the tournament is rained out (or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances) and no games are played, the team will get a full credit towards a future event.
PAP cost will be determined by each Region/Area and subject to change. PAP cost will be included in Pre-Event Emails.
PAP cost varies by region, age, state, etc
$10 per day, $5 Senior, $5 Military, 10u free – colored wristbands will be distributed to each fan at the time of entry; each fan MUST wear the wristband on the wrist and have the appropriate colored wristband to gain entry into each venue on a given day.
[CASHLESS GATE] Our cashless system provides a more secure transaction and experience for both the customer and staff. The gate fees are $10/day, $5 Senior & Military, 10u free + a ticketing fee of 5% + $0.99 cents per transaction; this fee covers the cost of the ticketing system provided by sLocal Tix. General Admission tickets can be pre-purchased using the link above; both General Admission and Senior/Military tickets are available at the gate upon your arrival.
About 2D Sports
2D Sports is a tournament logistics company that hosts amateur sports tournaments at premier sports facilities across the Southeast.