Intramural Sports Officials Guidelines

Transcription

1 Intramural Sports Officials Guidelines I. Employment Requirements Sports Officials are required to attend training clinics and scrimmage games prior to the sport season, no experience necessary. Each official is responsible for providing proof of eligibility for employment and completing all employment forms in the Campus Recreation Office, 203 Woollen Gymnasium, before they will be scheduled to officiate. II. Payroll Information All officials will begin employment at $6.25/hour and all employees are eligible for pay raises under the following guidelines: All raises within a category are $.25/hour and are automatic after 2 consecutive semesters of employment provided that the employee receives a favorable recommendation from his/her supervisor. One summer session counts for ½ semester of employment, 2 summer sessions counts for 1 full semester of employment. All raises become effective at the beginning of a semester. III. Sports officials will be paid on a bi-weekly basis (a list of payroll periods will be posted in the Intramural office) and they may pick-up there checks in 203 Woollen Gymnasium on Friday after 10:00 am. Officials also have the option of using the direct deposit form of receiving their checks. Each official will be responsible for checking in and out with the Intramural Supervisor and must sign the daily sign-in sheet at the completion of their shift. All employees are encouraged to keep a record of all the hours that they have worked. Any discrepancies should be brought to the attention of your direct supervisor. Weekly Meetings Weekly meetings will be conducted from 3:00pm to approximately 4:00pm, starting with the first Friday of each sport season. The purpose of the meetings will be to: 1. Address questions, problems, comments, and concerns of the officials, Supervisors, Interns, Coordinator, and/or Assistant Director of Intramural Sports. 2. Review assessments/evaluations and/or additional training materials. 3. Discuss the weekly schedule and fill any openings. 4. Review payroll. IV. Scheduling Procedures All sport officials will be required to complete an Officials Information Sheet (for each sport) that contains their general availability. Weekly changes in availability must be ed to me before 12 noon on Wednesday of each week for the upcoming weekly schedule. An Emergency Substitution Form will be posted each week in the Intramural Sports Office for those individuals wanting additional shifts for the upcoming week. Sport Officials needing a substitute should consult this form for a possible replacement. 1

2 The Intramural Coordinator will assign games for each official. All weekly schedules will be posted on Thursdays by 5:00 pm, outside of the Intramural Office and at (Campus Recreation web page) by Friday at 12:00 noon. V. Substitution Procedures In the event that an official is unable to work their scheduled assignment(s), they may secure a substitute. However, all officials are responsible for finding their own substitutes. During the weekly officials meetings, the next week schedule will be reviewed, and substitutes may be scheduled at that time. Officials unable to attend the weekly meetings may the Official s Listserv asking for a substitute. Once an official locates a possible substitute, they must let me know via by 4:00 pm the day of the shift for approval. All schedule changes must be approved by me, the Intramural Coordinator or the Assistant Director. Until the scheduling change is approved, the requesting official is responsible for that shift. *NOTE: In case of extreme emergencies, the Intramural Sports Staff will assist with finding a substitute. VI. Arriving Late/Failure to Fulfill Assignments If an official is continuously late for their game assignments, a meeting with the Coordinator of Intramural Sports will be scheduled prior to the official s next scheduled shift to determine continued employment. In the event of a no show concerning a substitution by either official, the originally scheduled official will be held responsible if a completed form was not received. If a completed form was received and approved, the substituting official will be held responsible. Absences and Tardiness will not be tolerated. Penalties are as follows: Absences: Tardiness: 1 st offense: Warning: Official will be taken of the schedule for the rest of the week. (Official must meet with Official s Director before next scheduled shift) 2 nd Offense: Official will not be schedule for the next two weeks. Must have meeting with director to discuss level of action taken. 2 nd offense could lead to possible termination 3 rd Offense: Termination 1 st Offense: Warning: A verbal warning 2 nd Offense: Official will not be scheduled for the following week; the official is still responsible for scheduled games that week. 3 rd Offense: Official will be taken of the schedule for the rest of the week. Must have meeting with director to discuss level of action taken. 3 rd offense could lead to possible termination. 4 th Offense: Termination VII. Check IN/OUT Procedures Officials are required to report the location of their assignments 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. 2

3 1. Flag Football, Soccer and Softball: Officials will report to the Student Supervisor located on Hooker Fields. (Normally near the equipment shed). 2. Volleyball and Indoor Soccer: Officials will report to the Student Supervisor in Fetzer Gym A. 3. Basketball: Officials will report to the Student Supervisors in Woollen Gym (Normally located between Courts 5&6). *Officials MUST check out with the Student Supervisor at the conclusion of their last game* Failure to do so may result in no payment for those hours work during that shift. VIII. Official s Uniform All Officials will be provided with an Intramural Staff shirt before the season. The staff shirt should be worn when working all intramural contests. Your staff shirt should be tucked in at all times while officiating. Officials should wear black, or dark colored shorts or warm-up pants. Jeans are not allowed. Hats that are black or UNC related may be worn while officiating outdoor sports. Each official will receive a clicker. Being accepted as a respected official and demonstrating proper appearance will have a strong positive correlation. Officials may not wear the following items: 1. Greek and/or any other campus organization clothing (except COA clothing) while in the view of participants. 2. Jewelry (including rubber bands), earrings, hard and unyielding hair control devices (not including hats), or bandanas. 3. Any kind of open toed shoe including sandals and flip-flops *** Leave your cell phone at home! If you are caught using your cell phone you will be asked to go home. *** It is important to look the part. If you are not properly dressed, you will not be allowed to work and will be responsible for your missed shift. Always look and be professional. IX. Assessments/Evaluations Each official will receive oral, written, and/or videotape assessment(s) of their field/court performance(s) throughout the season. The Intramural Staff will provide at least two written evaluations during the sport season. Student Supervisors and Veteran Officials will aid in oral assessments on a nightly basis. Evaluations will be distributed in writing on the fields/courts, via , or discussed at the weekly meetings. These assessments will be used in determining game assignments, attendance at extramural events, and end of the year awards sponsored by the COA. X. Staff Incentive Program: Sponsored by Revolution Sports Officials will be given awards based on the number of games works, sports officiated, meetings attended, and years of service to the department. Officials will receive the following points to begin the year based on their experience: 1 year 2 points 2 years 4 points 3

4 3 years 6 points 4 years or more 8 points Additionally, officials will receive the following points throughout the semester: 1 point for each weekly meeting attended 1 point for game officiated 2 points for working multiple sports (awarded one time only) 5 points for a working a special event Each schedule shift that an official is absent will result in 5 points being deducted. XI. Accidents In case of any accident, report it immediately to the supervisor on duty. They will take the necessary precautions. Your job is to keep all unnecessary people away and assist the supervisor as instructed. Under no circumstances are you to move, touch, or attempt to move the injured person(s) unless instructed to do so by the supervisor. After your shift you may be asked to help the supervisor fill out an accident report. XII. Participation in Games by Officials Officials are encouraged to participate in all intramural sports. However, you may not play during any time you are scheduled to work. If you have a night when your team is scheduled to play, let your supervisor know and he/she will not schedule you during those nights. As an official, you know what it is like working a game. You need to be a good example by showing good sportsmanship while you are playing. Show the utmost respect for the officials working your game and encourage your team to do the same no matter how you feel about the officiating. This will improve the sportsmanship of all participants. XIII. Expectations A. Be on time this means 15 minutes before your first scheduled game. B. Have your Staff shirt TUCKED IN. C. Know the rules. D. Hustle. E. Be professional and courteous. 4

5 University of North Carolina Intramural Sports Official s Absence Form Absent Official s Name Date of Absence Time Scheduled Activity Location Absent Official s Phone Number Reminder Call YES NO Action Taken Sport Director/Supervisor on Duty Date After Form is completed, please put form in Dustin Van Sloten s box. Thank You For Office Use Only First Offense: Warning (must meet with director before next scheduled shift) Second Offense: Must have meeting with director to discuss the level of action taken. Second offense could lead to possible termination. Action Taken Director of Officials Date 5

6 University of North Carolina Intramural Sports Discipline Documentation Form Employee Information Name of Employee: Employee s Job Title: Incident Information Date/Time of Incident: Location of Incident: Description of Incident: Witness to Incident: Was this incident in violation of employee guidelines? YES NO If yes, specify which policy and how the incident violated it: Action Taken What action will be taken with this employee? Has the impropriety of the employee s actions been explained to the employee? YES NO Did the employee offer an explanation for the conduct? If so, what was it? Signature: Date: 6

7 INTRAMURAL SPORTS OFFICIALS EVALUATION Name of Official Date FD/CT Evaluator Game Difficulty Rating : 1 (unacceptable) 2 (needs improvement) 3 (acceptable/average) 4 (good) Rating (please Category circle) X Weight Total Game Control/Conduct X 5 = Judgement/Consistency X 5 = Rules/Knowledge X 5 = Mechanics/Positioning X 4 = Decisiveness/Reactions X 4 = Appearance/Hustle/Integrity X 2 = Grand Total Comments List other crew members and positions: INTRAMURAL SPORTS OFFICIALS EVALUATION Name of Official Date FD/CT Evaluator Game Difficulty Rating : 1 (unacceptable) 2 (needs improvement) 3 (acceptable/average) 4 (good) Rating (please Category circle) X Weight Total Game Control/Conduct X 5 = Judgement/Consistency X 5 = Rules/Knowledge X 5 = Mechanics/Positioning X 4 = Decisiveness/Reactions X 4 = Appearance/Hustle/Integrity X 2 = Grand Total Comments List other crew members and positions: 7

8 Intramural Sports Softball Weekly Schedule Week of Monday Tuesday Field 1 Field 2 Field 1 Field 2 4:00 P P P P B B 4:00 B B SK SK SK SK 5:00 P P P P B B 5:00 B B SK SK SK SK 6:00 P P P P B B 6:00 B B SK SK SK SK 7:00 P P P P B B 7:00 B B SK SK SK SK 8:00 9:00 P P P P B B 8:00 B B SK SK SK SK P P P P B B 9:00 B B SK SK SK SK 10:00 P P P P B B 10:00 B B SK SK SK SK OFFICIALS ARRIVE 15 MINUTES BEFORE GAME TIME 8

9 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Intramural Sports Program SPORTSMANSHIP EVALUATIONS 1. Team Name: Rating [1-10] Reason for low rating: Additional Comments: Sports Officials Signature: 2. Team Name: Rating [1-10] Reason for low rating: Additional Comments: Sports Officials Signature: 10-9 Normal Game: Questioning an official on rule interpretation only. 8-7 Some static: Some question of judgment or repeated complaints. No infractions issued. 6-5 Difficulty: Repeated question of judgment. Unsportsmanlike call in softball, volleyball, flag football; yellow card in soccer; and a technical foul in basketball. 4-3 Harassment: Multiple unsportsmanlike calls, technicals (not on the same participant), yellow cards or spectators harassment of the officials. 2-1 Ejection: Any ejection, whatever the cause. 0 Fighting: Includes threatening an employee. If involved in a fight your team could be removed from the league for the remainder of the season.. SPORTS OFFICIALS RATINGS 1. Team Name: Rating [1-10] Team Captain s signature: 2. Team Name: Rating [1-10] Team Captain s signature: 9

10 University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Intramural Sports Softball Rules Amateur Softball Association (ASA) Rules will be used. Italic print indicates special rules for UNC-Chapel Hill play Italic bold print indicates special rules for co-recreational play. All other rules listed are for Men s, Women s, and Co-Recreational play. The Game, Field, Players, and Equipment Time Regulations Team(s) who are not present on their assigned field at their scheduled time shall receive a forfeit. No grace period. Team(s) that show up but who are not ready for play at the scheduled time shall be penalized by the starting of the game clock towards the 45 minute time limit if they are at fault (and not a delay due to rain or previous game running over their allotted time). Each game is scheduled for seven (7) innings or 45 minutes, whichever occurs first. No new inning will be started after 45 minutes have expired, but an inning started before then will be completed if necessary. Tie games will be decided by extra innings. Three (3) full innings (or two and a half innings if the home team is ahead) constitute a complete game whenever inclement weather appears. The Intramural Sports Program Supervisor will make this decision. Player Identification A valid UNC One Card must be shown before a participant may be allowed to play. Equipment No Jewelry (i.e. earrings, watches, necklaces, bracelets, etc.) is allowed. Medical bracelets and/or necklaces are allowed, as long as they are secured to the body. Bats, balls, and a catcher s mask (if preferred) will be provided. No other equipment will be provided. No metal cleats are allowed. All players must wear shoes. Sports Officials The game shall be played under the supervision of two (2) to three (3) officials. Each team shall designate to the Plate Umpire the team captain(s). IF more than one player is designated, a speaking captain must be selected to make all decisions. Team representatives, including players, substitutes, replaced players, coaches, trainers, and other persons affiliated with the team are subject to the rules of the game, and shall be governed by decisions of the officials assigned to the game. The official s decisions are final. Official s judgment cannot be protested. 10

11 Any rules interpretation protest must be made to the umpire at the time of the incident during the game. The Intramural Sports Program Supervisor must be notified immediately. If this is not done, the protest will not be considered. Player Requirements A team must start and finish with at least eight (8) players A Game shall be played with 10 players Official Game = 8-10 players present Default = 5-7 players present Forfeit = less than 5 players present Courtesy runners may be used when necessary. The courtesy runner must be either the last person who received an out or a player who is not in the game. Player Substitutions Teams may choose one of the following before the game begins. Your choice must be made to the Plate Umpire before the game begins. After you have made your choice, you cannot change your substitution pattern once the game has begun. Choice A- UNLIMITED SUBSTITUTION If a team has more than ten (10) players, it may list all of its players on the batting order and each player will bat in order as his/her name appears. You must follow the original lineup throughout the game. Late players must be added to the end of the batting order. Choice B- ASA Re-entry Rule a maximum of ten (10) players may bat. Others may be substituted into the lineup at any point. 1. Any of the starting players may be substituted and re-entered once, provided players occupy the same batting positions whenever in the lineup. The starting player and the substitute(s) may not be in the lineup at the same time. 2. A starting player removed from the pitching position by the umpire and substituted for can reenter the game at another position, but cannot return to the pitching position. Point Differential 1. If a team is ahead by fifteen (15) or more runs after the trailing team has batted 3 times, then the game shall be called. 2. If a team is ahead by ten (10) or more runs after the trailing team has batted 4 times, then the game shall be called. Appeal Plays Live Ball- if the ball has not been called dead, a fielder may go directly to a base or base runner, apply a tag and wait for the umpire s call Dead Ball- Once the ball has been returned to the infield and time has been called, any outfielder (including the pitcher or catcher), or outfielder with or without the ball, may make a verbal appeal. The Plate Umpire should acknowledge the appeal, and the administering umpire should make a decision on the play. Base runners cannot leave their base during this period, as the ball remains dead until the next pitch. 11

12 Batting Order- Except for a wrong batter at bat, batting out of order is an appeal play which may be made only by the defensive team. The defensive team forfeits its right to appeal batting out of order when one (1) legal or illegal pitch has been made to the following batter, or when the pitcher and all infielders have clearly vacated their normal fielding positions and left fair territory on their way to the bench or dugout. 1. If the error is discovered while the incorrect batter is at bat, the correct batter may take his place and legally assume any balls and strikes. Any runs scored or bases run while the incorrect batter was at bat shall be legal. NOTE: The offensive team may correct a wrong batter at the plate with no penalty. 2. If the error is discovered after the incorrect batter has completed his/her turn at bat and before a legal pitch has been made to the following batter or before the pitcher and all infielders have clearly vacated their normal fielding positions and have left fair territory on their way to the bench or dugout area, the player who should have batted is out. 3. Any advance or score made because of a ball batted by the improper batter or because of the improper batter s advance to first base as a result of obstruction, an error, a hit batter, walk, dropped third strike or a base hit shall be nullified. The next batter is the player whose name follows that of the player called out for failing to bat. If the batter declared out under these circumstances is the third out, the correct batter in the next inning shall be the player who would have come to bat had the player been put out by ordinary play. 4. No runner shall be removed from the base he/she is occupying except the batter-runner who has been taken off the base by the umpire as in (#2) above to bat in his proper place. Pitching The pitcher shall take a position with both feet firmly on the ground and with one (1) or both feet in contact with the pitcher s plate. The pitcher s pivot foot must remain in contact with the pitcher s plate throughout the delivery. The pitcher must come to a full and complete stop with the ball in front of the body. The front of the body must face the batter. The position must be maintained at least one (1) second before starting the delivery. The pitcher shall not be considered in pitching position unless the catcher is in position to receive the pitch. Legal Delivery The pitcher must not make any motion to pitch without immediately delivering the ball. The windup is a continuous motion The pitcher must not use a windup in which there is a stop or reversal of the pitching motion. The pitcher must deliver the ball toward home plate on the first forward swing of the pitching arm past the hip with an underhanded motion. The pivot foot must remain in contact with the pitcher s plate until the pitched ball leaves the hand. If a step is taken, it can be forward, backward, or to the side, provided the pivot foot is in contact with the pitcher s plate and the step is simultaneous with the release of the ball. The pitcher must not pitch the ball behind his/her back or through his/her legs. The pitch shall be released at a moderate speed. The speed is left entirely up to the judgment of the umpire. The ball must be delivered with perceptible arc and reach the height of at least six (6) feet from the ground, while not exceeding a maximum height of twelve (12) feet from the ground. He/she does not continue to wind up after he/she releases the ball. The pitcher has ten (10) seconds to release the next pitch after receiving the ball, or after the umpire indicates play ball 12

13 Quick Pitch- The pitcher shall not attempt a quick return of the ball before the batter has taken his/her position or when the batter is off balance as a result of a pitch. Warm-up- At the beginning of each half inning or when a pitcher relieves another, not more than one minute may be used to deliver not more than three (3) warm-up pitches. NOTE: A pitcher returning to pitch in the same half inning will not receive warm-up pitches. No-Pitch- No pitch shall be declared when: - The pitcher pitches during the suspension of play. - A runner is called out for leaving the base before the pitched ball reaches home plate or is batted. - The pitcher pitches before a runner has retouched his/her base after a foul ball has been declared and the ball is dead. - The ball slips from the pitcher s hand during his/her windup or during the back swing. - No player, manager or coach shall call time, employ any other word or phrase, or commit any act while the ball is alive and in play for the obvious purpose of trying to make the pitcher commit an illegal pitch. NOTE: In all of the above, the ball is dead, and all subsequent action of the pitch is cancelled. 3 Balls, 2 Strikes When a batter has one (1) strike and fouls off another pitch for their second strike, they will receive a courtesy strike. This keeps the batter alive but the next strike, whether called, missed or fouled, will result in the batter being out. A batter will receive a walk on the third called ball. Ball is Dead The ball is dead and NOT in play: When the ball is pitched illegally. Exception: if the batter swings, the play stands and the pitch is no longer illegal. When no pitch is declared. When a pitched ball touches any part of the batter s person or clothing whether the ball is swung at or not. The hand is not considered part of the bat. When a fair ball strikes a base runner or umpire before touching an infielder, including the pitcher, or before passing an infielder, other than the pitcher. The batter/runner gets first base and the base runner is out. When a batter/runner interferes with a catcher. The batter/runner is out. When a member of the offensive team intentionally interferes with a live ball. When the ball is outside of the established limits of the playing area. The ball is considered outside the playing area when it touches the ground, person on the ground or object outside the playing area. When a batter bunts or chops the ball When any part of the batter s person is hit with his/her own batted ball when he/she is in the batter s box. When in the judgment of the umpire, the coach touches or physically assists the runner to return or leave a base; or when the coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate in an attempt to draw the throw to home and away from a fielder attempting to make a play. 13

14 When a base runner fails to keep contact with the base to which he/she is entitled until a legally pitched ball has reached home plate. The runner is called out and no pitch is declared. When the catcher interferes with the batter s attempt to hit a pitch. Exception: the ball remains alive and the play stands of the batter reaches first safely and all other runners advance at least one base. When a play is being made on an obstructed runner or if the batter/runner is obstructed before he/she reaches first. When a fielder carries a live ball into dead ball territory. The batter/runner may not advance on a dead ball unless awarded a base(s) by rule. Exception: Catch and Carry Rule- to allow for a little more playing area since the dead ball areas are so close, a player is allowed to catch the ball while completely in playable area then, taking NO MORE THAN TWO (2) STEPS, stop and throw the ball back into play. This is in effect only if the fielder clearly has possession (both feet last leaving playable area) before he/she goes out of play. The ball is alive and IN Play: When a base runner is called out for passing a preceding runner. When no play is being made on an obstructed runner. The ball shall remain live until the play is over or a play is being made on an obstructed runner. When a base is dislodged while base runners are progressing around the bases. In this instance, the base runner should go to the original spot of the base, not to the dislodged base. When a base runner runs more than three (3) feet from a direct line between that base and the next one in regular or reverse order to avoid being touched by the ball in the hand of the fielder. The base runner is out, but the play continues. If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory and in the judgment of the umpire, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball. The batter/runner is not out and the ball is alive. When a thrown ball strikes an umpire. In all of the above situations, the ball remains alive until the umpire(s) call time, which should be done when the ball is held by a player in the infield areas and in the judgment of the umpire, all play has ceased. The batter is out when: The base runner is OUT: The Batter - the second strike is struck at and missed or is a called strike - the courtesy strike is called, missed or fouled - the batter bunts, half swings or chops the ball downward so that the ball bounces high into the air. The Base runner - when a base runner physically passes a preceding runner before that runner has been put out. - When the batter/runner legally overruns first attempts to run to second base and is legally touched by the ball in the hand of the fielder while off base. - When running or sliding for home plate and he/she fails to touch home plate, returns to the dugout, making no attempt to return to base. The fielder then holds the ball in his/her hand while touching home pate and appeals to the umpire for a decision. 14

15 The base runner is NOT out: - When the base runner intentionally interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If this interference, in the judgment of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play and occurs before the base runner is put out, the immediate succeeding runner shall also be called out. - When a base runner is struck with a fair batted ball in fair territory while off base and before it passes out of the infield or touched by an infielder. - When anyone, other than the base runner, physically assists a base runner while the ball is in play. - When a runner, after being declared out or after scoring interferes with a defensive player s opportunity to make a play on another runner. The runner closest to home plate at the time of this interference shall also be called out. - When a base runner fails to keep contact with the base to which he/she is entitled until a legally touched ball has reached home plate. - When a base runner runs behind or in front of the fielder and outside the three (3) foot baseline in order to avoid interfering with a fielder attempting to field a ball in the base path. - When a base runner does not run in a direct line to the base, providing the fielder in the direct line does not have the ball in his/her possession. - When more than one fielder attempts to field a batted ball and the base runner comes in contact with the fielder unintentionally, and in the judgment of the umpire, the contacted fielder was not entitled to field the ball. - When a base runner is touched with a ball not securely held by a fielder. - When hit by a batted ball while the base runner is touching his/her base or a fielder has already touched it, unless he/she intentionally interferes with a ball or a fielder making the play. - When a base runner is hit with a fair batted ball that has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher, and in the judgment of the umpire, no other fielder has a chance to make an out. Fair Ball- A fair ball is a batted ball that: General Definitions - Settles on fair territory between home and first base, or between home and third base. - Is on or over fair territory, including part of first base and third base, when bounding toward the outfield or touches first, second, or third base. - First falls on fair territory beyond first or third base. - While on or over fair territory, touches the person of any umpire or player, judged by the position of the ball, not the player. - While over fair territory, passes out of the playing field beyond the outfield fence. Illegally Batted Ball- An illegally batted ball occurs when: - A batter s foot is completely out of the batter s box on the ground when he/she hits a ball fair or foul. - Any part of the batter s foot is touching home plate when he/she hits the ball. - The batter hits the ball with an illegal bat. Infield Fly- An infield fly is a fair fly ball (not including a line drive) which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort when first and second bases, or first second and third bases are occupied before there 15

16 are two (2) outs. The pitcher, catcher and any outfielder who positions him/herself in the infield at the start of play shall be considered infielders for the purpose of this rule. Infield Fly (continued) The infield fly is ruled when the ball reaches the highest point based on the position of the closest infielder regardless who makes the play. When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the umpire shall immediately declare, Infield Fly. The batter is out. For the benefits of the runners. If the ball is near a foul line, the umpire shall declare, Infield Fly. The batter is out if fair. The ball is alive and runners may advance at the risk of the ball being caught. The runner can tag up and advance once the batted ball is touched (prior to catching), the same as on any fly ball. If a declared infield fly becomes a foul ball, it will be treated the same as any foul. Interference- Interference is the act of an offensive player which impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player while attempting to execute a play. Aiding a runner: The runner is out when anyone, other than the other runner, physically assists him/her while the ball is in play. If this assistance occurs prior to a caught batted fly ball, regardless of whether the ball is fair or foul, a delayed dead ball call will be made, after which he/she will be declared out. Effect: The ball is dead if not caught. If a fair ball, award the batter/runner one base and if a foul ball, the batter will bat again. This includes a homerun. Ball Hitting Umpire: The batter becomes a batter/runner when a fair batted ball strikes the person, attached equipment, or clothing of an umpire or a runner. Base Coach: - When the coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate or near the baseline while a fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball and thereby draws a throw to home plate. Effect: The runner closest to home shall be declared out - When one of more members of the offensive team stand or collect around a base to which a runner is advancing, thereby confusing the fielders and adding to the difficulty of making the play. NOTE: Members of a team include batboy or any other person authorized to sit on team s bench. - When a coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball while in the coach s box, or interferes with the defensive team s opportunity to make a play on another runner. Effect: The runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference shall be declared out. Overall effect of above items: The ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the interference. - By runner: When he interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball or interferes with a thrown ball. If this interference, in the judgment of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play and occurs before the runner is put out, the immediate succeeding runner shall also be called out. 16

17 Note: IF a ball ricochets off one defensive player and another player has the opportunity to make an out, the runner will be ruled out if he/she interferes with a second fielder. -When he she is struck with a fair untouched batted ball while not in contact with a base and before it passes an infielder, excluding the pitcher. Effect for above two teams: When runners are called out for interference, the batter/runner is awarded first base, the ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base legally touched at the time or the interference. -When he/she intentionally kicks a ball which an infielder has missed. Effect: The ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the interference. Interference (continued) -By runner (continued) - When, after being declared out or after scoring, a runner interferes with a defensive player s opportunity to make a play on another runner. Effect: The runner closest to home plate at the time of the interferences shall be declared out. - When a defensive player has the ball or is about to receive the ball and the runner remains on his/her feet and deliberately, with great force, crashes into the defensive player. Effect: The runner is out, the ball is dead, and each other runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the interference. Note: If the act is determined to be flagrant, the offender shall be ejected. - By batter: - The batter shall not hinder the catcher from catching or throwing the ball by stepping out of the batter s box, or intentionally hinder the catcher while standing within the batter s box. Effect: The ball is dead, the batter is out and each runner must return to the last base that, in the judgment of the umpire, was touched at the time of the interference. -By on-deck batter: -The on-deck batter may not interfere with the defensive player s opportunity to make an out: Effect: 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 defensive fielder fielding a fly ball, the batter is out. -By offense equipment on field: - When the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines) or is blocked. Effect: All runners will be awarded two bases, and the award will be governed by the positions of the runners when the ball left the fielder s hand. If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner. 17

18 Exception: If the ball becomes blocked due to offensive equipment not involved in the game, the ball is ruled dead and runners are returned to the last base touched at the time of the blocked ball. If the blocked ball prevented the defense from making a play, the runner closest to home is called out. Obstruction- Obstruction is the act of: - A defensive player or team member who hinders or prevents a batter from striking at or hitting a pitched ball. - A fielder, who is not in possession of the ball, in the act of fielding a batted ball, nor about to receive a thrown ball, which impedes the progress of a runner or batter/runner who is legally running bases. Effect: When any obstruction occurs (including a rundown), the umpire will signal a delayed dead ball. The ball will remain alive. 1. If the obstructed runner is put out prior to reaching the base he/she would have reached had there not been obstruction, a dead ball is called and the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the obstruction will always be awarded the base or bases he/she would have reached, in the umpire s judgment, had there not been obstruction. 2. If the obstructed runner is put out after passing the base or bases he/she would have reached had there not been obstruction, the obstructed runner will be called out. The ball remains alive. 3. When a runner, while advancing or returning to a base, is obstructed by a fielder who neither has the ball nor is attempting to field a batted or thrown ball, or a fielder who fakes a tag without the ball, the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the obstruction, will always be awarded the base or bases he/she would have reached, in the umpire s judgment, had there been no obstruction. If the umpire feels there is justification, a defensive player making a fake tag could be ejected. Obstruction (continued) -When the catcher obstructs, hinders, or prevents the batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball. Effect: The umpire shall give a delayed dead ball signal. 1. If the batter hits the ball and reaches first base safely, and if all other runners have advanced at least one base on the batted ball, catcher obstruction is cancelled. All action as a result of the batted ball stands. No option is given. 2. If the manager/coach does not take the result of the play, obstruction is enforced by awarding the batter first base and advancing all other runners only if forced. Overthrown balls: An overthrow occurs when a thrown ball from a fielder goes beyond the boundary lines of the playing field (dead ball territory) or becomes a blocked ball. -When the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines) or is blocked Effect: All runners will be awarded two bases, and the award will be governed by the positions of the runners when the ball left the fielder s hand. If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner. Exception: 1. When a fielder loses possession of the ball, such as on an attempted a tag, and the ball enters dead ball area or becomes blocked, each runner is awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the ball entered the dead ball area or became blocked. 2. If a runner touches the next base and returns to his/her original base, the original base he/she left is considered the last base touched for the purpose of an overthrow award. 18

19 3. If the ball becomes blocked due to offensive equipment not involved in the game, the ball is ruled dead and runners are returned to the last base touched at the time of the blocked ball. If the blocked ball prevented the defense from making a play, the runner closest to home is called out. Carrying the ball: - When a live ball is unintentionally carried by a fielder from playable territory into dead ball territory. Effect: The ball is dead and each runner is awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the fielder entered dead ball territory. Note: A fielder carrying a live ball into the dugout or team area to tag a player is considered to have intentionally carried I there. Exception: In UNC-Chapel Hill Intramural play, to allow for a little more playing area due to the closeness of the dead ball areas, a player is allowed to catch the ball while completely in playable territory and then, TAKING MORE THAN TWO (2) STEPS, stop and throw the ball back into play. This is if the fielder clearly has possession (both feet last leaving playable area) before he/she goes into dead ball territory. -If, in judgment of the umpire, a fielder intentionally carries, kicks, pushes, or throws a live ball into dead ball territory. Effect: The ball is dead. Each runner is awarded two bases from the last base touched at the time the fielder entered or the ball was kicked, pushed or thrown into dead ball territory. Co-Recreational Softball Rules Player Requirements A team must start and finish the game with at least eight (8) players. A team must consist of one of the following: 1. Ten (10) players of which five (5) must be male and five (5) must be female. 2. Nine (9) players which you can have either: Five (5) males and four (4) females, or Five (5) females and four (4) males. 3. Eight (8) players of which four (4) must be male and four (4) must be female. Fewer than five (5) players constitutes a forfeit. Fewer than eight (8) players but more than five (5) players constitute a default. Team batting orders must alternate men and women. Batting Order Exception: If a team has nine players, then they must list a ghost batter at the end of the batting order. When the ghost batter comes around in the batting order, an out will be recorded. Player substitutions Teams may choose one of the following before the game begins. Your choice must be made to the Plate Umpire before the game begins. After you have made your choice, you cannot change your substitution pattern once the game has begun. Choice A- UNLIMITED SUBSTITUTION If a team has more than ten (10) players, it may list all of its players on the batting order and each player will bat in order as his/her name appears. You must follow the original lineup throughout the game. Late players must be added to the end of the batting order. 19

20 Choice B- ASA Re-entry Rule a maximum of ten (10) players may bat. Others may be substituted into the lineup at any point. Substitutions with this option must be male for male, and female for female -Any of the starting players may be substituted and re-entered once, provided players occupy the same batting positions whenever in the lineup. The starting player and the substitute(s) may not be in the lineup at the same time. -A starting player removed from the pitching position by the umpire and substituted for can reenter the game at another position, but cannot return to the pitching position. Fielding Positions Teams using ten (10) players in the field must have at least two (2) members of each gender in the outfield, and at least three (3) members of each gender in the infield. Teams using eight (8) or nine (9) players must have at least 1 member of each gender in the outfield. Once positions are established when a team takes the field at the beginning of an inning, teams must continue to play the same-sex player at that position for the entire inning (i.e., if a female starts out at shortstop, a female must play shortstop throughout that inning; a team may not change fielding positions in response to certain batters. Receiving Walks Any walk to a male batter will result in a two (2) base award. The next batter (a female) will bat. Exception: With two (2) outs, the female batter has the option to walk or to bat. Misc. There will be no headfirst sliding. University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Intramural Sports Dead Ball Area Clarifications Any Blue Area surrounding the field is considered a dead ball area. In Foul Area: A ball must be caught in live area to be considered an out. * A player who catches the ball in the live area is allowed two steps into the dead ball area for the play to remain live. After two steps into the dead ball area, the ball becomes dead. A ball that is hit into fair territory then veers off into the dead ball area in foul territory results in the next base plus one. 20

21 In Fair Area: A ball that rolls into dead ball area is ruled as next base plus one as soon as it enters the dead ball area. * Including: A ball that is hit into fair territory then veers off into the dead ball area in foul territory. A ball that lands in/on the dead ball area is ruled as next base plus one at the point the ball hits the blue area. A ball that lands over the dead ball area is a homerun, including hitting any object on the furthest side of the dead ball area (e.g. a fence or rock wall). * Hitting the light poles that are in between the turf fields and the grass fields in the air from Field #1 only is also considered a homerun. ***A ball that hits a player on another field or is picked up by a player on another field is ruled as next base plus one*** The next base plus one principle: When the ball enters the dead ball area, the runner will receive the base they were going to plus one base. If they were on a base, they get the next base plus one. 21

22 Plate Umpire Hints and Tips 1. Hustle. 2. Communicate with the base umpire through eye contact and hand signals. 3. Obtain the batting order from both managers at the pre-game meeting, review it making sure there are no errors in names and positions. Discuss the Ground Rules at this time so both managers and the umpires are all in agreement. 4. The plate umpire should always handle introductions of all umpires to the managers during the pre-game conference. 5. On balls 2 & 3 say ball only. If it is ball four, then emphasis should be placed on the Never say, Ball four, take your base, and don t point to first base. 7. On strike 2 say strike only. If it is strike three, then emphasis should be placed on the three. 8. Never say, Strike three, you re out. 9. A verbal or silent delayed strike signal is permissible when a batter swings at a pitch and misses. 10. Do not verbally describe a pitch or use a hand signal. Use only a slight body motion toward the location of the pitch. 11. Really emphasize or sell the call when calling a half-swing or if a batter takes a called third strike. 12. A big third strike call is important but don t intimidate or embarrass the batter with the call. Use a signal and voice that reflects the importance, difficulty, and/or closeness of the play. 13. A dead ball signal and verbalization should be given to end EVERY play similar to a whistle in flag football and basketball. Set Position Position yourself in the slot behind the catcher and slightly inside the inside the corner of home plate so that your eyes are lined up slightly inside the corner and at the top of the strike zone. This position allows the catcher free movement up and down without obstructing the umpire s view and enables you to remain in balance and comfortable. This position will be referred to as working the Slot. Your feet should be placed approximately shoulder width apart with your inside foot slightly forward. It is important that you remain in balance and comfortable. Prior to assuming the set position, the umpire should assume a ready position by properly placing the feet while waiting in a relaxed upright stance. The proper time to drop to the Set Position is immediately after the pitcher has started the wind-up but prior to the release of the ball. The umpire should never be moving into the set position while the ball is in flight toward the plate. It s important to know that you can set too early as well as too late. To assume the Set Position, bend your knees while keeping your back as straight as possible. Shoulders should be square with the pitch. Your eyes should be lined up at the top of the strike zone. Always be able to see the plate and the batter s feet and hands. Strike Zone When a batter assumes a natural batting stance adjacent to home plate, the strike zone is that space over any part of home plate between the batter s back shoulder and front knee. This means the strike zone will grow and shrink depending on the size of the batter. 22

23 Timing It is said that the plate umpire sets the tempo and controls the game. The first step to do this is to develop a sense of timing and rhythm. An umpire who makes calls quickly on every pitch will appear to be guessing. Timing must be slow enough yet deliberate and consistent. Try to make a picture of every pitch. Develop it, watch it again and make your decision. Do that every time in the same rhythm so if you re in doubt no one (or at least almost no one) will notice your little hesitation. If you call everything too quickly and then are in doubt and hesitate one time, everyone will notice your hesitation and be all over you. Allow the pitch to cross home plate. Do not make a call until the pitch has been caught by the catcher. Even though your decision is made as the ball crosses home plate, DO NOT make your call until the ball is in the catcher s glove. Should the pitch be a strike, make the proper mechanic procedure for showing everyone that it is a strike. Should it be a ball, move slightly toward the pitch to indicate where the pitch was located. Make a crisp verbal call, BALL. Count The plate umpire is responsible for keeping the proper count. Relay the count periodically by giving the number of strikes with the right hand and the number of balls with the left hand. In addition, give the count verbally always with the number of balls first. How often the count is given depends on a number of situations: 1. When requested. 2. After a delay in the normal flow of the game. 3. When the plate umpire feels the next pitch would create a change (e.g. three balls/two strikes). The higher caliber of ball being played will dictate the count being given less often. Fly Balls The plate umpire calls ALL fly balls fair or foul, out or safe although the base umpire can assist if the plate umpire doesn t have a good angle for the call. Do not go directly to the play work for a good angle. Loop around to get a good side view of the ball coming down so you can see if a good catch is made. Give a clear sign and use a loud voice to indicate safe or out. Fair and Foul Balls On fly balls near the base lines, the priority call is always fair or foul, then out or safe. If you do not think in terms of these priorities, on a routine fly ball near the lines that is dropped, everyone knows the batter is safe but no one, including the umpire, will know whether or not the ball was fair or foul. Batted balls hit down the foul lines should be called in a very decisive manner. On all foul balls, except a caught foul fly ball, the Dead Ball signal should precede the Foul Ball signal. The Foul Ball signal is an extension of either arm away from the foul line. On all caught foul fly balls, the ball remains alive and the out call is all that is necessary. 23