LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE & DIVISIONAL PLAYING RULES

Transcription

1 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE & DIVISIONAL PLAYING RULES 2018

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3 Mission Statement The mission of the Laguna Niguel Girls Softball League is to provide a positive environment to develop individual and team Softball skills, knowledge and appreciation. We strive to promote good sportsmanship, mutual respect, cooperation and fair play in a positive and esteem building environment. LAGUNA NIGUEL GIRLS SOFTBALL COMPLEX Niguel Hills Middle School Paseo Escuela, Laguna Niguel, Parking is provided in the school's front parking lot on school days until 5:00pm. On school days after 5:00pm and on week-ends, parking is allowed on the blacktop in the back of the school (close to the fields). Please do not park on the grass, the track, or on the yellow striped areas. Driving on the grass is strictly prohibited Additional Fields: Crown Valley Community Park Crown Valley Pkwy, Laguna Niguel, CA The City has a rule that we cannot play on the fields for 24 hours after it rains. When the fields are closed, both grass areas and dirt areas are closed. Please call the field conditions number before coming to the fields if it has rained. Field Conditions: (949) , ext. 3 LAGUNA NIGUEL GIRLS SOFTBALL GOLDEN LANTERN #315 LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA lagunaniguelfastpitch@gmail.com

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES 3 6U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 10 8U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 12 10U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 15 12U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 18 14U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 20 CHAMPS GUIDELINES 22 PLAYING EQUIPMENT 23 BATTING CAGE SCHEDULES 24 PITCHING MACHINES 24 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING GUIDE 25 WEATHER GUIDELINES 26 FIELD PREPARATION EQUIPMENT STORAGE 27 FIELD DIMENSIONS 6U-14U

5 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball is the national governing body for Softball. The USA Softball Official Rules of Softball will apply and are distributed by USA Softball each year. 1.2 LNGS Local League Playing Rules are modified for the league and apply to all divisions. 1.3 LNGS Divisional Playing Rules are modified for specific age groups Fairness Rules for all divisions outline the minimum playing time for all players. 1.4 These rules can be amended, omitted or modified during a Board of Directors meeting through a majority vote of those members in attendance. 1.5 Each coach is responsible for understanding and following the USA Softball Rules of Softball (provided to each coach) the LNGS Local League Playing Rules, and the Divisional rules. 1.6 Violations of USA Softball Rules, LNGS Local League Playing Rules, LNGS Divisional Rules, Player Code of Conduct, Coach s Code of Conduct, League Policy or any coach acting in a manner outside of typical decorum as a leader for his/her team, will be reviewed by the LNGS Board of Directors for appropriate action. 2. Playing Field 2.1 Home and Visitor teams will share field preparation responsibilities. A minimum of one (1) representative per team, for each game, should be present to prep the field. Please do not rely on the previous game s field condition. 2.2 Utilize foul territory and grass areas for warm ups. Infield warm ups will not be permitted. 3. Equipment 3.1 Batting helmets must be equipped with a USA Softball face mask, chin strap and are required during all practices and games in each division. Players on offense must continue to wear helmet until safely back inside of dugout. 3.2 Players are prohibited from wearing any jewelry (including hard hair barrettes) during games. Medical alert bracelets or necklaces are not considered jewelry and must be taped to the body with alert tags clearly visible. 2

6 3.3 Face Masks: LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES U/8U/10U: All players are required to wear a face mask at all positions during practice and games U/14U: Pitchers are required to wear a face mask during practice and games. Face masks are recommended for players playing an infield position. 4. Players, Coaches, Substitutes 4.1 A team must field at least (8) players in order to play a game. If a team drops below (8) players, a forfeit (7-0) will be recorded. Coaches must provide a written lineup to the opposing team. 4.2 Recreational Season - If a team begins a game with nine (9) or more players and a player must leave the game, there will be no out recorded for the player leaving the game Pool Play/Tournament - If a team begins a game with nine (9) or more players and a player must leave the game; an out will be recorded on their next at bat only. 4.3 Unlimited substitution is allowed. However, a player who starts an inning on the bench must remain there throughout the inning except in the case of an injury on the field or a substitution which corrects a fairness rule infraction. At no time can a player who starts an inning in the dugout be brought in to pitch. 4.4 Any players added to the lineup after the start of a game will be added to the bottom of the line-up card. 4.5 Any base coach under 18 years of age must wear a batting helmet equipped with a face mask and chin strap while on the field of play. 4.6 If an infraction of the fairness rules occurs, the opposing coach should notify the umpire. If the umpire confirms the violation, he will request that the coach correct the infraction. If the coach makes the appropriate change, play will resume. If the coach does not correct the lineup before the umpire calls for play to resume, the umpire can declare a forfeit. If a coach violates the fairness rules, regardless of intent, the Board will take appropriate action. 5. The Game 5.1 Home Team Determination During Recreational Season Play, the team listed first is the visitor, takes the first base dugout and bats first. The team listed second is home, takes the third base dugout and bats last. 3

7 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES During Pool Play, the team listed first takes the first base dugout; the team listed second takes the third base dugout. Home team is determined based upon coin flip During Elimination Play, the higher ranking team is the home team, occupies the third base dugout and bats last During Closing Day Play, the higher ranking team occupies the third base dugout; home team is determined based upon coin toss. 5.2 Standings Standings are not kept during Recreational Season Play Standings are kept during Pool Play leading up to the End of Season Tournament. 5.3 Game Winner In order to determine these standings, the following point totals will be awarded: Two (2) points for a win. One (1) point for a tie. Zero (0) points for a loss. If teams are tied in the standings at the completion of pool play, the tiebreak criteria will be the following: Runs allowed (lowest) run differential - maximum of 10 runs per game coin toss Recreational Season Play - Games can end in a tie Pool Play - Games can end in a tie upon reaching the end of regulation time. If games are tied at the end of seven (7) innings and time is remaining on the clock, International Tiebreaker is in effect for each subsequent inning During Pool Play, if the home team is ahead at the completion of regulation time, and the visiting team has finished their at bat without tying the score or taking the lead, the game is over. If the home team is behind OR they are tied, they should complete the inning Elimination games must have a winner. If games are tied at the end of seven (7) innings or time has expired with a tie score, International Tiebreaker is in effect for each subsequent inning. 4

8 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES 5.4 Conferences: The official scorekeeper will record as directed by the umpire Offense- One (1) offensive conference (time-out) will be granted per inning. Umpires will not grant a second conference in a given inning. (An offensive conference is recorded when the offense requests a suspension of play to allow the coach or other team representative to confer with the batter, another team representative, and/or runner(s) Defense- One (1) defensive conference will be granted per inning. A defensive conference is recorded when the defense requests a suspension of play and the coach or other team representative enters the playing field to confer with any defensive player, or a defensive player approaches the dugout and receives instruction. Any mid-inning substitution of a catcher is recorded as a defensive conference. If two (2) defensive conferences occur during one inning, the pitcher must be removed from the mound for the remainder of that inning A total of three (3) defensive conferences will be granted per game. On the fourth and each subsequent conference, the pitcher must be removed from the mound for the remainder of the inning. If she had been removed mid-inning two (2) times previously, she would not be eligible to pitch the remainder of the game, including any International Tie Breaker In the event of an extra inning game, there will be one (1) defensive conference allowed per additional inning. Each subsequent conference will result in the pitcher being removed from the mound for the remainder of the inning. If the pitcher had been removed from the mound mid-inning two (2) times previously during the game, the pitcher would not be eligible to pitch the remainder of the game If the clock has less than 10 minutes left, any time out will require the stoppage of the clock. 5.5 Dugout conduct Coaches, Managers, players and spectators may not harass the pitchers, players, coaches or spectators. All cheers should encourage players. No derogatory cheers will be tolerated Coaches are responsible for the actions of their players and spectators. Unsportsmanlike conduct or abusive language will not be tolerated. Continued unsportsmanlike conduct towards an official, team or spectator shall be grounds for the umpire to declare a forfeit against the offending team. 5

9 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES Other than players, a maximum of 4 additional individuals (Head Coach, 2 Assistant Coaches, and Chaperone) are in the dugout during the game. These individuals shall not be outside the designated dugout area except when the rule allows or justified by the umpire. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 Two (2) mid-inning pitching changes are allowed during any inning. (See 5.4.2) 6.2 An individual pitcher may only be removed from the mound mid-inning a total of three (3) times in a game including International Tiebreaker. If removed a third time (mid-inning) she may not pitch for the remainder of the game including International Tiebreaker. 6.3 If a pitcher is removed from the mound mid-batter, and an out occurs during that at bat, an out is recorded against both pitchers. 6.4 If a maximum run rule applies during an inning, all remaining outs are recorded against the pitcher on the mound when the 5 th run scores. If the pitcher was changed mid-batter, all remaining outs will be recorded against both pitchers. 6.5 If a game ends mid-inning (time is expired when home team goes ahead), the pitcher on the mound will only get charged for the number of outs already recorded during that half inning. 6.6 Pitching outs during International Tiebreaker play are not recorded towards the 21 (10U) and 24 (12u) out limit. 6.7 In the event of a forfeit, teams will utilize the pitcher s outs recorded in the previous game to determine available outs for the game following the forfeit. 6.8 Pitchers outs are reset to zero (0) at start & end of pool play. All pitchers start with zero (0) outs pitched for the first game of Elimination Play. 7. Batting 7.1 All players will bat round robin during the game. 8. Base Running 8.1 Sliding is required at any base with a close play, and if the runner does not slide the umpire may rule the runner out. 8.2 A pinch runner may be used in the case of an injury. The pinch runner must be the last recorded out. 8.3 No automatic courtesy runner for pitcher and catcher unless injured. 6

10 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES 9. Protest 9.1 There will be no protests allowed during Recreational Season Play Any clarification regarding Recreational Season Play should be reviewed with the Divisional Representative. 9.2 During the End of Season Tournament Play, all protests will be finalized on the field by the home plate umpire and the Umpire in Chief or League Representative. ALL DECISIONS OF THE UMPIRE IN CHIEF ARE FINAL 10. Umpires 10.1 USA Softball Umpire Payment: LNGS will provide umpire fees to the head coach of each team Each team is responsible for paying the USA Softball scheduled umpire Umpire Late or Missing If the USA Softball scheduled umpire is not present at game time, arrange for a board member to contact the umpire staffing service If the service is unavailable or the service confirms that no umpire is available, then the umpires present will be assigned by priority to the oldest divisions. The youngest division will need to select a mutually agreeable volunteer umpire and start their game as soon as possible Volunteer Umpire The Volunteer Umpire must be an adult Protective equipment, stored behind the snack bar, must be worn at all times Umpires must work behind the plate if possible, not the pitching mound If the volunteer umpire is challenged in any manner, including rules interpretation, the volunteer should immediately seek assistance of any LNGS Board member UIC Report: Report the missing umpire to the UIC, including the game number and field that had a missing umpire. 7

11 LNGS LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES 11. Scoring 11.1 Each home team must supply an official scorekeeper to record the game in the team scorebook. Score by inning and pitching outs will be recorded. At the end of the game, the official scorekeeper will get each coach and the umpire to initial the book In the event of a forfeit, the official score will be recorded as For the first four (4) innings, there will be a maximum run rule of five (5) runs per inning per team U: Regular Season: For the first four (4) innings, there will be a maximum run rule of four (4) runs per inning per team. Mid-season Tournament and End of Season Tournament: For the first three (3) innings, there will be a maximum run rule of four (4) runs per inning per team Beginning with the 5th inning, teams may score an unlimited number of runs A mercy ruling of eight (8) runs after the 5 th inning will be observed Maximum run differential will be recorded at 10 runs. Once the runs surpass this maximum, the scoreboard will be zeroed out until the differential is less than 10. Scores during zeroed out period will still be kept in the official book. All other scoreboard functions will remain active. 8

12 6U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will apply with the following modifications and clarifications. 1.2 The rules of play for the 6U Division are (substantially) modified from the USA Softball 10 and under rules. USA Softball does not write rules for 6 and under age group. 1.3 The coach s prevailing goal is to make sure all players have a fun and positive experience while learning the fundamental skills of the game. 2. Playing Field 2.1 The pitching rubber is set at 30 feet from home plate. 2.2 The bases are set at 45 feet apart. 2.3 The outfield is defined as behind the 60 baselines. (6U only) 3. Equipment 3.1 The 6U Division uses a 10-inch RIF (Reduced Injury Factor) Softball. 3.2 All players are required to wear a face mask at all positions during practice and games. 4. Players, Coaches, Substitutes Fairness Rules 4.1 All players are to be on the field while playing defense; six (6) in the infield including the pitcher and catcher, the remaining players in the outfield (behind 60 baselines) 4.2 Each player will be rotated infield to outfield from inning to inning in order to introduce them to the varying positions on the field. 4.3 Every player must be allowed and should be encouraged to play a position for which she requests, for a minimum of one (1) inning during the season. 4.4 No more than two (2) coaches may be on the field with the players to guide the defense, but they may not touch the ball nor interfere with play. 4.5 Every player must bat in one of the top three (3) positions at least once before any player has batted in those positions twice. 5. The Game 5.1 Games will be a maximum of 60 minutes each. 9

13 6U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 5.2 There will be no umpires used in the 6U-Mini Division. 5.3 There will be no protests in the 6U Division. 5.4 Scores are not kept in the 6U-Mini Division. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 There is no player pitching in the 6U Division. Coach shall pitch from within the pitching circle. 6.2 One (1) additional coach may act as a back-up to the catcher to retrieve passedballs/wild pitches in order to speed up the game. 7. Batting 7.1 All players will hit off of coach pitching. 7.2 If a batter is unable to hit after three (3) pitches, the batter will then hit the ball off the tee. This is done in order to continue the movement of the game. 7.3 There will be a 10 foot arc in front of home plate extending from first base line to third base line. A hit ball that does not pass this line is considered a foul ball. There are no balls, strikes, walks or bunts. Every batter will be encouraged to put the ball into play. 8. Base Running 8.1 Teams will clear bases after three (3) outs or after every batter has batted once in the inning. They should be encouraged to run the bases as a fundamental of the game. 8.2 Any batted ball within the infield base lines entitles the batter to one base only. If a batted ball reaches the outfield (behind 60 baselines) the batter may continue to run until the ball is returned to the infield. If the runner is more than half way to a base they may continue to that base, if not they must go back to last touched base. 8.3 No stealing. Runners may not advance on overthrows. 8.4 No look back rule. 8.5 No drop third strike rule. 8.6 No infield fly rule. 8.7 Home plate is closed. 10

14 8U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will apply with the following modifications and clarifications. 2. Playing Field 2.1 The pitching rubber is set at 30 feet from home plate. 2.2 The bases are set at 60 feet apart. 2.3 Outfielders must start on the grass until the ball leaves the pitcher s hand. 3. Equipment 3.1 The 8U Division uses a 10-inch RIF (Reduced Injury Factor) Softball. 3.2 All players are required to wear a face mask at all positions during practice and games. 4. Players, Coaches, Substitutes, Fairness Rules 4.1 During the regular season until Mid-Season Tournament play begins, one (1) defensive coach will be allowed on the field. The coach must remain on the outfield grass and not interfere with play. When Tournament play begins, there are to be no coaches on the playing field. However, during the entire season (both regular and tournament), one (1) additional coach may act as a back-up to the catcher to retrieve passed-balls/wild pitches in order to speed up the game. The catcher s back-up coach shall be permitted to provide coaching instruction to the defensive team during the regular season, but shall not provide coaching instruction while acting as the catcher s back-up during tournament play. The catcher s back-up shall not interfere with play, and if stealing is permitted, shall not field any passed balls/wild pitches until all advancing base runners attempting to steal a base have reached the next base safely. 4.2 Before Spring Break, every player must bat in one of the top three (3) positions at least once before any player has batted in those positions twice. 4.3 A player cannot sit out two (2) consecutive innings. No player can sit out two (2) innings until every player has sat out one (1) inning. No player can sit out three (3) innings until every player has sat out two (2) innings. 4.4 Each player must play at least one (1) of the first three (3) innings in the infield per game. If the game proceeds to the fifth inning, each player must play at least two (2) of the five (5) innings in the infield. 11

15 8U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 4.5 There will be ten (10) defensive players allowed on the field: pitcher, catcher, four (4) infielders and four (4) outfielders. All four (4) outfielders must be positioned on the outfield grass. 4.6 Every player must be allowed and should be encouraged to play a position for which she requests, for a minimum of one (1) inning during the season. 5. The Game 5.1 No new inning may begin after 1 hour, 20 minutes or scoreboard set at (80) minutes. An inning is considered complete when the 3 rd out is recorded during the home teams turn at bat. The drop dead rule (revert back to previous inning) is in effect at the (1) hour and (40) minutes limit (100 minutes). 5.2 Run Limit: Regular Season: For the first four (4) innings, there will be a maximum run rule of four (4) runs per inning per team. Mid-season Tournament and End of Season Tournament: For the first three (3) innings, there will be a maximum run rule of four (4) runs per inning per team. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 The first half of the season coach pitch will be in effect once four (4) balls have been awarded to the batter. See examples below (6.3). 6.2 The second half of the season will be player pitch only, except for coach pitch back up when bases are loaded. (See 6.3) A pitcher is limited to nine (9) outs in any game. One exception reflected in rule During Pool Play (going into effect after the midseason tournament and not applying to the end of season tournament), for the first inning only, there will be no coach pitch on 4 balls. A player can walk home. The 4-run inning limit will remain in effect. 6.3 The pitcher starts the count. After the count of four (4) balls, the batter will walk to first base. If the bases are loaded, the batting team s coach steps in and finishes the existing strike count (see table below) to the batter from the pitching rubber. Examples: The count is 4 balls & 0 strikes: coach pitches 3 pitches. The count is 4 balls & 1 strike: coach pitches 2 pitches. The count is 4 balls & 2 strikes: coach pitches 1 pitch. 6.4 The batter will strike out if, after receiving the above number of pitches from the coach, she has not put the ball in play. If the batter fouls the 3 rd strike she will be given another pitch. 6.5 While the coach is pitching, the pitcher must remain in the circle and may not be any closer to home than the pitching rubber. If the coach makes contact with a live batted 12

16 8U DIVISION PLAYING RULES ball, it will be considered a dead-ball, all runners cannot advance, and an out will be recorded. Any out is recorded to that pitcher. The coach must start in contact with the pitching rubber while pitching. 6.6 If a batter is hit by a pitch other than a coach s pitch, the batter will be awarded first base If bases are loaded, the strike count will be cleared (set to zero) and the batting team s coach will pitch to the batter as per 6.3 above. 6.7 For pitcher development, the pitcher will start their motion with both feet on the pitcher s plate and will be encouraged to continue with a fast pitch motion. 6.8 Illegal Pitch: 7. Batting Regular Season: There is NO penalty for balks and/or illegal pitches during the regular season. Umpires are encouraged to provide feedback to pitchers/coaches when an illegal pitch occurs Mid-Season Tournament & End of Season Tournament: A warning is to be issued for the first illegal pitch infraction per pitcher. A ball will be called for any and all subsequent illegal pitches by the same pitcher. 7.1 No bunting is allowed while the coach is pitching. 8. Base Running 8.1 No Look back rule. 8.2 No drop third strike rule. 8.3 No infield fly rule. 8.4 Home plate is closed. 8.5 Stealing one base per pitched ball will be permitted. Appropriate leadoffs are encouraged. Per each hit ball, runners may only advance (1) base due to overthrow(s). The play is dead when the ball has entered the pitching circle, regardless of whether or not the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle. The advancing of runner(s) will be determined by the umpire. 8.6 A player can advance a maximum of 2 bases off of a coach pitch, including hitters and base runners (hitter cannot advance past 2 nd on the hit. A runner on first cannot advance past 3rd on the hit). 9. Protest 13

17 8U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 9.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 10. Umpires 10.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 11. Scoring 11.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 14

18 10U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will apply with the following modifications and clarifications. 2. Playing Field 2.1 The pitching rubber is set at 35 feet from home plate. 2.2 The bases are set at 60 feet apart. 2.3 Outfielder must start on grass until ball leaves pitchers hand. 3. Equipment 3.1 The 10U Division uses an 11-inch Softball. 3.2 All players are required to wear a face mask at all positions during practice and games. 4. Players, Coaches, Substitutes Fairness Rules 4.1 Before Spring Break, every player must bat in one of the top (3) positions at least once before any player has batted in those positions twice. 4.2 A player cannot sit out (2) consecutive innings. No player can sit out (2) innings until every player has sat out (1) inning. No player can sit out 3 innings until every player has sat out 2 innings. 4.3 Each player must play at least (1) of the 1 st (4) innings in the infield per game. 4.4 There will be (10) defensive players allowed on the field: pitcher, catcher, (4) infielders and (4) outfielders. All (4) outfielders must be positioned on the outfield grass. 4.5 Every player must be allowed and should be encouraged to play a position for which she requests, for a minimum of (1) inning during the season. 5. The Game 5.1 No new inning may begin after (1) hour and (30) minutes or scoreboard set at (90) minutes. An inning is complete when the 3 rd out is recorded during the home teams at bat. The drop dead rule (revert back to previous inning) is in effect at the (1) hour and (40) minutes limit (100 minutes). 15

19 10U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 5.2 Elimination Play: No new inning after (1) hour and (30) minutes. If game is tied After the last completed inning, International Tie Breaker will be used to determine a winner. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 To strengthen pitcher and catcher development, there is no coach pitching. 6.2 If a maximum run rule applies during an inning, all remaining outs will be recorded against the current pitcher. 6.3 For pitcher development, the pitcher will start their motion with both feet on the pitcher s plate and will be encouraged to continue with a fast pitch motion. 6.4 Pitching Limits 21 out Rule - A pitcher is limited to (21) outs in any (2) consecutive games. (Pitchers outs are reset to (0) at start & end of pool play). All pitchers start with zero (0) outs pitched for the first game of Elimination Play To promote pitcher development, the same pitcher cannot start in (2) consecutive games. 7. Catching Regulations 7.1 To strengthen catcher development within the division, a catcher is limited to three (3) consecutive innings per game. 8. Batting 8.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 9. Base Running 9.1 USA Softball Look Back rule applies. 9.2 Drop third strike rule applies. 9.3 Infield fly rule applies. 9.4 Home plate is open. 9.5 Runners may advance a maximum of two (2) bases on a non-batted ball (overthrow on steal, walk, drop 3 rd strike). The play is dead when the pitcher has the ball under control in the pitching circle. The advancing of runner(s) will be determined by the umpire. 16

20 11. Protest 10U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 9.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 12. Umpires 10.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 13. Scoring 11.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 17

21 12U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will apply with the following modifications and clarifications. 2. Playing Field 2.1 The pitching rubber is set at 40 feet from home plate. 2.2 The bases are set at 60 feet apart. 3. Equipment 3.1 The 12U Division uses a 12-inch Softball. 3.2 Pitchers are required to wear a face mask during practice and games. Face masks are recommended for players playing an infield position. 4. Players. Coaches, Substitutes Fairness Rules 4.1 A player cannot sit out (2) consecutive innings. No player can sit out (2) innings until every player has sat out (1) inning. No player can sit out (3) innings until every player has sat out (2) innings. 5. The Game 5.1 No new inning may begin after (1) hour and (30) minutes or scoreboard set at (90) minutes. An inning is complete when the 3 rd out is recorded during the home teams at bat. The drop dead rule (revert back to previous inning) is in effect at the (1) hour and (40) minutes limit (100 minutes). 5.2 Elimination Play: No new inning after (1) hour and (30) minutes. If game is tied After the last completed inning, International Tie Breaker will be used to determine a winner. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 Pitching Limits 24 out Rule - A pitcher is limited to (24) outs in any (2) consecutive games. (Pitchers outs are reset to (0) at start & end of pool play). All pitchers start with zero (0) outs pitched for the first game of Elimination Play. 18

22 7. Batting 12U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 7.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 8. Base Running 8.1 USA Softball Look Back rule applies. 8.2 Drop third strike rule applies. 8.3 Infield fly rule applies. 9. Protest 9.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 10. Umpires 10.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 11. Scoring 11.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 19

23 14U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 1. Definitions 1.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will apply with the following modifications and clarifications. 2. Playing Field 2.1 The pitching rubber is set at 43 feet from home plate. 2.2 The bases are set at 60 feet apart. 3. Equipment 3.1 The 14U Division uses a 12-inch Softball. 3.2 Pitchers are required to wear a face mask during practice and games. Face masks are recommended for players playing an infield position. 3.2 No metal cleats 4. Players, Coaches, Substitutes 4.1 A player cannot sit out (2) consecutive innings. 5. The Game 5.1 No new inning may begin after (1) hour and (30) minutes or scoreboard set at (90) minutes. An inning is complete when the 3 rd out is recorded during the home teams at bat. The drop dead rule (revert back to previous inning) is in effect at the (1) hour and (40) minutes limit (100 minutes). 5.2 Elimination Play: No new inning after (1) hour and (30) minutes. If game is tied after the last completed inning, International Tie Breaker will be used to determine a winner. 6. Pitching Regulations 6.1 Pitching Limits: Unlimited innings (14u only). 20

24 14U DIVISION PLAYING RULES 7. Batting 7.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 8. Base Running 8.1 USA Softball Look Back rule applies. 8.2 Drop third strike rule applies. 8.3 Infield fly rule applies. 9. Protest 9.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 10. Umpires 10.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 11. Scoring 11.1 USA Softball and LNGS Local League Playing Rules will prevail. 21

25 CHAMPS and 14U/12U DIVISIONS GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION: Our league provides an opportunity for special needs girls to share the game of Softball. These guidelines are for the 14U and 12U players to review ahead of time about the role they will be playing and what they might expect. The Champs Director will contact each scheduled coach a few days before their scheduled CHAMPS day to coordinate your team s support. Champs and 14U/12U Game Support Guidelines 1. 14U/12U Teams: All players are needed from the scheduled 14U/12U team. 2. Schedules: Games are played on Saturdays on Field 5. Teams will be scheduled in rotation to support the Champs Games. 3. Practice: 9:30am sharp to "buddy up" and practice with a CHAMPS player. Please encourage your girls to be on time! Practice usually ends around 10 am and they move into a game format. 4. Game: The CHAMPS game starts when half of the players go up to bat, while the other half plays a position in the field. They may even bat more than once before they switch with the fielders. 5. Buddies: The role of the buddies is to assist their CHAMP in playing the game, although the pitcher buddy and catcher buddy do much more. 6. Post Game: After the game (around 11am, or so) the buddies teach, lead cheers and highfive lines, then participate in post game snack time, sitting and visiting with their CHAMP. We re done by 11: Adults: The program should be flexible in structure and is designed for the kids, no adult assistance if possible. 8. Buddies: should catch and throw to each other correctly to set a good example. Buddies should encourage players to run to the bases, not pull them or hold their hands unless that Champ has a difficult time with balance. Buddies should allow Champs to field the ball as much as possible. These girls and young ladies experience the same thrill of participation and camaraderie that all of our teams do and we are privileged and excited to continue this program. 22

26 1. PLAYERS EQUIPMENT PLAYING EQUIPMENT UNIFORMS Uniforms are supplied by the league as follows: jersey, shorts/pants, and socks. Players may wear long black Softball pants, sliding shorts, knee pads, and must wear cleats. Players should purchase an appropriate size glove and an USA Softball approved helmet. FACE MASKS 6U/8U/10U: All players are required to wear a face mask at all positions during practice and games. 12U/14U: Pitchers are required to wear a face mask during practice and games. Face masks are recommended for players playing an infield position. COACHES BAGS Coaches are given large equipment bags that contain Catcher s helmet, chest protector and shin guards. 3 bats whiffle balls and bag case of regulation Softballs scorebook USA Softball Rules of Softball (when provided by USA Softball) LNGS Local League Rules 2. COACHING AND PLAYING EQUIPMENT STORAGE LARGE BIN 1 (large bin located near batting cages) Jugs pitching machines older pitching machines (green, good for fly balls) pitching machine carts crates with pitching machine balls pop up nets batting tees sliding pads soft toss machines extension cords No field prep gear! PLAYING EQUIPMENT STORAGE AND OVERSUPPLY BIN There is an oversupply bin for storage of extra coaching and players equipment that is not in use. See the Equipment Director for access to this bin for equipment exchange or replacement. 23

27 BATTING CAGE SCHEDULING The following guidelines have been established to facilitate multiple team scheduling. 1. Practice: During scheduled practice times A. Batting Cage: per schedule and on a first come basis for open times B. Courtesy: please exercise courtesy and patience. 2. Games: There will be no batting cage use prior to a team s scheduled game. PITCHING MACHINE Operating Instructions 1) Be aware that the A-Tec pitching machine throws curve balls, drops, screw-balls ect. 2) Each machine has 3 dials, use caution when setting, slight adjustments move ball. 3) Make sure you test dial settings before pitching to hitters to know what pitch will do. 4) Example setting for 12U Left (7) Right (7) Bottom (7) seems to be truest fastball. Safety Requirements 1) This machine is to only be used by adults. Long hair should be tied back, and loose clothing should be kept away from the moving wheels. 2) A protective screen must be used when operating the machine. 3) Always use a grounded power cord #12 minimum which will be kept in the cage at all times. 4) Never throw two balls at once. 5) Machine is not weather proof, nor is it implied to be. Cover the machine after you are done using it (don t rely on another coach to do so). 6) Machine is equipped with an electronic speed control. Being struck by batted balls will damage control and voids the warranty. (Please keep the balls and power cord stored in this cage at all times) 24

28 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING INSTRUCTIONS Check your schedule and field number to be sure you are lining the correct field. You ll need: chalker, string line, batter s box template, circle template (PVC T-pipe), and rake. Field Dimension diagram for your division as a guideline (attached). At least one representative from each team has been requested for each game. The fields may have been dragged before the first game of the day. If not, they should be dragged manually with the small chain nets or field drag brooms prior to watering and chalking. First Game of the Day 1. Water down field. There s a valve box near the dugout entrances of each field with 2 valves with handles. Turn the valve handles 90 degrees to open and sprinklers around the perimeter of the infield will water down the entire infield. Leave on for 1 to 2 minutes. 2. Chalk the batter s box - use the template and trace the footprint. 3. Chalk the 1 st and 3 rd base lines well into the outfield grass - stretch the string line from the back tip of home plate to the outside edge of each bag and trace. 4. Chalk the 1 st base running lane and coaching boxes - use the string line. 5. Chalk the pitching circle and on-deck circles - use the PVC T-pipe (the small T-portion) to trace the circles. 6. Trash bag - grab a trash bag from the field bin and hang one in each dugout. Subsequent Games 1. Touch up lines to help make your field look professional. 2. Turn on sprinklers as needed to control the dust. 3. Rake and re-groom the batters box area. 4. Rake and re-compact the pitching rubber area. 25

29 FIELD PREPARATION RAIN LINE , ext 3 GUIDELINES WEATHER During Wet Weather These guidelines apply to the LNGS facility during and after wet weather. Please refer to these guidelines and plan your team s practices accordingly. Pouring Rain: 1. The City s Parks & Recreation Department will declare the fields are open or closed. Call the Sports Field Hot Line at , ext Soggy Conditions: In order to protect our fields from damage to the dirt and grass areas, please do not use the facility when the fields are saturated. 3. Batting cages are also closed during field closure, if it is raining or even drizzling. The Twin Spin motor control boxes can be damaged if exposed to wet weather. It is not safe to be pitching to the girls in wet conditions. Questionable Conditions: During wet weather, when the fields are closed but starting to dry out 1. The fields are controlled by the city, please monitor the Sports Fields Hot Line for field closures. 2. The league s website ( will be updated with the latest information. 3. You can play catch and practice certain drills or run through strategies on the basketball blacktop. The gates should be locked and absolutely no cars in the back parking area. 4. In rare instances, if the city has closed the fields but the grass areas are firm, we will make the call and update our website to allow use on the grass areas. We ll also try to post updates on the bulletin board at the fields. 5. In the situation when it is no longer raining and the cages are dry, teams can use the batting cages during your scheduled practice. Make sure it is safe for the players as a first priority. 26

30 FIELD PREPARATION EQUIPMENT STORAGE Please keep the equipment in the designated place and respect the time and effort put into our current system. Review the map of our facility (Appendix A). 1. FIELD 1 BIN Located on 8U Field 1 1 batter box template (folding) and a Circle template (for pitching, on deck circles) 1 chalker and 1 tub of chalk 1 field grooming broom and dugout broom & dust pan 1 field rake and 1 leaf rake 1 bucket (string line, hammer, nails, hand shovel) Tape measure Rainbird sprinkler head 2. FIELD BINS #25 Field Bin (F2 & F5) AND #34 Field Bin (F3 & F4) 1 batter box template (folding) and circle template (for pitching and on deck circles) 2 chalkers and 1 tub of chalk 1 field grooming broom and broom(s) & dust pan 2 field rakes and 1 leaf rake 2 buckets (each with: string line, hammer, nails, shovel) and 1 tape measure 1 pitching rubber (hammer down) and 1 (sleeved) and 6U temporary rubber bases trash bags for dugouts 3. LARGE FIELD BIN 2 near batting cages bags of chalk field drag nets (cart) 1 field drag net (hand) maintenance tools (brooms, rakes, tamper, etc) tools awnings ice chests portable lighting water hose first aid kit No playing/coaching gear! 4. GARAGE BINS Roll up 1, 2 for the GOLF CART STORAGE Bins are also used to store the portable fencing for fields 2 and 5 for Saturday games. 27

31 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING MAP 6U 28

32 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING MAP 8U 29

33 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING MAP 10U 30

34 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING MAP 12U 31

35 FIELD PREPARATION FIELD LINING MAP 14U 32

36 33