BY-LAWS

Decatur County Girls Softball Association

2008 By-Laws

1.      BOARD MEETING: Board meetings will be set each month by the president unless otherwise stated. Public is welcome to attend. Election of Officers and Board Members will be held every October.

2.      VOTES: There shall be one coach vote per team for elections of Officers and Board Members by a coach or designated representative. By-laws will be voted on by the Board and Officers. On a meeting called to order by the President a total of 10 Officers and Board Members must be present for a vote. The President shall cast the deciding vote in case of a tie.

3.      OFFICERS: Officers to be elected are: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer.  Also, the coaches present will elect six new Board Members and the newly elected President shall appoint six Board Members for a total of twelve Board Members. Of the 12 board members the President will appoint a division president for each age group. Nominations will be held in our Sept. meeting for Officers and Board Members. All nominees will be notified of nomination and verify if they will accept the nomination. Deadlines for nominations will be the 15th of Sept. Elections of Officers and Board Members will take place in our October meeting.

4.      REGISTRATION FEES: No registration fees will be refunded after team rosters have been established, except at the discretion of the Officers.

5.      ELGIBILITY: A girl in our league is not allowed to play on more than one Decatur County Girls Softball Association sponsored team, and shall play in only one age bracket. She may play in her own age bracket or the next higher age bracket, but whichever age bracket she chooses, she must play on that team for the entire year. The Officers retain the right to disallow a player to play in an older age bracket. Player ages from 5 to 18 as of January 1. For the purpose of establishing fast pitch within the organization girls may play on one fast pitch team as well as one slow pitch team until the board decides otherwise.

6.      LIGHTS: Must be out at 11:00 PM. No games shall be started after 9:30 P.M. with exception to rescheduled games.

7.      COACHING STAFF: There shall be one designated coach per team, one assistant coach, and one scorekeeper. The head coaches from the previous season are automatically assumed to be Head Coach for the next season (pending Board approval) unless the board has been notified. Coach must have one designated Assistant Coach (also must be Board approved) by the first game of the season.  All coaches must have a background form filled out and turned in  before the draft .

8.      ROSTERS: Teams shall consist of no more than 13 players if at all possible.

9.      RULES: All players and games will abide by ASA rules and/or league rules. For Fast Pitch the ASA rules are modified to High School rules. League rules supercede ASA and High School rules.

10.  OUT OF COUNTY PLAYERS: Participation by out of county players will be left to the discretion of the Officers. 

11.  TEAMS and DRAFT PICKS: 

Ø       Coaches with Daughters: One daughter will be placed automatically on her Parent/Guardian team as the Parent/Guardian eighth pick in the draft if there are two daughters the second will automatically be placed as the tenth pick. If there were three daughters the third would be automatically placed as the last pick.

Ø       Coaches without Daughters: A proxy player will be drawn to fill in as the daughter of a coach without a daughter. This player is decided by pulling a number out of a hat, which will correspond to the list of players on the Draft Availability Sheet in each age bracket. The player listed with that drawn number would be that coach’s proxy player. (Coach’s daughter’s numbers will be removed since they are ineligible.)  This proxy player will automatically be placed on the coach’s roster as his eighth pick. (Using a proxy pick is optional for all coaches). Coaches may use a relative as their proxy player but must be Board approved. The Board must be notified no later than the coaches meeting.

Ø       Assistant Coaches: Any Parent/Guardian wishing to be an Assistant Coach will include this on the player’s registration form. When the Draft Availability Sheet is drawn up the letter “A” for Assistant Coach will be listed next to the players name informing the Coaches that the player has a Parent/Guardian that would like to volunteer as an Assistant Coach.

Ø       Assistance for Coaches: Any Coach who is not familiar with the players in his age bracket can be provided with a list of coaches phone numbers from the players previous year in DCGSA and is encouraged to ask other coaches and association members for help.

Ø       Drafting Sisters: Sisters will be drafted as a complete set (unless otherwise requested by the Parent/Guardian). Once a player has been drafted any Coach cannot draft the remaining sisters.  The second sister will automatically be placed on the Coach’s Roster two skipped rounds (places) after the first sister. The third sister will automatically be placed after two skipped rounds (places) after the second sister. If there are not enough rounds to be skipped for the second or third sister she will be placed as the last pick. Example: 1st round picked Jane Doe, 2nd round any player, 3rd round any player, 4th round Jane Doe’s sister.

Ø       Draft Election: Should a player elect not to be drafted by a coach she must include this information on the registration form. A player can deny only one coach and any other coach will be eligible. The coach will be notified at the draft. Should a player choose to elect in a district with less than three teams in the division she will be placed in the Greensburg draft.

Ø       Any questions or problems will be solved at the Board’s discretion. Two weeks after the draft coaches must submit a list of dates that they know they cannot field at least 8 players due to camps, vacations etc. and reschedule as needed. After the two weeks no changes can be made due to these reasons. 

12.  TEAM CONDUCT: There will be no tobacco or profanity permitted on the playing field, dugout or complex. Only one warning shall be issued. If the first warning goes unheeded, the offender will be ejected from the park. If an umpire ejects any player, coach, or scorekeeper, from a game for non-sportsman like conduct, that person shall sit out the next scheduled game. No alcohol and/or drugs of any type will be tolerated! If an umpire or officer smells alcohol on any member of the coaching staff that person will be asked to leave the park and will sit out the next scheduled game. A second offense will be grounds for dismissal from DCGSA. The board will review misconduct by any player, coach, scorekeeper, or spectator and appropriate action will be taken. Coaches are not allowed to yell at players while ball is in the air during a pitch or ball hit in air. Only two coach outside the dugout up against the fence between the two gates while team is on defense. While on offense only the two base coaches. (See division rules 6 under two coaches in the outfield).

13.  JEWELRY: The only jewelry that a player may wear during a game is medical jewelry, and this must be taped.  She may be warned once and if the warning goes unheeded, she will be asked to leave the game. This is at the umpire’s discretion.

14.  HELMETS: It is mandatory that all catchers wear an approved catcher’s helmet with a facemask. It is also required that all batters, base runners, and any other on-deck batters wear a helmet with straps fastened. If any base runner’s helmet comes off during play, at the umpire’s discretion, she may be called out.

15.  SHIRTS: Each team shall have shirts and shorts/pants of the same color with different numbers (in contrasting colors). The numbers are mandatory and shall be at least six inches in size on the back of the shirt (Players names will be allowed on the back). The league will sponsor the 6 & Under Division (if necessary). The Officers and Board Members will get sponsors for all teams in each age bracket.

16.  UMPIRES: The league will furnish all Umpires. The Instructional Division (6 & Under) will not require Umpires, coaches are expected to officiate the games and teach the players. All other  division will have two umpires if possible but is not required.

17.  RESCHEDULED GAMES: Only games that have been postponed or cancelled due to inclement weather will be rescheduled. The President/ Division President will be in charge of rescheduling all rain out games and will contact coaches in there divisions. If you cannot field 8 players for any reason, you will forfeit. There will be no exceptions. There will be designated Saturdays scheduled for rainouts if needed.

18.  SCOREBOOK and LINEUP CARD: The home team scorebook will be the official scorebook. The home plate umpire and the home team will mark the starting time of the game. An exchange of lineup cards should be done 15 minutes before the scheduled start of the game or at the time requested by the umpire, whichever is first?

19.  MINIMUM NUMBER OF PLAYERS: A team must field at least 8 eligible players to start and finish any ball game. Any new player entering the game must go to the bottom of the batting order. If a team cannot field 8 players, they will forfeit…NO EXCEPTIONS!  A grace period of 10 minutes after the scheduled starting of the game will be allowed.

20.  TIME LIMIT: No inning will be started after 65 minutes for slow pitch and 75 minutes for fast pitch (time is determined immediately following the last out of the inning). The time limit will not apply to championship games. 

21.  RUN RULE: In all divisions; a game will be called if a team is ahead by 15 or more runs after 4 innings of play or 10 runs or more after 5 innings of play. 20 or more runs after 3 innings (13U slow, 18U slow pitch and 18U fast pitch)

22.  CHATTER: Chatter is permissible, within reason with the exception that the catcher is not allowed to talk directly to the batter such as swing batter. No names or numbers may be used by any player. NO NEGITIVE CHATTER!

23.  PRACTICES: Any girl not attending practices may be suspended upon notification and approval of the Officers.

24.  ACTS of GOD: If a league game or tournament game is to be rescheduled do to an act of God, the game will resume where it left off. It is the responsibility of the home team to record where play was stopped, position of players, etc. Game is complete after 4 innings for 6 inning games and 5 innings for 7 inning games. All other delayed games will be played to completion.

25.  TIE GAMES: If a game is tied and time has not expired extra innings may start. After the time limit is reached the next inning(s) will use the international tiebreaker as follows; the last batter to receive an out from the previous inning will be placed at second base and all batters begin with a 1 – 1 count. The tiebreaker will not apply to championship games.

26.  LEAGUE TIES: In the event that 2 or more teams tie for trophy positions, the league will use a single elimination bracket play to decide finishing positions.  Teams will draw for seating in the bracket, there will be no time limit and the teams will play allowed number of innings per their division.   

27.  PROTEST: The plate umpire (not the opposing coach) must be notified immediately that the game is being played under protest and the reason the game is under protest. The plate umpire will note the protest and notify the opposing coach. The officers will call a special meeting for purpose of settling any protest and the coaches will be notified of the decision. (JUDGEMENT calls cannot be protest).

28.  DUGOUT: The home team will use the first base dugout. Each team is required to clean their dugout after each game they play.  Only two coach outside the dugout up against the fence between the two gates while team is on defense. While on offence only the two base coaches. (See division rules 6 and 8 under two coaches in the out field).

29.  SCHEDULED DUTIES: If requested by the board, all teams will be required to work the concession stand a minimum of one time per season. Teams are required to staff at least 4 people at least 18 years of age or older at a time to work there scheduled shift. Failure to schedule your team or cover your scheduled shift will result in forfeiture of 1 win.

30.  SCHEDULED PERSONNEL MEETINGS: Every team must have a representative at every scheduled REQUIRED League meeting. Failure to have a representative at any required meeting will result in suspension of coach for one regular scheduled season game.

 

6 & Under

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 4 innings. The inning is complete when every player has batted.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be at the discretion of the pitching coach.

3.      PITCHES: The batter will get 5 pitches. After 5 pitches the batter may use the T to hit the ball or take her base. The player(s) taking position at or near the pitcher (Coach) must be behind the pitcher.

4.      INFIELD FLY: There will be no infield fly rule.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: All players will bat and all players will take the field. In the event that a team cannot field a minimum of 8 players opposing coach may elect to give up a player(s) in order to play the game (player will be drafted by placing the name of all players except the coaches daughter in a hat).

6.      POSITIONS: No more than 7 players on the infield (inside the base line). Outfield players must play at least 3 foot behind base path.

7.      SCORING: There will be no official scoring in this division and coaches will not be allowed to keep score.

8.      OUTS:  Any batter or base runner that has had a play made on them and called out must leave the base.  Coaches assisting on the field will make all calls, remember this is still instructional so please inform player why she is called out so they can learn how the game is played.

 

                                                                          8 & Under

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 5 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be at the discretion of the pitching coach, but must be between 20 and 40 feet from home plate. The player taking position as the pitcher must be within 4 feet of the pitchers rubber. The outfield is determined by the grass line (If playing on a large diamond where the grass line is impractical a line will be drawn to determine the infield).

3.      PLAYERS: There will be a maximum of 6 players allowed on the infield until the ball is hit.

4.      PITCHES: The batter will get 5 pitches. Pitches must be higher than the batters head. The pitcher (Coach) must remain in the pitching area until the ball is hit, at which time the coach must retrieve bat and leave the field by means of the foul lines without interfering with the game. A foul on the 5th pitch  will constitute another pitch ( 6 maximum pitches).

5.      INFIELD FLY: There will be no infield fly rule.

6.      RUNS: There will be a 5 run rule per inning with exception to the last inning where there will be no run rule defense must get 3 outs. The plate umpire will call last inning if he/she determines there is not enough time to complete 5 innings in the time limit (last inning should not be called before 50 minutes).

7.      OVERTHROWS: On a ball overthrown to FIRST base. The ball is dead; all runners will get one base.

Ø       Overthrown ball is determine when ball thrown to the first baseman hits the fence or goes into the grass at that time umpire will call a dead ball.    

8.      WALKS: There will be no intentional walks.

9.      INTERFERENCE: If a batted ball hits the pitcher (Coach) the ball is dead, the batter will bat again and pitch will not count as one of the five pitches. The coach may not give instruction in any way once the ball is released.

Ø       Coach pitchers should try to protect the player playing the position of pitcher from any line drives that may be dangerous.

10.  FIELD COACHING: There will be a maximum of 2 field coaches in the outfield/infield to assist in direction to the players. Option 1 coach in outfield 1 coach between the two gates of the dugout.  The coach may not touch a player for any reason! All other coaches must stay inside the dugout.

11.  TIME: In an effort to teach the fundamentals of the game the lead runner must be stopped before time is called. Players are not to call time; the umpire(s) will call time when they have determined that the lead runner is stopped.

12.  TIES: In the event of a tie game after five innings of play, if time allows an extra inning may be started to try to finish the game, if time does not allow or if the game is still tied after an extra inning the game will be recorded as ½ win for both teams.

13.  SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and play the field. Any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured. 

 

10 & Under (Slow Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 6 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 40 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 11 players of which 5 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: There will be no infield fly rule.

5.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 2 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 2 pitches. There will be no infield balls allowed after the start of the game.

6.      RUNS: There will be a 5 run rule per inning with exception to the last inning where there will be no run rule defense must get 3 outs. The plate umpire will call last inning if he/she determines there is not enough time to complete 6 innings in the time limit (last inning should not be called before 50 minutes).

7.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

 

10 & Under (Fast Pitch)

1.      FOR REFERENCE ONLYINNINGS: The game shall consist of 6 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 35 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 11 players of which 5 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: There will be no infield fly rule.

5.      RUNS: There will be a 5 run rule per inning with exception to the last inning where there will be no run rule defense must get 3 outs. The plate umpire will call last inning if he/she determines there is not enough time to complete 6 innings in the time limit.

6.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

7.      PITCHING: The pitcher may choose whether to windmill or slingshot. There will be a limit of three innings per game per pitcher (A pitch to a batter in an inning is an inning pitched). Every effort should be made to teach the girl to use the drag toe method of pitching, as this will be required in future changes.

8.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 3 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 3 pitches. No infield practice after first inning.

9.      BALL: The 11 inch ball will be used.

10.  WALKS: There will be no intentional walks. If a pitch hits the batter she is awarded 1st base, Batter must attempt to get out of the way of the pitch. If a batter makes no attempt to get out of the way the pitch the pitch will count against the pitch count and not as a hit batter. Runners cannot attempt to advance on a walk.

11.  STEALING: Stealing bases will be allowed only after the ball crosses the home plate including wild pitches and passed balls.

12.  DROPPED PITCH: If the catcher drops the third strike the batter is still out.

13.  LIVE-BALL: The ball will remain live until the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle (8 Foot radius from the center of the mound) and in a non-threatening stance. A non-threatening stance is defined as not trying to make a play on a runner. This is the only time a player may request time.

14.  TIME SAVER: When a catcher is on base with two outs they must be replaced with courtesy runner so as to allow them to prepare for the next inning. The courtesy runner shall be the last player to cross the plate with a run or out.

15.  FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 10 players the coach may draft players available to fill the roster up to a maximum of 3 players (i.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 2 players). Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. All pickup players must be on a 10 & under DCGSA slow pitch roster.

Ø       As a coach in a recreational league we encourage you to use any and all players that wish to pitch as a pitcher.

 

FOR REFERENCE ONLY12 & Under (Slow Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 6 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 46 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 2 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 2 pitches. There will be no infield balls allowed after the start of the game.

6.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

 

13 & Under (Slow Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 7 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 46 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 2 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 2 pitches. There will be no infield balls allowed after the start of the game.

6.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.


 

12 & Under (Fast Pitch)

1.      FOR REFERENCE ONLYINNINGS: The game shall consist of 6 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 40 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

6.      PITCHING: The pitcher may choose whether to windmill or slingshot. There will be a limit of four innings per game per pitcher (A pitch to a batter in an inning is an inning pitched). Every effort should be made to teach the girl to use the drag toe method of pitching, as this will be required in future changes.

7.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 3 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 3 pitches. No infield practice after first inning.

8.      BALL: The 12 inch ball will be used.

9.      WALKS: There will be no intentional walks. If a pitch hits the batter she is awarded 1st base, Batter must attempt to get out of the way of the pitch. If a batter makes no attempt to get out of the way the pitch the pitch will count against the pitch count and not as a hit batter. Runners may attempt to advance at their own risk on a walk.

10.  STEALING: Stealing bases will be allowed only after the ball leaves the pitchers hand.

11.  DROPPED PITCH: If the catcher drops the third strike the batter may advance to 1st base provided it is open. If there are two outs the batter may attempt 1st base even if occupied. Runners advance at their own risk.

12.  LIVE BALL: The ball will remain live until the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle (8 Foot radius from the center of the mound) and in a non-threatening stance. A non-threatening stance is defined as not trying to make a play on a runner. This is the only time a player may request time.

13.  TIME SAVER: When a catcher is on base with two outs they must be replaced with courtesy runner so as to allow them to prepare for the next inning. The courtesy runner shall be the last player to cross the plate with a run or out.

14.  FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 9 players the coach may draft players available to fill the roster up to a maximum of 3 players (i.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 1 player). Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. All pickup players must be on a 12 & under DCGSA slow pitch roster. 

Ø       As a coach in a recreational league we encourage you to use any and all players that wish to pitch as a pitcher.


 

13 & Under (Fast Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 6 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 40 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

6.      RUNS:  There will be a 5 run rule per inning with exception to the last inning where there will be no run rule defense must get 3 outs.  The plate umpire will call last inning if he/she determines there is not enough time to complete 6 innings in the time limit (last inning should not be called before 60 minutes)

7.      FACE MASKS:  All batting helmets must have NOSCE APPROVED face masks.

8.      PITCHING: The pitcher may choose whether to windmill or slingshot. Every effort should be made to teach the girl to use the drag toe method of pitching, as this will be required in future changes.

9.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 3 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 3 pitches. No infield practice after first inning.

10.  BALL: The 12 inch ball will be used.

11.  WALKS: There will be no intentional walks. If a pitch hits the batter she is awarded 1st base, Batter must attempt to get out of the way of the pitch. If a batter makes no attempt to get out of the way the pitch the pitch will count against the pitch count and not as a hit batter. Runners may attempt to advance at their own risk on a walk.

12.  STEALING: Stealing bases will be allowed only after the ball leaves the pitchers hand.

13.  DROPPED PITCH: If the catcher drops the third strike the batter may advance to 1st base provided it is open. If there are two outs the batter may attempt 1st base even if occupied. Runners advance at their own risk.

14.  LIVE-BALL: The ball will remain live until the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle (8 Foot radius from the center of the mound) and in a non-threatening stance. A non-threatening stance is defined as not trying to make a play on a runner. This is the only time a player may request time.

15.  TIME SAVER: When a catcher is on base with two outs they must be replaced with courtesy runner so as to allow them to prepare for the next inning. The courtesy runner shall be the last player to cross the plate with a run or out.

16.  FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 9 players the coach may ask for players available to fill the roster up to a maximum of 3 players. (i.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 1 player) Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. If pickup players are needed contact DCGSA member and a player will be provided for your team.  All pickup players must be on a 13 & under DCGSA slow pitch roster.
 

14 & Under (Slow Pitch)

1.      FOR REFERENCE ONLYINNINGS: The game shall consist of 7 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 65 feet; pitching distance will be 50 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 2 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 2 pitches. There will be no infield balls allowed after the start of the game.

6.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

 

FOR REFERENCE ONLY14 & Under (Fast Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 7 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 40 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 9 players of which 3 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

6.      PITCHING: The pitcher may choose whether to windmill or slingshot. There will be a limit of four innings per game per pitcher (A pitch to a batter in an inning is an inning pitched). Every effort should be made to teach the girl to use the drag toe method of pitching, as this will be required in future changes.

7.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 3 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 3 pitches. No infield practice after first inning.

8.      BALL: The 12 inch ball will be used.

9.      WALKS: There will be no intentional walks. If a pitch hits the batter she is awarded 1st base, Batter must attempt to get out of the way of the pitch. If a batter makes no attempt to get out of the way the pitch the pitch will count against the pitch count and not as a hit batter. Runners may attempt to advance at their own risk on a walk.

10.  DROPPED PITCH: If the catcher drops the third strike the batter may advance to 1st base provided it is open. If there are two outs the batter may attempt 1st base even if occupied. Runners advance at their own risk.

11.  LIVE-BALL: The ball will remain live until the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle (8 Foot radius from the center of the mound) and in a non-threatening stance. A non-threatening stance is defined as not trying to make a play on a runner. This is the only time a player may request time.

12.  TIME SAVER: When a catcher is on base with two outs they must be replaced with courtesy runner so as to allow them to prepare for the next inning. The courtesy runner shall be the last player to cross the plate with a run or out.

13.  FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 9 players the coach may draft players available to fill the roster up to a maximum of 3 players (i.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 1 player). Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. All pickup players must be on a 14 & under DCGSA slow pitch roster. 

Ø       As a coach in a recreational league we encourage you to use any and all players that wish to pitch as a pitcher.
 

18 & Under (Slow Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 7 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 65 feet; pitching distance will be 50 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 10 players of which 4 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 2 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 2 pitches. There will be no infield balls allowed after the start of the game.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

6.      FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 9 the coach may draft players available from a previous compiled list. A maximum of 3 players can be used to fill roster.  (I.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 1 player). Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. All pickup players must be on a 13 & under DCGSA roster.  Any coach needing players must contact DCGSA board member (you will be contacted who to call before season gets started) and let them know how many players your team will need to fill your roster to 9.  The board member will have a list of players who will be on a rotation schedule and the next player in line who is available to play will be contacted by the board and be at your game to prevent any forfeits. Please notify board as early as possible if your team needs any players.         
 

 

18 & Under (Fast Pitch)

1.      INNINGS: The game shall consist of 7 innings.

2.      BASES: Bases will be 60 feet; pitching distance will be 40 feet.

3.      PLAYERS: Each team will field 9 players of which 3 of those players must be designated outfielders and must take position on the outfield grass.

4.      INFIELD FLY: The infield fly rule is in effect.

5.      SUBSTITUTIONS: Every player will be in the batting order and any player arriving late will be added to the bottom of the lineup (additions to the lineup must take the field before batting). No player will sit the bench more than two nonconsecutive innings per game.

Ø       The insertion of subs and the number of innings rule will not apply to girls that show up at the game too late for the rule to apply.

Ø       In the event of an injured runner, the last player to cross the plate with a run or out will replace the runner. If an injured player re-enters the ball game, she must first play in the field before batting (except for the last inning). The injured player will not result in an out next time up if she is still injured.

6.      PITCHING: The pitcher may choose whether to windmill or slingshot. There will be no set limit on innings pitched. The pitcher must drag the toe as the method of pitching.

7.      WARM UP PITCHES: The starting pitcher will be allowed 5 pitches at the start of the game and then 3 pitches between innings. A new pitcher relieving the starting pitcher will also be allowed 5 warm up pitches. Returning pitchers will be allowed only 3 pitches. No infield practice after first inning.

8.      BALL: The 12-inch ball will be used.

9.      WALKS: There will be no intentional walks. If a pitch hits the batter she is awarded 1st base, Batter must attempt to get out of the way of the pitch. If a batter makes no attempt to get out of the way the pitch the pitch will count against the pitch count and not as a hit batter. Runners may attempt to advance at their own risk on a walk.

10.  DROPPED PITCH: If the catcher drops the third strike the batter may advance to 1st base provided it is open. If there are two outs the batter may attempt 1st base even if occupied. Runners advance at their own risk.

11.  LIVE-BALL: The ball will remain live until the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle (8 Foot radius from the center of the mound) and in a non-threatening stance. A non-threatening stance is defined as not trying to make a play on a runner. This is the only time a player may request time.

12.  TIME SAVER: When a catcher is on base with two outs they must be replaced with courtesy runner so as to allow them to prepare for the next inning. The courtesy runner shall be the last player to cross the plate with a run or out.

13.  FILLING THE ROSTER: In the event that a coach does not have enough players to field a team of 9 players the coach may ask for players available to fill the roster up to a maximum of 3 players.(i.e. if a team only has 8 players the coach may pickup 1 player) Any players added to a roster from another team must be placed last in the batting order and can only play the Outfield positions. If pickup players are needed contact a DCGSA member and players will be contacted for you. Players must be on a 13 & under DCGSA slow pitch roster or on the 13& under roster.
 

Ø       As a coach in a recreational league we encourage you to use any and all players that wish to pitch as a pitcher.