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RULES
 See
training materials
NOTE - here is a link the the 2009 rule
changes on the
NFHS site
2009 NFHS SOFTBALL RULES CHANGES
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1-3-3 |
Added to the softball
specifications a requirement that the dynamic stiffness of softballs not
exceed 7,500 lbs/inch when tested under current proposed ASTM test methods.
Effective January 1, 2010. Rationale: This
standard will better control softballs and should bring more consistency to
the softball marketplace without lowering the current static compression of
375 lbs/inch. Static compression and dynamic stiffness are completely
different measurements, so these numbers should not be compared.The
additional specification makes NFHS softball consistent with ASA. |
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2-8-2 |
Changed the definition of a
bunt attempt to holding the bat in the strike zone and requiring the bat to
be withdrawn in order to take a pitch.
Rationale: The new definition will make the
bunt attempt easier for an umpire to determine and creates a better balance
between offense and defense. |
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6-1-4d
and Note |
Changed the pitching windup
requirement to a maximum of one and a half clockwise revolutions. Previous
note was deleted. Rationale: Pitchers are
attempting to gain an advantage by deceiving the batter. The rules change
will make an illegal pitch easier to identify and enforcement more
consistent. |
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6-2-3 Penalty |
Changed the penalty for a
pitcher exceeding the required 20-second time limit to a ball awarded to the
batter - not an illegal pitch. Rationale: The
rules change makes a violation of the time to pitch by the pitcher
consistent with a batter failing to be ready within 10 seconds after the
ball has been returned to the pitcher. An illegal pitch penalty is excessive
as it also awards runners one additional base. |
2009 MAJOR EDITORIAL CHANGES
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1-4-2 |
Clarified that one American
flag (2 inch x 3 inch maximum) is permitted on the glove.
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1-7-1 |
Clarified that if an eye shield is worn
attached to the catcher's helmet, it must be constructed of a molded, rigid
material that is clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) allowable light
transmission. |
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3-2-1
New Note |
Clarified that a state
association may, on an individual basis, permit a player to participate
while wearing a different style uniform for religious reasons. |
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3-2-7 |
Clarified that exposed
undergarments must be a solid color. |
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6-2-3;
7-3-1 |
Clarified that the timeframe
for delivering the next pitch or being in the batter's box begins when the
ball has been returned to the pitcher to prepare for the next pitch. Also
clarified that a pitcher is committed to delivering the pitch when the hands
are brought together. |
2009 POINTS OF EMPHASIS
1. Pitching
2. Obstruction/Interference
3. DP/FLEX
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