DENISON PARKS & RECREATION Girls Softball/T-Ball Guidelines

DENISON PARKS & RECREATION Girls Softball/T-Ball Guidelines 531 W. Chestnut Denison, TX 75020 (903) 465-2720 Option 8 www.cityofdenison.com Staff Andrew Means - Athletic Supervisor Jarid Taylor - Athletic Supervisor Robert Lay - Athletic Supervisor Sunny Mackey - Department Manager David Howerton - Director Important Phone Numbers Emergency Medical Services: 911 Nearest Hospital: TMC 903-416-7544 Fire Department/EMT: 903-465-2720 Police Department: 903-465-2422 Culpepper Concession Stand: 903-463-6360 T-Bar Concession Stand: 903-463-6152 HOTLINE: 903-465-GAME (4263) Athletic Offices: 465-2720 option 8 1

POLICY STATEMENT The Denison Girls Softball Program and the Lil Rookies are sponsored by the City of Denison Parks & Recreation Department. Community team sponsors, fundraisers, and registration fees help to offset the operation expenses of the program. Every girl between the ages of three (3) and eighteen (18) years of age, and boys (3) three and (4) four are eligible to participate in the program. It is the policy of our program to promote the development of strong character, a right attitude, and a strong sense of responsibility and citizenship in kids, using the games of softball and baseball. This is a developmental program that provides a foundation for our participants. We fully understand that each participant views success differently. However, we shall provide opportunity for each player to participate in every game, teach the fundamentals of softball/ baseball, to socialize with their peers, and enjoy old friends and make new friends. These rules/policies are subject to change if Staff deems that it would be in the participants best interest. Our Girls Softball Program, this 2013 season is affiliated with Texas Teenage Softball Association (TTA). TTA is a softball program that is geared towards the team concept, fair play, good sportsmanship, discipline, self-control, competition on an equal basis, emphasis on participation over winning, and common bonds between coaches and players. Our program is not a select league or travel ball, yet offers District and State, for ages 7 years old through 18 years for the first (1st) second (2nd) place qualifying team. The team MUST stay intact when advancing. But the teams are allowed to pick up players form within the age division to join the tournament team. This will allow girls who have never experienced tournament play the opportunity to do so. The City of Denison Parks and Recreation would like to thank ALL of our supporters. We have had much success in our program because of the wonderful volunteers (parents and coaches) and the participants involved. 2

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 5th Coaches meeting at 6:30 @ DPARD Office. 9th Last day of Registration. 16th Lil Rookies Draft (9am) - Coaches Only@ DPARD Offices 6 U Draft (11am) - Coaches Only@ DPARD Office. 21st 12 U Tryouts and Draft (6pm @ Culpepper) 15 U Tryouts and Draft (7:30pm @ Culpepper) 22nd 8 U Tryouts and Draft (6pm @ T-Bar) 10 U Tryouts and Draft (7:30pm @ T-Bar) 25th Practices begin 29th Deadline to have shirt sizes and artwork turned in to shirt vendor. April 5th Fundriaser money deadline 22nd GSB season begins May 27th - Memorial Day, NO GAMES July 1st - District Tournaments Begin (Location TBD) 15th - State Tournaments Begin 3

COACHING REGULATIONS 1. An individual may head coach only one (1) team and may assistant coach only one (1) team, in separate age divisions (excluding Lil Rookies). 2. All coaches are required to be at 80% of all practices, and games. The penalty could result in removal from position, not eligible for tournament (s), and possibility of suspension from coaching in following season. 2. The head coach selects the assistant coaches for their team. Each coach including the assistants must meet the requirements as specified. Coaches must be on the field/dugout during every game and are not allowed to sit in the bleachers unless it is prior or after their game. 3. Head coaches and assistant coaches may retain their daughters on their team. 4. Coaches do not have the authority to give or tell another individual they can coach a particular team. Once a coach decides not to return as a coach, he/she is no longer the coach of that team, however, they can assist in recruiting coaches with no guarantee what team they will be assigned. Staff will make sure the daughters are with their Dad s/mom s team prior to the team selection. 5. If any coach is ejected from a game twice during a season he/she will NOT be allowed to head coach or be an assistant coach of the tournament team. Staff will be notified of any ejections immediately. Staff will evaluate each ejection on a case by case basis. 6. All first-time coaches in our program will be required to attend the NYSCA Clinic through Denison Parks and Recreation Staff. If they have previously obtained this certification, must provide a copy of card. It is strongly recommended that all others keep up their membership. 4

GSB PARTICIPANTS Eligibility: Girls ages five (5) - eighteen (18) may participate in the program. A registration form, birth certificate, fees, appropriate releases, and all fundraiser monies must turned in prior to participating in the program. There are no height or weight restrictions. Equipment: Tennis shoes or rubber cleats, shorts, socks and gloves must be provided by participants. Team shirts, bats, balls, batting helmets, catchers mask, shin guards, and chest protectors will be provided by the Denison Parks and Recreation. Umpires must inspect any equipment provided by participants to make sure it meets requirements. Transportation: Participants are responsible for their own transportation to practices, league games and tournament play. However, if a coach provides transportation 2 adults must be present the coach must meet DGS guidelines. Player Age Limit AND Birth Certificate: 6 U - Anyone whose seventh (7th) birthday falls on or after January 1 of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current 6 and under season. 8 U - Anyone whose ninth (9th) birthday falls on or after January 1 of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current 8 and under season. 10 U - Anyone whose eleventh (11th) birthday falls on or after January 1 of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current 10 and under season. 12 U - Anyone whose thirteenth (13th) birthday falls on or after January 1 of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current 12 and under season. 15 U - Anyone whose sixteenth (16th) birthday falls on or after January 1 of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current 15 and under Season. LIL ROOKIES (Girls and Boys ages 3-4) Girls-anyone whose fifth (5th) birthday falls on or after April 1of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current Lil Rookies season. ** The date of April 1st only applies to Lil Rookies. Boys-anyone whose fifth (5th) birthday falls on or after May 1st of the current calendar year shall be eligible to compete in and complete the current Lil Rookies season. 5

Culpepper Softball Complex Rules The following rules and guidelines are to be followed by ALL parents, participants, spectators, and staff: No use of tobacco or smokeless tobacco is permitted inside the complex. Only Allowed in designated smoking area. No alcoholic beverages or drugs of any kind are permitted. Only approved coaches/practice helpers, and league participants are allowed to warm-up pitchers. Any coach or participant warming up a pitcher MUST wear a catcher s mask. with throat protector. Do NOT climb fences or cut locks to get into the facility. Charges will be filed for criminal trespassing with the Denison Police Department. No skateboards, skates, rollerblades, scooters, or bikes are allowed inside Culpepper Softball Complex. All dogs brought into the Complex must be on a leash per City Ordinance. 6

Team Selection Regulations All players will be put into a annual draft and will be selected to a team. Any player that does not attend tryout will still be selected to a team. 1. Sisters may be drafted together (other relatives not included). Consideration shall be given to other relatives living in the same household as long as proof of residence is provided. 2. Head coaches may protect his/her daughter, and select assistants prior to the draft. Assistant coaches daughters will be placed on the team prior to the draft. ALL ASSISTANTS CAN BE SELECTED PRIOR TO THE DRAFT. 3. Players may not be switched by coaches from one roster to another. Players may be moved to another team if there are extenuating circumstances as determined by Staff. The decision will be based on what is in the best interest of the participant. The procedure will be: 1. Parent shall submit a letter of request to Staff no later than one (1) week prior to team selection. 2. A parent may request only one (1) coach to be ineligible, and each request will be evaluated on an individual basis. 3. Approval of request protects a child through leagues season and tournament play. 4. The head coach of each team is required to attend the tryout and the draft. 5. A coach is required to contact the players within 24 hours of team selection. Remember these players are anxiously waiting. 6. A coach is required to practice his/her team a minimum of two (2) times a week until the league begins and should continue to have practices when time allows. Exception: Lil Rookies and 6U are required to practice a minimum of one (1) time per week until the league begins and can continue if desired. 7. DRAFT PROCESS ONLY HEAD COACHES WILL BE ALLOWED AT THE DRAFT A team is NOT allowed to have more that eight (8) players of the maximum age in each age division, if can be prevented. If not we will, keep to the draft order. For ALL age divisions: Head coach and assistants kids will be given to you prior to the start of the draft. We will draw numbers to see what order we will draft. Before the draft can begin teams must be even. (example if team A has 3 players and team B has 4 player team A will select one player to make the teams even) All drafts will be done in the ladder draft format. (1.2.3.4, 4,3,2,1) **The Lil Rookies and 6U will be a blind draft. The forms will be face-down. Lil Rookies: After teams have an even number of players, they will be divided into groups Boys age 3 and Boys age 4/Girls age 3 and Girls age 4. This is done to keep teams as even as possible. We will select BOY/GIRL 3 year old first, and then BOY/GIRL 4 year olds. 6U: After teams have an even number of players, they will be divided into age groups Girls age 5/Girls age 6. This is done to keep teams as even as possible. We will select 5 year olds and then 6 year olds. 7

8U, 10U, 12U, 15U: After the tryouts are complete you will have 5 minutes to talk with your assistants about the draft. There will be a number drawn to even the teams up. Once teams are even, coaches will draw for the draft order. **New to 2013 If 2 or more sisters or persons living in same household that go into the draft as a package, those draft picks will not count as consecutive picks. Draft example with Sister A and Sister B: If Sister A is chosen in the 5th Round, then Coach may return back to the regular draft in the 6th Round to choose another player. Sister B would then count as the 7th Round Pick. If there are 3 sisters in this scenario, then the sister would count as the 5th, 7th, & 9th Round Selections. ALL players present at the tryouts MUST be selected first. Players that were not present will be selected after all others have be placed on a team. All forms will be face down, and have a number and age of player. DPARD staff will NOT give you information on the player s ability. 8. It is the coaches responsibility to contact every player/parent on the dates, time, and location of practices. 9. A coach shall contact staff if they have a player that is not attending practices, injured and any other situation that involves a player not attending team functions. 10. A player can only be dropped from a team for the following reasons: a. Moving out of town b. Sickness (doctor s excuse) or injury c. Disciplinary reasons (documented-this item is to be used by coaches who have attempted to correct disciplinary problems with no results) and have communicated with parents as outlined. 11. Disciplinary action for unsportsmanlike behavior during practice/games will be handled as follows: a. Written report given to staff and parent of player. b. Once the letter is received, the player must have a parent or responsible party remain on premises during practices. c. Written report must be submitted to staff if a parent is requesting removal of practice restrictions. d. Any type of disciplinary action that requires the player to sit out a game must be in compliance with the notification to Staff and Umpire prior to the game. Once the game begins a player may not be sitting on the bench for disciplinary reasons. 12. Disciplinary action for failure to attend practice sessions or regular season games may be implemented after a warning. A coach must attempt to resolve the problem with the players and parent (s), and approved by Staff before these disciplinary procedures take effect. a. Players missing three (3) unexcused practices will not be allowed to start the next game. b. Players (s) missing four (4) unexcused practices, will be required to sit out the next game and a written report must be furnished to the league official presiding. c. Coach must submit to Staff the process he/she has implemented that outlines what is an unexcused practice prior to any disciplinary 8 actions.

UNIFORMS Community Team Sponsors provide uniforms for the program. 1. T-Shirts 2. Visors We provide local businesses the opportunities to support our program in the form of advertisement for their business. Business have the opportunity to sponsor a girls softball team for a fee of $250. This sponsorship provides a shirt and visor/ cap for each player and coach of that team. The sponsor s name/logo will be on all coaches and team member shirts. Team shirts must have Arabic numbers on their uniforms, numbers must be at least 4 high. Team shirts and visors must be purchased from the specified vendor determined by the Denison Parks and Recreation Department. Staff is not responsible for any other items other than stated contract that are purchased through this vendor or other vendors. It is up to the coach/coaches to locate their team sponsor, however, if one cannot be located, Staff will assist in locating one. The team may select their team colors, but must adhere to guidelines and deadlines. Please submit in writing any problems you encounter with your player/ coaches shirt and visors/caps order. We must be aware of the facts surrounding the problem before the problem can be corrected. Uniform orders including team name and logo must be submitted to the vendor by March 29, 2013. Denison Parks and Recreation is NOT responsible for parents shirts!!!! 9

Practice Policy Culpepper Softball Complex, will be reserved for no more than two (2) practices a week, two (2) weeks in advance. Practices must be scheduled one (1) week in advance. Practices can be scheduled by phone, 903-465-2720, or walk-in at the Denison Parks and Recreation Office 531 W. Chestnut. Any coach not utilizing a reserved field without calling to cancel the practice will lose practice privileges for the following week. Please notify staff of any safety issues at practice facilities as soon as possible. Culpepper Softball Fields are scheduled for GSB teams through the duration of the program. GSB teams are scheduled to practice at Ray Park during the softball season. Coaches MUST report all practices to the Staff @ 903-465-2720 option 8. A log will be kept in order to ensure that each team is practicing the required times per week. The goal is to keep these girls actively participating in softball. It is your responsibility as a coach to notify the players and parents of practice times, game times, with some advanced notice so alternate plans may be made. If a coach feels that they need assistance in a management of a practice, staff is willing to assist if requested. It is also imperative that staff be notified of any players not participating/attending practices or games so that contact can be made to determine the situation. Families are extremely busy and must have time to work out details in order to get their daughters to practices and games. If you have a scheduled practice and the facilities are locked, please notify Staff immediately. *DO NOT CLIMB FENCES OR CUT LOCKS. CHARGES WILL BE FILED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASSING WITH DENISON POLICE DEPARTMENT. 10

RAINOUTS WEATHER PROCEDURES Game/Weather Hotline - 903.465.GAME A decision on whether the fields are playable will be made at 3:00 p.m. on game day. After 3:00 p.m., the coach (or designated team representative), shall call the Denison Parks & Recreation s GAME AND ACTIVITY HOTLINE to find out the status of that night s games. The number of teams prohibits staff from contacting all players and coaches, therefore, it is each head coaches responsibility. In threatening weather, the game status will be determined by the DGS Administrators at the fields. After 5:00 p.m., coaches can call the GAME AND ACTIVITY HOTLINE to find out if the games will continue that night. Again, it is up to the coach or team representative to contact the office during potential inclement weather. Rainouts will be rescheduled as follows: rainouts on Mondays and Tuesdays will be rescheduled for the next available times on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday. Rainouts on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday will be rescheduled for the next available time the following week. Rainouts may be scheduled on Saturdays. Coaches will be notified of the new schedules by email when possible, and a copy will be posted at the concession stand at Culpepper Softball Park. If you have not been notified, please call! Lightning Safety Plan of Action Updated 2012 1. Detecting Lightning- To help assist in determining dangerous weather, Staff utilizes a Lightening Detector, which can detect lightning from 40 miles away. The Supervisor will also be in contact with the local weather station as well as have the television tuned in to the weather. 2. Plan- When you first see lightning or hear thunder you need to notify umpires and /or the Supervisor on Duty. At this time Parents and Participants need to evacuate the field and dugouts, and leave the facility. Once the on-duty Supervisor calls the games off, everyone is to leave the facility immediately. Lightning often precedes rain, so we will not wait for the rain to begin before suspending activities. 11

3. When at practices or games AVOID water, high grounds, metal objects, and high spaces. Participants and Parents need to evacuate dugouts, canopies, and soft top convertible vehicles. Participants and Parents need to go to their hard top vehicles and roll up the windows, or take shelter inside of bathrooms. If there is NO possible way for Participants and/or Parents to take shelter they need to crouch down with their feet together, and place there hands over their ears. They need to be at least fifteen (15) feet apart. In case someone was to be struck by lightning this will keep the current from jumping. 4. Injured Persons DO NOT carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Apply First Aid procedures to a lightning victim if you are qualified to do so. Call 911 or send for help immediately. 5. Emergency Numbers: Emergency Medical Services: 911 Texoma Medical Center: 903-416-7544 Fire Department/EMT: 903-465-2720 Police Department: 903-465-2422 12

Minor Injury Plan 1. Stop Play 2. Evaluate Injury. 3. Administer basic first aid (if capable) 4. Remove athlete from practice or game if she is in pain or cannot walk, run, throw, or jump. 5. Contact the athlete's parents/guardian and staff. 6. Discuss the injury with the athlete and the parents. 7. Encourage the athlete to see a physician. 8. Complete an injury/accident report form and provide a copy to staff immediately. 9. Call the child's parents/guardian to check on the athlete the evening of the injury or the following day and report to staff. 10. Do not allow a player to return to the game if it jeopardizes her health. The players health is more important than missing a practice or a game. 13

FIRST AID First Aid kits are available at Culpepper Park concession stand. First Aid kits shall be provided to each team. It s important for coaches not to panic if an injury should occur. Remember to administer only as much First Aid as you are trained to provide. NYSCA recommends these points if an accident occurs: C Is player CONSCIOUS? O Is sufficient OXYGEN available; are airways clear? A ASK player where it hurts. C CONTROL area in pain or injured. H HOSPITAL Is it necessary to take player to hospital? (Rather be safe than sorry.) A secondary insurance policy will cover accidents that occur either during practices and games or travel to and from practices and games. Make your practices and facilities as safe as you can by always checking grounds for hazards. Please report hazards to Staff or contact if you have questions at 903-463-5116. 14

Game Scheduling When making the game schedule the only events/holiday that Staff will honor are the following: STARR Test schedule provided by DISD Administration* Memorial Day Denison High School Graduation We are aware of the busy schedules that families are faced with today. It would be great to have the opportunity to devise a softball schedule that would allow no conflicts. However we all know that is not possible. Therefore, we are scheduling around the listed events/holidays. Please review your schedule and notify your daughters coach so that arrangements can be made to cover that particular player. Our rules allow coaches to pick up players from the lower divisions to fill positions when players must miss a game. *Please Understand that we use the main dates issued, but cannot accommodate all retake days, etc. It is at the parent(s) discretion to allow or not allow their child to participate without any penalty for school or religion. 15

RULES OF CONDUCT 1. Players and all bench personnel will be subject to ejection from a ball game if they make derogatory remarks (such as screaming out any obscene or abusive language) directed toward any league official, umpire, coach or other player. Good SPORTSMANSHIP should be present during and after the game. Questioning umpires decision on judgment calls (balls, strikes, etc.) is considered to be unsportsmanlike behavior and will not be tolerated. 2. Coaches and managers are subject to ejection same as above. Each coach must be in the prescribed area during the game. Ejection will be for the game being played and the next regular season game. DPARD reserves the right to invoke stricter penalties to those actions if deemed appropriate. 3. If a fan, coach, or player uses obscene language or directs derogatory remarks toward the umpires, league officials, coaches, players, parents or any personnel during or after a ball game, the person will be removed from the ballpark for that game and the next scheduled game. If a fan/coach/player is under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or engages in a fight at the ball park, then Staff will have the option on subsequent incidents to ban the person from the ballpark for any portion or all of season. Any player, coach, parent or fan involved in a physical altercation WILL be suspended for the remainder of season including postseason. All violations of these rules will be reported to Staff, and they will have the authority to make an immediate decision. It is the participating coach s responsibility to report conduct violations pertaining to the game in progress. Offense First Second Third REPRIMANDS Action (not relevant with 1,2, & 3 from above) Warning to and/or apology from coach Probation and/or a game suspension Multiple game suspension or season suspension and/or Permanent Revocation of Certification The rules of conduct are adopted for the protection of the players participating our program. Please report any inappropriate behavior from the players, fans, coaches, etc. to our Staff immediately. Their will be a zero tolerance for unsportsmanlike conduct. 16

GENERAL RULES - ALL DIVISIONS 1. Only approved personnel, shall warm-up a pitcher before or during a game. Any player/coach warming up a pitcher must wear a catcher s mask with throat protector. 2. No smoking or chewing tobacco products in the facility. This applies to players, coaches, and spectators. Smoking is allowed in designated smoking areas ONLY. 3. Helmets must be worn by any player while on the playing field (on deck batter, base runner, base coach (15U only)). Penalty: First Offense- player shall be warned by the umpire, Second Offense and Subsequent Offenses in the same game, the player shall be called out. The penalty for their Second Offense is removal from the game and field. 4. Each batter and base runner must wear a batters helmet and each catcher must wear a catcher s helmet which meet the required specifications. No other hat or cap may be worn underneath a helmet. Must have chin strap/throat protector. 5. Body protectors should be adjusted for a snug fit and shin guards shall cover the catchers knee when in a squatting position. 6. Profanity or throwing equipment (i.e. bats, unsafe throwing of balls, helmets, gloves, etc.) shall result in automatic ejection and possible suspension from coaching/playing 7. Players shall not wear jewelry (earrings, watches, rings, necklaces) deemed unsafe by the umpire. Umpires may not wear jewelry deemed unsafe for players 8. Players shall not wear plastic visors while playing due to the safety of players 9. Teams may not participate in pre-game warm-up on the infield. Players may warm-up in the outfield, pitching area, and practice area. This is to prevent game delay. 10. Clarification of Throwing/Slinging of a bat: If a player throws/slings a bat during a game situation, the player will be ruled out and each occurrence afterwards will be an out. NOTE: The batter can be ejected from the game if in the umpire (s) judgment is was intentional. It is up to the umpire to determine the throwing/slinging of a bat. The rule will be within the umpires judgment and cannot be protested. 11. Teams will bat a continuous line-up. 12. Teams will be allowed to pick up players from the next lower age division, but only to meet the maximum positions on a team. 17

LIL ROOKIES DIVISION (ages 3-4) (Boys and Girls) Rules governing play can be found below. Lil Rookies is a developmental league to introduce boys/girls to the game of baseball/softball. Lil Rookies will use an 11 Safety Softball for girls and 9 Safety Baseball for boys. GAMES: Games will be complete after 50 minutes of play or each team has batted their full line up twice. Official game score or standings shall NOT be kept. In the Lil Rookies Division our goal is to introduce the boys and girls to the game of baseball/softball. PARTICIPATION: Offense- The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. A team completes it s offensive half when all members of the team have batted. Lil Rookies should use tee ball bats. If it is an official baseball/softball bat is should be no longer than 31 inches. Each batter will receive 5 swings; the offensive coach shall be responsible for placing the ball on the tee. No outs will be kept per half. Line up must be alternated by gender as long as possible. Defense All players will play in the field during defensive play; however, only five (5) players including a pitcher will be allowed in the infield. The remaining players MUST be behind the infield positions. WE WILL NOT USE A PLAYER CATCHER. The distance from the front of the pitcher s plate to the point of home plate shall be twenty five feet (25 ). It is our responsibility to let ALL the boys/girls have fun and learn the game of baseball/ softball. Players MUST be rotated to different positions after every other batter. This gives players the opportunity to learn each position and will help keep their attention on the game. Coaches The Lil Rookies shall be allowed 5 coaches. One approved adult MUST remain in dugout with the players. All coaches/practice helpers must have completed background checks and be approved by Denison Parks & Recreation Staff. 18

6U Rules (5-6 years old) 6U will use an 11 Safety Softball. GAMES: Games will have a 50 minute time limit. Teams should play the full 50 minutes, even if it means both teams don t bat the same number of times. Play is stopped at point of expiration of time; unless offensive player is batting in which case the player will be allowed to complete her at bat. Official game score or standings shall NOT be kept. PARTICIPATION: Offense- The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. A team completes it s offensive half when all members of the team have batted. Defense All players will play in the field during defensive play; however, only six (6) players including a pitcher and catcher will be allowed in the infield. The remaining players MUST be in the outfield grass. A coach may be used as a Coach-Catcher if the team is short of players. It is our responsibility to let ALL the girls have fun and learn the game of softball. Pitching Rules Pitching rules shall be a combination of coach pitch and a batting tee which will be used in order to allow every player the opportunity to hit the ball. 1. The coach-pitcher will pitch from a distance of thirty feet (30). He/She shall pitch the ball in an underhand manner. 2. Each batter will be allowed three (3) pitches from the coach-pitcher and two (2) swings off the batting tee. NOTE: If, on the second (2) swing from the batting tee, the ball is not hit into fair territory past the ten (10) foot arc, or is fouled off the batter shall continue to bat until she either hits the ball into fair territory past the ten (10) foot arc, or she swings at and misses the ball. 3. The player playing the pitcher s position MUST position themselves in the 8 Radius Circle next to the coach who is pitching and remain stationary until the ball his contacted. When the player is hitting from the tee, the player pitcher will position themselves on the 30 rubber and stay in contact with it until the ball is contacted. 4. Anytime a hit ball is retrieved and thrown, carried, or returned to the circle and is in the possession of a player with the intent to stop a play, or if the lead runner is stopped from advancing, then the umpire shall stop play. If runners have advanced past the halfway mark in the base line, they may continue to next base, otherwise they must return to previous base. 4. All catcher s equipment MUST be used for the participants sake. Coaches The 6 U teams shall be allowed 5 coaches. One approved adult must remain in dugout with the players at all times. All coaches must have completed 19 background checks and be approved by Denison Parks and Recreation Staff.

8 U Rules (7-8 years old) Rules governing play can be found in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations. These are local league play exceptions to those rules. Any situation NOT covered in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations refer to Official ASA Fast Pitch Rulebook. 8U will use an 11 Softball. Please be aware that the post-season tournament rules WILL be played different. Refer to rule books for that information. GAMES: Games shall be considered complete after 75 minutes of play or 5 innings whichever comes first. Play is stopped at point of expiration of time. No inning will start after time has expired but an inning will be completed, if mathematically feasible. Tie game stands. PARTICIPATION: Offense The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. Each team will retire with three (3) outs or five (5) runs per inning. Players will bat a continuous line up! WHEN BALL IS IN PLAY, COACH-PITCHER SHOULD MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO LEAVE THE BALL FIELD OPPOSITE WHERE THE BALL IS HIT. IF THE BALL IS HIT UP THE MIDDLE THE COACH SHOULD TRY TO LEAVE THE BALL FIELD TO THE SIDE HE/SHE FEELS LESS LIKELY TO INTEFERE WITH PLAY. Defense- Teams will play with ten (10) fielders, six (6) infielders and four(4) outfielders. The outfielders MUST be in the outfield grass. A coach may be used as a Coach-Catcher if the team is short of players. Coaches will be required to play players at least 6 consecutive defensive outs. Pitching Rules 8U WILL PITCH FROM 35 FEET. (Coach Pitcher) **New to 2013 8U will be all coach pitch to coincide with tournament format. A batter will receive a maximum of 5 pitches or three swinging strikes, whichever occurs first. If the 5th pitch or subsequent pitch is hit foul, the batter will remain at bat as long as they continue to foul the pitch. Stealing is not allowed, however a runner may take a lead off from the base after the ball crosses the plate. A base runner will be called out for leaving the base before the ball reaches the plate. There are no walks and no bunting. 20

Coaches: The 8 U teams shall be allowed 3 coaches. One approved adult MUST act as Bat Boy/Girl and remain in the dugout with the players at all times. Protocol for picking up players: A team must field a minimum of six (6) players from that original team to compete in a game. Teams will play with ten (10) fielders, six (6) infielders and four (4) outfielders. If short, a team can pick up form the division below them. A maximum of three (3) players may be picked up and those players must play in the outfield. The players must be of the age six (6) and must be approved to play by Denison Parks and Recreation Administration/Certified Youth Sports Administrators. The request must reach the office before 3pm on game day in order for staff to verify participants age. If an original team member arrives to the game late she will be allowed to enter the game as a substitute at the top of the next inning. The pick up player will remain on the line up for the duration of the game allowing her to bat. PROTESTS: $50 fee (cash) must be presented at the time of the protest. If the protest is ruled in favor of the protester, the $50 fee will be returned. A fifteen (15) minute grace period is allowed for protest. 21

10 U Rules (9-10 years old) Rules governing play can be found in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations. These are local league play exceptions to those rules. Any situation NOT covered in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations refer to Official ASA Fast Pitch Rulebook as JO (Junior Olympic Rules). 10U will use an 11 Softball. Please be aware that the post-season tournament rules WILL be played different. Refer to rule books for that information. GAMES: Games shall be considered complete after 75 minutes of play or 6 innings whichever comes first. Play is stopped at point of expiration of time. No inning will start after time has expired but an inning will be completed, if mathematically feasible. Tie game stands. PARTICIPATION: Offense The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. Each team will retire with three (3) outs or five (5) runs per inning. Players will bat a continuous line up! Defense Teams will play with nine (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and three (3) outfielders. Coaches will be required to play players at least 6 consecutive defensive outs. Pitching Rules 10 U WILL PITCH FROM 35 FEET. A pitcher shall not pitch more than nine (9) innings between Monday through the following Sunday night. COACHES: The 10 U shall be allowed three (3) coaches. Defensive coaches: must remain in the dugout during play. Only one coach may be seated outside the dugout to give signals to players, but must be within reach of dugout opening. Protocol for picking up players: A team must field a minimum of six (6) players from that original team to compete in a game. Teams will player with ten (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and four (3) outfielders. If short, a team can pick up from up from the division below them. A maximum of three (3) players may be picked up and those players must play in the outfield. Coaches will be required to substitute players every other inning. If an original team member arrives to the game late she will be allowed to enter the game as a substitute at the top of the next inning. The pick up player will remain on the line up for the duration of the game allowing her to bat. 22

PROTESTS: $50 fee (cash) must be presented at the time of the protest. If the protest is ruled in favor of the protester, the $50 fee will be returned. A fifteen (15) minute grace period will be allowed for protest. 23

12 U Rules (11-12 years old) Rules governing play can be found in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations. These are local league play exceptions to those rules. Any situation NOT covered in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations refer to Official ASA Fast Pitch Rulebook. 12U will use an 12 Softball. Please be aware that the post-season tournament rules WILL be played different. Refer to rule books for that information. GAMES: Games shall be considered complete after 90 minutes of play or 6 innings whichever comes first. Play is stopped at expiration of time. No inning will start after time has expired, but an inning will be completed, if mathematically feasible. Tie game stands. PARTICIPATION: Offense: The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. Each team will retire with three (3) outs or six (6) runs per inning. Players will bat a continuous line up! Defense: Teams will play with nine (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and three (3) outfielders. Coaches will be required to play players at least 6 consecutive defensive outs. PITCHING RULES: 12 U WILL PITCH FROM 40 FEET. A pitcher shall not pitch more than nine (9) innings between Monday through the following Sunday night. COACHES: The 12 U shall be allowed three (3) coaches.. Offensive coaches: two coaches shall be the 1st and 3rd base coaches respectively (inside the coach s box). Defensive coaches: must remain in the dugout during play. Only one coach may be seated outside the dugout to give signals to players, but must be within reach of dugout opening. Protocol for picking up players: A team must field a minimum of six (6) players from that original team to compete in a game. Teams will play with nine (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and three (3) outfielders. If short, a team can pick up from the division below them. A maximum of three (3) players may be picked up and those players must play in the outfield. Coaches will be required to substitute players every other inning. If an original team member arrives to the game late she will be allowed to enter the game 24

as a substitute at the top of the next inning. The pick up player will remain on the line up for the duration of the game allowing her to bat. PROTESTS: $50 fee (cash) must be presented at the time of the protest. If the protest is ruled in favor of the protester, the $50 fee will be returned. A fifteen (15) minute grace period will be allowed for protest. 25

15 U Rules (13-15 years old) Rules governing play can be found in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations. These are local league play exceptions to those rules. Any situation NOT covered in the TTA Official Rules and Regulations refer to Official ASA Fast Pitch Rulebook. 15U will use an 12 Softball. Please be aware that the post-season tournament rules WILL be played different. Refer to rule books for that information. GAMES: Games shall be considered complete after 90 minutes of play or 7 innings whichever comes first. Play is stopped at expiration of time. No inning will start after time has expired, but an inning will be completed, if mathematically feasible. Tie game stands. PARTICIPATION: Offense: The offensive team will be made up of the entire team roster. Each team will retire with three (3) outs or seven (7) runs per inning. Defense: Teams will play with nine (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and three (3) outfielders. Coaches will be required to play players at least 6 consecutive defensive outs. PITCHING RULES: 15U DIVISION WILL PITCH FROM 40 FEET A pitcher shall not pitch more than eleven (11) innings between Monday through the following Sunday. COACHES: The 15U shall be allowed three (3) coaches. Offensive coaches: two coaches shall be the 1st and 3rd base coaches respectively (inside the coach s box). Defensive coaches: must remain in the dugout during play. Only one coach may be seated outside the dugout to give signals to players, but must be within reach of dugout opening. Protocol for picking up players: A team must field a minimum of six (6) players from that original team to compete in a game. Teams will play with nine (9) fielders, six (6) infielders and three (3) outfielders. If short, a team can pick up from the division below them. A maximum of three (3) players may be picked up and those players must play in the outfield. Coaches will be required to substitute players in the top of the third (3rd) inning. NO Exceptions! If an original team member arrives to the game late she will be allowed to enter the game as a substitute at the top of 26

the next inning. The pick up player will remain on the line up for the duration of the game allowing her to bat. Any player participating on the DISD JV and/or Varsity shall not practice or play any game until the school has concluded their softball season. However, any practices and games shall be played with no penalty for the DISD participants. 15 U games shall not be scheduled until the DISD regular schedule is complete. PROTESTS: $50 fee (cash) must be presented at the time of the protest. If the protest is ruled in favor of the protester, the $50 fee will be returned. A fifteen (15) minute grace period will be allowed for protest. 27

Tournament Team Policies We will offer post-season play to the 1st and 2nd place teams out of the end of season tournament in the 8U, 10U, 12U, and 15U in a division that has at least 4 teams. If only 3 teams in league, then only the 1st place team would advance. In 2013 there will be a district and state tournament ONLY. The team will stay intact (All coaches and Players) and advance on to the post-season. This will allow girls who have never experienced tournament play the opportunity to do so. Also, each team will be allowed to pick up 3 players from their respective age division. If there are players that cannot commit to the dates (see calendar of events page), please make staff aware immediately. For more details, go to Page 57 in TTA Official Rules and Regulations. DPARD WILL PROVIDE NEW UNIFORMS FOR ANY TEAM(S) THAT WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN POST SEASON PLAY. 28