The WFL will use NFHS Softball Rules.

The following points are emphasized:

• Run rules will be applied to all games when a team has a lead of 15 runs after 3 innings, 12 runs after 4 innings, or 8 runs after 5 innings.

• A team may begin and play a game with 8 players but an “automatic out” shall be scored each time the ninth spot in the lineup comes up to bat. If a team starts with 8 or 9 players and has a player ejected, the game will be forfeited.

• Pitchers may opt to use either the "step back" or the "start back" positions before the pitch.

• The 12U pitching rubber will be set at 40 feet.

• Teams must supply 2 “playable” NFHS Softball approved balls for each of their home games.

 

There will be additional adaptations including:

• Teams will be allowed to use a continuous batting order including up to as many girls as that team has on its roster.

• Teams will be allowed to make free defensive substitutions as long as the initial batting order does not change.

• Teams may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher or catcher currently in the game. The courtesy runner shall be the player who made the most recent out who isn't also the pitcher or catcher. Courtesy runners are NOT required.

• There will be no new inning started after 75 minutes, and any game will “drop dead” after 90 minutes. If any time limit rule is used to end a game, the team with the lead after the last complete inning is the winner. If there is a tie after the last complete inning, the game will be recorded as a tie. In the event of a game that is close after 90 minutes and, if there is, in the umpire’s judgment, a strong possibility of a decisive victory being attained by one team, the umpire may extend the “drop dead” limit by no more than 5 minutes, and no new inning may be started.

• Metal cleats will be allowed for 14U and older.

• Players will NOT be required to have chin straps on their helmets.

• Coaches may choose which on-deck circle should be used by their players. Player safety should always be the primary concern.

• While the WFL will allow coaches to make decisions about players who are older than the stated age limit, coaches are responsible to maintain competitive balance. Any grievances or inquiries should be routed toward the league director. It is not appropriate to seek resolution of disputes about any player’s age during games.

• Both teams must confirm that scores have been submitted by noon on the day following the games. The standings on the website cannot be updated without this information.

• Every team is expected to field a full team on each of their scheduled game dates. If there is not a full team (of at least 8 players to start a game) at the start of the game, the umpires will be sent home, and the team without enough players will be asked to pay $100 to cover field costs and umpire’s fees for that date.

• Only players and coaches who have signed waivers are eligible to participate in league games. Any participant who has not signed a waiver is restricted from participating in any league activities.

• Remember that this league was founded in order to provide girls with the opportunity to have a fun summer learning to hone their softball skills. Let’s keep it fun!

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Special 10U Rules

• 10U games will be played with an 11", NFHS Softball Approved softball.

• The pitching rubber will be set at 35 feet.

• Scoring Limit: 7 run rule: A team that is tied or ahead at the start of an at-bat can only score 7 runs during that at-bat. A team that is behind at the start of an at-bat can only score enough runs to go ahead by 7 runs during that at-bat.