Kristen W. - Grade 7

Technique

Pitch: The softball pitch is traditionally windmill, in some leagues you can do modified. Modified pitching is the same, but without the arm circle.

Swing: In softball, because the pitch is underhand, you have to swing down on the ball.

Throw: Because the ball is bigger in softball, instead of using mostly the wrist like in baseball, you use mostly your upper arm and shoulder.

Rules

Bases: The distance between bases is 60ft. Distance from home plate to pitcher's mound is 45ft. At first, there is a safety base. The first basemen can use either one and the runner goes to whichever one they aren't using (so they don't get hit by the ball).

Drop Third Strike: On the third strike, if the catcher drops the ball, or it somehow hits the ground, the batter runs to first. If they make it before the ball, they are safe and are not considered out.

Infield Fly: The infield fly rule says that any fly ball in the infield is an automatic out, even if no one catches it. If the umpire doesn't call it, it isn't an infield fly, and fielders still have to catch it.

Equipment

Bat: Bats come in different sizes and are metal. There are different types of bats for fastpitch and slow pitch. Fast pitch bats are usually more expensive, but also nicer. You usually don't have to buy your own because the team will probably supply them.

Ball: The standard ASA(American Softball Association) rules say to use 12 inch balls for 12 and under and 11 inch balls for 10 and under.

Helmet: Traditional helmet with covers on both ears, also has a mask to cover your face and a chin strap.

Batting Gloves: Batting gloves are optional. You would wear them to keep from getting blisters from the bat and/or to get a better grip on the bat.

Cleats: Cleats are optional, but are recommended because they dig into the ground and make it easier to run.

Glove: Gloves come in different sizes. If your hand is bigger, you can get the bigger glove.