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http://www.nfhs.org/web/2008/06/2009_softball_rules_changes.aspx
2009 RULE CHANGES
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.
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Changed the definition of a bunt attempt to holding the bat in the strike zone and requiring the bat to be withdrawn in order to take a pitch.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.
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.
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
1-4-2
Clarified that one American flag (2 inch x 3 inch maximum) is permitted on the glove.
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.
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.
3-2-7
Clarified that exposed undergarments must be a solid color.
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
2009 RULE CHANGES
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.
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.
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.
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
1-4-2
Clarified that one American flag (2 inch x 3 inch maximum) is permitted on the glove.
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.
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.
3-2-7
Clarified that exposed undergarments must be a solid color.
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
