Private Lessons Question

[Wolfpack31]

I know this rule has been discussed many of times, however my search didn't find me the answer.

Can a player who is currently playing on her high school softball team continue to receive private pitching and or hitting lessons during the high school season? When I read the below 2015 Ohio High School rule, it appears the answer is no, however it is somewhat vague.

Non-Interscholastic Participation
4.1) A member of an interscholastic softball squad (any student who has played in a scrimmage, preview or regularseason/tournament game as a substitute or starter) sponsored by the Board of Education or other governing boardshall not participate in a non-interscholastic program (tryouts, practice or contest) as an individual or as amember of a team in the sport of softball during the school?s season

Most that I have talked to says a player can continue to receive private one on one lessons during high school season as long as they are paying for them....

So my question is, what is the proper rule?

 

[tjsmize3]

To be on the safe side I would direct that straight to the OHSAA, but I do not recall anyone stopping lessons during high school season when the oldest DD played. I believe the phrase "participate in a non-interscholastic program" implies participation in a team/organization event... not private lessons. I do not think lessons would be considered part of a "program," unless they were given by the travel coach or other member of the organization... that would be the only rub I see. To your point though that rule is not well written and leaves a little too much for individual interpretation.

 

[daboss]

This rule was redefined a few years ago because of the exact question being asked now. It was determined that softball pitching lessons fell under the same umbrella as golf lessons or tennis instruction from club pros and therefore it was okay to continue. Part of what drove the change of heart had to do with golf course pros were also school head coaches for a particular team and people complained this was a violation of the original rule. Others mentioned tennis pros doing the same thing. While they still try to make the average everyday guy appear stupid, OHSAA rewrote the rule to this version or something simular as the one being shared. Bottom line; okay to continue instruction with your pro.

Now, having said that many instructors will cease instruction during the season as an act of courtesy to the coaching staff from your school. I host no lessons after March 1 for this very reason. Gives me more time to read your threads. lol