A sports knowledge test
Item Type text; Thesis-Reproduction (electronic)
Authors Dodd, Martha, 1906-
Publisher The University of Arizona.
Rights Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.
Download date 07/10/2021 14:30:35
Link to Item http://hdl.handle.net/10150/553487 A SPORTS KNOtVLEDGE TEST
by
Martha Dodd
A T hesis
submitted to the faculty of the
Department of Education
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Arts
in the Graduate College
University of Arizona
1 9 4 0
<5 9 7 9 /
c - y j . z
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Page
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...... i
I , INTRODUCTION...... 1
I I . THE DODD SOFTBALL TEST...... 4
Chronological Story of the Test...... 4 T est A...... 7 T e st B...... 12 I-ianual for the Dodd Softball Test...... 17 Purpose Directions for giving the test Directions for scoring the test R e s u lts ...... i f ...... 21 Introductory Remarks- Correlation Norms
I I I . CONCLUSION...,...... 34
Summary, ...... 34 C onclusions...... 34 Recommendations...... 35
BIBLIOGRAPHY...... 37
APPENDIX...... 41
130727 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Grateful acknowledgement ia made toi
Mr. Johnatimn L. Booth, Elementary Supervisor of Tucson City
Schools, for permission to give the test, and to the
following Tucson principals in whose schools the test
was g iv en :
Bollin Burr (University Heights)
N. L. Houston (Davis)
Julia C. Keen (Drachman)
Adah B. Lineweaver (Miles)
^ U e n M. R obertson (Sam Hughes)
Anna Taquard (Roskruga)
Also to these out of town principals for their kind permission
to give the test in their schools:
R obert G. Adams (Emerson; C ity o f Phoenix)
Carey Bussell (Casa Grand®; Pinal Co.)
Helen B. Keeling (Ampitfaeater; Pina Co.)
Loren Vaughn, Jr. (Balsa; Maricopa Co.)
Special thanks for help in building the tests are tendered Miss Mary
Eager of Drachman School and Miss Genevieve Hagan of University Heights
School; and for help in administering the out of town tests to Mrs. E, C.
Widby, The writer is also grateful to all the fifth and sixth grade teachers and pupils of the above schools for their most generous and courteous assistance. - i Very special appreciation is expressed to Dr. J. F. TSalker, of the University of Arizona^ for his guidance of this study.
i l TABLE OF ILLUSTRATIVE MATERIAL
TABLES Bags
TABLE I . SUMMAET OF TOTAL SCORES 5 ^ ...... 24
I I . SOMMAH3C OF TOTAL SCORES 6A...... 25
I H . SUMMARY OF IABLK I AS© H ...... 26
IV. FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION OF THE THREE HtINCIPAL AGE GROUPS OF gA ON TESTS A AND B ...... 31
V. FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION OF THE THREE PRINCIPAL AGE GROUPS OF 6A ON TESTS A AND B...... 32
VL AGE GROUPS NOT TREATED IN TABLES IV AND V...... 33
V II. SCORES OF PUPILS TAKING TEST A BEFORE TEST B . . ____ _ 42
V III. SCORES OF PUPILS TAKING TEST A AFTER TEST B ...... 43
H . SCORES OF PUPILS TAKING BOTH TESTS AT ONE SITTING.. 44
X. SCORES OF 5A PUPILS TAKING ONLY TEST A . . . . ____. . . . . 45
X I. SCORES OF 5A PUPILS TAKING ONLY TEST B ...... 46
X II. SCORES OF 6A PUPILS TAKING ONLY TEST A ...... 47
X III. SCORES OF 6A PUPILS TAKING ONLY TEST B ...... 48
F ig u res
Figure L M atter Diagram and Correlation of Test A and T e s t B...... 22
2. Coaparison of Test A and Test B...... 27
3. Comparison of 5A and 6A...... 28
4 . Comparison o f boys and g i r l s # ...... 29
i r Tests Ifcge
T e st A...... 7
T e st B ...... 22 lo n g t e s t ...... 49
B ooklets
Softtell._rule took...... 64
v ... CHMTffi I
INTRODUCTION
The problem of this study is the construction of a Sports Know
ledge Test for Intermediate Grades, The sport. is playground baseball
(softball). and the grades are gA and 6A boys and girls. .
• . This test is based on the desired attainments mentioned in the
Arizona State Coune of Study Bulletin #9 , 1935* These specify that
in th e 5th grade each child should know the rules for spcedball and
for playground baseball and in the 6th grade each child should know
the rules for the games well enough so that they might act as of
ficials in the games played. The games listed in both grades for
.the last third of the school term include playground baseball (soft-
ball) ., The outcomes have been set up but there has been no standard
way of measuring.their attainment. It was to fill this need that the
writer set out to construct the test. It was the original plan to
construct tests for the several sports, and games but the task proved
to be too difficult as it would .have involved the giving of several
tests, the opportunity for giving of which was not open to the author
and so only the one major, universal sport was chosen...... ,, ....
The reader may suppose that for such a popular national game as
softball there might be several knowledge tests but the only one for
grade school children that could be found was the Rodgers and Heath 2
T e st f a r 5t h and 6th grade bqys.^ This consists of 200 true-false questions and has a reliability coefficient of *89 1 .02. In refer ring to it as a “pioneer eork," Glassow and Broer^ say that its validity depends on itiat knowledge was covered in the learning of the game.
Most writers on testing agree that there is a great lack of know ledge tests in Physical Education which amounts to an actual dearth of tests in that field as far as the elementary schools are concerned.
Such a situation was discovered by the w riter while preparing a class report on “Testing in Physical Education in the Elementary School."
This study is an outgrowth of that report and represent □ a very small attempt to fill the need as it was then revealed.
Two tests based on the O fficial Softball Rules were constructed*
The first part of each is made up of best answer type of questions while the second part is composed of a new type of question of the author *s own invention. These diagrams were inspired by the following 5 remark of Qlassow and Broer in discussing the Girls Basketball knowledge test of Helen Schwartz which includes 15 questions of diagrams and pictures: “Test items of this kind (diagrams and pictures) show a practical and promising development in the field of P. E. and one which
is receiving increasing emphasis." Scores were obtained from 1060
tests and various calculations were made. In the following chapters
1. Rodgers and Heath, “in Experiment in the Use of Knowledge and Skill ..Tests in Playground Baseball, “ Research Quarterly. 2(4)tU 3 , (December, 1931.) 2. Glassow and Broer, Measuring Achievement in Physical Education. p. 84. 3. Ibid, p. 119, 3
the procedure and results are discussed. CHAPTER I I
t h i bobd m m m j, test
Chronological Story of tho Teat
As a foundation for building tho teat the author read extensively on measurement, test construction, and baseball. Smith rod sixteen steps were then used as a guide for the actual standardisation of the test. A# the objective tras to measure knowledge of softball rules and play it. was relatively easy to prepare a valid tost from the O fficial Rule Book of 19# fee the rules in the Arizona State
Course of Study are now out of date. It was found that the majority of the rules related to batting rod baserunning so these rules became the basis for most of the questions.
For the first long experimental test, a copy of which is found in the appendix, three types of questions were chosen, viz. completion, multiple choice, and diagrams. This test of 1 # questions was given to twenty five 6A pupils at University Heights School sod to twenty f iv e 6A pupils at Brachean School. This school was chosen because it
is attended by only Mexican children while practically none of that race roe found in the University Heights School. It was found to be much too long for use and many of the questions were ambiguous and
1. Smith and 'Wright f Tests and Measurements pb. 511-12. ^ 5
Tsoro more of an English, puzzle than a baseball tost. About half of the poorer questions rore therefore omitted and the remaining test con sisting of eighty questions vas glrm to tnmnty five pupils at
University Heights School and to treaty five 5A pupils at Drachran
School, The per cent getting each of these questions *was noted.
By using an rran 100 children this 'step vas made easy. Part 1, vrliich eoislsted of conpletlon questions, uas found to be the least satis factory and most difficult for the pupils to .answer and so it vas omitted from further tests. Almost without exception the children preferred Part 3 , which consisted of diagrams. Those questions that were too easy or too difficult vere throim out as w U as those that allowed acre than one correct answer. Questions about baselines, y innings, policy, eto, were thrown out because of lack of uniformity on ttose matters vith play of the 5t h and 6 th grade children.
Sixty cards, each mith a question on it and the per cent
answering it correctly wore prepared. These wore shuffled about until finally two testa of 30 questions each rere made. These consisted of
12 multiple choice questions and 18 diagrams of such a degree of
difficulty that when the two forms rere administered to a group they
would give the same approximate mean, sigma, and range. It was
desired that no pupil should get either a perfect score of 30 o r a
zero score and that the mean should be about at the middle at 15
points. The questions were paired as nearly as possible as to content
and the per cent scoring them right. Thirty questions were found to
be the number that could be completed in the average class period of 6
30 minutes, allowing time for directions, distribution end collection of the test papers. These two tests were given to four children from each of the above four rooms. That is, the experimental forms were tried out on sixteen children. Results were carefully analyzed and a few minor changes wore made. The final foms of the tests were then mimeographed and made reac^r for the final use. A copy of each fora w ill be found in the pages following.
The final time of testing extended from April 22nd to May 2nd,
1940. During that time both forms of the test were administered to one hundred thirty five 5A pupils and to one hundred fifty two 6A pupils in the Tucson City Schools, a total of two hundred eighty seven pupils. The tests were so arranged that about half of the pupils had
Test A first and vice versa. The correlation of the two sets of scores was then calculated. In addition, the test was given to 436 other pupils in Tucson, Amphitheater (Pima Co.), Casa Grand®, and Phoenix,
Arizona. The tests wore scored and norms for age, grade, and sex were calculated for each test. I
T e s t A, Name:
Boy:
G ir l:
Note: You play this game on the small diamond with the "big 12 inch hall. You have 22 minutes in which to answer these 30 questions.
Part 1. Beet Answer
(Choose the heat answer to each question and mark its number on the line in front of the question.) Example: " 3 a. The best batter is called: 1 . number one b a t t e r 2 . utility man 3 . cleanup man k. batter on deck 3 . le a d o f f man Start Here:
a. The kind of pitch to use is: 1 . sid e arm 2 . back hand 3 . over arm 4. under hand 5. r ig h t hand
b» Umpire calls a "strike" if: 1. ah illegally pitched ball is struck at and missed 2. an illegally pitched ball cuts the heart of the plate 3. pitcher delays more than one minute 4. pitcher rolls ball along the ground 3 . batter is hit by ball he struck at and missed
c. If number 8 batter has hit safely next mn to bat should be: 1 . b e s t b a t t e r 2 . p itc h e r 3 • m aaber 9 b a t t e r 4. number 7 b a t t e r 5 * pinch hitter
d.' When a substitute is put in the gams he bate? 1 . l a s t 2 . a f t e r th e p itc h e r 3 . f i r s t 4. for the weakest player for the retired player 8
A e. A "block "ball Is: a ball stopped by eomeme not in the game 2 . a' grounder stopped by a short-stop J. a fly ball stopped by the pitcher 4. a pitch blocked by the batter 5 * a hit that goes a block f . Batter becomes a baseruraxer after: 1 . an illegal pitch 2 . three fouls called J. four balls called 4. wild pitch called 5 . hit by pitched ball g. A wild pitch is: 1 . ball so fast batter cannot see it 2 . ball catcher cannot catch 3 . overthrow of second base 4. throwout to catch runner off base 5 . bad throw to first base h. Umpire rules a game is "forfeited” (given to the other team) if: 1 . one team delays more than one minute 2 . one team does n o t come to p la y 3 . sco re i s t i e d a t end o f game 4. one team does not make any runs 5 . pitcher uses an illegal pitch iy . Baserunner may return to the base safely if: X 1 . umpire rules a dead ball 2 . umpire rules he was off base during a pitch 3 . a thrown ball hits the umpire 4. a foul hit is caught 5 . batter is walking to first j. Umpire rules an "out" if: 1 . batter gets hit by a pitched ball 2 . ball hits bat for a bunt while batter was dodging the ball 3 . batter hits twenty-nine fouls 4. with bases empty, batter hits an infield fly that is not caught 5 - batter steps to other box while pitcher is ready to pitch k. Batter should run to first if :• 1 . pitcher makes an illegal pitch 2 . catcher drops a foul tip 3. his hit strikes a runner at second 4. he makes 3 foul bunts 5 * he is hit by pitched ball l. Bali is dead and not in play if: 1 . three strikes are called 2 . four balls are called 3» it touches catcher’s clothing 4* a fair hit strikes umpire on foul ground 5- it is illegally batted 9 T e st A. THE DODD PLAYGROUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) TEST
Part 2. Drawings
Here you see a drawing of a Playground Baseball diamond. The diamonds below are just like it but the names of the bases and the bench have not been written on them. Follow this key: arrow ■ where ball goes on ground (no fly balls) NUiome - dotted line * where runner goes • circle = where ball is caught Bench Plate B = a batter f o r team a t b a t R = a runner Start Here:
1. Make a dotted line to bases batter touches when he hits a "homer".
Draw an arrow from home to place a foul behind third b ase goes.
Draw an arrow to place ball should go next.
4. Make an "R" where runner stands after he hits a "triple".
5- Who should get this slow grounder?
II B 10 A.
6. Draw an arrow to place ta ll should go next.
7. Make a dotted line to place runner should go If there Is a block ball.
What does the umpire call?
Make a dotted line to place first runner should go after this play.
10. Draw an arrow to place ball should go next. R
11. Which runner on this base is out?
1 2 . What does the umpire call? ___ 0 (Ball hit ground first at %:)
S' 11 A.
Make a c ro s s ■where th e s h o rt-s to p s sta n d .
n *. > V. X What player caught this ball? xV. V
15. Make a d o tte d lin e to p la c e ru n n e r may go i f th e re is a passed ball.
16. Make a c ro s s on th e b a se s you may o v e r-ru n .
Who should cover (take care of) third base of this slow grounder? ______
18. Make a dotted line to place batter should go on this b u n t.
6 12 Teat B, Name: ______Age: __
Boy: Grade:
G irl.: School:
THE DODD PLAYGROUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) TEST
(A Knoirled^ Test cm. Rules and Play)
Note: You play this game on the small diamond with the big 12 inch ball. You have 22 minutes in which to answer these 30 questions.
Part 1. Best Answer
(Choose the best answer to each question and mark its number cm the line in front of the question.) Exam ple: a .. The best batter is called: 1 . number one batter 2 . utility man cleanup man 4 . batter on deck 5- le a d o f f man Start Here:
a . . A home run i s a ru n : 1 . made when a runner touches home 2 , from t h ir d base to home 3 * of two bases on one hit 4. of all bases on one hit 5 . forced in by batter
b. The batter’s box is: 1 . place batter goes after he hits 2 . place batter stands to hit 3 » place pitcher, throws the ball place bats are kept 5 * place next batter waits
c. In pitching the ball the pitcher, may: 1 . ta k e only 1 step forward 2 . take only 2 steps forward 3 • take as many steps as he needs 4. take no steps forward 5% take only 1 s te p back
d. Each inning at bat a team gets: 1 . four balls 2 . three strikes 3 • ten fouls 4. three outs 5. three bunts
e . I f a p la y e r le a v e s th e game he: 1. may come back at the beginning of any inning 2 . may come back a t h is t i r e a t b a t may come back only to p itc h ?:• may come back only to b a t 5. may n o t come back a t a l l 15 B. f . A "balk Is called vhen: 1 . pitcher will not pitch any more 2 . baseman Bakes believe he has the ball ). pitcher In box starts to pitch and then stops 4. pitcher cannot strike batter out 5 » ball is lost g. If runner on third has not touched second base: 1 . nothing can be done about it 2 . he may walk back to second safely he my be put out by holding ball cm second 4. it Is called an error 5 . he is called out by umpire h. If number three batter has 1 strike and 2 balls when number two batter makes the third out in infield the first batter the next inning will be: 1 . number three with 1 strike and 2 b a lls 2 . number three with no strikes and no balls 3 . number three with no etrlkeis and 2 b a lls 4.. nunber four with no strikes and no balls 3 .. number four with 1 strike and 2 b a l l s
1. In case of a tie at end of game: 1 . team which made first run wins • 2 . team which made last run wins 3 . team which makes first run in next complete inning wins 4. team which makes most runs in next complete Inning wins 5 . team which makes more than one run next complete inning wins
, j: The battery are: 1 . the two short-stops • 2 . th e basemen 3 . the pitcher and catcher 4.. the coaches and umpires 5 «- the batters * . k. If batter Is struck by a pitched ball umpire rules: 1 . e r r o r 2 . o u t 3 * w alk 4 . s t r i k e 5. b a l l
1 » A time at bat is counted: 1 . as soon as batter steps up to the plate 2 . as soon as pitcher throws first ball 3 • not until batter makes a hit not until batter becomes a runner or is put out not until all players have batted T e s t B 14
THE DODD PIAYGBOUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) TEST
Part 2. Drawings
Here you see a drawing of a Playground. Baseball diamond. The diamonds below are just like it but the names of the bases and the bench hare not been written on them. Follow this key: arrow * where ball goes ran ground (o n ly #1 and #17 are fly balls) I {Bench fo r dotted line » where runner goes I j team a t hat circle - where ball is caught B a b a t t e r Start Here: B a ru n n er
1. Who should get this fly?
Draw an arrow from home to place a hit out to center field goes.
What does the umpire call?
Make an "R'’ where runner stands after he hits a "double"
Make a dotted line to place runner my go if there is a passed ball. 15 B
Draw arrow to place ta ll should go next.
■> Make a dotted line to place tatter goes when he "fane".
Draw an arrow to place ta ll should go next.
Make a dotted line to place tatter should go on this hit which strikes a tase umpire.
Make a cross on the bases coaches my stand by.
R
11. R Draw an arrow to place ta ll should go next. (one "out") 16 B.
Make a cross where left fielder stands.
What does the umpire call? ___ (Ball hit ground first at : )
Make a cross where player stands to put a dead ball back in play.
16. Make a dotted line to place batter should go next, if catcher drops the third strike.
B
1 7. Make a dotted line to place batter should go next, after he hits this fly.
18. Who should cover (take care of) first base on this slow grounder? ______
6 17
Manual for the Dodd Softball Test
Purpose! The general purpose of this test is to help the teacher do a better job of teaching the pupils. Specific uses are:
1. To stimulate interest and motivate the pupils in learning the game itself and the correct nay of playing it.
2. To supplement other irork as a basis for marking In physical education, ■ ‘ : .
3. To aid in classification and guidance of pupils in this one phase of physical education.
4. To measure the extent to ehdeh the outcome' of "knowledge of rules" as suggested in the State Course of Studfor has been ■ - . - reach ed . - - . ^ ' ' ' - - .
5. To lend variety to the physical education program and to provide simple and interesting activity for pupils on a raizyr or torrid day.
All questions on both forms of'the test relate to actual rules
and p l^ . These were taken from the O fficial Bui® Book thus assuring
validity for the test. The test is based on the 1940 rules and is
therefore up to date and suitable for use in any locality. Although
norms are given for only 5t h and 6th grades the test may be used in any
grades above these. The norms are given in the accompanying tables.
Directions for giving the te st:
1. Pass th e t e s t e and leav e thorn, fa c e down on d e sk s.
2. "This is a test on softball rules and pity, but before you begin I want to explain one word." (Then explain meaning of "illegal.")
3 . "I cannot explain any of the other baseball words for you so do not ask me to do so.*
4. "There are two parts to the test. Be sure that you read the directions and study the example at the beginning of each part. Begin work where it says ’Start Here1." 18
5* \ "Now torn your papers over and begins fill the blanks at the top of the page, and then go ahead and do all of the test.*
- ' 6. Take and record the time immediately and call “Stop, pencils down," in 22 minutes. ,
7. lalk around room at once and see that all are recording their answers properly.
8. You may explain any non-baseball words if necessary. Do not explain: "double," "triple," "fans," "balk,*,"inning," "bunt," etc. .. . ■> ', .
Directims for scoring the test: lay the Key to the left of each test and check those missed. Subtract from 30 one point for each question missed. Compare the scores with the noma for ago, grade, and
\ • ■®x. • 19 o*6 e./
14. xi^ht field er
17, Short-stop 1 2 a B 5 . 21
R e s u lts
Introductory remark#* If the reader is interested he may refer to the long test in the appendix for the per cent of pupils ansimring each question correctly. The results here discussed include only the final tiro fo n ts of the test. The three schools at nhich berth tests irere given to the same pupils Trill be called schools A, B, and Cj and the five schools at which only one test was given to a pupil w ill be called schools 1, 2, 3 ,4 , and 5* All the scores of A, B, and C were thrown in with the scores of 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 to derive norms. In d iv id u a l results for each school may be found in the appendix; only the total . *•- , , . ' ' results are treated here.
Correlation t Both tests were taken by 287 pupils. Approximately half of these took Test A first and half took Test B first. Of this number I 53 took the teat# at one sitting and 134 took the tests ten days apart. Fig. 1 shows their scores cm scatter diagram from which r was calculated. Tables VII, VIII and IX In appendix show their
scores. Test A has a Mean of 15.U and a Sigma of 4.65. Test B has
a Mean of 16.25 and a Sigma of 4.73. The correlation is: r= .66 4 .0 2 , 22
$e®4 B
2 . 5 * % 7 * 10: 33 : 26 1 19 * 22 t 25 * 28 : T eat A %3 . 5 : i * 9 : 32: 15 : 18 : 2 1 : 24 : 27 : 30 % FA 28-30 2 :: : * * $ . * * : t 0
2 > 2 7 2 2 1 : : : 2 ; : * 2 1 1 % 3
22-54 1 ", 1 1 : $ 2 : 2 % 4 * 2D : 3 $ 1 21
19-21 : ■' 1 : 1 : 4 : 14 % 17 1 10 : 2 t % 48
26-18 $ : t 2 : 5 : 10 : 19 2 19 s' 5 % 2 1 : 62
23-15 1 l 1 2 % 9:17:27 %11 : 1 1 * 1 68
10-22 ; 2 1 4 1 15 : 24 s 7 $ 4 1 * % ; 56
7-9 2 2 : 3 * 4 * 4 * 2 $ 2 s s i % 17
4-6 1 4 : 1 4 * 2 : 1 S : 1 s : 21
•5-3*5 % 1 I s : : % V'S ' %* 1 1
FB s 0 1 ID : 11 : 38 * 63 * 72 : 5 7 1 2 6 S 9 1 i * 287
F ig u re 1 . Scatter Diagram and Correlation of Test A and Test B
MA « 15.11 1 4 (n-l)r13: the correlation betmen n forms of a test and n parallel forms. rl l the reliability coefficient (tlio correlation bet-wen 2 forms)). Suppose that the present test w re made three times as long as it is, then substituting in the formula w get: .85 m The P. E. of r of the Lengthened test is found from the formula: 2 r »n = Tf ti i (Viir^ 2 Substituting in the formula w get: . If the test -were three timos as long as it is the reliability coef ficient would then be: r = ,8 5 4 .0 1 . Nonas: Of the L06O tests given 533 were Test A and 527 were Test B« These include 540 6A pupils and 520 5A pupils. There were 537 g i r l s and 523 boys. Further breakdown of these numbers is given in Tables I, II, and III. The actual scores obtained may be found in the appendix (Tables X, XI, XII and mi). 2. Carrot, II. E., Statistics in Psychology and Education, p. 315. a t TABLE I SUMMIT OF TOTAL SCORES 5A : : : - t i School$Teet A Bovn tTent A Girls:Toat B Boys %Test B G irls: T o ta ls :Pupils ScoreiPtmils Score:Pupils S c o re tPuoils Score?Pupils Score ' 1 ; i 19 236 * 2 1 2 ^ 8 326 ; 20 258 * 80 1059 , - . • ;• 2 V 18 285 : 12 171 8 13 im ■$;':'18. . '276' 8^ 61 . 954 3 : 13 176 8 n 138 i 7 , 82 8 10 142 t 41 538 4 : 11 127 s ,8 96 8 n 260 8 11 > 99 $ 40 482 5 * 3 43 * 22 148 8 9 367 8 4 62 $ 28 420 A ; 12 175 : 14 165 8 12 200 8 U 184 8 52 724 B t 17 327 : 18 255 * 17 325 8 18 263 : 70 1170 Ba : 18 m * 22 299 * IS 370 8 22 330 i 80 i m C * 17 201 8 17 186 i 17 264 i 17 m i 68 844 T o t a l : 22 8 1904 $ 135 2697 8124 2136 s 333 1807 t 520 7524 Means 14 .87 22,57 8 17.06 i 13.59 > 14.47 as TABLE I I SUMMAHT OF TOTAL SCORES 6A : $ , : - $ ' '"i' achooItTest A Boys xTcst A GirlstTest B Boys tTest B Girls t Totals :Pupils ScoretPupils Score:Pupils Score:Pupils Score:Pupils Score 1 : 15 249 2 15 233 1 16 278 1 14 232 t 60 992 2 1 19 375 1 20 331 t 22 434 $ 20 m 1 81 3477 '3 2 11 176 2 11 144 : 9 367 $ ID 345 * 41 632 4 2 n 215 2 5 62 s ID 188 1 9 343 * 35 608 5 s 4 81 2 7 93 % 6 3D1 : 2 29 * 19 304 A s 17 299 | 16 230 % 17 334 $ 36 227 % 66 lo g o B : 25 # :: 15 244 > 25 536 1 35 . . 2* 5 : m 1531 \ * % i u 261 2 .26 355 1 34 286 * 26 373 i 80 3275 c .2 18 233 2 2 1 ^ 9 * 38 288 s 21 273 $ 78 IO63 T o ta l 1 134 2415 2 236 1961 : 137 2612 1 133 1984 * 540 8972 Means t 18,02 2 34.42 : 19.07 * 34.91 * 36 .6 1 26 TABLE H I SUMMARY OF TABLES I AMD I I P a rt X 5A i ' t t s Test A t Teat B ■ : Both tests ______i Boys Girl# Total : Boys Girls Total : Boys Girlp Total Mumber % 128 335 263 « 224 233 257 $ 252 268 520 Score : 1904 2697 3601 s 2136 1807 3923 * 40% 3504 7525 Mean *14.87 12.57 33.69 * 17.06 23.59 15.26 * 15.95 13.09 24.47 P a rt 2 6A • : • . .. * * T e st A j T e s t B s Both t s o t s : Boys GdUriUe T o ta l $ Boors Girls Total s Boys Girls Total %*mber : 134 136 270 * 237 133 270 : ■ 271: ' 269 540 Score * 2415 1961 4376 $ 2632 1984 4596 : 5027 3945 8972 Mean *18.02 14.42 36.21 $ 19.07 24.91 17.02 : 18.55 14.67 26.61 Part 3 Both Gredes S ' * $ : T o st A : Test B $ Both tests : Boys Girin Total : Boys Girls Total : Boys Girls Total U m ber 1 262 271 533 * 261 266 527 * 523 537 2060 Score : 4319 3658 7977 * 4728 3791 8519 * 9047 7449 36496 Mean *36.48 13.50 14.97 *18,11 14.25 16.16 % 17.29 23.87 15.56 27 T e s t \ ™ est B mean - 14.97 mean - 16.16 sigma - 4.58 s ig m a - 4.61 r a n g e -1-27 r a n g e -1-26 number - 533 number - 527 28 s c o r e s Figure 5. Con.parison of 5A. an d 6 A 5A 6 * _ mean - 14.51 mean - 16.50 sigma - 4.65 sigma - 4.5.3 r a n g e -1-27 r a n g e -5-26 number - 520 number - 540 figure 4. Comparison of Boys and Girls B oys G i r l s m ean 1 7 .3 2 m ean 1 3 .6 3 sigma 4 .6 3 s ig m a 3 .9 7 range 1 - 26 r a n g e 1 - 34 n u m b er 5 2 3 n u m b er 537 Three trends are consistently shcwi: that Test A la a little acre difficult than Test B5 t h a t th e 6A pupils do better than the 5A p u p ils 3 and that the boys do better than the girls.. The first is to be regretted nhile the last tiro wore of course anticipated. The age groups are treated separately. They range from 9 to 15 for boys in the 5A and from 9 to I 5 for girls in the 5A3 from ID to 17 for boys in the 6JL and from ID to 16 for girls in the 6A* These results are best shorn in Tables 17, V, and VI. 31 TABLE IV FBEQDBNCI D2BTRZBBTI0B OF THE THREE PRINCIPAL AOS CaoUPS OF $A ON TOTS A AND B S tep s Boys : G ir ls t A ll t A ll s Arte 10 : Age U t Aso 32 sages: A^s 10 : Ago 11 : Age 32 iageo : A B T t A B T* A B T : T s A B T* A B T : A B T : T l 2 8 - ^ : : - 1 * : % 1 * 25-27 : 2 2 t 1 1* * 3 : % * : 22-24 * 4 20 14: 2 4 6* 1 1* 25 % 1 1* : * 1 - 19-21 iU 19 33: 4 7 11: 1 3 4: 55 : 3 9 22* 4 4* * 18 2 * 16-1S :15 36 31:32 14 26 ; 2 4 6: 69 *14 19 33* 7 7 1 4 : 1 3 4 : 59 2>15 * 7 2 9* ID 5 15* 9 3 12 : 39 :20 17 37*24 15 29: 3 3 6 : 82 2D-12 * 5 3 8s 4 2 6* 6 3 9* 35 *20 20 30*10 8 18* 3 2 5* 59 7-9 i 3 3* 4 2 6 : 4 1 5* 17 * 3 5 8*20 3 13* 5 1 6 : 31 # 4 -6 $ * 1 1 2*3 1 4* 7*2 3 5* 1 3 4* 3 1 4 : 15 .5-3.5: ... 1. It ...... * 1 1* 2 : 1 1* 1 1 * : 3 t H *48 53 301*37 36 73*26 16 42*252 :63 64127^2 41 83:15 20 25*268 • $ M * 17.83* 15.89* 22.71*26. s 23i8Ss 12.63% 11. *13.11 - ■■oJ .. TABLE V. ; FREQUENCY BISSItIBUTIDN OF THE THREE PRDICIBL AGE GROUPS OF 6A ON TESTS A AND B S tep s : ______Boys ______: ______G ir ls ______’ * ~ ~ " ' ' A ii" s " ' "" ~j A ll ' ' ‘ t Age 11 : Age 12 i Ago 13 :aaaa: Age XI i Ago 12 t Age 13 :agea ... . t A B Tt A B T: A B Ti T : A B T; A B T: A B T: T -r - ' r . 28-30 t t 1 1 * i 1 : : : s 25-57 : 1 5 6 * 2 1 3 : 1 1 2 s 12 : : i : 22-24 *10 13 Z$ t 9 11 2 0 1 3 I 4t 48 : 1 1 It 1 It 1 1* 4 19-21 \20 20 40$16 19 35$ 4 7 lit 95 $ 8 11 19$ 5 1 6: 2 1 3 $ 31 16-18 *17 9 2 6 $ 8 8 16: 1 4 5 : 58 *22 22 44*13 16 29$ 3 4 7$ 87 - * : " 13-15 : 5 4 9 * 5 6 11$ 4 3 7$ 38 :15 12 26:15 13 28 $ 3 4 7 $ 68 $ * 10-12 $ 2 1 3$ 1 1: $ 13 $10 13 23*12 5 17$ 4 6 10: 55 : 7-9 * 1 1$ 1 1 : 1 I t 4 $ 3 1 4$ 2 5 7* 2 2 4* 16 $ 4-6 : ’ i :...1 1$ 3 $ 1 1$ 1 1 2$ 2 : -2s 8 «5-3*5$ ' -.g t •... ; i - •- t ■" : t : - ■ ' ' % ■■ N $55 53 108$41 47 88:15 16 31:271 $60 60120148 42 90$16 18 34$269 N $ 19*39$ 19.45$ 18.06 $18.55; 15*28$ 14*23$ 13.29$ U* 56 TABLE VI AQE GBOUPS NOT TREATED IN TABLES IV AND V :______SA *: 9 * 13 % 14 * 15 % ■- • - : 1 No. ■ M - * Mo. ■ M % Ho, M $ No. M TN Test A Boys : 2 ZJ i 8 22 S 5 9 # 2 10 , 17 Test B Boys % 2 Z? i 13 13 * 3 15 $ 1 34 $ 19 Test A Girls 1 5 24 * 8 8 : 1 14 $ 1 11 1 15 Test B Girls : 6 14 t 9 10 * 1 32 * 2 15 1 18 T o ta l I 15 16 s 38 11 $ 10 32 * 6 23 * 69 ...... • : : J . ■/ - • : ■ 6A Agee % 10 $ M _L__ 15___ * 16 % 17 : t No. M : Ho. M : No. M ! No. M : No. H t TN Test A Boys # * 14 15 * 7 23 i 2 11 # . i , 23 Test B Boys % 1 14* U 17 i 6 36 $ 2 10 m 1 19 * 2 1 Test A Girls * A 10: 5 11 % 2 9 * 1 24 i 8 22 Test B Girls 3 17* 6 34 * 4 35 * ■ " » 33 T o ta l % 8 23 * 3 6 15 * 19 14 * 5 11 % 1 19 s 69 GlBPiBR I I I ODHCLIBION The problem of constructing a Sports Knowledge Test for Intermedi ate Grades has been completed. Two forma of an objective teat were built, correlated, and then given to a large group to establish norms. Conclusions .. - The test meets the requirements of a Standardised Test, Because * - . . . , .. • - -* ' r • ...... - • ' " . . . . . of its shortness 3t costa little in money and time to adminiater. It requires especially trail adapted to the short class periods of the elementary schools, as the 22 minutes allowed is sufficient for most of the children to complete the test. The test is very easy to score. In Part 1, numbers are merely checked by the key placed at the side of each page. In Part 2, the key also may be used but after a little practice the scorer w ill find it easy to run his eye dom the page and check the mistakes at a glance. Norms have been presented in Tables IV, V and VI and for the present the norms may be accepted as group standards. The original Intent for the mean to be at 15 and the range to extend between 1 and 29 has been fulfilled. The test is valid in that it measures what it claims to measure l.e. knowledge of playground baseball (softball) rules and play. All 35 questions, isith the possible exception of a few common quoted terms in Rmrt 2 , relate to specific official rales. The test is too short to be highly reliable for although the questions are objective in nature and the sampling comparatively large and varied yet the necessity of fitting the test into the short period found in the elemental*/ school has prevented the use of more questions and this has held down the reliability,to .6 6 ^ .02. Results for each school follow the general trend of the total group. Test A has a moan of 14.97, a sigma of 4.58 and a range of 1 t o 27 for 533 cases. Test B has a mean of 16,16, a sigma of 4.61, and a range of 1 to 28 for .527 cases. The correlation of 207 pairs of scores is: ,66 4 ,08. Therefore the two tests may be called duplicate forms of the same test. Recommendations 1. A recommendation is made that one point be added to each Test A score in order to equalize the forms. 2 . A recommendation is made that an example be worked out on the explanatory diagram in Part 2, 3. After observing the difficulties faced by children in taking the tests in their present form it is recommended that the order of questions in Part 2 of both tests be changed to facilitate understanding of how to answer them,' The new order should read: 36 T ost A; 6 , 2, 5, U , 3, 4, 18, 1, 8, 7, 10, 11, 22, 1 3 , 15, 1 6 , 9 , 17. T e st B* 6 , 2, 9, 4, 1, 7, 3, 8» 10, 16, 12, 11, 13, 24, 15, 17, 18. BIBLIOGRAPHY A. Books I. Alloa, Ethan Major League Baseball. Tochnique and Tactics The Macmillan Co,, New York, 1938. ^ ■ 2* Bancroft, Jessie H, Games. ' ■ ■ ■' ' . The Macmillan Co., New York, 1937, revised edition. 3. Berry, Elmer Baseball Notes for Coaches and Players. A, S, Barnes and Co., Kerr York, 1930. - : ' . .. - ' " ' - ...... 4. Bovard, John F, and Cosens, l>ed®riek W, Tests and Measurements in Physical Education. V/. B. Saunders Co., Riilmde]l^ii& and 1930. 5. Combs, John W, : Baseball - Indivldusl Play and Team Strategy. Prentice-Hall, Inc., New York, 1939. 6. Cosens, Frederick W. Problem Manual in Physical Education Measurmenta. W. B. Saunders Ck>., Philadelphia and London, 1932. 7. G arrett, Henry E. Statistics in Psychology and Education. Longmans, Green and Co., New York, 1938, second edition. 8. Glasgow, Ruth B. , and Brocr, Marion R. Measuring Achievement in Physical Education. W. B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia and London, 1938. 9. Hawkes, Herbert E ,, Lindquist, E. F. and Mann, C. R. Construction and Use of Achievement Examinations (Bart II). Houghton M ifflin Co., Boston, 1936. 10. J@»@e, IMniel E. .■ Baseball. ■ . A. S. Barnes Co., New York, 1939. II. McClcy, Cl«rlss Tests and Measurements in Health and Physical Education. F. S. Crofts and Co., New York, 1939. 38 12. Me Kowij Harxy C. A ctivities In the Eleaentaarr School. McGraw-Hill Book Co., Inc., New York and London, 1938. 13. NeUson, N. P., and Gosms, F. W, Aohlevement Scales in Physical Education A ctivities for Boys and Girls in Elementary and Junior High School. California State Department of Education, Sacramento, 1934. 14. Neilson, N. P., and Van Hagen, Winifred Physical Education for Elementary Schools. A. S. Barnes Co., New York, 1930. ■ ". • 1 15. Palmer, Gladys E. Baaeball for G irls and Women. A. S. Barnes Co., New York, 1929. 16. Palmer, 6w e Testa and Measurements - A Workbook in Health and Physical E d u catio n . A. S. Barnes Co., New York, 1932. 17. Shaman, Jackson R. The Teaching of Physical Education. A. S. Barnes Co., New York, 1936. 18. Smith and Wright, • Tests and Measurements. V S ilv e r , B u rd ett & C o ., New Y ork, 1928. 19. Voltmer, Edward F., and Esslinger, Arthur A. , The Organization and Administration of Physical Education. F. S. Crofts, New York, 1938. 20. Williams, Jesse F. The Principles of Physical Education. W. B. Saunders Co., Philadel^iia and London, 1938, 3rd edition. 2L Williams, J. F., and Broraell, Clifford Lee The Administration of Health and Physical Education. Vi. B. Saunders Co., Riiljulelphia and London, 1934. B. Periodicals 22. Krakower, %man “Testing in Physical Education." Research Qimrterlv: 8:54# (March, 1937.) 39 2 3 . McCloy, C. H. : "Tests and Measurements for Admin 1stration of the Program of Physical Education. * Journal of Health and Physical Education; 111:17. pp. 9-21, (Sept., 1932.) ; 2 4 . McCloy, C. H. “Program of Tests and Eeasiiremcnia for Pdblic Schools." Journal of Health and Physical Education. ?I:8, pp,.-18-51, (Oct., 1935.) 25. McClpy, C. H. . "The Use of Tests," an editorial. Journal of Health and Physical Education; 8t297f (May, 1937. ) 26. Rodgera, Elizabeth, and Heathy Marjorie "An Experiment In the Use of Knowledge and Skill T e sts in Playground Baseball," (5th and 6th grade boys). Research Quarterly: 2(4)ill3f (Dec. T 1931.) 27. Rogers, James" E. "Modern Trends in Physical Education;" School and Society* 46:85* (July 17, 1937.) 28* Schwartz, Helen "Knowledge and Achievement Tests in G irls Basket Ball on the Senior High School Level." Research Quarterly: 8(1):143, (March, 1937.) 29. Snell, Catherine "Physical Education Knowledge Tests - Baseball," (University women). Research Quarterly: 7(2) :87, (May* 1936.) Research Quarterly: 6(3) :78, (Oct., 1935) S tatistical Studies. C. B o o k lets 30. Course of Study for Elementary School of Arizona Bulletin #9. Health Education and Physical Education. State Department of Education, Phoenix, 1935. 3L Joint Rules Committee. O fficial Rules of Softball (Playground Baseball). Wilson Sporting Goods C o ., 1940. 32. Spalding *s Athletic Library. #20GR How to P lay B a s e b a ll. American Sports Publishing Co., New York,1932. 40 D* Unpublished Thssea 33* Keith, Mary E. Tm> Foxms of an Objective Standardised Tennis Test. Unpublished Master’s Thesis, University of Arizona, 1932, 34. McCauley, W illard Jhy A Test on the Constitution of Arizona. Unpublished Master’s Thesis, University of Arizona, 1932. A P P E K D I I f t TABLE V II SCORES OF PUPILS TAHIB TEST A BEFORE TEST B S ch o o l A - - - - - ■ 5A $ 6A - ' Boy# % G irls - - * Bears * G ir ls - Ro, Ago A B : No..Ago A. B No. Age ■ . A" B »o. 4ge A B 1 10 n 23 $ 1 11 15 17 $ 1 23 9 20 $ 1 22 21 22 2 20 20 27 : 2 20 11 19 % 2 22 23 15 ; 2 11 26 16 3 10 22 17 % 3 10 6 17 $ 3 23 34 20 3 23 22 23 4 10 8 10 $ 4 11 14 17 % 4 22 15 19 * 4 11 32 14 5 20 17 24 $ 5 22 6 20 % 5 22 22 24 : 5 11 17 26 6 n 14 21 % 6 10 3 4 $ 6 22 14 36 : 6 13 36 19 ; 7 11 9 6 * 7 14 17 19 $ 7 12 7 22 * i 8 11 23 24 * 8 10 _ 1 5 28 T. 92 112 * 64 90 $ 237 1^7 ; 126 220 S ch o o l B SA s 6A Boya______Girls : Boys______G irla No. A&G A B : No. Ago A B %No. Age A B : No. Age A B 1 20 23 20 * 1 10 21 21 $ 1. 11 19 21 : 1 11 26 15 2 9 20 * 2 20 32 5 2 11 20 15 # 2 11 33 11 3 10 17 26 * 3 9 11 32 * 3 11 19 20 g 3 22 18 12 4 20 38 Z) i 4 11 15 18 % 4 11 19 17 g 4 22 6 5 5 20 21 21 i 5 20 10 22 : 5 33 28 18 : 5 11 15 17 6 11 22 25 $ 6 10 15 26 s 6 11 21 2 4 * 6 2 2 , 22 15 7 11 22 23 : 7 12 2© 24 g 7 23 13 18 $ 8 21 23 23 i 8 11 17 17 : % 9 22 IS%: : 20 11 21 2 1 : "; %n 11 21 23 g g 12 11 21 24 g * 13 21 18 19 g i 34 32 23 _ 2 1 g T U 3 147 8 84 84 t 281 2m i 110 110 m TABLE m i SCCRBS: OF 'PUPILS TAKING TEST A AFTER TEST B S chool A 5A M Boot : G irls * " :■ . ■Bpys G irls NO. Age A B No. Asfie A B No. Age A B % Age A B 1 11 n 23 1 11 15 13 1 24 23 13 $ 1 11 15 33 2 11 17. 19 * 2 20 17 17 2 12 19 23 s 2 20 14 15 3 11 23 26 3 20 n 8 3 32 21 20 t 3 33 7 9 4 22 14 6 4 20 26 26 4 21 18 21 $ 4 22 28 15 5 11 22 15 * 5 n U 23 11 19 20 t 5 11 18 11 6 20 26 19 $ 6 20 14 23 6 21 11 20 $ 6 11 17 19 i 7 10 24 24 7 21 2J8 16 * 7 11 11 22 s : ; • 8 11 25 25 * 8 22 14 13 - ___ 1 9 n 18 19 2 T. 83 88 % 101 JSkA . . ... 262 177 * 114 107 School B - : 5A ■ ...... 6A Both i Girls Boys : Girls No, Age A B i No. Ago A B $ Nof A B : No. Age A . B 1 11 19 23 : 1 30. 36 2 1 $ 1 i i 22 20 i 1 £ 21 17 2 10 19 14 : 2 21 11 14 2 23 24 20 i 2 11 17 19 3 10 19 21 8 3 10 24 13 3 32 19 21 8 3 11 24 15 4 10 19 21 8 4 10 23 IS 4 13 26 27 8 4 31 21 20 . 5 10 15 18 : 5 31 20 24 l 5 11 22 24 8 5 11 17 20 6 10 20 IS i 6 " 20 17 33 % 6 11 22 17 : 6 31 18 17 7 22 34 8 : 7 10 23 36 # 7 32 21 23 8 7 22 26 17 8 10 21 IS 8 8 11 9 4 ( 8 32 27 28 9 10 20 21 : 9 10 17 17 9 12 24 25 10 10 18 26 s20 31 IS 19 : 20 22 19 2 1 i l l 10 19 13 : 11 22 19 17 I :22 20 14 17 . - . J T, 184 178 t 171 199 * 245 24a i 134 115 TABLE H SCORES OF , PUPILS TAKIM3 BOTH TESTS AT CUE SITTING I S ch o o l % 1 S chool C • • '5A: ■ 1 ' . . : - 64 I 54 " '' s " 64 Boys : Girls : Boys : Girls .: Boys , * Girls : Bo m * G irls No,Age A B*Ko„Age A SiN©^%® A BiNo.Age A BiNo.Age A B*Bo.Ago A BiNo.Age A BtNo.Age A B IS 23* 1 11 18 18* 1 12 16 24: 1 11 9 19* 1 22 20 22 * 4 30* 1 1216 2 10 19 24$ 2 11 10 23* 2 11 22 23* 2 12 13 16* 2 11 13 17* 2 n 9 17* 15 20* 2 3S 15 18 3 10 IS 22* 3 9 17 20 : 3 14 21 16: 3 11 14 8: 3 13 24 19* 3 11 11 22* S 3 ■36.19* 3 14 10 26 4 10 15 21: 4 10 15 14* 4 U 17 26* 4 32 22 33* 4 22 11 34* 4 11 17 8* 4 36 17 15* 4 22 11 15 5 10 12 19* 5 20 17 15* 5 11 15 20: 5 11 15 17* 5 11 15 17* 5 11 9 13* 19 17: 5 24 6 6 6 n 16 24: 6 11 13 14* 6 11 13 19* 6 11 10 11* 6 14 10 34* 6 15 11 14* U 19$ 6 22 9 12 7 10 17 25* 7 10 14 17: 7 11 20 25* 7 11 6 22* 7 12 5 15$ 7 33 7 7* 7 14 14 21: 7 32 n 9 8 31 U 17* 8 10 22 16* 8 12 22 24* 8 21 14 15$ 8 11 21 18* 8 11 30 6* 8 14 33 18* 8 32 17 13 9 10 24 24 * 9 10 13 20: 9 H 17 25* 9 11 19 15* 9 13 20 24 * 9 23 9 9* 9 33 6 15$ 9 13 19 18 10 20 21 19:10 22 16 17*10 11 24 26*20 11 18 15*10 11 M 21*10 34 14 32:10 15 11 34*10 32 12 9 n 20 IS 22*11 10 16 12*11 22 20 18*11 32 20 16:11 12 14 19*H 13 11 10:11 14 32 21*11 13 12 11 22 10 24 12:12 9 22 15*12 22 20 19*12 11 12 16*32 23 14 16*22 32 34 16*32 15 10 22*22 15 11 17 13 10 20 22:13 11 11 15*13 22 14 22*33 31 24 15*23 12 10 14*33 11 34 H$13 11 30 13*33 U 10 10 14 20 26 19*24 12 20 19*14 n IS 22:14 14 10 11:14 11 17 8:24 26 5 5*14 13 15 32 15 30 24 20:15 9 17 26: *15 11 33 17*15 15 22 24:15 # 8 14*15 14 18 36*15 13 21 18 26 10 21 16*26 20 22 23* *36 11 33 18*16 32 6 22:26 11 32 22*36 14 15 14*26 32 15 13 17 9 23 23*17 10 15 22: *17 21 19 17*17 12 8 17*17 13 9 14*17 14 10 32*17 34 16 36 IS 20 IS 18*18 20 14 18: *18 22 15 22: i *18 15 32 17*18 15 7 30 *19 11 8 15* *19 22 13 36* * * *19 33 12 30 *20 30 18 15* *20 22 30 33* : t • . :20 34 13 24 *21 11 11 11: *21 22 12 9* * * *21 13 15 30 *22 22 4 6* *22 22 13 13* . t ■ - : * * *23 22 36 15* : : * * *24 11 U 32* i i * ** *25 22 11 14: % , * * t *% 12 22 17: i * * T 334 370* 299 330* 261286: 3553731 ML264* 386193* 233 288: ;269 273 . t a b u ; x SCORES OF 54 PUPILS TAKING ONLY TEST A / s * 1 I School 1 i S chool 2 % S chool 3 1 School 4 • 2 S chool 5 Boy* i G ir ls t Boys * Girls * Boys s Girls $ Boy® i G irls : Boys : Girls No. Am A iNo . Age A:No.. Age AiBb. Age A*No. Am A*No. Ago A:No. Ago A:No. A st A|No. Age A iNo . Ago A 1 ; S i 7 f l 22 30: 1 10 17* 1 10 11: 1 11 19* 1 10 8* 1 20 23* 1 32 5* 1 20 19* 1 30 14 2 14 7* 2 13 16* 2 11 15* 2 11 26s 2 30 11: 2 10 18: 2 13 12: 2 10 13* 2 10 15* 2 1 1 3 6 3 22 1* 3 32 8 * 3 11 20* 3 30 19* 3 12 19* 3 12 8: 3 11 22: 3 11 9 : 3 11 9* 3 20 20 4 13 11: 4 10 13* 4 20 36 * 4 30 15* 4 12 34* 4 10 23* 4 12 33* 4 32 15: * 4 20 16 5 15 9s 5 32 33 : 5 n 33* 5 30 14* 5 13 19* 5 11 -9* 5 11 18: 5 1 1 1 5 : ■ ■ * 5 10 8 6 32 10: 6 20 15* 6 13 5* 6 10 10* 6 24 7 * 6 11 36* 6 11 7 : 6 20 14* : 6 11 10 7 11 10* 7 10 11* 7 11 15* 7 10 18* 7 32 17* 7 12 9* 7 32 5 : 7 10 10* * 7 11 7 .. 8 11 19*.8 11 10* 8 11 17* 8 20 22 : 8 22 26 : 8 10 12: 8 10 9* 8 n is* * 8 11 36 9 22 15* 9 30 33* 9 11 17* 9 10 15* 9 32 10: 9 11 15: 9 12 10: .. ■ v - * 9 10 9 10 33 11*10 30 32*10 10 22:20 11 20*10 22,15*10 22 16:20 12 32* * *20 10 19 11 12 23*11 9 13*11 30 22*11 10 17*11 20 14*11 11 24 :3 1 . 30 36* * *11 U 17 12 11 1 7 * # 11 13*12 11 22:12 11 34*12 11 7* ' $' ' s . * *32 10 6 13 11 15*23 10 15:13 12 16* *23 U 8 : ;* . i ■ : H 10 14:24 21 33*34 11 18* .::* * ; $ • . $ % 15 30 8:15 12 8*15 32 2 0 : *: ; $ ' • : • * 26 11 26*36 32 11*36 11 36: * : *: i t 17 24 26*17 13 3*17 10 17* : : % * * ■ * 18 21 17*18 32 33:18 20 17* . . * . : i 1 * ■ * 19 22 20*19 10 11* t : * : j . * :: *20 10 11: ■4 ; i : ' : ; .. .* * ; * *21 33 7* ! * *. ■ ■ # * ** T. 239* 285* 171: 1 % : 338* 227: 96* 4 3 1 248 TABLE XI SCCBES OF 5A PUPILS TAKUG ONLY TEST B t - : •,; s ' v . ' i .. ...•; : S chool 1 S chool 2 ; . '...... ^ h o o l 3 School 4L- ■*•■■•• S chool 5 Bcts *■'(>:i r i s rt - Boys * --Oirls " "S • ■Boy# # Girl# $ Boxa. .* _G(irl# % Beys • * Q trie-: -• ' " t e ' Am BtMo . Aw BsNo,,■ Age 8*N6. Ag»^:No. A g eJtN o . Age Btlfo. Ag® B:Ko._■ Age BsNo. Age B :Np._ Ag® B i n i ii 32 12: 1 10 19: 1 3 0 1 3 s 1 iS 11* 1 WWT 10 36: 1 S 32 : 1 10 2 1 : 1 B l S 2 13 8 s 2 11 17: 2 1 1 1 7 : 2 11 35* 2 33 5 * 2 11 34 * 2 11 32 : 2 11 36: 2 11 18% 2 ID 32 3 34 19: 3 30 6 s 3 21 17: 3 30 19* 3 11 33* 3 U 19* 3 11 2 0 : 3 11 10: 3 10 20:) 10 16 4 1 1 2 1 : 4 ID 15: 4 30 36: 4 10 34 : 4 % 17: 4 33 10: 4 10 17* 4 32 36 : 4 10 18: 6 10 16 5 33 2 1 1 5 11 32 : 5 3D 18: 5 30 17: 5 1 ) 7 ; 5 32 13* 5 11 20: 5 10 17: 5 1 1 1 6 : 6 ID 17.1 6 15 17: 6 11 14: 6 10 8: 6 13 18: 6 13 6* 6 11 11: 6 9 5* 6 12 2)* 7 30 20 : 7 13 32s 7 10 36: 7 10 19: 7 ID 11: 7 30 IS : 7 U. 26* 7 32 8$ 7 # 1 9 : 8 31 17 s 8 11 34 s 8 20 20s 8 10 32: : 8 11 11: 8 10 36 : 8 11 1: 8 13 15: 9 U 17 s 9 ID 9: 9 32 1 7 s 9 30 Z )s : 9 10 22 : 9 11 19* 9 10 7: 9 11 17: 3D io aosio 10 11:10 30 2 0 :2 0 9 36 s :%) 30 36*10 11 8:10 11 • 7* % 11 11 15:11 11 2 0 s l l 30 2 3 :1 1 11 33* ; *11 11 5: : : ■32 11 8:32 30 10:12 30 1:32 10 34: '% * •I : : 23 33 -32S23- 30 11:33 30 24:33 30 2 1 : s 1 1 : : 14 32 I7sl4 3D 10: :34 11 25* i f ( : : 15 33 7 :1 5 30 21s *15 20 15* : : . 1 : • * 16 12 19S36 30 8s :16 ID 34* : s : : : 17 11 2 2 :1 7 1 1 .1 5 : *17 20 18* :* $ : : IB 13 11:18 32 2 4 : - : *18 20 33 : i i i % 19 2D 22:19 33 30s ' :*/■ ' ' V; * : : i : 20 11 17:20 22 34 s ...... : - * '* ..... ; ' - ...... # ■ : # ...... 1 . 326: 258: 2ZB:s .... 342s 260: 99: 167# 6A TABLE XII SC01IS OF 6A PUPILS TAKING ONLI TEST. A S eh eo l School 2 School 3 School School * k G irls *___BoaL G i r l s ______: Bpyg______t G irl# ; Boys i G irl* > Boy» tt e S______A*%.. Am .. A:Ko. . -Ag# . A:No. Age A:Ko, A^e Ai No. Ag# AiNo. Ago A:Bo. Ago A:Ho. Agg AiWo. Age A 13 19: 1 12 18: 1 22 2 2 :1 13 3 2 : 1 3 2 16: 1 22 l3: 1 11 15: 1 32 14: 1 13 23: 1 11 16 2 22 17* 2 10 5* 2 22 22* 2 11 15* 2 12 2 1 * 2 13 6: 2 11 21: 2 11 111 2 11 18* 2 22 13 3 13 19* 3 11 19: 3 21 22* 3 11 21* 3 22 15 * 3 12 15* 3 11 23* 3 11 12: 3 32 21: 3 12 11 4 13 15* 4 22 12* 4 11 20* 4 11 15* 4 11 26* 4 11 10* 4 11 18* 4 32 17: 4 12 19: 4 11 15 5 11 17* 5 11 18: 5 24 19* 5 12 17* 5 15 13* 5 12 14* 5 12 21* 5 11 82 < 1 5 11 8 6 22 19* 6 12 18* 6 12 18* 6 11 18* 6 11 20* 6 12 16* 6 11 2 1 : - % ' : - : 6 11 32 7 23 13* 7 23 17* 7 11 18: 7 11 16* 7 14 7* 7 32 18* 7 U 22* ## 7 10 18 ' 8 11 18* 8 12 19* 8 12 15* 8 11 12* 8 14 11* 8 22 14* 8 11 19* . * # 9 22 8 : 9 16 U * 9 13 20* 9 11 19* 9 12 18* 9 33 9* 9 11 21* : : 10 11 18:10 11 18*20 11 16*10 12 21*10 12 17*10 12 17*10 U 14* # 1 i3 11 23 2 2 :1 1 13 6 :1 1 11 15*11 22 23*11 14 22*11 11 32*11 11 20* ; : 22 22 16*12 11 18*22 11 18:12 11 20* 1 ** ; : 13 15 10*23 12 20*13 11 21*13 11 16* t 1 t s : 34 11 26:24 13 16*24 11 1 9*U 12 17* • * * 1 *: 15 14 18*15 12 15*15 11 19*15 11 18* * * 1 1 : : : *16 12 19*26 n 17* * t t 1 : : ; *17 12 25*17 11 15* * * t 1 : : *18 12 24*18 11 36* * * • 1 1 : : *19 12 23*19 11 15* * : * 1 : : % *20 11 1 8 * . * t * 1 : T. 249* 233* . . 3.75.*___ 176* 1/4* 215 = 62* 81* 93 TABLE X III SCOBIS OF 6A PUPILS TAKDD ONLY TEST B ! . 4 # t S oW ol 1 ; S chool 2 1 ' ' S chool 3 1 S chool 4 • : S chool 5 Boys i G ir ls : Boys * Girls : Boys * Girls * Boys 1 G ir ls * Bora : G irljs No., Am BiNo. Am B :No. Asm B*No. Age B*No T. 278* 232: 434* 337: 367* _ M i l 188 * 343: 301$ 29 1 PLAYGROUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) KNOWLEDGE TEST Part 1. Fill the Blanks /TeJ *. number C trrtc f’ (Write only one word in each "blank) f a y fifjy p u p il* H ld cJ l* . number of 1. You use a inch ball. 3 C orrect drisn/ers f t ) b y fifty TiT/v 2 . Base lines are _____—___ feet long, t pUpilS-t-Pitl 3. There are ______players on a team. 0/9 pupJ$ 4. You may use only the ______hand pitch.^ 5- There are ______innings in a game. ) ° 6 . You may not steal second until ball has reached or ______home plate. 3S' 7- A Playground Ball diamond is ______than a Big League diamond. 37 8 . The batter stands in his ______. £ 7 9- It is farther from home to base than from home to first base 10. The home team usually bats 2 3 11. The team with most ______at end of game wins. 4 /6 12. You are out after ______strikes, f / 13. You may walk after _____ balls. 14. The shape of the bases is ______. HI 15. The players who play on the diamond are called ______fielders. / 6 16. You write the names of the players in their --______order. (S~ 17- You may over-run home and ______base. H 18. After a fair hit the batter becomes a base ___ . 3 f 19. Pitcher gets his signals from______• 3H 20. Coachcrs stand by first and ______bases. 5/ 21. To start the game umpire calls " ball". 32- 2 2 . Every pitched ball is either a ball, a strike, or a .. V 23. When a runner legally crosses home plate he scores a - • HZ. 24. A pitched ball that goes over plate between batter's shoulders and is called a strike. 50 25 - You may not score on a passed ______. 7 ? 26 . Batter may not try to ______the hall. 2 / 27- On a dropped third strike you may not ______• ^3 . 3 7 2 8 . Pitcher must start pitch with both ______on the rubber 29- If a game is called before ______complete innings it is not counted.// 30. If batter is hit by a pitched ball he may take first base.// The rules that should be made before a game begins are called ______rules, 31. O 32. When a substitute goes in the captain should tell the______• 3^ 33- When a pitched ball hits batter the ball is ______• // 34. A foul fly must go higher than ______feet. 3/ 35- On a passed ball a runner on first may go to __ base. 36. The busiest player is the ______. / ^ 37- A legally pitched ball struck at and missed is a %r 38. A ______ball is not in play. 39- If there are two runners on base the ______man is out. 40. The step forward a batter takes is called his ______. / 41. The batter's foot nearest ______should be closer to the plate. / 42. Runners may not leave their bases until a ______ball is caught.// 43- When third baseman goes in for grounders ______should cover his base.^V 44. If you leave the game you may______return later. 60 45- To put a dead ball back in play it must be held in position by yy 46. If a runner who is off base is tagged by a fielder with the ball the runner is 90 47- When first baseman goes in for grounders ______should cover his base .7 48. If batter interferes with catcher on purpose he is ______. *// 4 9 . If batter is hit by a pitched ball the umpire calls "______". iq 50. If you strike at and miss an Illegally pitched ball umpire calls "______ 51. If pitcher delays the game more than 20 seconds the umpire calls 52. If a hit ball stops between home and first and home and third the umpire // calls " " 51 53. If you illegally "bat the ball the umpire calls ”______' • /ff 54. If you bunt the ball the umpire calls "______". 55* If a runner is hit by a fair ball before it touches a fielder the umpire calls "______”. /3 56. If a rummer takes his foot off base while pitcher is pitching the umpire calls "______n. VO 57- If a hit strikes foul and rolls fair in infield umpire calls "______". & 58. If pitcher balks umpire calls "______". j- 59- If a hit strikes foul and rolls fair in outfield umpire calls "______". 3 7 60. If a hit ball touches a runner before it touches a fielder the ball is ______. ? 61. The official rules are put out by ______. 62. There are ______rules for batting than for fielding. & 63- If fair hit ball strikes umpire on ______ground ball is in play.O 64. When you end a pitch your arm must not cross in ______of your bod^.^. 65. If an over-thrown ball touches a coacher the ball is ______. 5 5" 55 $ PLAYGROUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) KNOWLEDGE TEST Part 2. Best Answer (Choose the best answer to each question and mark its number on the line in front of the question.) Example: 5 a. The best batter should bat: 1. first 2. last 3. second 4. third 5. fourth a. The best batter is called: 1. number one batter 2. utility man 3. cleanup man 4. batter on deck 5. leadoff man b. Each inning at bat a team gets: 5*) 1. four balls 2. three strikes 3. ten fouls 4. three outs 5 . three bunts c. Batter is out: 1. after three fouls 2. if hit by pitched ball 3. after forced run 4. after a balk 5. after his fly is caught d. The battery are: 5 2, 1. the two shortstops 2. the basemen 3. the pitcher and catcher 4. the coaches and umpires 5' the batters e. The batter's box. is: *70 !• place batter goes after he hits 2. place batter stands to hit 3. place pitcher throws the ball 4. place bats are kept _ 3• place next batter waits f• The number of innings in a complete official game are: ^ 1. five 2. seven 3. eight 4. nine 5. ten 54 g. The easiest thing to do is: 1. hit a home run 2. field a bounding ball 3. make a shoestring catch 4. strike out a batter 5. catch a fly ball h. The Playground ball is different from the Major League ball because it is 1. larger and harder O 2. larger and lighter J. larger and heavier 4. larger but same weight 5 . smaller and lighter i. Batter may walk to first if: 1. he is hit by pitched ball 2. catcher interferes with batter 3. a foul hit strikes umpire 4. pitcher balks 5 . pitcher makes an illegal pitch J- The kind of pitch to use is: 1. side arm 2. back hand 3. over arm 4. under hand 5 . right hand k. The second baseman plays: // 1. three feet to right of base 2. three feet to left of base 3. three feet behind base 4. on top of base 5 . any place he thinks best 1. If runner on third has not touched second base: 5 0^ 1. nothing can be done about it 2. he may walk back to second safely 3• he may be put out by holding ball on second 4. it is called an error 5* he is called out by umpire The pitching distance is: y 1. about 45 feet 2 . about 90 feet 3. about 22 feet 4. about 64 feet 5. about 38 feet A home run is a run: S7 1. made when a runner touches home 2. from third base to home 3- of two bases on one hit 4. of all bases on one hit 5. forced in by batter 55 o. A wild pitch is: 1. hall so fast hatter cannot see it 2. ball catcher cannot catch 3. overthrow of second base 4. throwout to catch runner off base 5» bad throw to first base A balk is called when: 1. pitcher will not pitch anymore 2. baseman makes believe he has the ball 3. pitcher in box starts to pitch and then stops 4. pitcher cannot strike batter out 5. ball is lost A ball that is stopped by someone not in the game is called a: 1. block ball 2. dead ball 3• foul ball 4. error 5* illegal ball r. A ball hitting foul and rolling fair in the infield is called a: 1. dead ball 2. fair ball 3. foul ball 4. strike 5 . block ball a . Third base is called: ^ 1. the hot comer 2. the keystone sack 3. the left groove 4. the portside 5 . the home stretch t. The pitcher usually bats:j£ 1. first 2. second 3. in the middle / 4. ninth 5* last u. If batter is struck by a pitched ball umpire rules: /fa 1 . walk 2 . strike 3 . error 4. out 5. ball v. The place catcher should catch all pitched balls is: JS 1. in front of his throwing shoulder 2. in front of his stomach 3. in front of his left shoulder 4. in front of his knees 5« two feet behind the plate 56 w. Umpire rules an "out" if: 1. "batter gets hit "by a pitched ball 2. ball hits bat for a bunt while batter was dodging the ball 3* batter hits twenty-nine fouls 4. with bases empty, batter hits an infield fly that is not caught 5* batter steps to other box while pitcher is ready to pitch x. Batter becomes a baserunner after: 5*2, 1. an illegal pitch 2. three strikes called 3. four balls called 4. wild pitched called 3- hit by pitched ball y- In a close game where hitting is light baserunner should: 1. wait for walks 2. go on and take chances 3. wait until hitting gets better 4. hope for errors 5. always play safe z. If number 8 batter has hit safely next man to bat should be: le*/ 1. best batter 2. pitcher 3. number 9 batter 4. number 7 batter 5. pinch hitter A. Best place for a left handed player is: 1. first base 2. second base 3. third base 4. short stop 5. catcher B. A block ball is: ^ 3 1. a ball stopped by someone not in the game 2. a grounder stopped by a short-stop 3. a fly ball stopped by the pitcher 4. a pitch blocked by the batter 3 . a hit that goes a block C. Umpire calls a vstrike" if: VS' 1. an illegally pitched ball is struck at and missed 2. an illegally pitched ball cuts the heart of the plate 3 • pitcher delays more than one minute 4. pitcher rolls ball along the ground 5 . pitcher jerks back his arm at hip as he throws D. Umpire rules a game is "forfeited" if: 3 7 1. one team delays game more than one minute 2. one team does not come to play 3 . score is tied at end of game 4. one team does not make any runs 5 . pitcher uses an illegal pitch 57 E. When a substitute is put in a game he bats: J O 1. last 2. after the pitcher 3. first 4. for the weakest batter 5. for the retired player F. In pitching the ball the pitcher may: ( f j 1. take only 1 step forward 2. take only 2 steps forward 3. take as many steps as he needs 4. take no steps forward 5. take only 1 step back G. Batter should run to first if: /5"~ 1. he is hit by pitched ball 2. catcher drops third strike 3. his hit strikes a runner at second 4. he makes a good bunt 5 . pitcher balks H. A time at bat is counted: // 1. as soon as batter stops up to the plate 2. as soon as pitcher throve first ball 3. not until batter makes a hit 4. not until batter becomes a runner or is put out 5 . not until all players have batted I. If a player leaves the game he: 5"3 1. may come back at the beginning of any inning 2. may come back at his time at bat 3. may come back only to pitch 4. n#y come back only to bat 3* may not come back at all J . Basorunner is out if: ^ 1. he runs more than 1 foot outside baseline 2. he turns toward second after touching first base 3. he is hit by fair ball before it touches a fielder 4. he leaves base before catcher returns the ball to pitcher 5. ho talks to a coacher K. In case of a tie at end of game: 3 ^ 1. team which made first run wins 2. team which made last run wins 3. toam which makes first run in next complete inning wins 4. team which makes most runs in next complete inning wins 5 . team which makes more than one run next complete inning wins L. Baserunner is out after batter's fly is caught if: / 1. pitcher gets ball before runner gets back to base 2. next base is tagged before runner gets to it 3. there is only one out 4. base is tagged before runner gets back to it 5. runner left base at all 58 M. If number three batter has 1 strike and 2 balls when number two batter makes the third out in infield the first batter the next In n in g will be: 32- 1 . number three with 1 strike and 2 balls 2 . number three with no strikes and no balls 3 • number three with no strikes and 2 balls 4. number four with no strikes and no balls 5 . number four with 1 strike and 2 balls N. The hardest pitch to hit is: // 1 . low and outside 2 . high and outside 3 . high and inside 4. over plate and low 5 . over plate and high 0. Ball is dead and not in play if: 1 . a foul hit is caught 2 . four balls are called 3 . it touches catcher's clothing 4. it is illegally pitched 5 . it is illegally batted P. When umpire rules a ’block ball": / 1. runners must stay on their base 2. runners may go to next base 3 . runners may take two bases 4. runners must go back to their last base 5 . runners may go on as far as they can Q. Baserunner may return to the base safely if: 3<2 1 . umpire rules a dead ball 2 . umpire rules an illegal pitch 3 . a thrown ball hits the umpire 4. a foul hit is caught 5 . batter is walking to first 59 PLAYGROUND BASEBALL (SOFTBALL) KNOWLEDGE TEST Part 3. Drawings Here you see a drawing of a Playground Baseball diamond. In the diamonds below follow this key: / * arrow = where ball goes dotted line = where runner goes circle = where ball is caught R = a runner B e a batter bat 1. Draw the bases on the diamond. ^ Draw the batters' boxes. *2/ Draw the coachers' boxes. / Draw the catcher's box. (f Make a cross where the pitcher stands. 130727 60 Make a "B" where a right handed hatter stands • Zz Make a "B" where a left handed hatter stands. £3 Make a cross where right fielder stands. 3 Make a cross where left fielder stands Make a cross where the short fielders stand. 3 ? Draw an arrow from home to place a hit to center field goes, Draw an arrow from home to place a foul behind third base goes. 61 13- Draw an arrow from home to place a hit to right field goes. SJ •I Make an "R" where runner stands after he hits a ' double". Make an ,rRM where runner stands after he hits a "triple'". c>i l| Make a dotted line to place batter goes when he "walks". n Make a dotted line to place batter goes when he "fans". 6 2 , Make a dotted line to bases batter touches when he hits a 'homer". S7 19. Make a dotted line to place batter should go next, if catcher drops the third strike, 2 2 H 20. Make a dotted line to place runner may go if there is a passed ball. Make a dotted line to place runrer may go if there is a passed ball. 3S' Make a dotted line to place runner may go if there is a block ball. 23. Make a dotted line to place batter should go on this bunt. yy Make a dotted line to place batter should go on this hit which strikes a base umpire. Make a dotted line to place batter should go next, a f t e r />«. /,',/s ~t) '5 fiy* /7 2 6 . Draw an arrow to place ball should go next. $ S ~ t 63 27. Draw an arrow to place "ball should go next. 2 8 . Draw an arrow to place "ball should go next. O 29. Draw an arrow to place hall should go next. C3 K 30. Draw an arrow to place ball should go next. Draw an arrow to place ball should go next. (one "out") What does the umpire rule? 1 0 33. What does the umpire rule? 5 ~ Z 64 What does the umpire rule? 4 U What does the umpire rule? /3 What does the umpire rule? Who should cover first on this grounder? IO Who should get this fly? * 0 - Who should get this slow grounder? s i E ^ 7ci 1. 1 ^ 4 g —55 C5 / / 7 l / 6 -2 5" 2. *39001 0012832021 ' r INDEX R ule Pace Rules Changes for 1940...... 2, 3 1. The D iam ond...... 4 2. Laying Out Diamond...... 5, 6 3. Equipment ...... 6 4. Teams, Players and Substitutes...... 7 5. The G a m e ...... 7, 8 6. Forfeited G am es...... 8 7. Choice of Innings—Fitness of Field for Play...... 8 8. Pitching R u le ...... 8, 9 9. Illegal P itch es...... 9 10. Fairly Delivered Ball...... 9 11. Unfairly Delivered Ball...... 9, 10 12. Rules for Batsmen...... 10 13. Order of Batting...... 10 14. A Fair Hit Ball...... 10 15. A Foul Hit B a ll...... 11 16. A Foul T ip...... '...... 11 17. A Bunt Hit B all...... 11 18. Balls Batted Outside of the Playing Field...... 11 19. An Illegally Batted Ball...... 11 20. When Batsman Is Out...... 11, 12 21. Definitions ...... 12 22. Ball Dead, Not in Play...... 12, 13 23. Ball in Play...... 13 24. An Overthrow ...... 13 25. Legal Order of Bases...... 13, 14 26. When the Batsman Becomes a Base Runner...... 14 27. Entitled to Bases...... 14, 15 28. Returning to Bases...... 15 29. When Base-Runners Are Out...... 15, 16, 17, 18 30. Scoring of Runs...... 18 31. Umpires ...... 18, 19, 20 Scoring R u le s...... 20, 21, 22, 23 Explanations and Interpretations...... 23 to 31 Slow Pitching Rules...... 32 How to Arrange a Schedule...... Inside Back Cover OFFICIAL RULES o r SOFTBALL Approved as Official by the Joint Rules Committee consisting of the following members C. E. BREWER. Chairman—Com- Young Men's Christian Association— missioner of Recreation. 504 Elm H. Ross Dunce, 2000 Witherell St., wood Ave., Detroit, Mich. Detroit, Mich. E. W. JOHNSON. Vice-Chairman MEMBERS-AT-LARGE — Superintendent of Playgrounds, City Hall, St. Paul, Minn. K. M. CO W EN —Municipal Bldg., Roanoke, Va. A. T. NOREN. Secretary-Treasurer —Superintendent of Recreation, C. W . DAVIS— City Hall, Berkeley, City Hall, Elizabeth, N . J. Calif. C. M. ALEXANDER—Wilmington, Delaware. REPRESENTING W. L. HAKANSON, Y.M.C.A., American Physical Education Asso Denver, Colo. ciation—A. O. Anderson, 911 Lo cust St., St. Louis, Mo. P. V. G A HAN—St. Petersburg, Fla. Amateur Softball Association— Leo. R. C. MILLER—Board of Education, H . Fischer, Morrison Hotel, Chi Oshkosh, Wis. cago, III. M. J. PAULEY— Morrison Hotel, Chicago, 111. Catholic Youth Organization-Jack Elder, 31 E. Congress St., Chicago, W ILSON E. LANDIS—Briggs Mfg. 1 1 1 . Co., Detroit, Mich. National Recreation Association—Ar Official Rules Interpreter for the Com thur Williams, 315 Fourth Ave., mittee—H. G. Johnson, Dep t of New York City. Recreation, Detroit, Mich. Revised 1940 C opyright By JOINT RULES COMMITTEE ON SOFTBALL SUMMARY of RULES CHANGES for 1940 by HUBERT G. JOHNSON, Official Interpreter, Joint Rules Committee Rule 1—The pitching distance is changed from 40 to 43 feet. Rule 2—Also shows the change from 40 to 43 feet in the pitching distance and the change in the hatter's box to 3 x 6 feet, the box extending 3 feet forward and 3 feet back from the center line of home plate. Rule 3—Section 3. Change in the wording of this section shows that the home plate is a five sided figure square on the front and sides instead of the old diamond shaped figure. Section 6 is amended to prohibit excessive lacing or webbing between the thumb and body of a glove or mitt. Section 8—changed to restrict the uniform of the pitcher only when play- • ing under lights. Cautions against placing a player in a light uniform back of the pitcher and makes a recommendation regarding uniforms worn by women. Rule 4—A note added to this rule makes it clear that no penalty affecting actual play can be imposed for the failure to report or announce a substitution. Rule 8—Change in the wording of (a) forces the pitcher to come to a full and complete stop for not less than one second after he takes position and before taking one hand off the ball at the start of the wind-up. A note shows how to determine the one second of time. Another note shows that "No Pitch” is to be called when the pitcher pitches during a suspension of play or when he attempts a quick return. The change in the wording of (b) does not change the meaning of the rule; by deleting certain words it avoids the extremely technical question as to whether the foot was lifted before the ball was released. Rule 9—2—The wording is changed to conform to the new wording of (b) of Rule 8. Sub-division 10 is added making it an illegal pitch, or balk, if the pitcher takes a pitching position on or near the rubber without the ball in his pos session. Rule 18—A new note to this rule advises the adoption of special ground rules whenever unusual conditions would prevent a free playing of the ball. That such special rules should be definite and written in order that there be no dispute about the conditions under which the game was played. Rule 20—Section 7. The new wording of this section makes the batsman out, automatically, when three strikes are called only when first base is occupied with less than two out. It is not necessary to catch the third strike. The old rule put the batsman out when the third strike was called regardless of the number of outs, bases occupied, or whether or not the ball was caught. A new Section 8 makes batsman out when he misses the third strike and the ball touches any part of his person. Rule 22— (2) The added words show that the ball becomes dead whenever a batsman is called out for stepping from one box to the other with the pitcher ready to pitch. Rule 26—The inserting of the new Section 2 shows that the batsman may now run on the third strike, unless first base is occupied with less than two out, and that the third strike must be caught or the batsman, now a runner, must be thrown out or tagged before he reaches first base. Rule 20, Section 7: Rule 26, Section 2; Rule 29, Sections 4, 5, and 6, should be read together. Rule 27—Section 8. The new wording does away with the (a) and (b) divisions of the old rule and makes more clear the application of the Overthrow Rule. A new note added to Rule 27 applies particularly to Sections 2, 5, and 7 and covers the rare but troublesome case of a runner failing to touch a base to which he is entitled without liability to be put out. Rule 29—The new sections 4, 5, and 6 show how a runner is put out under the new rules which permit the batsman to run on the third strike. Section 11. A note added to this section shows that it is not a Force-Out when a runner is put out for leaving his base.too soon on a caught fly ball. Section 14. There was no change in the meaning or application of this sec tion. Unnecessary words applying to cases already covered in Section 11 were eliminated. Rule 30—The old Note 2 is eliminated as being no longer necessary and replaced with a note further explaining the relationship of the Force-Out to the Scoring of Runs. Rule 31—Additions to the notes further explain the relations of officials, and deals particularly with the suspension of play. Umpires, managers, coaches and players should read these carefully. For the first time Scoring Rules are attached. OFFICIAL RULES of SOFTBALL 1940 As Approved by the Joint Rules Committee on Softball For interpretations write to HUBERT G. JOHNSON Supervisor of Athletics Department of Recreation, Detroit, Michigan (Include Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope) RULE 1—THE DIAMOND (but not stretched) and drive a stake at The official diamond shall have 60 foot the 60 foot marker—this will be the out base-lines with a pitching distance of 43 side comer of first base, and the cord will feet and other details as shown in the now form the lines to first and second accompanying diagrams. bases. Again holding the cord at the 60 foot marker, walk across the field and in Note: When a 45 foot diamond is used like manner mark the outside comer of the pitching distance shall be 37 feet 814 third base. Home plate, first and third inches and all other details shall be the bases are wholly inside the diamond. same as for the 60 foot diamond. To check the diamond, place the home plate end of the cord at the first base stake RULE 2—LAYING OUT and the 120 foot marker at third base. DIAMOND The 60 foot marker should now check at Determine the position of the home home plate and second base. plate. Draw a line in the direction it is Check all distances with a steel tape desired to lay the diamond. Drive a stake whenever possible. at the comer of the home plate nearest the catcher. Fasten a cord to this stake and THE THREE-FOOT LINE. Starting tie knots, or otherwise mark the cord, at at a point half way between home plate and 43 feet, 60 feet, 84 feet 9 inches, and at first base and three feet outside the base 120 feet. line, draw a line parallel to and three feet Place the cord (without stretching) from the base line to a point 10 feet be along the direction line and at the 43 foot yond first base. mark place a stake—this will be the front THE BATTER’S BOX. The batter’s line at the middle of the pitcher's plate. box (one on each side of home plate) Along the same line drive a stake at the shall measure 3 x 6 feet. The inside line 84 feet 9 inches mark—this will be the of the batter’s box shall be 6 inches from center of second base. home plate. The front line of the batter’s Place the 120 foot marker at the center box shall be 3 feet in front of a line drawn of second base and taking hold of the cord through the center of home plate, and the at the 60 foot marker, walk to the right of back line shall be 3 feet back of the cen the direction line until the cord is taut ter of home plate. 5 6 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL TH E CATCHER’S BOX. The catch- parallel to the inside lines of the batters’ er’s box shall be 10 feet in length from boxes and shall be 8% inches in length; the rear outside corners of the batter’s the sides of the point facing the catcher boxes and shall be 8 feet 5 inches in width. shall be 12 inches in length. THE COACHER’S BOX. Starting at Sec. 4. a. The pitcher’s plate shall be a point outside the diamond at first and of wood or rubber, 24 inches long and 6 third bases, lines 15 feet in length shall be inches in width. The front line of the drawn toward the home plate, parallel to pitcher’s plate shall be 43 feet from the and 6 feet from the base-lines. outside comer of the home plate and the top of the pitcher’s plate shall be level RULE 3—EQUIPMENT with the ground. S ection 1. The bat shall be round, b. For girls’ play the official pitching made of hard wood, and shall be of only distance shall be 35 feet. one piece, not more than 34 inches in Sec. 5. The bases, other than home length and not more than 2% inches in plate shall be 15 inches square and shall diameter at its largest part. Willow or be made of canvas or other suitable ma fungo bats are prohibited. The bat shall terial. have a safety grip of cork, tape or composi tion material. Such safety grip shall be not Sec. 6. Gloves may be worn by any less than 10 inches in length and shall not player, but mitts may be used only by the extend more than 15 inches from the small catcher and first baseman. No top lacing, end of the bat, and shall be marked "Offi webbing or other device between the thumb cial Softball Bat” to indicate that it con and body of a glove or mitt worn by a first forms with the specifications of the rules baseman or other fielder shall be more than regarding length and size. 4 inches in length. Note: A tolerance of 1/16 Inch is per Masks must be worn by catchers, and mitted to allow for expansion. women catchers must wear both masks and body protectors. (This part of the rule may Sec. 2. The official softball shall be a be modified, by local regulation, for inter regular, smooth-seam, concealed stitch or mediate and junior classes.) flat surfaced ball of any type. Condensed specifications: Three to four Sec. 7. A shoe shall be considered offi ounces finest No. 1 quality Long Fibre cial in Softball games if it is: (a) made Kapok compressed, han d or m achine with either canvas or leather uppers or wrapped with fine quality twisted yarn, and similar material; of rubber soles with or covered with Latex or rubber cement. Cover without soft rubber cleats; (b) made with of finest quality No. 1 Chrome Tanned uppers of leather or similar material with Horse or Cow Hide with no imperfections, hard rubber cleats extending not over % cemented to the ball by application of of an inch from the sole of the shoe; (c) cement to underside of cover and sewed made with uppers of leather or similar with Waxed Thread of Cotton or Linen. material with metal spikes, providing the The Finished ball shall be not less than spike has blunt edges all around and does 11% inches nor more than 12% inches in not extend more than % of an inch from circumference, and shall weigh not less than the sole of the shoe. 6 ounces nor more than 6 % ounces. Raised Track or any sharp spikes are illegal and out-seam balls are illegal. will be barred. Sec. 3. The home plate shall be made . Sec. 8. When playing under lights, all of rubber, or other suitable material, and parts of the uniform, except shoes, cap, and shall be a five sided figure 17 inches wide stockings, worn by the pitcher shall be of across the center and 17 inches across the the same dark color with no lettering or edge facing the pitcher; the sides shall be trimming on the front of the uniform. OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 7 Note: Stationing of other fielders in light notify the umpire, who in turn must an uniforms back of the pitcher to destroy the nounce the same to the spectators. Play effectiveness of this rule shall not be per shall be suspended while the announcement mitted. is being made. Provided, however, that if through oversight such announcement has Note: Women’s Uniforms—As a pre not been made, the substitute player will caution against injury and infection, it is recommended that women and girl players be considered as in the game, as follows: wear knickers, slacks or full length trousers. If a pitcher, when he takes his place on the pitcher’s plate. RULE 4—TEAMS, PLAYERS AND If a batter, when he takes his place in SUBSTITUTES the batter’s box. Section 1. A team shall consist of 10 If a fielder, when he takes the place of players, whose positions shall be designated the fielder substituted for. as follows: Catcher, Pitcher, First Base- If a runner, when the substitute replaces man, Second Baseman, Third Baseman, him on the base he is holding; and Shortstop, Short Fielder, Left Fielder, Cen any play made by or on such un ter Fielder and Right Fielder. Players of announced substitute shall be legal the team in the field may be stationed at under these rules. any points on fair ground which their cap Note: Leagues may, by special rule, tain may elect, except that the pitcher, assess a fine or other penalty against a man while in the act of delivering the ball to ager who fails to report, or an umpire who the batsman, must take his position as de fails to announce, a substitution, but there fined in Rule 8 and the catcher must be can be no penalty against the substitute within the lines of his position. player for failure to make such report or Sec. 2. No team shall be permitted to announcement. start or to continue a game with less than ten players and each side should have RULE 5—THE GAME sufficient substitutes to carry out the pro Section 1. A regulation game shall con visions of this section. sist of seven innings, unless the team Sec. 3. A substitute may take the place second at bat scores more runs in six of a player whose name is in his team’s innings than the team first at bat has batting order, but the player for whom he scored in seven innings. is substituted shall not thereafter partici Sec. 2. It is a regulation game if the pate in the game, except as coacher. team last at bat in the seventh inning Sec. 4. A base-runner shall not have scores the winning run before the third another player whose name appears in the man is out. batting order of his team run for him, Sec. 3. It is a regulation game if it be except by the consent of the captain of called by the umpire on account of dark the other team. ness, rain, fire, panic or other cause which Sec. 5. In the event of the pitcher be puts the patrons or players in peril, pro ing taken from his position by either man vided five or more equal innings have been ager or captain, the new pitcher substituted played; or if the team second at bat shall for him shall continue to pitch until the have scored more runs at the end of its batsman then at bat has either been put fourth inning than the team first at bat out or has reached first base, or the side has made in five completed innings. has been retired. Sec. 4. If the game be a tie at the end Sec. 6. Whenever one player is substi of seven innings for each team, play shall tuted for another, whether as batsman, be continued until one side has scored base-runner or fielder, the captain of the more runs than the other in an equal num side making the change must immediately ber of innings; provided that if the side 8 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL last at bat scores the winning run before pire, any one of the rules of the game is the third man is out in any inning after willfully violated. the seventh, the game shall terminate and S ec. 6. If the order for the removal of be a regulation game. a player is not obeyed within one minute. S ec. 5. A regulation drawn game shall S ec. 7. If, because of the removal of be declared by the umpire if the score is players from the game by the umpire, or equal on the last even inning played, when for any cause, there are less than ten he terminates play in accordance with Sec players on either team. tion 3 of this rule after each team has played five or more complete innings. If RULE 7—CHOICE OF INNINGS— the side that went second to bat is at bat FITNESS OF FIELD FOR PLAY when the game is terminated, and has scored in the incompleted inning the same The choice of innings shall be by toss number of runs as the other side, the um of a coin, unless otherwise stated in the pire shall declare the game drawn without rules of the organization under which the regard to the score of the last equal inning. schedule is being played. If the side last at bat shall, before the Where a home team is designated, such completion of its fifth inning, equal the team shall be the sole judge of the fitness score made by the opposing side in five of the ground for beginning a game. complete innings, the game shall be legally Where no home team is designated, the drawn. umpire, or umpires, shall be the judge of Note: A regulation drawn (tie) game is the fitness of the-ground for beginning a game. to be re played from the beginning. How ever, if batting and fielding records are After play has been called by the um kept, players should be given credit for per pire he alone shall be the judge as to the formance in regulation drawn games. fitness of the ground for resuming play after the game has been suspended. RULE 6—FORFEITED GAMES RULE 8—PITCHING RULE A forfeited game shall be declared by the umpire in favor of the team not at (a) Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher fault, in the following cases: shall come to a full stop, facing the bats man, with the ball held in both hands in S ection 1. If a team fails to appear front of the body, and with both feet upon the field, or being upon the field, re squarely on the ground and in contact with fuses to begin a game for which it is the pitcher's plate, for not less than one scheduled or assigned at the time sched second before taking one hand off the ball uled or within the time set for forfeitures at the start of the wind-up or back-swing. by the organization in which the team is playing. Note: One second of time may be de termined by repeating at ordinary con Sec. 2. If, after the game has begun, versational speed the words, "One Thou one side refuses to continue to play, unless sand and One”. the game has been suspended or terminated by the umpire. (b) The pitcher shall not be considered in pitching position unless the catcher is Sec. 3. If, after play has been sus in position to receive the pitch. pended by the umpire, one side fails to resume playing within two minutes after (c) In the act of delivering the ball to the umpire has called "Play.” the batsman the pitcher shall not take more than one step, which must be forward Sec. 4. If a team employs tactics palp and toward the batsman. The step must be ably designed to delay the game. taken simultaneously with the delivery of S ec. 5. If, after warning by the um the ball to the batsman. OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 9 (d) A legal delivery shall be a ball 7. Making any motion to pitch without which is delivered to the batter underhand immediately delivering the ball to the and with a follow through of the hand and batsman. Sec. 6, Rule 11. wrist past the straight line of the body 8. Delivery of the ball to the batsman before the ball is released. The pitcher when the catcher is outside the lines may use any windup he desires providing of the catcher's position as defined in that in the final delivery of the ball to the Rule 2, Sec. 6, Rule 27. batter, the hand shall be below the hip 9. If the pitcher continues to wind-up and the wrist not farther from the body after taking the step, (c) Rule 8. than the elbow. 10. If the pitcher takes pitching position (e) At no time during the progress of on or near the pitcher's plate without the game shall the pitcher be allowed to having the ball in his possession. use tape, or other substance, upon the pitching hand or fingers; nor shall any In each of the foregoing cases the ball foreign substance be applied to the ball, shall be dead and not in play until again provided that, under the supervision and put in play at the pitcher's box, provided, control of the umpire, powdered resin may however, that if the batsman strikes at be used to dry the hands. and hits into fair territory, any of the foregoing illegal pitches then there shall N O PITCH be no penalty for such illegal pitch and No pitch shall be declared whenever the the ball shall remain in play, and base- pitcher pitches during a suspension of play runners may run bases or be put out as or when he attempts a quick return of the though the ball had been legally pitched. ball .before the batsman has taken position or is off balance as the result of a previous RULE 10— FAIRLY DELIVERED pitch. BALL RULE 9—ILLEGAL PITCHES Section 1. A fairly delivered ball is An illegal pitch, entitling the base-run one pitched by the pitcher while standing ner or runners to advance one base, shall in his position and facing the batsman be called by the umpire as follows; and in that passes over any portion of the home each of the cases cited a ball shall also be plate before touching the ground, not lower called in favor of the batsman: than the batsman's knees nor higher than 1. Any delivery of the ball to the bats his shoulder. For every such fairly de man without previously taking posi livered ball the umpire shall call one strike. tion as defined in a. and b. Rule 8. Other cases in which the umpire shall 2. If the pitcher takes more than one call a strike are: step before releasing the ball. Sec. 2. A pitched ball struck at by the 3. Final delivery of the ball to the batsman without its touching his bat. batsman with the hand above the hip Sec. 3. A foul hit ball not caught on and the wrist of the pitching arm far the fly unless the batsman has two strikes. ther from the body than the elbow.— Sec. 4. A pitched ball at which the d. Rule 8. batsman strikes but misses and which 4. Failure to follow through with the touches any part of his person. hand and wrist past the straight line Sec. 5. A foul tip, held by the catcher, of the body.—d. Rule 8. while standing within the lines of his posi 5. Rolling the ball along the ground tion. or dropping the ball, by the pitcher while the pitcher is in pitching posi RULE 11— U NFA IRLY tion. Sec. 3, Rule 11. DELIVERED BALL 6. Holding the ball by the pitcher more Section 1. An unfairly delivered ball than 20 seconds. Sec. 5, Rule 11. is a ball delivered to the batsman by the 10 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL pitcher while standing in his position and RULE 13—ORDER OF BATTING facing the batsman that does not pass S ection 1. The batting order of each over any portion of the home plate between team must be on the score card and must the batsman’s knees and shoulders, or that be delivered before the game by the man touches the ground before passing home ager or captain to the umpire at the home plate, unless struck at by the batsman. plate, who shall submit it to the inspection For every unfairly delivered ball the um of the manager or captain of the other pire shall call one ball. side. The batting order delivered to the Other cases in which the umpire shall umpire must be followed throughout the call a ball are: game unless a player be substituted for an Sec. 2. An illegally pitched ball unless other, in which case the substitute must the batsman hits such a pitched ball fairly. take the place in the batting order of the (An illegally pitched ball struck at and retired player. missed, or fouled and an illegally pitched Sec. 2. After the first inning the first ball at which the batsman does not strike, batter in each inning shall be the batsman shall be called a ball under this rule.) whose name follows that of the last man Sec. 3. A ball rolled along the ground, who completed his "time at bat” in the or dropped, by the pitcher while in the preceding inning. pitching position. Sec. 3. A batsman has completed his "time at bat” when he has become a base- Sec. 4. A pitched ball, not struck at, which touches any part of the batsman’s runner, as defined in Rule 26, or has been person or clothing while standing in his put out according to the provisions of Rule 20. position, provided the batter does not in tentionally allow the ball to strike him. No base-runner shall advance on such ball RULE 14—A FAIR HIT BALL unless he be compelled to do so by reason A fair hit ball is a legally batted ball of its being the fourth ball and the bats that settles on fair ground between home man becomes a base-runner. and first base, or between home and third base, or that is on or over fair ground when - Sec. 5. A ball shall be called each time bounding to the outfield, or that touches the pitcher delays the game by failing to first or third base, or that first falls on fair deliver the ball to the batsman for a ground on or beyond first or third base, or longer period than 20 seconds, except that that while on or over fair ground touches at the commencement of each inning, or the person of the umpire or a player. A when a pitcher relieves another, the pitcher fair fly must be judged according to the may occupy one minute in delivering not relative position of the ball and the foul to exceed five balls to the catcher or an line, and not as to whether the fielder is on infielder, during which time play shall be fair or foul ground at the time he touches suspended. the ball. Sec. 6. A ball shall be called each time Note: A batted ball which first touches the pitcher makes any motion to pitch foul ground and then rolls or bounds into without immediately delivering the ball to fair territory before having touched any the, bat. object other than the playing field is a fair ball, provided it rolls or bounces into RULE 12—RULES FOR BATSMEN the diamond before reaching first or third Each player of the side at bat shall be bases. A batted ball which first touches come a batsman and must take his position fair ground and rolls foul and then again within the batsman’s lines (as defined in rolls into the diamond before reaching first Rule ;2) in the order that his name appears or third bases is a fair ball provided that in his- team’s batting order. while the ball was on or over foul terri OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 11 tory it did not touch any person or thing titled to two bases only. In either event other than the playing field. the batsman must touch the bases in reg ular order. The point at which the fence RULE 15— A FOUL H IT BALL or stand is less than 200 feet from the A foul hit ball is a legally batted ball home base shall be plainly indicated for the that settles on foul territory between home umpire's guidance. and first base, or home and third base, or Sec. 3. A fair hit ball that bounds into that bounds past first or third base on or a stand or over a fence shall be a two- over foul territory or that falls on foul base hit. territory beyond first or third base, or that Note: Whenever the location of ob while on or over foul ground touches the structions, such as trees, wires, parked auto person of the umpire or a player. , mobiles or spectators necessitates a modifica Note: A batted ball which touches any tion of this rule, a special ground rule person, or object, such as a bat, glove, should be established. Such special ground fence, bench or screen, or is handled by a rule should be written upon the official fielder while on or over foul territory, is a score sheet and signed by both managers foul ball regardless of where it may go before the start of the game. thereafter. RULE 19—AN ILLEGALLY RULE 16—A FOUL TIP BATTED BALL A foul tip is a ball batted by the bats An illegally batted ball is a ball batted in man while standing in the lines of his any way by the batsman when either or position, that goes sharp and direct to the both of his feet are upon the ground out hands of the catcher and is legally caught. side the lines of the batsman's position. Any foul tip caught is a strike and the ball remains in play. RULE 20—WHEN BATSMAN IS A foul hit ball which rises higher than OUT the batsman's head shall not be a foul tip The batsman is out: under this rule. S ection 1. If he fails to take his position at the bat in the turn in which his name RULE 17— A B U N T H IT BALL appears in the batting order. But if the A bunt is a batted ball, not swung at error is discovered the proper batsman may by the batsman, but met with the bat and replace the man at bat before the latter which does not go out of the infield. A becomes a base-runner, in which case the ball which touches the bat while the bats balls and strikes must be counted in the man is attempting to avoid being hit by a "time at bat" of the proper batsman. pitched ball shall not be considered a Only the proper batsman shall be de bunted ball under this rule. clared out, and no runs shall be scored or bases run because of any act of the im RULE 18—BALLS BATTED OUT proper batsman. SIDE OF THE PLAYING FIELD Note: A player is not out for batting Section 1. When a batted ball passes out of turn. The player who fails to bat outside the playing field the umpire shall in his proper place is the one to be called declare it fair or foul, according to where out. it leaves the playing field. This rule shall not be enforced unless Sec. 2* A fair-batted fly ball that goes the error is discovered and the out is de over the fence or into a stand shall entitle clared before the ball is delivered to the the batsman to a home run, unless it pass batsman next facing the pitcher. out of the grounds or into a stand at a Should the batsman declared out under less distance than 200 feet from the home this section be the third out and his side base, in which case the batsman shall be en thereby put out, the proper batsman in 12 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL the next inning shall be the player who RULE 21—DEFINITIONS would have come to bat had the players Section 1. A block is a batted or been put out by ordinary play in the pre ceding inning. thrown ball that is touched, stopped, or handled by a person not engaged in the Sec. 2. If he fails to take his position game. within one minute after the umpire has called for the batsman. Sec. 2. Whenever a block occurs the umpire shall declare it and base runners Sec. 3. If he makes a foul hit, other may advance, without liability to be put than a foul tip as defined in Rule 15, and out, one base in addition to the one to the ball is caught by a fielder before touch which they were going at the start of the ing the ground; provided it is not caught play in which the block occurs. in a fielder’s hat, cap, protector, pocket or Note: A wild pitch or passed ball shall other part of his uniform, or does not not be a block under this Rule. strike some object other than a fielder be fore being caught. Sec. 3. A wild pitch is a legally de livered ball so high, low or wide of the S ec. 4. If he bats the ball illegally as plate that the catcher cannot or does not defined in Rule 19. stop and control it with ordinary effort. S ec. 5. If he bunts foul after the sec- Sec. 4. A passed ball is a legally de 1 end strike. livered ball that should have been held or Sec. 6. If he attempts to hinder the controlled by the catcher with ordinary catcher from fielding or throwing the ball effort. by stepping outside the lines of the bats Sec. 5. A force-out can be made only man's position, or in any way obstructs or when a base-runner legally loses the right interferes with that player;, except that if to the base he occupies by reason of the a base-runner attempting to steal is put batsman becoming a base-runner and he is out the batsman shall not be out; except, thereby forced to advance. also, that the batsman shall not be out A force out shall not be destroyed by under this section if the base-runner is de the fact that a succeeding runner is called clared out according to section 14 of Rule out for leaving his base too soon. 29. Sec. 7. Immediately after three strikes RULE 22—BALL DEAD NOT IN have been called with first base occupied PLAY and less than two out. The ball is dead and not in play: Sec. 8. If the third strike struck at and 1. If a pitched ball touches any part of missed touch any part of the batsman’s the batsman’s person or clothing person. while the batsman is standing in his Sec. 9. If, before two are out, while first position, whether the ball is struck and second, or first, second and third bases at or not. are occupied, he hits a fair fly ball, other 2. In case of an illegally batted ball, or than a line drive, or a bunted fly ball, that in case of a batsman stepping from is handled or in the opinion of the umpire one box to the other when the pitcher would have landed within or near the base is ready to pitch. lines. 3. In case of a foul hit ball not legally Sec. 10. If he steps from one batsman’s caught. box to the other while the pitcher is in 4. In case of interference with the fielder his position ready to pitch. or batsman. Note: No bases shall be run if the bat 5. In case a fair hit ball strikes a base- ter is declared out under Sections 4,5 , and runner or.umpire before touching a 6, 8, and 10 of this rule. fielder. OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 13 6. In case an overthrown ball touches 10. When a base-runner is called out the person or clothing of a coacher. for leaving his base too soon. 7. In case a block ball is declared. 11. And in all other cases except as 8. In case of an overthrow, if the ball provided in Rule 22. touches any obstruction or person. 9. In case of an illegally pitched ball, RULE 24—AN OVERTHROW or a ball dropped or rolled along the An overthrow is a ball thrown from one ground by the pitcher. fielder to another to retire a runner who In all the foregoing cases the ball shall has not reached or is off his base, and not be considered in play until it is held which goes into foul territory on a play at by pitcher standing in his position and the first, third, or home base. The advance of umpire shall have called "Play.” runners on an overthrow shall be deter mined by the base occupied by the runner RULE 23—BALL IN PLAY at the time of the pitch preceding the The ball remains in play and base-run overthrow. ners may at their own risk run bases or be Note: The difference between an over put out: throw and a passed ball. An overthrow is 1. After a fly ball, either fair or foul, made only in making a play on a runner or a foul tip, has been legally while a passed ball is always a pitched ball. caught. Also that in order to be an overthrow 2. After "four balls” has been called, under this rule the ball must go into foul provided that the batsman cannot territory. A ball thrown passed, or over, be put out before he reaches first a base man and which stays on fair ground base. is not an overthrow. This rule applies 3. After an interference by a fielder only at first, third, and home. A ball with a base-runner, provided that overthrown in making a play at second the runner interfered with cannot be base does not come under this rule even put out before he reaches the base though the ball may go into foul territory. to which he is going. Sec. 5, Rule 27. RULE 25—LEGAL ORDER OF 4. After base-runners have reached BASES the bases to which they are entitled S ection 1. The base-runner must touch under Sec. 7, Rule 27. each base in legal order, viz., first, second, 5. If a fair hit ball strikes an umpire third and home bases; and when obliged on fair ground after passing a to return while the ball is in play, must fielder, Sec. 1, Rule 27. retouch the base or bases in reverse order. 6. If a fair hit ball strikes an umpire He can only acquire the right to a base by on foul ground. Sec. 1, Rule 27. touching it, before having been put out, 7. In case of any overthrown ball and then shall be entitled to hold such which remains inside the foul lines. base until he has legally touched the next 8. In case of any thrown or pitched base in order, or has been legally forced to ball which is not blocked or which vacate it for a succeeding base-runner. does not touch an obstruction in However, no base-runner shall score a run foul territory. Secs. 3 and 8, Rule to count in the game ahead of the base- 27. runner preceding him in the batting or 9. In case a thrown or pitched ball der, if there be such preceding base-runner strikes an umpire. Sec. 4, Rule 27. who has not been put out in that inning. Note: Sec. 4, Rule 27, does not Sec. 2. Having become a base-runner or put the ball out of play, but simply having acquired legal title to a base, the limits the advance of the runner. base-runner can not run bases in reverse 14 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL order for the purpose either of confusing catcher in striking at a pitched ball, or if the fielders or making a travesty of the a fair hit ball strikes the person or cloth game. Runners are to be called out for ing of the umpire or a base-runner on fair violation of this rule. grounds before touching a fielder; provided Sec. 3. In case a runner is being run that, if a fair hit ball strikes the umpire down between bases, and the following run after having passed a fielder other than ner occupies the same base the first runner the pitcher, or having been touched by a has left, the second man cannot be put out „ fielder (including the pitcher), the ball while holding said base. If the first run shall be considered in play. Also, if a fair ner, however, returns safely to the base he hit ball strikes the umpire on foul ground, left, and both runners are there occupying the ball shall be in play. the same base, the second runner is the Sec. 2. If the umpire awards to a suc man out, if touched with the ball. ceeding batsman a base on "four balls” or Sec. 4. The failure of a preceding run for being interfered with by the catcher in ner to touch a base (and who is declared striking at a pitched ball; and the base- out therefor) shall not affect the status of runner is thereby forced to vacate the base a succeeding runner who touches each base held by him. in proper order; except that, after two are Sec. 3. If a ball delivered by the pitcher out, a succeeding runner cannot score a passes the catcher and touches any fence, run when a preceding runner is declared building or backstop within 25 feet of home out for failing to touch a base as provided plate all base-runners shall be entitled to in Rule 29, Sec. 11. This exception also advance one base. applies to a batsman who hits the ball out Sec. 4. If a thrown or pitched ball of the playing field for an apparent home strikes the person or clothing of an um run. pire, the ball shall be considered in play RULE 26—WHEN THE BATSMAN and the base-runner, or base-runners, shall BECOMES A BASE-RUNNER be entitled to not more than one base. Note: This section states an exception Section 1. Instantly after he hits a fair ball. to the opening paragraph of this rule in which runners are entitled to advance with Sec. 2. Instantly after three strikes have out liability to be put out. It limits the been called, unless first base is occupied advance of runners to one base, but makes with less than two out. it necessary for them to make that base. Sec. 3. Instantly after vfour balls” has Sec. 5. If he is prevented from making been called by the umpire. a base by the obstruction of a fielder, ex Sec. 4. If the catcher interferes with cept when a fielder is trying to field a him in, or prevents him from, striking at batted ball, unless the fielder has the ball a pitched ball. in his hand ready to touch the base-runner. Sec. 5. If a fair hit ball strikes the The ball is still in play as far as other person or clothing of the umpire or a base- base-runners are concerned, affecting the runner on fair ground. runner interfered with after he has reached the base to which he is entitled because of RULE 27—ENTITLED TO BASES the interference. The base-runner shall be entitled, with Sec. 6. It shall be illegal for the catcher out liability to be put out, to advance one to leave his designated position immediately base except where more are specified, in and directly back of the plate for the pur the following cases: pose of aiding the pitcher to give inten Section 1. If, while the batsman, he be tionally a base on balls to a batsman. If comes a base-runner by reason of "four the catcher shall move out of position prior balls” or for being interfered with by the to the time of the ball leaving the pitcher’s OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 15 hand, all runners on bases shall be entitled This interpretation applies to all runners to advance one base. advancing as the result of the batsman Sec. 7. If the fielder stops or catches a being awarded a base on balls, runners ad batted ball or a thrown ball with his cap, vancing because of interference by a fielder glove, or any part of his uniform, while and runners advancing after a batted or detached from its proper place on his per thrown ball has been touched by any part son, the runner or runners shall be entitled of a fielder’s equipment when detached to three bases if a batted ball or two from its proper place. bases, if a thrown ball, and in either case RULE 28—RETURNING TO the runner may advance further at his own BASES risk. The base-runner shall return to his base Sec. 8. When, on any play which starts without liability to be put out: with a batted ball, the ball is overthrown S ection 1. If the umpire declares any into foul territory at first, third, or home foul not legally caught. bases, and the ball touches any obstruction or is blocked, the runner being played shall Sec. 2. If the umpire declares an il legally batted ball. be entitled to advance one base beyond that at which the overthrow was made and all Sec. 3. If a thrown ball touches the other runners shall be entitled to the same coacher. - number of bases as the man on whom the Sec. 4. If the umpire declares a dead play was made. (Rule 24) Number of ball, unless it is also the fourth ball and bases to be determined by the base occupied he is thereby forced to take the next base. by each runner at the time of the pitch Sec. 5. If the person or clothing of the preceding the overthrow. umpire, while stationed back of the bat, Note: If the ball is not blocked, or does interferes with the catcher in attempt to not touch an obstruction, the ball remains throw. in play and runners may advance at their Sec. 6. If a pitched ball at which the own risk as far as they can make it. batsman strikes but misses, touches any Sec. 9. If the pitcher drops or rolls part of the batsman’s person. the ball along the ground or if the pitcher Sec. 7. If the umpire is struck by a fair makes an illegal delivery, provided the bats hit ball before touching a fielder; in which man docs not hit an illegally pitched ball case no base shall be run unless necessitated fairly. by the batsman becoming a base-runner, Note: When a runner is entitled to a and no run shall be scored unless all bases base without liability to be put out, while are occupied. the ball is in play, or under any rule in Sec. 8. If the umpire declares the bats which the ball is in play after the runner man or base-runner out for interference; reaches the base to which he is entitled, in which case the base-runner shall return failure to touch the base to which the run to the last base that was in the judgment ner is entitled before attempting to make of the umpire legally touched by him at the next base shall forfeit his exemption the time of the interference. from liability to be put out, and the runner In any and all the foregoing cases the may be put out by a play at the base or by base-runner is not required to touch the tagging the runner before he returns to the intervening bases in returning to the base base to which he was entitled. to which he is legally entitled. Should the runner so put out be the bats man at first base, or any runner compelled RULE 29—WHEN BASE-RUNNERS to advance to make room for the batsman, ARE O U T and such out should also be the third out The base-runner is out: in an inning, such out shall have the status S ection 1. If, having made a fair hit of a force out. ball while batsman, such fair hit ball is 16 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL caught by a fielder before touching the Note: It is not necessary for the runner ground or any object other than a fielder; to follow the direct line between the bases provided it be not caught in a fielder's hat, unless a fielder, in the direct line, actually cap, protector, pocket or other part of his has the ball in his possession. Read this uniform. section in connection with Section 5 of Sec. 2. If, after a fair hit ball, the ball Rule 2. Notice that actual possession of is securely held by a fielder while touching the ball is the controlling factor. first base with any part of his person be S ec. 9. If he fails to avoid a fielder at fore such base-runner touches first base. tempting to field a batted ball in the man Sec. 3. If, after a fair hit ball, he is ner described in this rule, or in any way touched with the ball in the hand of a obstructs a fielder in attempting to field a fielder before he shall have touched first batted ball, or intentionally interferes with base. a thrown ball; provided that if two or Note: It is sufficient if the runner be more fielders attempt to field a batted ball, touched with the hand or glove in which and the base-runner comes in contact with the ball is held. one or more of them, the umpire shall de Sec. 4. If the third strike be legally termine which fielder is entitled to the caught by a fielder before touching the benefit of this rule, and shall not decide ground. the base-runner out for coming in contact Sec. 5. If after three strikes he be with a fielder other than the one the um touched with the ball in the hand of a pire determines to be entitled to field such fielder before he shall have touched first batted ball. If a fair hit ball goes through base. an infielder and hits a runner immediately Sec. 6. If after three strikes the ball be back of him, the unrp%e must not declare securely held by a fielder while touching the runner out for being hit by a batted first base with any part of his person before ball. In making such decision the umpire such runner touch first base. must be convinced that the ball passed Sec. 7. If, in running the last half of through the infield and that no other in the distance from home to first base, while fielder had the chance to make a play on the ball is being fielded to first base, he the ball. If, in the judgment of the um runs outside the three-foot line, as defined pire, the runner deliberately and intention in Rule 2,. and, in the opinion of the um ally kicks such a hit ball, on which the in pire, interferes with the fielder taking the fielder has missed a play, then the runner throw at first base; except that he may run must be called out for interference. outside the three-foot line to avoid a fielder S ec. 10. If at any time while the ball is attempting to field a batted ball. in play he is touched by the ball in the Note: If the runner runs on or inside hands of a fielder, unless some part of his the base-line and in any way interferes person is touching the base he is entitled with the play being made at first base, he to occupy; provided, however, that the ball should be called out. is held by the fielder after touching him, Sec. 8. If, in running to any base, he unless the base-runner deliberately knocks runs more than three feet from a direct it out of his hand. The ball must be held line between a base and the next one in firmly by the fielder after touching the regular or reverse order to avoid being runner. The ball cannot be juggled even touched by a ball in the hand of a fielder. though the fielder may retain possession of But in case a fielder be occupying a base- the ball and prevent same from dropping runner's proper path in attempting to field to the ground. a batted ball, then the base-runner shall Sec. 11. If, when a fair or foul hit ball run out of the direct line to the next (other than a foul tip), is legally caught base and behind such fielder and shall not by a fielder, such ball is legally held by a be declared out for so doing. fielder on the base occupied by the base- I j t ' W l U l £ ^ o n OFFICIAL SOFTBALLS Wilson Official Softballs are the finest by any standard of comparison. They are made by a group of craftsmen who have spent years making softballs. Every detail of construction bears the stamp of Wilson Quality. Every ball is scientifically correct in size, weight, shape, balance and resili ency. 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OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 17 runner when such ball is batted, or the failed to touch, or by being touched with base-runner is touched with the ball in the the ball in the hand of a fielder in the same hand of a fielder, before he retouches such manner as in running to first base; pro base after such fair or foul hit ball is so vided that the base-runner shall not be out caught; provided that the base-runner shall in such case if the ball be delivered to the not be out in such case, if, after the ball bat by the pitcher before the play is made is legally caught, it is delivered to the bat on the runner or at the base. by the pitcher before the fielder holds it on Note: This is an appeal play and the said base, or touches the base-runner out umpire should not make any decision until with it; but if the base-runner, in attempt his attention has been called to it and the ing to reach a base, detaches it from its play actually made at the base in question. fastenings before being put out, he shall S ec. 15. If he leaves or fails to keep be declared safe. A base-runner who holds contact with the base which he is entitled his base on a fly ball shall have the right to to occupy, while the pitcher has the ball advance the moment the ball touches a in pitching position and until a legally fielder. pitched ball has left the hands of the Note: This is an appeal play and the pitcher. umpire should not make any decision until S ec. 16. If, when the umpire calls his attention has been called to it and the ’’Play,” after the suspension of a game he play actually made at the base in question. fails to return to and touch the base he Note 2: An out declared under this rule occupied when ’’Time” was called before is not a force-out and when such out is touching the next base; provided that the the third out in an inning, any run scored base-runner shall not be out, in such case, before the out is actually made will count. if the ball is delivered to the bat by the Sec. 12. If, when the batsman becomes pitcher before the fielder holds it on said a base-runner, the first base or the first base or touches the base-runner with it. and second bases, or the first, second and S ec. 17. If, with one out, or none out, third bases are occupied, any base-runner so and a base-runner on third base, the bats occupying a base shall cease to be entitled man interferes with a play being made at to hold it, and may be put out at the next home plate. base in the same manner as in running to first base, or by being touched with the S ec. 18. If he passes a preceding base- ball in the hands of a fielder at any time runner before such runner has been legally before any base-runner following him in put out, he shall be declared out immedi the batting order is put out, unless the ately. umpire shall decide the hit of the batsman S ec. 19. If,.in the judgment of the urn- to be an infield fly. pi re, the coacher at third base by touching Sec. 13. If a fair hit ball strikes him or holding the runner physically assists him while on or off a base before touching a in returning to or leaving third base. The fielder, and, in such case, no base shall be runner, however, shall not be declared out run unless necessitated by the batsman be if no play is being made on him. coming a base-runner, but no run shall be S ec. 20. The base-runner in running to scored or any other base-runner be put first base may overrun said base after touch out until the umpire puts the ball back ing it in passing without incurring liability into play. to be put out for being off said base, re Sec. 14. If, when advancing bases, or gardless of which direction he turns, pro being obliged to return to a base, he fails vided he returns at once and touches the to touch the intervening base or bases, base, after which he may be put out as at if any, in regular or reverse order, as the any other base. If, after over running first case may be, he may be put out by the base, he attempts to run to second base be ball being held by a fielder on any base he fore returning to first base, he shall forfeit 18 OF FIC *AL rules of softball such exemption from liability to be put out. Note 3: In case of a runner failing to Note: This is an appeal play and the touch a base, if the base missed is the one umpire should not make any decision until to which a runner is forced to advance by his attention has been called to it and the reason of the batsman becoming a base- play actually made at the base in question. runner, and the out is the third out in an S ec. 21. If, while third base is occu inning, no run scored in that series of pied, the coacher stationed near that base plays will count, regardless of whether the shall run in the direction of home base runs were across the plate before the out on or near the base line while a fielder is was actually made. making or trying to make a play on a batted ball not caught on the fly, or on a RULE 31—UMPIRES thrown ball, or a fly ball, and thereby 1. POWERS AND DUTIES. The draws a throw to home base, the base-runner umpires are the representatives of the entitled to third base shall be declared out league or organization by which they have by the umpire for the coacher's interfer been assigned to a particular game, and as ence. such are authorized and required to en Sec. 22. If one or more members of the force each section of these rules. They team at bat stand or collect at or around shall have power to order a player, coach, a base for which a base-runner is trying, captain or manager to do or omit to do thereby confusing the fielding side and any act which in their judgment is neces adding to the difficulty of making such a sary to give force and effect to one or play, or if a member of the team at bat all of these rules and to inflict penalties obstructs or interferes with any play being as herein prescribed. made upon a base-runner, the base-runner 2. SINGLE UMPIRE. If but one um shall be called out for the interference of pire be assigned, his duties and jurisdic his team-mate or team-mates. tion shall extend to all points, and he S ec. 23. If he runs bases in reverse shall be permitted to take his stand in any order as defined in Rule 25, Sec. 2. part of the field that in his opinion will best enable him to discharge his duties. RULE 30—SCORING OF RUNS 3. PLATE UMPIRE. The Plate Um S ection 1. One run shall be scored pire shall take his position back of the every time a base-runner, after having catcher; he shall have full charge of and legally touched the first three bases, shall be responsible for the proper conduct of legally touch the home base before three the game. With the exception of the de men are put out; provided, however, that cisions to be made by the Base Umpire, if he reaches home on or during a play in as described in Section 4 of this rule, the which the third man is forced out or is Plate Umpire shall render all the decisions put out before reaching first base, a run that ordinarily devolve upon a single um shall not count; also, if the third out is pire. made by a preceding runner failing to He shall call balls and strikes, he shall touch a base a run shall not count. determine whether a batted ball is fair Note: No run shall be scored on any or foul, whether a fly ball has been caught, play in which the third man is called out whether a batter bunts, whether a pitched for leaving his base before a pitched ball ball touches the person or clothing of the has left the pitcher’s hand. batter and whether or not a fly ball is an infield or an outfield fly. Note 2: An out for leaving a base too He shall render base decisions in the soon on a caught fly ball is not a force-out following instances: and when such an out is the third out in an a. If the ball is hit fair, with a runner inning any run scored before the out was actually made will count. on first, he must go to third base to make a possible decision. OFFICIAL RULES OF S OFTBALL 19 b. With more than one base occupied, failure to do so will warrant a forfeiture he shall, on appeal, decide whether of the game. or not a runner on third leaves that Umpires shall not permit any person base before a fiy ball is caught. connected with any team to continue to c. In case of a runner being caught be violate any rules even though there is a tween third and home, when more penalty attached to the specific violation than one base is occupied, he shall and, after due warning, shall remove such make the decision on the runner person from the game. nearest home plate; he shall have 7. CANNOT CHANGE UMPIRE. equal authority with the Base Um The umpire cannot be changed during a pire in calling a runner out for leav game by the consent of the contesting clubs ing his base too soon. unless the official is incapacitated “from 4. BASE UMPIRE. The Base Um service by injury or illness. pire shall take such positions on the play- Note: There seems to be some confusion ing field as in his judgment are best suited as to the authority of umpires when two or for the rendering of base decisions. He more are working. shall render all decisions at first and sec The powers and duties of both the Plate ond base, and all decisions at third base and the Base umpire are clearly set forth except those to be made by the Plate Um in the rule, and, except where the rule pro pire in accordance with Section 3. He shall vides that the authority is equal, each has also have equal authority with the Plate exclusive jurisdiction in making the deci Umpire in calling "illegal" pitches. He shall sions assigned to him. aid the Plate Umpire in every manner in There is a mistaken idea that sometimes enforcing the rules of the game and with one umpire reverses a decision made by the exception of declaring a forfeiture, another. There is also a mistaken idea that shall have equal authority with the Plate an umpire, once having made a decision, Umpire in removing players from the Same. cannot reverse that decision. It must be remembered that it is the 5. NO CONFLICT OF AUTHOR duty of an umpire to make correct deci ITY. Under no circumstances shall either sions, and that the speed of action and the umpire criticize or interfere with a decision conditions surrounding a play may make unless asked to do so by his associate. In this very difficult. case the manager or captain or a team If, however, an umpire finds that he has seeks a reversal of a decision, the umpire mis-catled a play, it is not only his right but making the decision may, if he is in doubt, ask his associate for information his duty to call the play correctly. before acting on the manager's or captain's In reaching his conclusion it is his privi appeal. However, the final decision shall lege to consult his associate who, at the rest with the umpire whose exclusive au time, may have been in better position to thority it was to make the decision and see just what took place. The associate who requested an opinion of the other. may, however, only express his opinion, the final decision must rest with the umpire 6. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION. whose business it was to make that decision. In all cases of violation of these rules by a Umpires should be very careful not to player, coach or manager, the penalty shall express their opinion on a play called by an be the prompt removal of the ofifender other umpire unless the umpire who made from the game and grounds. In the event the decision, himself, requests an opinion. of the removal of a player, coach or man ager, he shall go direct to the club house When an umpire finds it necessary to re and remain there during the progress of verse himself, this should be done before the game, or leave the grounds; and a any succeeding play takes place. 20 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL SUSPENSION OF PLAY purpose of requesting “time out” or to dis pute the calling of a play. Such action When two or more umpires are working, shall not be permitted to interfere with any any one of them may suspend play when play already in action by the opponent, and in his judgment conditions justify such an illegal pitch shall not be called against action. The umpire suspending play shall a pitcher who halts delivery because of audibly call, “Time”, and indicate the sus such action on the part of an opponent. pension of play by extending the arms Whenever a batsman or a pitcher steps above the head. Other umpires shall im out of position for a legitimate reason the mediately acknowledge the suspension of umpire shall suspend play. When a bats play by like action. man steps out after a pitcher is in motion, Umpires shall not call “Time” after the the umpire shall call a ball or a strike if pitcher has started his wind-up nor while the pitch is completed. Neither the pitcher any play is in action. In case of injury to a or the batsman should be permitted to con player time shall not be called until all tinue this practice simply to annoy each plays then in action are completed or the other or to delay the game. runners have been held at their bases. Base umpires are the assistants of the Play shall be suspended whenever the plate umpire and the plate umpire shall plate umpire leaves his position to brush have the authority to determine whether the plate or to perform other duties not the pitcher was in motion or plays were directly connected with the calling of plays, in action at the time play was suspended. and if through oversight “Time” has not Umpires may refuse to impose the pen been called, play shall be suspended from alty for a violation when the imposition of the time the plate umpire leaves his po such penalty would benefit the offending sition and until he has resumed his position team. For example—Should the catcher and has started play. interfere with the batsman in striking at Umpires should be particularly careful a pitched ball, and the batsman so hit the about the suspension of play when players, ball that he and other runners advance coachers or managers leave their positions safely on the play, the umpire may disre or encroach upon the playing field for the gard the interference. SCORING RULES for SOFTRALL Prepared and Arranged by Hubert G. Johnson Several methods of making the "play by a player who was awarded a base on balls, play record of a game have been devised for interference by the catcher, or when and the choice rests largely with the scorer. he makes a Sacrifice H it or a Sacrifice Fly. It is advisable, however, that in a league The Second column shall show the num or organization all scorers use the same ber of runs made by each player. system. The Third column shall show the num ber of Hits made by each player. A player THE BOX SCORE shall be credited with a H it each time he The Box Score of a game shall show bats the ball in such manner that he reaches the offensive and defensive performance first base, and any and all runners forced of each player. It shall be arranged in six to advance reach the next base, safely, with columns and a Summary. out the aid of an error or a mis-play on The First column shall show the number the part of the fielding team. of Times at Bat by each player, but, a A base hit shall be credited to the bats Time at Bat shall not be charged against man in each case where a base-runner is OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 21 retired by being struck by a batted ball, The Fifth column shall show the num unless batted by himself. ber of put-outs in which each player As A base hit shall be credited in each case sists. where the ball becomes dead by reason of An Assist shall be credited a batted ball striking the person or cloth To each player who handles the ball in ing of an umpire on fair ground. any series of plays which result in the put- In no case shall a Hit be credited when out of a base-runner. Only one Assist, and a base-runner is forced out by the play. no more, shall be given to any player who Whenever a fielder, after handling the handles the ball in any put-out. A player ball, elects to try to retire a base-runner in who has aided in a run-down, or other stead of the batter, the play is known as a play of the kind, shall be credited with “fielder’s choice.” If the runner is retired, both an Assist and the Put-out; or would be retired but for an error, the To each player who handles or throws batter shall be charged with a Time at Bat, the ball in such manner that a put-out but no Hit. If the runner is not retired would have resulted but for the error of and no error is made, the batter shall be a teammate; charged with a Time at Bat but no H it if he swung at the ball, but if he bunted the To a player who, by deflecting a batted ball, he shall be credited with a Sacrifice ball, aids in a put-out; H it; however, if in the judgment of the To each player who handles the ball in scorer the batter could not have been re a play which results in a base-runner be tired at first base by perfect fielding, he ing called out for interference, or for shall be credited with a base hit. running out of the line; The Fourth column shall show the num To the catcher who, after dropping the ber of opponents put out by each player. third strike, throws the runner out at first A Put Out shall be credited as follows: base. To the Catcher; Do not credit an Assist to a fielder who When he catches the third strike, or make a bad throw on which a runner try when the third strike is called with ing to advance on it is put out. A play first base occupied and less than two that follows an error is a new play and the out; player making an error is not entitled to an When the batsman bunts foul after two Assist unless he takes part in the new strikes; play. Do not credit an Assist to the pitcher When the batsman bats illegally; when a runner is put out in attempting to When the batsman fails to bat in proper steal home on a legally pitched ball. order; The Sixth column shall show the num When the batsman is struck by his own ber of Errors made by each player. An missed strike; Error shall be recorded for each mis-play When the batsman interferes with the which prolongs the life of a batsman or catcher. a base-runner, or which allows a base- To the fielder; runner to make one or more bases, when Who actually makes a put out in regular perfect play would have resulted in his manner; being put out. Who did, or should have, made the play An Error shall be charged to any player on an infield fly; who fails to touch the base after receiving Nearest the ball when a runner is de the ball in time to retire a runner on a clared out for being struck by a fair force play or when a runner is compelled batted ball; to return to a base. A t the base for which a runner is called An Error shall be charged to a catcher out for leaving too soon. if he drops or misses a third strike and 22 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL allows the man who was the batsman to 3— The number of Sacrifice Hits, and. reach first base. by whom made. An Error shall be charged to a fielder A Sacrifice H it shall be credited to a if a base runner advances a base through batsman who advances a runner by a bunt his failure to stop, or try to stop, a ball on which he is retired or would have been accurately thrown to a base, providing retired but for an error. If in the judg there was occasion for the throw. Where ment of the scorer the batsman could not more than one player may take the play, have been retired at first base by perfect the scorer shall determine which player fielding he shall be credited with a base hit. shall be charged with the Error. A Sacrifice shall be credited to the bats An Error shall be charged to a catcher man who bats a fly ball on which a run or an infielder who, in an attempt to com is scored and on which he is retired or plete a double play, throws so wild that would have been retired but for an error. an additional base be gained. 4— The number of Two Base Hits and An Error shall be charged to a fielder by whom made. who drops a thrown ball when by holding it he would have completed a double play. 5— The number of Three Base Hits and An Error shall not be charged against by whom made. a catcher for a wild throw in an attempt 6— The number of Home Runs and by to prevent a stolen base, unless because of whom made. such wild throw the base-runner advances The length of a hit shall be determined an extra base. by the number of bases the hitter advances An Error shall not be charged against without the aid of an error or mis-play a fielder dropping a fly ball if the ball be by the fielding team, or as the result of a recovered and a play made in time to make play being made on another runner. If a force play. a batter, in attempting to stretch a hit, over-slides a base and is tagged out, he THE SUMMARY shall not be credited with having made that The Summary shall contain: base. 1— The score by innings and the final When in the final inning of a game and score. the winning run on base, the hitter drives in that run, he shall be credited with the 2— The number of stolen bases and by number of bases necessary to score that whom. run, but no more, except that if the game A Stolen Base shall be credited to a is terminated by a Home Run batted out base-runner whenever he advances a base of the playing field, the hitter shall be unaided by a base hit, a put-out, or a credited with a Home Run, providing he fielding or a battery error, subject to the legally touches each base in regular order. following conditions: He shall not be credited with a stolen 7— The number of Double and Triple plays made and the players participating base if he over-slides the base and is put in the same. out. He shall not be credited with a stolen 8— The number of Runs Batted In and base if the fielder receiving the throw from by whom. the catcher makes an error on the play, Runs Batted In are runs scored on safe which if played prooerly would have re hits, sacrifice hits, outfield put-outs, and sulted in the runner being put out. when the run is forced over by reason of He shall not be credited with a stolen the batsman becoming a base-runner. base if the fielding side makes no attempt With less than two out, if an error is to play him, unless the fielding side re made on a play on which a runner from fused to make the play in order to prevent third base would ordinarily score, credit the advance of another runner. the batsman with a Run Batted In. OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 23 9— —The number of innings, or parts of 17—The names of the umpires and an inning, pitched by each pitcher. Parts scorer. of an inning to be determined by the number of outs—One out, one third in PERCENTAGES ning; Two out, two-thirds inning. To determine the percentage of Games- 10— The number of hits made off eachWon and Lost, divide the total number of pitcher. games played into the number of games 11— The number of opponents struckWon. out by each pitcher. To determine Batting averages, divide 12— The number of bases on balls giventhe total Ties at Bat into the number of by each pitcher. Hits. 13— The number of Wild Pitches by To determine Fielding averages, divide each pitcher. the total number of put-outs, assists and 14— The names of batsmen H it byerrors into the total number of put-outs Pitched Ball and by whom. and assists. 15— The number of Passed Balls by In all cases where the remaining frac each catcher. tion is one-half or more, give the full 16— The time of the game. point. EXPLANATIONS and INTERPRETATIONS of the OFFICIAL SOFTBALL RULES by HUBERT G. JOHNSON, Official Interpreter. Joint Rules Committee For Interpretation of the Rules Address (enclosing self-addressed stamped envelope) HUBERT G. JOHNSON Supervisor of Athletics, Department of Recreation, Detroit, Mich. In requesting interpretations of particular plays or situations, be sure to state all the facts; the inning in which the matter occurred, the number of outs, the number and location of men on the bases, any or all of these things may have a bearing upon the correct answer to the question. Do not make a general request for “The interpretations of the Rules of Soft ball.” All of the published interpretations are found in the Softball Rules Books. Softball is the result of unifying the ball. To avoid confusion the rules of base rules of several games designed to offer a ball have been used verbatim whenever recreational outlet to a naturally baseball possible and the same terminology has been minded people who have neither the time, used throughout the rules and the inter playing space or equipment to play base pretations. 24 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL READING RULES When games are played upon neutral Words arc used in their ordinarily ac fields, the team managers should agree cepted meaning, unless the word has a pe upon the ground rules and upon the failure culiar meaning when used in connection of the managers to agree, the umpires shall with a particular sport. For example—the fix the ground rules. words "Bat,” "H it” and "Strike” may in Whenever any modification of the official many cases be used interchangeably, but in rules is made, or agreed upon, the umpire Softball and Baseball they have three sepa shall, before the start of the contest, an rate and distinct meanings. nounce to both the players and the spec Rules are of two kinds, those which de tators the special conditions under which scribe the game and how it is played, and the game is to be played. those which fix penalties for violations of the rules of the game or for unsportsman PROTESTS like conduct. No Protest Board or Commissioner Each rule and section has been made for should entertain or consider any protest a specific purpose. based solely on a decision which involved To properly understand any rule it is accuracy of judgment on the part of the necessary to know what particular action umpire. Such matters are, whether a batted that rule was made to produce or to pre ball was fair or foul; a base-runner was vent. safe or out; a pitched ball was a strike or Be sure to read all of the rule carefully. a ball; whether a pitch was or was not Omitting any part or word in any section legal; whether a base-runner did or did not may change the meaning. touch a base; whether a base-runner did or Do not read into the rule more than is did not leave his- base too soon; whether actually stated. a fly ball was or was not caught; whether Whenever reference is made to another a fly ball was or was not an infield-fly; rule or section, both must be read together whether there had or had not been an in in order to obtain the proper meaning or terference, or any other matter involving application of the rule. the accuracy of the umpire's judgment. Protests may be considered on matters GROUND AND SPECIAL RULES which involve a misinterpretation of the Whenever a ground rule, or other modi playing rules. fication of the official rules, is made, such Whenever a protestable matter arises ground rule or modification should be re during a game, the captain or manager of duced to writing and ‘should be either the offended team should immediately posted at the field or should be written notify the umpires and the opposing man upon the score sheet and be signed by the ager that the game is being continued under team managers. This will materially reduce protest. This will enable all interested the number of controversies and will enable parties to take notice of the conditions sur protest boards to know the exact conditions rounding the making of the decision and under which a game was played. will aid in the proper determination of the Where Leagues are operating upon fields issue. The formal protest may be filed which require special rules, the special Yules later in accordance with the league regu for each field should be made a part of lations. the league regulations. In the absence of a league rule fixing When games are played in a private the time limit in which a protest must be park, the home team shall notify the op filed, a protest should be considered if filed posing manager and the umpires of any within a reasonable time depending upon ground or special rules. If the visiting team the nature of the case and the difficulty of objects, the umpire, or umpires, shall fix obtaining the information on which to base the ground rules. the protest. OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 25 Protests on matters other than eligibility Question—Is it necessary that gloves be of players should be filed within 48 hours worn by players? of the scheduled time of the game in which Answer—No. The rule shows what the protestable matter arose. kind of gloves may be worn by players, Time for filing all protests may, however, and prohibits excessively long lacing or be fixed by league or tournament rule. baskets between the thumb and body of A formal protest should contain: the a mitt or glove. date, time and place of the game, the names Question—W hat is the penalty for the of the teams, the names of the umpires use of an illegal bat or glove? and scorer, the rule and section of the Offi Answer—There is no penalty which can cial Rules, or the local rule, under which affect play. The illegal equipment must be the protest is made, the decision and con thrown out. If it is again used the offend ditions surrounding the making of the de ing player may be removed from the game. cision and all the essential facts involved Question—Must masks be worn by in the matter protested. catchers? When a protest for the mis-interpreta- Answer—Masks must be worn by all tion of a playing rule is allowed, the game senior catchers and senior women catchers should be re-played from the point at which must also wear a body protector. the improper decision was made and with Question—Must pitchers wear a certain the decision corrected. type of uniform? When a protest for ineligibility is al Answer—Only in night games. When lowed the game should be forfeited to the playing under lights, the pants, shirt and opponent of the offending team, if, how sweat shirt must be of the same dark color ever, it is shown that the protesting team with no lettering or trimming on the front. had knowledge of the offending player's RULE 4—PLAYERS ineligibility and failed to notify the op ponent that they were playing the question Question—Is it permissible to station a able player under protest, then the ineligible fielder outside the foul lines? player should be removed from the team Answer—No. All of the fielding team, roster and the game should be re played. except the catcher, must be on fair ground Highly technical protests and those which when the ball is pitched. could have no effect on subsequent play or Question—Is it necessary that the Short- the final result of the game should be dis Fielder play in the outfield? couraged. Answer—No. The Short-Fielder may be stationed in either the infield or out RULE 3—EQUIPMENT field at any point on fair territory. Question—Sometimes bats are found to Question—When a substitute runner is be slightly over the size specified in the placed on the bases, does the original player rule. Does this make the bats illegal? have to leave the game as in other sub Answer—Bats will absorb a certain stitutions? amount of moisture. One-sixteenth of an Answer—Ordinarily, yes, but the oppos inch is allowed for expansion after manu ing manager may consent to the return of facture. A bat which does not measure the original player. more than 2 3/16 inches in diameter is Question—Can a pitcher, taken from the legal. box to play some other position, return to Question—What is an Official Softball? the pitching position later in the game? Answer—The Committee has set up cer Answer — Yes, but each substitute tain specifications as to contents and con pitcher, and each time the same pitcher struction, as well as size and weight. The returns to the mound, he must pitch until condensed specifications for an official^ ball the first batsman to face him is either put are shown in Sec. 2 of Rule 3. out or has become a base-runner. 26 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL Question—Is there any penalty for fail Question—Where in front of the body ing to report or announce the substitution must the ball be held in both hands? of a player? Answer—Anywhere. The arms may be Answer—There is no penalty which extended full length downward, out in affects the playing of the game. A player front level with or above the shoulders or is in the game and his acts are legal when the elbows may be bent and the ball held he takes position # as shown by the latter against the body. part of Section 6. Question—How long must the pitcher remain in the position shown in (a) • before RULE 5—THE GAME starting to pitch? Question—Is it necessary that a cham Answer—For at least one second. The pionship game go the full seven innings? feet and arms must come to a full and Answer—No. All games which affect complete stop in this position before tak the standing of teams are considered ing one hand off the ball to start the championship games. The rule requiring wind-up. such games to go the full seven innings Question—When and how must the was abandoned several years ago because pitcher take his one step forward? it was an open inducement to stalling and Answer—The step must be taken sometimes rioting. simultaneously with the final delivery of Question—Does the score always revert the ball. It must be toward the batsman, to the last completed inning when a game not toward the first or third base line so is terminated before the regulation seven as to produce a cross-fire delivery. innings have been played? Question—When does a legal pitch be Answer—No. The score stands as it gin? was at the time the game was called if the Answer—When one hand is taken off home team, or the team second to bat, has the ball. After this the motion of the equalled the score, or has more runs than pitching arm must be continuous until the the team first to bat, when the game is ball has left the hand of the pitcher. called in any uncompleted inning after 4 Question—What is meant by an "under and Yz innings have been played. hand delivery"? Question—Is a drawn, or tied, game re Answer—That the ball must be pitched played from the beginning or is that game underhand, not thrown. A softball pitch continued until the tie is broken? should resemble a horseshoe pitch. Answer—The game is replayed just as Question—How much of a wind-up may though it was a postponed game. a pitcher use? Answer—Any amount and style he de RULE 8—PITCHING sires. He may lift one leg and rotate the Question—When is the pitcher legally body. The ball may be taken round the in pitching position? body and out of the batsman’s sight. If, Answer—Whenever he has taken posi however, the body is rotated in the back- tion as shown in (a) of this rule and the swing it must be rotated in the opposite catcher is in position as defined in Rule 2. direction in the actual delivery and the Question—What is meant by "facing the ball should be released when the shoulders batsman"? are again approximately parallel with a line Answer—That the whole body, from from first to third bases. In the so-called feet to head, should face the batsman. "Windmill" pitch, the pitcher may make Taking a position with the feet and body as many revolutions of the arm as he de facing the first or third base-line and sires before releasing the ball. simply turning the head toward the bats Question—Why must the wrist be kept man is not sufficient. the same or less distance from the body OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 27 than the elbow in the delivery swing of the Answer—No. If the error is discovered arm? before the improper batsman has been put Answer—To force the pitcher to pitch out or has become a base-runner, the proper the ball, not throw it. In making an un batsman should replace the man at the derhand THROW the forearm is rotated plate and take the balls and strikes called outward bringing the elbow in toward and against the improper batsman. the wrist and hand away from the body. Question—It is No. 8*s turn to bat; No. This wording also prevents the wide sweep 9 bats in his place and gets a hit; the mis ing delivery in which the wrist is farther take is discovered before the ball has been from the body than the elbow. pitched to No. 10, who is out, No. 8 or No. 9? RULE 9—ILLEGAL PITCHES Answer—No. 8 is out for failing to bat Question—Are there "balks” in softball? in his proper place. Since no act of the Answer—All the illegal pitches defined improper batsman is legal, No. 9 must now in this rule may be termed "balks.” While return to the plate and bat in his proper the Committee prefers that these offenses place. be called illegal pitches, the "illegal pitch” Question—The same situation as above and the "balk” are one and the same thing except that the ball has been pitched to and carry the same penalty. No. 10, who is out? Answer—No one. The rule is not en Question—Can a run be scored when an forced if the ball has been pitched to a illegal pitch is called? succeeding batsman. No. 10 is now bat Answer—Yes. A runner on third base ting in his proper place. No. 1 follows is advanced the same as any other runner No. 10 and the order is restored. No. 8 when an illegal pitch is called. has simply lost his turn at bat. Question—Should an illegal pitch be Question—No. 5 bats in the place of called if the pitched ball strikes the ground No. 2 with runners on first and second or bounces before it reaches home plate? bases; No. 5 gets a hit, scoring the man on * v4njTver—Not always. (5) of this rule second and the man on first stops at sec was designed to prevent delivering the ball ond base; the mistake is discovered before in such manner that the batter cannot hit the ball has been pitched to No. 6; who is it. A distinction should be made between out, how are the runners affected and a deliberate rolling or bouncing of the ball who is now the proper batsman? and simply a poorly executed attempt to Answer—No. 2 is out; No. 5 returns to make a legal delivery. the bench; the other runners return to first and second bases; No. 3 is now the RULES 13 AND 20—BATTING proper batsman; No. 5 will come up again Question—Must the batting order as in his proper position. given at the start of the game be followed Question—Same situation as above ex throughout even though a substitute may cept that the ball has been pitched to No. play some other position than that of the 6, who is out? player for whom he is substituted? Answer—No one. Nos. 2, 3, and 4 have Answer—Yes. A substitute takes the simply lost their turn at bat until they are place in the batting order of the player for again reached in regular order. No. 7 will whom he is substituted regardless of follow No. 6. whether the positions of the players may Notice in the above cases that only one be shifted. player is called out and that the object is Question—When a player is batting out to restore the order as soon as possible. of turn, can the proper batsman be called Question—Is it permissible for the bats out before the improper batsman has com man to change from one side of the plate pleted his time at bat? to the other during the same time at bat? 28 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL Answer—Yes. He can change as often Examples: 1—The play on the batter as he likes, provided he does not make the going to first base is always a forced play. change while the pitcher has the ball and 2—If a runner on first base when the is in pitching position. ball was batted failed to touch second in Question—Is the batter always called out passing, the play at second base would be for swinging at a pitched ball when he has a forced play, if this same runner had one or both feet on the ground outside the touched second base and missed third in batter’s box? passing, the play at third base would not Answer—No. The batsman is not to be be a forced play. called out unless he, in some way, hits the ball. RULE 24—OVERTHROW Question—When an attempt to "bunt" This rule is simply a definition of an results in a fly ball, is the batter called out overthrow and shows that the advance of under the infield-fly rule? runners in case of an overthrow is deter Answer—No. A bunted ball, like the mined by the base occupied at the time of the pitch preceding the play in which line drive, is not considered an infield-fly. the overthrow occurred, regardless of where Question—Must the third strike be the runner actually was at the time of the caught in order to put the batsman out? overthrow. How far runners can advance Answer—Yes, unless first base is occu in case of an overthrow is shown in Sec pied and less than two out. If two are tion 8 of Rule 27. out with a runner on first gase, or if first base is not occupied, the third strike must RULE 25—LEGAL ORDER OF be caught or the runner must be thrown BASES out or tagged before he reaches first base. Question—Is a runner permitted to run RULE 21—THE FORCE-OUT bases in reverse order? Answer—No. When the batter becomes Question—Can a runner, already on the a base-runner, by hitting a fair ball, or in bases, start a forced play? any other way, he must start toward first Answer—No. A forced play can be base. started only by the batsman becoming a When a runner has acquired legal right base-runner. to a base by touching it, he must not run Question—If a runner is called out for bases in reverse order either for the purpose leaving his base too soon, will it destroy a of confusing the fielders or making a forced play on a preceding runner who travesty of the game. It must be remem otherwise would have been forced out? bered, however, that a runner cannot ac Answer—No. A forced play can be de quire legal title to a base so long as there stroyed only by some act on the part of is a runner between that base and the next the team then in the field. who has not been put out. Question—Is a play on a runner who is Question—May a runner who was on returning after a caught fly ball, or on a second (or any other base), advance to runner who has failed to touch a base, within a few feet of the next base and considered a forced play? then return to the base he had left? Answer—The play on a runner return Answer—Yes, unless he is forced to ad ing to his base after a caught fly ball is vance by reason of the batsman becoming never a forced play. a base-runner. A runner is always on the The play on a runner who has failed to last base touched until he touches the next touch a base may be, if the play is at the base while it is unoccupied. If a runner base to which a runner is forced to go on second base runs down and touches when the batter bats a FAIR ball. third base, he may return to second base OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 29 if there is a runner between third and home is touched. There is no penalty unless the who has not been put out. cap or glove actually touches the ball. Question—Runners on first and second Question—Is there a conflict between bases; batter makes a long hit; both run Sec. 5 of Rule 22, Sec. 4 of Rule 26, Sec. ners score but the runner who was on 1 of Rule 27, and Sec. 7 of Rule 28? second fails to touch third base; a play is Answer—No. The apparent conflict re made; the runner beats the play back to sults from a failure to realize that the bats third base and later scores; both runs are man becomes a base-runner immediately allowed. Is this correct? he completes his time at bat and that all Answer—No. The runner who had been the base-running rules apply to him while on first base should have been called out he is between home and first base. for passing the preceding runner. There is Putting all the foregoing sections to no way in which a runner can score ahead gether it would read thus: When a fairly of a runner who precedes him in the bat batted ball hits a base-runner before touch ting order. Had the man who was on ing a fielder, the base-runner hit is out; second base failed to beat the play to third the batsman gets credit for a hit, becomes base and was called out, then the man who a base-runner and is entitled to first base; had been on first base would have scored no other runner can advance unless forced regardless of the fact that the preceding to do so by reason of the batsman be runner had not actually been put out until coming a base-runner; the ball is dead and after the succeeding runner had touched base-runners who have attempted to ad home plate. vance, except the man put out and runners forced to advance, may return to their bases RULE 27—ENTITLED TO BASES without liability to be put out. Some confusion seems to exist as to the advancing of runners when the ball is RULE 28—RETURNING "dead." It must be remembered that the T O BASES ball must be "dead" if runners are to be The ball is "dead" under all sections of entitled to advance W IT H O U T LIA this rule. Under Sections 1, 2 and 6, all BILITY TO BE PU T O UT. The ball runners must return to their bases. Under is dead under all sections of this rule the other sections, runners must return with the following exceptions: In sections unless they are forced to advance by rea 1 and 2, a runner who has been awarded a son of the batsman becoming a base-runner. base on balls and other runners who are RULE 29 — BASE-RUNNERS ARE forced to advance because of this cannot OUT be put out before they reach the bases to which they are entitled, but having reached Question—Is a ball legally caught when these bases they may advance farther, or it hits the body and is then smothered and be put out, at their own risk. Under Sec held with the hands against the body? tion 4, runners are limited to one base but Answer—Yes. The ball is legally caught the ball remains in play and they must whenever the hands are employed in hold make that one base at their own risk. U n ing it. der Section 5, the ball is dead only as to Question—Is a hitter out if the fielder the man interfered with until he reaches juggles a fly ball in catching it so long as the next base. Under Section 7, the ball it does not touch the ground? is in play after the runners reach the Answer—Yes. It makes no difference bases to which they are entitled. how many times the fly ball is juggled or Question—Is it necessary that the ball how many fielders handle the ball so long be caught or actually stopped in order to as it is finally held before touching the enforce the penalty under Section 7. ground. Answer—No. It is sufficient if the ball Question—Why is a "fair fly” out placed 30 OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL under "Base-runners are out” and a "foul the pitcher does not let go of the ball, fly” out under "Batsman is out?” should the runners be called out for leav Answer—Because he ceases to be a bats ing their bases too soon? man and becomes a base-runner the instant Answer—No. The rule says that a run he hits a fair ball. He does not become a ner is out if he leaves his base too soon on base-runner when he hits a foul ball even a LEGALLY pitched ball. This is an though he may run on the chance that illegal pitch, a ball should be called in the ball will be fair. favor of the batsman and all the runners Question—Can the ball be juggled by advanced one base. a fielder in making a play at a base? Question—If a runner leaves his base Answer—No. In case of either a forced legally after the pitch, should he be called play at a base or tagging a runner the out for being off his base if the pitcher ball must be firmly held after touching the stays on the mound and receives the throw base or the runner. A runner is not out back in pitching position? at first base, or on any forced play, if he Answer—No. The pitcher can force the touches the base before the ball is finally runner back by playing him, or he must held by the fielder, and a runner is not out allow the runner time to get back. If the when tagged if the fielder juggles the ball pitcher tries a quick return pitch before the after tagging him. runner is back, the runner is not compelled Question—W hat is meant by an appeal to go back if the ball is hit fairly. play, and what plays come under this Question—Some pitchers, after a batted head? ball, get possession of the ball and run to Answer—An appeal play is one in which the pitcher’s box claiming that the runners the umpire does not make a decision until must stop as soon as the pitcher is in posi his attention has been called to the play tion. Is this correct? by a member of the fielding team. Such Answer—No. The pitcher cannot stop instances are: a play already in action by simply getting When a runner fails to touch a base the ball in pitching position. in regular or reverse order. Sec. 11. Question—Is a fielder permitted to in When a runner leaves his base too soon tentionally drop, or fail to catch, a fly ball on a fly ball that has been caught. Sec. 18. in order to make a double play? When a runner, after rounding first Answer—Yes. This play can only be base, starts for second and then returns to made when the batsman hits a short fly first base. Sec. 17. . f and fails to run it out. Many times a In these cases the umpire should not batsman, thinking to protect his team-mate make a decision, or in any way indicate on base, does not run out the play. When that the play is not complete, until the ball ever this is done it is paving the way for is held on the base or the runner is actu a double play. The good player runs out ally touched with the ball. The team in everything. the field should be vigilant and not expect Question—Runners are on first and sec the umpire to take part in the play. ond bases, one man out; batsman hits an Question—Should a runner be called infield fly; shortstop drops the ball; run out for leaving his base too soon if the ner on second starts for third and is tagged catcher is out of position? out by the shortstop, who has retrieved the Answer—No. Subdivision b. of Rule 8, ball. Is the runner out? shows that the pitcher is not in position to Answer—Yes. The batsman was out, pitch unless the catcher is in position to but bases can be run or plays made as on receive the pitch. any other batted ball. Had the same thing Question—With the pitcher and catcher occurred with two men out, the runners in position, the pitcher makes a motion to would have been forced to advance as on pitch, the runners step off their bases, but any other fair hit ball, the runner, not the OFFICIAL RULES OF SOFTBALL 31 batsman should he called out. It should he ner on whom the play is made is put out, noted also, the infield-fly rule is not in there is no penalty. effect unless both first and second bases Question—If a runner is attempting to are occupied. score from third base and the batsman in Question—With runners on first and terferes with the play, who is out? second bases, the batsman hits to the third Answer—The runner, unless it be the baseman, forcing the runner at third; the third out, in which case the batsman is runner forced out cuts across the diamond called out. If the runner is called out, the and interferes with the third baseman’s batsman remains at the plate and other throw to complete a double play at first runners who were advancing on the play base. The runner going to first base is must return to their bases. called out for the interference of his team-mate and the umpire orders runner RULE 30—SCORING OF RUNS who has made second on the play back to Question—Can a runner, who was on first. Was the umpire right? third base at the time of the pitch, score Answer—Yes. When a base-runner has on the throw-back from catcher to pitcher? been put out he loses all rights on the Answer—Yes. A runner on third base playing field and must be careful to avoid may score on a wild pitch, passed ball or interfering with plays being made on other on the throw-back from the catcher to the runners. Base-runners are not permitted to pitcher. advance when an interference has been Question—W ith bases full and two out, declared. the batter makes a three base hit but fails Question—A batsman is struck by a to touch first base. Three runners are pitched ball, making it "four balls” and across home plate and the hitter on third while the batsman is going to first, a runner base when the ball is relayed to first base who was on second runs to third; the um and the hitter is called out. How many pire says the ball is dead and sends the runs score? runner back to second base. The runner Answer—None. After two are out, no claims that the ball remains in play when runs can be scored on any play in which "four balls” is called and that he had a the hitter is called out before he reaches right to advance. Which one is right? first base, or there is a force out. If the ’ Answer—The umpire. The ball is dead hitter in this case had touched first base until the player who was struck reaches and missed second, then all runs would first base and the ball is again put in play have scored that were across the plate be at the pitcher’s position. In all other cases, fore the play was made at second base. except an illegally pitched ball, the ball re Question—Runners are on second and mains in play when "Four balls” is called. third bases with two out; the batter hits a home run inside the park, all runners Question—Is a fielder permitted to round the bases and cross home plate. block a runner off a base? The ball is played to third base and the Answer—Only when he actually has the man who was on second base is called out ball in his possession. Otherwise it consti for failing to touch third base. How many tutes an interference and entitles the run runs score? ner to the base. Answer—One. The man who had been Question—If a runner is going from first the hitter could not score because a pre to second, or from second to third base ceding runner failed to touch a base and and the batter interferes with the catcher, was called out for the third out. who is out, the batsman or the runner on Question—Can runs be scored when the whom the play is attempted? side is retired by a double play? Answer—The batsman. All runners must Answer—Yes, unless the second out of return to their bases. If, however, the run the double play was a force-out. SLOW-PITCHING SOFTBALL RULES Reprinted by permission of the Amateur Softball Association In the slow-pitching game, emphasis is taken off pitching and placed on batting and fielding—with amazing results. It permits many more to participate, and therefore is an ideal game for recreational, industrial and school groups where the exceptional skill required for the fast type of game is not as widespread as it might be. The game is usually played with a larger ball—14 or 16 inches in circumference. Pitchers develop considerable skill in their slow delivery, although they do not record strikeouts in the customary wholesale fashion. Official rules can be used, with these changes: P IT C H IN G D IST A N C E — 35 feet from the front of the pitching slab to the back of home plate. SIZ E O F BALL— The 14-inch or 16-inch ball should be used. The 12- inch ball is not adapted for this type of game and should not be used. P IT C H IN G RULES—All of the rules governing delivery are effective in the slow-pitching game, with the additional provision that the ball must be delivered to the batter at a moderate speed. Most umpires require that the ball describe a slight arc on its way to the plate, in order to be considered moderate speed." If the ball is thrown too fast, it is an illegal pitch, and the rules governing an illegal pitch cover this. There is no balk in slow-pitching. B A SE-R U N N IN G — The official rule governing leading off a base and stealing bases is amended for slow-pitching with this provision, "The base- runner shall not be called out for taking a lead off a base while the pitcher has the ball in pitching position, but must return if he has reached the next base safely, unless the batter has legally hit the ball, in which event it con tinues in play. A runner may be tagged out at any time while off his base, except when returning after having reached the next base safely." HOW TO ARRANGE SCHEDULES Arranging schedules is a simple matter, no matter how many teams you may have, provided you wish to play a round-robin, that is, every team playing every other team, with the winner decided on a percentage basis. You can figure the length of your schedule by subtracting one from the number of teams. Thus, an eight-team league will require seven games for each club to play every other one, etc. The key schedules given herewith cover leagues of 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 12 teams. Leagues of 9 or 11 teams use the schedule for the next higher number, with the club drawing a bye and remaining idle when there is no team to correspond to the number of its opponents. All teams in the league are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, etc. The number cor responds to that shown in the schedule, which is as follows: 5 Team s 1—4 5—8 1—8 1—6 2—6 6— 3 2—9 2— 3 1—2 3—7 2—7 3—6 3 — 4 4— 7 7— 12 1—5 5— 10 8— 9 2— 3 2— 3 1—3 10— 11 5— 1 6— 7 2—5 1—9 4—7 2— 10 1— 7 3— 5 2— 8 4— 2 1—6 6—8 3—7 2— 5 4—6 3— 9 4— 5 4— 7 5—8 4— 10 10 Teams 5— 11 3— 1 1— 10 1—7 6— 12 5— 2 3— 5 1—2 2— 5 4— 6 3—4 3— 8 1—8 5—6 4— 9 2— 9 6 Teams 2—7 7—8 6—7 3— 10 3—6 9— 10 4— 11 1—2 4— 5 1— 3 12 Teams 5— 12 3— 4 2— 4 6— 7 5— 6 8 Teams 5— 9 1—2 1— 9 6— 8 3—4 2— 10 2— 3 5—6 4— 5 1—2 7— 10 3— 11 3— 4 7—8 4— 12 6— 1 5—6 1— 4 9— 10 5— 7 3— 6 2— 6 11— 12 6— 8 7— 8 3—9 4— 2 1—3 1— 10 5— 1 2— 3 5— 7 4— 5 8— 10 2— 11 4— 6 3— 12 6— 2 6— 7 5— 3 1— 5 7—9 4— 7 8— 1 2— 3 8— 11 5— 8 3— 5 4— 8 10— 12 6— 9 5— 2 2—6 6— 10 1—4 1—11 3— 1 4—8 2—6 2— 12 4— 6 7— 1 1—6 3— 5 3— 7 2— 7 7— 10 4— 8 7 Teams 4—6 3— 10 8— 12 5— 9 7— 3 4— 5 9— 11 6— 10 1—2 8— 2 8— 9 1— 12 1— 5 5—6 1—7 2—4 2— 7 5— 7 2—8 3—6 3— 8 1— 3 8— 3 3— 5 7— 11 4— 9 6— 1 4— 10 8— 10 5— 10 5— 7 2— 4 6—9 9— 12 6— 11 . IT’S LUiEsxm TODAY IN SPO R T S EQUIPM ENT