205 Umpire Manual Table of Contents 2009 Umpire

UMPIRE MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2009 UMPIRE MANUAL

Mechanics Definitons...... 217 Code of Ethics for Umpires...... 218

CHAPTER 1 PRE-REQUISITES FOR GOOD UMPIRING

Elements of a Success Umpire...... 219 Professional Appearance...... 219 Communications...... 219 Conditioning...... 219 Game Management...... 219 Judgment...... 220 Mechanics...... 220 Positioning...... 220 Rule Knowledge...... 220 Timing...... 220 Difficult Situations...... 221 Appeal Plays...... 221 Ejections...... 221 Forfeits...... 221 Protests...... 221

CHAPTER 2 COMMUNICATIONS AND SIGNALS

Routine Safe & No Catch...... 222 Sell Safe...... 222 Routine Out & Strike...... 222 Sell Out...... 223 Fair Ball...... 223 Dead Ball & Time Out & No Pitch & Foul Ball...... 223 Hold Up Play & Play Ball...... 224 Count...... 224 Foul Tip...... 225 Infield Fly...... 225 Four Base Award...... 225 Home Run...... 226 Two Base Award or Ground Rule Double...... 226 Delayed Dead Ball & Illegal Pitch & Obstruction...... 226 Umpire to Umpire Signals...... 227 Requesting Help on a Check Swing...... 227 The Infield Fly Situation is On...... 227 The Infield Fly Situation is Off...... 227 Requesting the Count...... 228 Requesting the Number of Outs...... 228

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CHAPTER 3 Pre and Post Game Responsibilities

Pre-Game with Partners...... 229 Umpire Crew Entering the Field...... 230 Pre-Game Conference with Coaches...... 230 End of the Game Procedure...... 231 Post Game with Partners...... 231

CHAPTER 4 Plate Mechanics

Calling the Pitch in Slow Pitch...... 232 Stance...... 232 Set Position...... 233 The Pitch...... 233 Calling the Pitch in Fast Pitch...... 234 Stance...... 234 Set Position...... 235 The Pitch...... 235 Movement from the Plate in Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch...... 236 Movement...... 236 Movement to Third Base...... 237 Plays at Home Plate...... 238 Difficult Situations...... 238 Slow Pitch...... 238 Fast Pitch...... 239 General Responsibilities Both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch...... 241

CHAPTER 5 Base Mechanics

General Responsibilities...... 244 Starting Positions...... 244 Preparation Prior to the Pitch...... 244 General Techniques on the Bases...... 244 Points Governing Decisions on the Bases...... 245 Watching the Ball...... 245 Base Calls...... 246 Force Plays/Plays at First Base/Tag Plays...... 246 Swipe Tag/Pulled Foot...... 247 Inside/Outside...... 247 Fly Ball Coverage...... 248 Difficult Situations...... 249

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CHAPTER 6 Umpire Systems The One Umpire System...... 250 Fly Ball Situations...... 251 No Runners on Base...... 251 Between Inning Mechanics...... 252 The Two Umpire System...... 252 Fly Ball Tag-up Responsibilities...... 253 Positioning and Coverage – General...... 254 Fast Pitch – No Runners on Base...... 254 Fast Pitch - Runner on First Base...... 255 Fast Pitch – Runner on Second Base...... 255 Fast Pitch - Runner on Third Base...... 256 Fast Pitch - Runners on First and Second Base...... 256 Fast Pitch – Runners on Second and Third Base...... 257 Fast Pitch – Runners on First and Third Base...... 258 Fast Pitch - Bases Loaded...... 258 Slow Pitch - Two Umpire System...... 259 The Three Umpire System...... 260 No Runners on Base...... 261 Runner on First Base...... 262 Runner on Second Base...... 262 Runner on Third Base...... 263 Runner on First and Second Base...... 263 Runner on First and Third Base...... 264 Runner on Second and Third Base...... 264 Bases Loaded...... 265 Two and Three Umpire System Between Umpire Mechanics...... 266 Tag-up Responsibilities – Three Umpire System...... 267 2008 New Members – National Indicator Fraternity...... 268 2008 New Members – Medals Program...... 269 2008 New Members - Elite Umpires...... 272

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LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RON RADIGONDA

The ASA Umpire Manual is one of the many publications that the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) produces on an annual basis to ensure its umpires are the best trained in the world.

We have made a committment to our umpire program and sincerely feel that we have one of the most outstanding officiating programs in the country. It's because the people who join the ASA umpire program strive to be the best. They accomplish this through their dedication and training and the time and effort they put into developing their umpiring skills.

We are certainly proud of the thousands of umpires who officiate our tournaments and games each summer. We realize that you are a very important piece of this softball puzzle.

In your preparations for the upcoming season, we encourage all ASA umpires to use this manual as well as the other umpiring publications offered by the ASA to better yourselves.

My best to all of you throughout the 2009 season. May this be your best season yet and it is my hope that you accomplish each goal you have set for the year.

Yours in softball,

Ron Radigonda Executive Director

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LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF UMPIRES CRAIG CRESS

My fellow ASA Umpires,

It is an honor and privilege to address each of you as the ASA Director of Member- ship Services. The ASA Umpire Manual, originally written by the best softball minds in the country, is used to help in developing more than 32,000 registered ASA umpires into the nation’s best.

This past season the ASA National Umpire Staff worked diligently to make the ASA Umpire Manual even better. The 2009 Umpire Manual combines the rules with the Rules Supplement to help clarify the intent of the rules for all to understand better. You will also notice a new layout to the umpire manual, hopefully making easier to read and follow.

These rules and mechanics are used by softball associations throughout the world to assist in the development of their umpires. At the international level, umpires are required to know and understand the same mechanics even though they may not understand the language of their partners on the field.

I strongly urge you to study every aspect of this book and use its information to help you become a better umpire. In addition, participating in a national umpire school and your location association clinics will provide helpful tips and practice to further your skills. All of these tools will help you advance quickly in your umpiring career and possibly provide you with the opportunity to work at an ASA National Championship.

The National Umpire Staff and I look forward to working with each of you as we continue to improve the ASA Umpiring Program. I hope your umpiring experience this year will be enhanced and made more enjoyable by the information in the Umpire Manual.

If I or the National Umpire Staff can help you in any way, please let us know.

Best Regards,

Craig Cress Director of Membership Services

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LETTER FROM THE SUPERVISOR OF UMPIRES KEVIN RYAN

It is my privilege to be a part of the greatest umpire program in the United States, the ASA Umpire Program. You, our umpires, are what make the program what it is today. It is because of you that we are all allowed to have the fun, make the friends and develop the relationships we so cherish in being an ASA umpire.

You will find this year a few changes to the umpire manual portion of our rule book. A committee of dedicated people have come up with a new layout so that essential portions of the manual are easier to find and understand. We hope you find the same thing once you are able to review it and use it.

These mechanics are copied by many associations around the world. The development of these mechanics come from years of knowledge, review and application in our great game of softball. I urge you to review them not just at the start of the year, but throughout the year. The more you review and study our mechanics, the more they become part of your regular movement during the games you are umpiring. These tools in this mechanic section will help you be a better umpire for what ever game you may choose.

Last but not least, I invite all of you to introduce our umpiring program to a friend. When a friend says they have thought about being an umpire but do not know where to start, invite them to the first meeting of your Local Association. When they say they could use some extra spending money, introduce them to umpiring. Once they see our mechanics and our organization and the friendships we have developed, they will always want to be an ASA umpire.

On behalf of the National Umpire Staff, I hope all of you have a great season and that this mechanic manual helps you continue to grow and develop as an ASA umpire. I hope your experience as an umpire is a positive one and made better by the information in our umpire manual.

Sincerely,

Kevin Ryan ASA Supervisor of Umpires

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2009 NATIONAL UMPIRE STAFF

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Craig Cress

2801 NE 50th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111-7203 Bus: (405) 425-3441 Fax: (405) 424-3855 [email protected]

SUPERVISOR OF UMPIRES Kevin Ryan

7540 Turnberry Ln Stanley, NC 28164 Bus: (704) 822-9170 Fax: (704) 827-1475 [email protected]

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2009 DEPUTY UMPIRE STAFF DEPUTY SUPERVISOR Julie Johnson 1333 W. Monroe St. Alexandria, IN 46001 Res: (765) 724-2347 Cell: (765) 623-5462 Email: [email protected] DEPUTY SUPERVISOR Larry Montgomery 2658 Cla - Wood Place Tupelo, MS 38801 Bus: (662) 841-6516 Res: (662) 844-4756 Fax: (662) 841-6410 Email: [email protected] http://www.missasa.com

DEPUTY SUPERVISOR Jim Craig PO Box 742 Amherst NY 14226-0742 Res: (716) 834-6092 Cell: (716) 316-0147 Email: [email protected] DEPUTY SUPERVISOR Malcolm Boyles 23 218th Place SW Bothell, WA. 98021 Res: (425) 481-0546 Cell: (425) 273-6252 Email: [email protected]

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2009 NATIONAL UMPIRE STAFF NEW ENGLAND (01) Norman C. Davis PO Box 1115 Auburn, ME 04211-1115 Bus: (207) 783-3440 Res: (207) 783-3440 Fax: (207) 783-3440 Email:[email protected]

MID ATLANTIC (02) Bob Mauger (Jill) 176 Gravel Hole Road Cape May Court House New Jersey 08210 (H) 609-861-5450 (O) 609-861-5450 Email: [email protected]

CENTRAL ATLANTIC (03) Mark S. Ingrao 2993 Aspen Lane Falls Church, VA 22042 (H) 703/536-9692 (O) 703/518-6141 x106 Email: [email protected]

SOUTH ATLANTIC (04) Dick Gayler 4695 Lock Ridge Ct Kennesaw, GA 30152-5715 Bus: (770) 423-6099 Res: (770) 427-5450 Fax : (770) 427-5450 Email: [email protected]

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2009 NATIONAL UMPIRE STAFF SOUTHERN (05) Max Wilkes 2413 Beacon St Phenix City, AL 36867 Res: (334) 298-0907 Fax: (334) 298-0907 Email: [email protected]

SOUTHWESTERN (06) Gene Harrison 212 W 40th Pl Sand Springs, OK 74063 Bus: (918) 241-8677 Res: (918 245-9765 Fax: (918) 241-8677 Email: [email protected]

TEXAS (07) Walter Sparks 5607 Cary Grant San Antonio, TX 78240 Res: (210) 523-6208 Fax: (210) 523-6208 Email: [email protected]

GREAT LAKES (08) Mike De Leo 1049 S 10th St. Au Gres, MI 48703 Res: (989) 876-6130 Email: [email protected]

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2009 NATIONAL UMPIRE STAFF EAST CENTRAL (09) Bernie Profato (Kathy) 126 Millcreek Rd Niles, OH 44446 H- 330-652-5283 W-330-797-2556 Fax: 330-797-2559 Email: [email protected]

MID WEST (10) Jerry Fick 3016 Ambler Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45241-3100 Res: (513) 563-2755 Fax: (513) 563-0701 Email: [email protected]

NORTHERN (11) Walt Stack 105 Country Club Dr. Bismarck, ND 58501 Res: (701) 223-9748 Email: [email protected] Cell: (206) 963-3346

MID AMERICA (12) Dave Epperson 3816 SW Atwood Topeka, KS 66610 Cell: (785) 554-1351 Email: [email protected]

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2009 NATIONAL UMPIRE STAFF ROCKY MOUNTAIN (13) Joe Robinson (Barbara) 7471 East Nicaragua Dr. Tucson, AZ 85730-3327 Res: (520) 790-3253 Cell: (520) 991-3494 Fax: (520) 748-7405 Email: [email protected]

PACIFIC COAST (14) Dave Maudsley (Joan) 6455 Hillspire Ct. Citrus Heights, CA 95621-1843 Res: (916) 722-4475 Cell: (916) 947-2492 Email: [email protected]

NORTHWEST (15) Bill Silves 13254 Parkhurst Ln. Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 Res: (360) 856-4179 Cell: (206) 963-3346 Email: [email protected]

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SECTION 1 DEFINITIONS

BUTTONHOOK: The movement of a Base Umpire from outside the infield to a position inside the diamond. This is accomplished by planting the right foot and using a pivoting motion toward the runner. CHECK SWING: An intentional attempt by the batter to stop the completion of their swing. COUNTER ROTATED: When the First Base umpire’s starting position is off the foul line in the Three-Umpire System. DIAMOND: The area of the infield inside the baseline. FLAT PITCH (SP): A term used to describe a pitch that does not reach the required six foot minimum height. FORTY FIVE DEGREE ANGLE: The position at a base which the umpire should strive to gain prior to their movement to the final calling position. GOOD PELVIC ALLIGNMENT (GPA): The alignment of the Plate Umpire’s pelvic with the outside front corner of home plate. HEEL/TOE STANCE: The position of the Plate Umpire’s feet when the heel of the foot closest to the batter is in a straight line with the toe of the foot closest to the catcher. HIGH PITCH (SP): A term used to describe a pitch that exceeds the 12 foot maxi- mum arc. HOLDING ZONE: An area outside the diamond, adjacent to the third base foul line, where the plate umpire should go to read a play in certain situations. INSIDE/OUTSIDE THEORY: The theory that governs the movement of the Base Umpire, as determined by a batted or thrown ball, inside or outside the infield. NINETY DEGREE ANGLE: The primary position of observation by an umpire for viewing the required four elements to make a call. SECONDARY POSITION: The movement away from the primary position to an area an umpire should attain to observe any subsequent play. SLOT: The position the Plate Umpire assumes behind the catcher slightly inside the inside corner of the plate and outside the perimeter of the strike zone prior to the set position. TAG PLAY: A situation in which a defensive player in possession of the ball touches a runner or batter-runner who is not in contact with a base. TRACKING THE BALL: The act of watching the ball from the pitcher’s hand into the catcher’s glove/mitt using a slight movement of the head guided by the nose. TRAILING THE BATTER- RUNNER: The movement of the Plate umpire toward First Base near the line in fair territory to observe possible violations by the batter-runner and to assist the Base Umpire with unusual situations. 217 UMPIRE MANUAL

WALKING THE LINE: The mechanic in which the Base Umpire(s) starts on the foul line and moves toward home plate as the pitch is delivered.

CODE OF ETHICS FOR UMPIRES

1. Honor all contracts regardless of possible inconvenience or financial basis. 2. Study the rules of the game diligently, observe the work of other good officials, and attempt to improve at all times. 3. Remember that while your work as an umpire is important, you must conduct yourself in such a way that spectator attention is directed to the players during the game and not at you. 4. Dress and maintain your appearance in a manner befitting the dignity and importance of the umpire. 5. Be fair and unbiased in your decisions, rendering them without regard to the score or the quality of the play on the field. 6. Cooperate and be professional in your associations with your fellow umpires and do nothing to cause them public embarrassment. 7. Be firm but not overbearing; positive but never rude; dignified but never ‘cocky.’ Remember the good umpire doesn’t have to have the last word. 8. Be prepared both physically and mentally to administer the game. 9. Do not smoke on or in the vicinity of the playing field, nor drink any alcoholic beverages before the game you are to work. 10. Do not give information which might be used by a team’s future opponent. 11. Keep in mind that the game is more important than the wishes of any individual player or coach or the ambitions of any individual umpire.

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CHAPTER 1 PRE-REQUISITES FOR GOOD UMPIRING

Successful umpires posses certain common qualities. They include:

• A thorough knowledge of the rules • Effective communication skills: both verbal and listening • Effective game management, self control, and a current knowledge of ASA mechanics.

In short, there is no substitute for game experience. The quality of judgment is only achieved through lessons learned in game situations.

The game of softball demands hustle at all times by every umpire. Athletes who play the game of softball work hard on conditioning to perform at a peak level. Umpires should too! Successful umpires have to achieve physical fitness prior to the start of the season to be able to move at the player’s speed. Rules study and experience won’t cover up for an umpire that is out of position because they are not fit enough to match the movement of the players.

ELEMENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL UMPIRE:

• Professional Appearance - a clean, pressed ASA uniform with shoes shined, Official ASA cap, ball bag, indicator, plate brush and appropriate protective equipment for the game being played. A professional appearance should be a habit you never break.

• Communications: ◊ Always be business-like and professional when communicating with anyone about the game. ◊ Support your crew throughout the entire game. If an information request comes from your partner stick to the facts and give only the information requested. ◊ When having a discussion with a manager or coach demonstrate good listening skills and answer the question directly using the language from the rulebook. ◊ Verbalize loud enough for your partners to hear you when rotating to cover plays. Communication only works when it is acknowledged, therefore, respond to your partner so that they know that they have been heard.

• Conditioning: Maintaining a good level of fitness not only helps an umpire’s movement, but also improves their ability to maintain focus throughout the game.

• Game management: Comes from leading by example. If you want players

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to hustle on and off of the field then you should hustle to your next position at the end of the inning. Use preventive umpiring techniques to handle little problems such as equipment left on the field or ball players bantering. “Nip it” early and avoid problems later.

• Judgment: Can be best described in the saying “umpiring judgment is mainly experience, salted with cool headed common sense.” It takes years to develop good judgment. Umpires earn the respect of the players by the way we render decisions. Umpires should keep a tight reign on their temperament and remember that no provocation, not even a physical attack, should cause an umpire to lose sight of their primary responsibility – keeping the game under control. The players will relax and trust the good judgment of the umpire if the call makes sense. Calls that don’t make sense put players on edge and are cause for question. To develop good judgment umpires should take time to learn the common sense application of the rules during game situations.

• Mechanics: They are the backbone of umpiring. The ASA National Umpire Staff spends a large amount of time developing effective mechanics designed to give every umpire the best opportunity to judge each play. Plate mechanics begin with calling balls and strikes and end with the required movement by an umpire to complete their other duties. This includes the elements of stance, the set position, calling the pitch and movement from the plate when required. Base mechanics begin with the fundamentals of positioning, followed by timing, judgment, signals and a verbal call. Um- pires should work on improving their mechanics during every game.

• Positioning: Equals credibility. Every umpire must be a “student of the game” to prepare for every situation that may occur during a game. Suc- cessful umpiring requires complete concentration, full energies and undivided attention from the first pitch to the last out of each game. A current knowledge of ASA mechanics will place you in the proper position to umpire each play successfully.

• Rule Knowledge: Is essential for successful umpiring. To develop a complete knowledge of the rules each umpire should study their rulebook regularly and attend Local and Regional Rules Clinics as well as a National Umpire School. Umpires who are committed to becoming the very best should attend the Advanced Camps offered in both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch.

• Timing: Is the essential for believable umpiring. A call made before the umpire has seen the “whole play” can be a mistake. A call made after an extended delay is often viewed as a lack of confidence in the call by the umpire. Calls made too quick or too late have the same effect on ball players... NOT BELIEVABLE! Good timing is equally important on the bases and at

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the plate. A successful umpire will allow themselves to see the whole pitch or the whole play, then after a slight hesitation, make the call. DIFFICULT SITUATIONS • Appeal plays require a thorough knowledge of the rule. An appeal play is a unique part of the game initiated by the offended team.

Appeals include: 1. Batting out of order 2. A runner missing a base or touching the wrong portion of the double base if a play is being made 3. Attempting to advance to 2B after overrunning 1B 4. A base runner leaving too soon on a caught fly ball

Appeals may be made: A. During a live ball or dead ball B. Prior to the next pitch C. Before the defense has left the field D. Before the umpires leave the field at the end of the game.

• Ejections happen when an umpire removes a participant from the game. The ejected person must leave the field and have no contact with other participants or umpires. The plate umpire will not restart the game until the ejected participant has been removed. Explain the time frame to the manager and let them handle the situation.

The ejected participant should be allowed to return for the next game unless they physically attacked an umpire. When working with a partner, remember that the ejecting umpire’s duties are finished when the ejection occurs. It is now time for the partner to step in and remove the ejected participant from the field and out of the park.

• Forfeits are a “no win” situation. If working with a partner(s) always consult the crew before declaring a forfeit. All umpires can declare a forfeit, but be sure to exhaust every option before arriving at the decision. Although the rule book allows the umpire to rule a forfeit if the ejected participant is not removed in one minute, use good judgment. Pulling a watch only antago- nizes all concerned.

• Protests happen when a team member doesn’t understand the ruling the umpire just made. An umpires top priority is to get the call right. Once a protest is filed, notification must be given to the opposing coach prior to the next pitch. In Championship play a Protest Committee will convene to render a decision before the next pitch. If the protest is upheld the game will resume from the point the protest was filed.

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CHAPTER 2 COMMUNICATIONS & SIGNALS Approved ASA signals are designed to emphasize an umpire’s ruling on a play as well as communicating with fellow umpires, coaches, players, spectators and scorekeepers. Proper use of ASA approved signals reinforce the profe sional appearance and demeanor expected of an ASA umpire.

ROUTINE SAFE & NO CATCH 1) Stand up-right with the feet shoulder-width apart, facing square to the play and eyes on the ball 2) Bring both hands to the chest about shoulder high and say “safe”. 3) Extend the arms, parallel to the ground, with the palms of the hands down.

SELL SAFE 1) Use the same mechanic as the routine safe signal and add emphasis by stepping toward the play and leading with your left foot as your make the verbal call and safe signal. 2) Finish square to the play by bringing the right foot forward into line with the left foot.

ROUTINE OUT & STRIKE 1) Stand up-right with feet shoulder-width apart, facing square to the play and eyes on the ball 2) Bring your left hand up belt high 3) Bring your right hand and arm out to the side of the body and up to a 90 degree angle with the closed fist facing your head. 4) The right arm should be parallel to the ground and forward enough to see your elbow with peripheral vision as you verbalize the out call. NOTE: Strike calls should be verbalized in the down position before the signal is given.

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SELL OUT 1) Start up-right facing square to the play with the feet shoulder-width apart and eyes on the ball. 2) Take a step toward the play with your left foot. 3) Bring your right foot up behind the left foot and shift your weight onto the right foot. 4) Take a second step toward the play with your left foot as you make an over-hand throwing motion and verbalize the word “out”. 5) Bring your right foot in line with your left foot as you complete the throwing motion.

FAIR BALL 1) Start up-right facing square to the play with the feet shoulder-width apart and eyes on the ball. 2) Point toward fair ground by raising your hand and arm no higher than your shoulder and parallel to the ground. 3) If further emphasis is needed point a second time toward fair ground. 4) DO NOT verbalize a fair ball call

DEAD BALL & TIME OUT & NO PITCH & FOUL BALL 1) Stand up-right facing square to the play with the feet shoulder-width apart and eyes on the ball 2) Raise both hands high above the head with palms facing out as you verbalize “Dead Ball”, “Time Out”, “No Pitch” OR “Foul Ball”

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HOLD UP PLAY 1) Stand up-right with feet shoulder-width apart and facing the pitcher 2) Indicate that play should NOT begin by holding up the hand opposite the batter with the palm facing the pitcher.

PLAY BALL 1) Indicate that play ball should begin by pointing to the pitcher and say “Play” or “Play Ball.”

COUNT: 1) Raise both arms above the head indicating number of balls with consecutive fingers on the left hand and strikes with consecutive fingers on the right hand. 2) Give both the number of balls and strikes verbally each time the count is given. 3) Rotate your hands, not your body, so everyone can see the count.

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FOUL TIP: 1) Rise and raise both hands and brush the fingers of the right hand over the left hand, chest high in front of the body. 2) Follow with the strike signal and no verbal strike call.

INFIELD FLY: 1) Stand up-right facing square to the play with feet shoulder-width apart and with eyes on the ball. 2) When the ball reaches its highest point extend your right arm above your head with fist closed and verbalize “Infield Fly” or if near a foul line, “Infield Fly, if fair.”

FOUR BASE AWARD: 1) (SP) Raise the right arm above the head, hand open with four fingers shown and verbally call “4 bases.”

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HOME RUN: 1) Raise the right arm above the head, fist closed and rotate the fist.

TWO BASE AWARD OR GROUND RULE DOUBLE: 1) Raise the right arm above the head, hand open with two consecutive fingers extended and verbally call “two bases”.

DELAYED DEAD BALL & ILLEGAL PITCH & OBSTRUCTION 1) Stand up-right with feet shoulder width apart and eyes on the ball. 2) Raise the left arm shoulder high and parallel to the ground with the fist closed. 3) Verbalize “illegal pitch”, or “obstruction” as needed to describe the action observed.

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UMPIRE TO UMPIRE SIGNALS

REQUESTING HELP ON A CHECK SWING 1. The Plate Umpire should step out from behind the catcher and, in Fast Pitch, remove their mask with their left hand and point to the base umpire and say “Did they go” 2.. The base umpire should respond(s) by saying “yes” and give a routine out signal, or “no” and give a routine safe signal. 3. The Plate umpire places their mask back on and gives the count to reflect the end result of the decision.

THE INFIELD FLY SITUATION IS ON: 1. The plate umpire should put their right hand over their chest and make eye contact with their partner 2. The Base Umpire(s) will return the same signal to the Plate Umpire

THE INFIELD FLY SITUATION IS OFF: 1. The Plate umpire will tap their left forearm with their right hand and make eye contact with their partner. 2. The Base Umpire(s) will return the same signal to the Plate Umpire.

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REQUESTING THE COUNT: 1. Plate Umpire removes their mask, if necessary, and verbally asks their partner “what is the count”. 2. The base umpire will verbally give the count back to the Plate Umpire.

REQUESTING THE NUMBER OF OUTS: 1. (use the same procedure as above for the count).

NOTE: 1.When the Base Umpire is missing the count or number of outs they should use the same process.

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CHAPTER 3 PRE AND POST GAME RESPONSIBILITIES

The Pre-game preparation should begin when you receive your assignment. Record the assignment in your date book and then make sure to contact your partner or partners well in advance of the scheduled game.

Arrive at the complex at least 60 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and inform the appropriate administrators that you have arrived. (i.e. Coaches, Tourna- ment Director, UIC. Etc.).

Review the ground rules with the appropriate game administrators, then establish the location of the game balls and where the scorekeepers will be located.

PRE-GAME WITH PARTNERS The purpose of this meeting is to get the umpire crew on the “same page” for the game. The Plate umpire should conduct this conference and encourage other crew members to participate. Do not use this conference to deviate from mechanics in this Manual. The pre-game conference should include the following topics: A. New Rules B. Fly Ball Coverage C. Tag Up Responsibilities D. Umpire to Umpire signals E. Requesting help from your partner. 1. Check Swing 2. Appeal to wrong umpire 3. Request for information NOTE. The umpire responsible for the call asks their partner for information and an- nounces the decision after the conference is concluded. F. Special Rules 1. Time Limit 2. Run - Ahead Rule 3. Tiebreaker procedure (Fast Pitch only) G. Managing Umpire to Coach/Manager discussions and Ejections 1. Partners should insure discussion is “one-on-one”. 2. Partners take control of removing ejected players. H. Special situations or team specific tendencies including: 1. Team Speed 2. Bunting and Slapping 3. Is it a rivalry game? 4. Is there ‘bad blood’ between these two teams? I. Entering and exiting the field. 1. Always enter together 2. Exit together on side of ‘least resistance’

229 UMPIRE MANUAL UMPIRE CREW ENTERING THE FIELD The umpire crew should perform these specific duties upon entering the field of play and prior to the pre-game coaches’ conference. A. Inspect the field/walk the perimeter of the field 1. Look for any holes in the fence or specific problems in general. 2. Check for any hazards that may create a dead ball situation. 3. Insure the field is properly marked and the bases and pitching plate are set at the proper distance. B. Inspecting Equipment 1. Inspect all equipment together. 2. Communicate how illegal or removed equipment will be handled.

PRE-GAME CONFERENCE WITH COACHES Keep the Pre-Game Coaches’ conference short, but informative. Have a definite agenda prepared as this is not a rules clinic. Consult your ASA “Pre-Game/Signal Card for additional comments for your coaches’ conference. Otherwise, use the following outline: A. Umpires should take proper positions as follows: the plate umpire stands behind homeplate facing the pitcher’s plate. In the two umpire system, the base umpire faces homeplate and the plate umpire. In the three umpire system, the first base umpire faces the plate umpire on the first base side and the third base umpire faces the plate umpire on the third base side. Both should have their backs facing the pitcher. B. Plate umpire conducts meeting C. Plate umpire should introduce themselves and other umpires. Then have the coaches introduce themselves. D. Plate umpire receives line-up cards from each coach. 1. Inspects for proper number of players in the starting line-up 2. Inspects for proper information, by rule 3. Returns line-up card to respective coach for final check 4. Accepts as “official’ when cards are returned to plate umpire E. Review Ground Rules 1. Keep ball in play as much as possible 2. Designate out of play areas 3. When out of play lines are not visible, use “permanent objects” to determine whether a ball is in or out of play. F. Review Special Rules 1. Time limit 2. Run Ahead 3. Tiebreakers (Fast Pitch Only) 4. Home Run Limit for this classification (Slow Pitch Only) G. Coin Toss, if needed to determine home team. H. WHEN THE CONFERENCE IS OVER, THE UMPIRES SHOULD HUSTLE TO THEIR RESPECTIVE POSITIONS TO START THE GAME!

230 UMPIRE MANUAL END OF THE GAME PROCEDURE A. Leave the field together as a team and on the side of least resistance while giving the defensive team reasonable time for an appeal. Appeals are not permitted after the umpires leave the field. B. Go directly to your staging area, but don’t run. Avoid conversations with players or fans. C.The Plate umpire should return game balls to the administrator if present. D.Know your departure route before the game ends and where you want to end up. E. Have no conversation with fans or participants. If confronted, be polite and excuse yourself to get ready for your next assignment.

POST GAME WITH PARTNERS A. Find a secluded place. B Plate umpire initiates open discussion over unusual situations that occurred in that game. Every umpire is encouraged to participate. C.Discuss pertinent Rule and Mechanic situations that happened in the game. Could anything have been done differently? D.Self evaluate! E. Be honest giving and receiving constructive advice.

ALWAYS REMEMBER, AN UMPIRE IS EXPECTED TO BE PERFECT THEIR FIRST GAME AND IMPROVE EACH GAME THEREAFTER!!!

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CHAPTER 4 PLATE MECHANICS

Plate mechanics begin with calling balls and strikes and end with any required movement by the umpire to complete other duties. This includes the elements of the stance, the set position, the pitch, and movement from the plate when required.

A plate umpire who keeps these elements in perspective has a better chance of having a solid game behind the plate. These elements are similar n both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch. Attention to detail in these areas will make you a better plate umpire. Let’s examine these elements one by one.

A. Calling the pitch in Slow Pitch

Stance: The stance is the foundation of good plate mechanics. The elements of a good stance are as follows: • First, the umpire must set their feet with the heel of the foot closest to the batter in a straight line with the toe of the foot closest to the catcher. Do this by setting your foot behind the catcher first and squaring your shoulders to the plate. Then bring in your foot behind the batter so your feet are in a heel toe alignment. Both feet should be turned slightly outward so your knees are over your toes. On a right handed batter set your right foot first, then your left foot. On a left handed batter, set your left foot first, then your right foot. This will provide the same stance on both a left handed batter and a right handed batter. Your feet should be at least shoulder width apart or wider, if comfortable, keeping in mind that you will have to move when needed. • Second, make sure you are not too close or too far from the catcher. Re- member this rule of thumb; you must see the complete plate and then the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or the ground as it passes through or out of the strike zone. • Third, rotating your head and eyes toward the pitcher will assist you in seeing the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or the ground. • Fourth, be sure to bend at the knees, not at the waist. This allows your back to be as straight as possible with a slight tilt forward to bring your head into the proper position. This will reduce the pressure on your lower back and the top of your legs. • Remember in Slow Pitch or Fast Pitch the stance is the same with only a slight difference in the height of the set position.

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Set Position: The plate umpire assumes the set position to call balls and strikes. To be in a good set position the plate umpire should follow these guidelines:

• The umpire must start in the slot. The slot is defined as the position the umpire assumes prior to going set in which they are behind the catcher, slightly inside the inside corner of the plate and outside the perimeter of the strike zone. • You must have Good Pelvic Alignment, referred to as GPA. This position is achieved when the umpire has their pelvis aligned with the outside front corner of the plate. This allows you to look down and through the strike zone. • In both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch, set no lower than the top of the strike zone in relationship to the batter. Your body should be locked in a stationary position to see the ball released from the pitcher’s hand and travel all the way to the catcher’s glove or the ground. Your hands should be placed in a comfortable position in front of your body. • Go set at the start of the pitch. In Slow Pitch this is when the pitcher makes any motion with the ball after the required stop. Each pitcher is different and the time you go set can vary accordingly.

The Pitch: Calling the pitch is where a plate umpire puts the stance and set position to work. To call the pitch, the plate umpire should follow these guidelines: • To start the game or any time after the umpire has prevented a pitch from being delivered, the umpire should direct the pitcher to play ball. When holding up play, simply hold up the hand opposite the batter with your palm facing the pitcher. When you are ready for the pitch, point at the pitcher and say “play” or “play ball.” At this point, it is imperative that the umpire pick up the ball with their eyes while the ball is in the pitcher’s hand. • The umpire then tracks the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or to the ground. Tracking the ball is the act of watching the ball from the pitcher’s hand into the catcher’s glove using a slight movement of the head guided by the nose. Tracking is not an exaggerated head movement or just an eye movement. It is a movement of the nose which simultaneously brings the head with the pitch as the eyes are locked on the ball. • Good timing is crucial when calling the pitch. After the ball is in the glove or hits the ground in slow pitch, make sure you pause, and then call the pitch • The verbal call should always be made in the down position and the strike signal in the up position. • From the down position, the strike call should be elongated and made briskly and loudly. The umpire should then rise to an upright position without

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moving their feet and bring the right arm up to a 90 degree angle so the elbow can be seen with the umpire’s peripheral vision. The fist should be closed with the palm facing the umpire’s ear. A strong hammer adds certainty to your call. Any swinging strike should be a signal only. • In Slow Pitch on a called third strike, a 90 degree hammer is used with a louder verbal call. For further emphasis, verbalize the words “strike three.” • Ball calls should be short and crisp and made in the down position. Use volume to indicate closeness of the pitch. • In Slow Pitch with stealing and the ball hits in front of the plate, hits the plate, or hits the batter the proper mechanic is a dead ball signal followed by a verbal ball or if swung at a strike signal. • There are times when the count should be given by the plate umpire. Signaling the count is done by raising both arms above the head indicating balls with consecutive fingers on the left hand and strikes with consecutive fingers on the right hand. Give both the number of balls and strikes every time the count is given. Rotate your hands, not your body, so everyone can see the count. • After each pitch step out, relax, reset and restart the process. This allows the umpire the time to refocus and reset for the next pitch.

B. Calling the Pitch in Fast Pitch: Stance: The stance is the foundation of good plate mechanics. The elements of a good stance are as follows: • First, the umpire must set their feet with the heel of the foot closest to the batter in a straight line with the toe of the foot closest to the catcher. Do this by setting your foot behind the catcher first and squaring your shoulders to the plate. Then bring in your foot behind the batter so your feet are in a heel toe alignment. Both feet should be turned slightly outward so your knees are over your toes. On a right handed batter set your right foot first, then your left foot. On a left handed batter, set your left foot first, then your right foot. This will provide the same stance on both a left handed batter and a right handed batter. Your feet should be at least shoulder width apart or wider, if comfortable, keeping in mind that you will have to move when needed. • Second, make sure you are not too close or too far from the catcher. Re- member this rule of thumb; you must see the complete plate and then the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or the ground as it passes through or out of the strike zone • Third, rotating your head and eyes toward the pitcher will assist you in seeing the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or the ground • Fourth, be sure to bend at the knees, not at the waist. This allows your back to be as straight as possible with a slight tilt forward to bring your head into the proper position. This will reduce the pressure on your lower back and the top of your legs. • Remember in Slow Pitch or Fast Pitch the stance is the same with only a 234 UMPIRE MANUAL slight difference in the height of the set position.

Set Position: The plate umpire assumes the set position to call balls and strikes. To be in a good set position the plate umpire should follow these guidelines: • The umpire must start in the slot. The slot is defined as the position the umpire assumes prior to going set in which they are behind the catcher, slightly inside the inside corner of the plate and outside the perimeter of the strike zone. • You must have Good Pelvic Alignment, referred to as GPA. This position is achieved when the umpire has their pelvis aligned with the outside front corner of the plate. This allows you to look down and through the strike zone. • In both slow pitch and fast pitch, set no lower than the top of the strike zone in relationship to the batter. Your body should be locked in a stationary position to see the ball released from the pitcher’s hand and travel all the way to the catcher’s glove or the ground. Your hands should be placed in a comfortable position in front of your body. • Go set at the start of the pitch. In Fast Pitch this is when one hand is taken off the ball after the hands have been placed together. Each pitcher is different and the time you go set can vary accordingly.

The Pitch: Calling the pitch is where a plate umpire puts the stance and set position to work. To call the pitch, the plate umpire should follow these guidelines: • To start the game or any time after the umpire has prevented a pitch from being delivered, the umpire should direct the pitcher to play ball. When holding up play, simply hold up the hand opposite the batter with your palm facing the pitcher. When you are ready for the pitch, point at the pitcher and say “play” or “play ball.” At this point, it is imperative that the umpire pick up the ball with their eyes while the ball is in the pitcher’s hand. • The umpire then tracks the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or to the ground. Tracking the ball is the act of watching the ball from the pitcher’s hand into the catcher’s glove using a slight movement of the head guided by the nose. Tracking is not an exaggerated head movement or just an eye movement. It is a movement of the nose which simultaneously brings the head with the pitch as the eyes are locked on the ball. • Good timing is crucial when calling the pitch. After the ball is in the glove or

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hits the ground in slow pitch, make sure you pause, and then call the pitch. • The verbal call should always be made in the down position and the strike signal in the up position. • From the down position, the strike call should be elongated and made briskly and loudly. The umpire should then rise to an upright position with out moving their feet and bring the right arm up to a 90 degree angle so the elbow can be seen with the umpire’s peripheral vision. The fist should be closed with the palm facing the umpire’s ear. A strong hammer adds certainty to your call. Any swinging strike should be a signal only. • In Fast Pitch on a called third strike, both a strong verbal call and signal should be given. For further emphasis, verbalize the words “strike three.” • Ball calls should be short and crisp and made in the down position. Use volume to indicate closeness of the pitch. • On a foul tip the umpire should rise and brush the fingers of the right hand over the left hand, chest high in front of the body followed by the strike signal. • There are times when the count should be given by the plate umpire. Signaling the count is done by raising both arms above the head indicating ball with consecutive fingers on the left hand and strikes with consecutive fingers on the right hand. Give both the number of balls and strikes every time the count is given. Rotate your hands, not your body, so everyone can see the count. • After each pitch step out, relax, reset and restart the process. This allows the umpire the time to refocus and reset for the next pitch.

C. Movement from the Plate in Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch

Movement: A good plate umpire realizes that they are not only required to call balls and strikes, but must be able to move to cover other responsibilities. The plate umpire must be ready and able to move during the game. Let’s examine the reasons for movement from the plate: • First, the plate umpire should be ready to clear the catcher for any of three reasons; a passed ball, a foul fly ball behind the catcher or a dropped third strike in Fast Pitch. The umpire dictates their movement by reading the shoulders of the catcher. On a right handed or left handed batter, pivot and drop step to allow the catcher to take you to the ball. Once you have cleared the catcher, you must remember your other responsibilities, such as a possible catch of the foul fly ball, help on a throw to 1B on the batter- runner or a play at the plate • Second, on a batted ball, the plate umpire should always exit to the left of the catcher to trail the batter-runner. Trail the batter-runner when there are no runners on or a single runner on 1st base, unless the play takes you elsewhere. Trail the batter-runner slightly inside the foul line approximately one-third of the way to First Base to help the First Base umpire with a pulled foot, swiped tag or a bobbled ball. After trailing the batter-runner to First Base you may need to move to third base or to the holding zone. 236 UMPIRE MANUAL

When moving to third base move directly across the diamond in front of the pitcher’s plate to a location 90 degrees to the path of the runner, just short of the base they are trying to reach and about 10-12 feet from the base. When moving to the holding zone, move directly to an area in foul ground about half way to 3rd base and read the play. • Third, the plate umpire has fair/foul responsibility on ground balls near the foul line. Position yourself on the foul line, and if the ball is foul signal by raising the hands over the head and give a verbal call of “foul or foul ball.” If the ball is fair, point toward fair territory with the arm closest to fair ground. • Fourth, on fly balls to the outfield not near the foul line, move to obtain a good angle to the catch versus straight at the fielder catching the ball. If the ball is caught give an out signal and a verbal “out” call. • Fifth, on a fly ball to the outfield near the foul line, when your partner does not turn their back, the plate umpire has fair/foul and catch/no catch responsibilities. When the ball is near the foul line with no runner at third base, move up that foul line to a position where you can see the ball land. If the ball is foul, give the dead ball signal followed by a verbal call of “foul or foul ball.” If the ball is fair, give the fair ball signal. No verbal call is given. When the ball is close to the foul line and is touched, whether caught or not, the umpire must first give the ball status by pointing fair or foul. When the ball is first touched over fair territory point fair and if the ball is not caught the point is followed by a strong “fair ball” signal. If the ball is caught, give an out signal. When the ball is first touched over foul territory, point foul and if the ball is not caught, give a strong dead ball signal and strong verbal call of “foul” or “foul ball.” If the ball is caught, give an out signal. • Sixth, when the ball is hit over the fence in fair territory, give a Home Run signal by raising the right arm above the head, fist closed and rotate the fist. In Slow Pitch when a fair batted ball is touched in flight and goes over the fence in fair territory, give the four base award signal by raising the right arm above the head, hand open with four fingers shown and verbally call “four bases.” If the ball hits the ground before clearing the fence and then bounces over the fence, give the two base award signal by raising the right arm above the head, hand open with two consecutive fingers extended and verbally call “two bases.”

Movement to Third Base: Once the umpire has exited to the catcher’s left, there are several situations where the umpire should move to third base: • First, after going to the holding zone and a play develops at third base, move inside the diamond about two-thirds of the way to third base, approximately 10 – 12 feet from the base, obtaining a 90 degree angle. Stop, read the play, then make the call • Second, when exiting the catcher with a play immediately at third base, move up the foul line in fair territory to approximately 10 -12 feet from the base, obtaining a 90 degree angle. Stop, read the play, then make the call. • Third, in Slow Pitch, the plate umpire has the responsibility for a runner attempting to steal third base. Move toward third base in foul ground, or in fair

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territory, staying out of the throwing lane and let the ball take you to the play as you obtain the best angle and distance.

Plays at the Home Plate: There are specific mechanics used by the plate umpire when making calls at home plate: • On throws from the outfield or the infield assume a position in foul ground, 90 degrees to the path of the runner, to approximately 10 -12 feet from home plate in line with the outside deepest corner of the right handed batter’s box. Adjust as needed to obtain an unobstructed view of the play. If the ball gets away from the catcher and goes behind you, move as the play dictates to get an unobstructed view. Avoid going inside the diamond except as a last resort. • When returning to home plate from a play at third base and the ball is in foul ground, remain inside the diamond and move parallel to the base line, to approximately 10 – 12 feet from home plate, obtaining a 90 degree angle to the path of the runner. • On a timing play when the runner touches the plate prior to the last out of the inning and the run will count, point to the plate emphatically and say “run counts” or “run scores”. • On a timing play where the runner does not touch the plate before the last out of the inning is made and the run will not count, give an emphatic safe signal and say “run does not count” or “no run”.

D. Difficult Situations

1. Slow Pitch Illegal Pitches: A Slow Pitch plate umpire will normally make more illegal- pitch calls than a Fast Pitch plate umpire due to the differences in thepitch- ing rule. An illegal pitch must be called when it becomes illegal by the plate or base umpire. To signal an illegal pitch raise your left arm horizontal with the fist closed and verbally say “illegal or illegal pitch” loud enough for the closest defensive player to hear you. In Slow Pitch, if the batter does not swing at the illegal pitch, it is ruled a ball. If the batter swings at the pitch, the illegal pitch is ignored and the result of the swing stands.

Stealing Mechanics: Some divisions of Slow Pitch allow runners to advance when the ball reaches the front edge of home plate. Umpires must be ready to react to a player attempting to advance. On a pickoff play move from your starting position to the best possible position to see the four elements of the play come together. Stop, see the play and make the call. On a steal attempt from First Base to Second Base the base umpire must read the steal attempt and move parallel to the baseline to a 90 degree angle to the base that the runner is attempting to advance. This will be a tag

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play. The umpire must be in position before the four elements of the play come together. Stop, see the play and make the call. On a steal attempt from Second Base to third base the plate umpire must recognize the steal attempt and react by finding the ball while moving toward third base, keeping in mind that the ball may become blocked or go out of play. Let the throw turn your head toward third base as you move into position to see the four elements of the play come together. Stop as close to 90 degrees to the tag play as possible, see the play and make the call.

Home Run Procedure: Home Run procedure is the same in both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch. A fly ball that clears the fence in fair territory without being touched is declared a home run. Raise your hand high above the head and make a circle motion with a closed fist.

2. Fast Pitch Illegal Pitches/Catcher’s Obstruction: When catcher’s obstruction or an illegal pitch is called, the umpire should give the delayed dead ball signal. Give the signal by extending the left arm straight out to the side of the body with the fist closed while verbalizing “obstruction” or “illegal pitch.” The illegal pitch can be called by either umpire. The Plate Umpire calls the timing elements, stepping outside the twenty-four inch width of the pitcher’s plate (Women’s and JO only). The Base Umpire is responsible for infractions involving the feet being in front or behind the pitcher’s plate, crow hop, or leap. The batter may swing at or hit an illegal pitch after it’s been called. If the batter reaches First Base safely and all runners advance at least one base the illegal pitch is ignored and no option is given. If not, the manager of the offended team is given the option of taking the result of the play, or having a ball awarded to the batter and all runners advanced one base. If an illegal pitch hits a batter, the batter is awarded First Base and all runners are advanced one base. Catcher’s obstruction is the act of a catcher that hinders or prevents the batter from striking at or hitting a pitched ball. If the batter reaches First Base safely and all runners advance at least one base the obstruction is cancelled. All action as a result of the batted ball stands. No option is given. Once a runner has passed a base the runner is considered to have reached that base. If all runners, including the batter runner do not advance at least one base, the manager has the option of taking the result of the play, or enforcing obstruction by awarding the batter First Base and advancing all runners if forced. If the catcher steps on, or in front of home plate without the ball and prevents the batter from hitting the ball, the umpire will call “Dead Ball”. The batter is awarded First Base and all runners are advanced one base, if forced. On a swing or attempted bunt, the catcher or any other fielder prevents the batter from hitting the ball, touches the batter or their bat with a runner on third base trying to score on a squeeze play or a steal, the ball is dead.

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The runner shall be awarded home plate and the batter shall be awarded First Base on the obstruction. All other runners shall advance if forced.

Hit by Pitch: Kill the play as soon as the batter is hit, with a strong “Dead Ball” verbal call. Now review the action that just happened. Did the batter make a motion to turn away from the pitch, or was the batter in the strike zone making no attempt to avoid being hit by the pitch? If the batter was avoiding the pitch, award them First Base. If they made no attempt to get out of the way, there is no award. If the ball was in the strike zone, it should be called a strike, with a strong verbal call.

Hitting the ball a second time: When the ball hits the bat a second time or hits the batter, a dead ball is declared using the dead ball signal and a strong verbal call. While making the dead ball call, review in your mind what you just saw. Then, ask yourself the question, did the second hit occur in fair or foul territory? If the answer is foul territory, the ball is foul and a strike is called on the batter. If the ball is fair, the next question you need to ask is whether the batter was in or out of the batter’s box. If they were in the box, it s a foul ball and a strike is called on the batter. If the second hit occurred out of the batter’s box, the batter is out. In each case give a strong dead ball call and point to where the second hit took place. Then announce to all the result of the action, “foul ball, strike on the batter”, or “the batter is out”. The base umpire should assist the plate umpire by making a dead ball signal and a strong verbal call immediately, indicating only that there was a second hit.

Remember, as a Plate Umpire take charge of this call and SELL it.

Check Swing: When asking for help on a check swing, the umpire should step out from behind the plate, remove the mask, point to their partner and ask “did they swing” or “did they go?”

Batted Ball off of a batters foot: 1. When the batter is in the batters box; a. Raise both hands above the head and call “dead ball” to stop the action. b. Verbalize “foul ball”. 2. When the batter is out of the batter’s box: a. Raise both hands above the head and call “dead ball” to stop the action b. Point to the play, give an out signal and verbalize “batter is out”.

Three Foot Running Lane: A three foot running lane violation is an example of an interference call. The plate umpire should: • Give the dead ball signal while giving a strong verbal “dead ball” call .

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• Point in the direction of where the interference occurred. • Take charge and sell the call.

E. General Responsibilities both Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch

Infield Fly Situation: When an umpire signals to their partner that the infield fly rule is in effect, do so prior to the pitch.

The signal is made by placing the right hand and arm across the chest with the hand over the heart.

It is the Plate umpire’s responsibility to call the Infield Fly.

When an Infield Fly is judged by the umpire: 1. The umpire should judge the Infield Fly when the ball reaches it’s highest point. 2. Give the infield fly signal by raising your right arm above your head with fist closed and verbalize “infield fly”, or if near a line verbalize “infield fly if fair”.

When the infield fly is no longer in effect simply tap your left forearm with you right hand to signal to your partner the infield fly has been removed.

Passed Balls: On a passed ball, first clear the catcher and then read the play. Move as the play dictates to the best position possible. Avoid going inside the diamond except as a last resort.

Hold Up Play: To hold up play on a right handed batter raise your right arm above your head with the palm open and facing the pitcher. On a left handed batter raise your left arm above your head with your palm open and facing the pitcher.

Time out – Suspension of Play: To suspend play raise both arms high above your head with your palms facing the pitcher while moving out from behind the atter and catcher. If the Pitcher has started the pitch, TIME OUT should NOT be granted. The pitch should be called a “strike” or a “ball” de pending on it’s location.

Cleaning Home Plate or the Pitcher’s Plate: If time has not been declared, call “time”. Move to a position facing the backstop with your back to field of play. Use your brush to clean the plate using short, crisp strokes.

Conferences: The two types of conferences: Offensive and Defensive. It is the plate umpire’s responsibility to document conferences:

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Offensive Conferences; • An umpire should only allow one Offensive Conference per half inning. • At the end of the conference, the umpire should notify the team participant that “the conference was the last one for that inning”. • A participant that attempts to have a second Offensive Conference during the same inning should be removed from the game.

Defensive Conferences; • Each team is permitted three Defensive Conferences during a seven inning game. • All of the Defensive Conferences can take place during the same inning without removing the pitcher from the pitching position. • Umpires should not penalize an offensive team for having a conference while the defensive team is having a Defensive Conference provided the offensive team is ready to play when the Defensive charged Conference is over. The same is true if the defensive team has a conference while the offensive team is having a charged conference. • Once the umpire instructs the team that is charged with the conference to play ball, both teams must immediately play ball or be in jeopardy of a conference being charged to them and enforcement of the appropriate penalty.

Ball Rotation: According to ASA procedure the current game ball is in play until such time as it goes out of play. However, if both game balls do not get into play during the first half of the first inning, the pitcher in the bottom half of the first inning must throw the unused ball. • If both game balls have been used, the pitcher has a choice of which ball to use during that half of the inning. • The pitcher cannot have both game balls for the purpose of making a choice. • The pitcher may request another ball prior to the start of warm-up pitches. • The umpire should require the pitcher to relinquish possession of the ball and then put a replacement ball into the game. • The umpire has sole authority to determine if a ball is playable or not.

Line-up Card Management: In order to prevent problems during the game, the Plate Umpire should keep an accurate line-up card throughout the game.

Here are some suggestions to help properly manage your line-up card: • Use a line-up card holder to protect each individual line-up. • At the pre-game conference with the coaches, inspect each card: 1. To see that the first name, last name, number and positions are listed. 2. To see that all substitutes have first name, last name and numbers listed. 3. Count the players in the starting line-up to make sure they have the

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proper number of players. (i.e. FP – 9 or 10 if the DP/Flex is used, SP – 10 or 11 if the EP is used). 4. In Fast Pitch, identify the DP’s position to indicate that this is the only place in the batting order to which the Flex may enter. 5. Return the card to the respective coaches for their final review. 6. Accept them as “official” when they are returned to you. • During the game, you should record the following information on your line- up card: 1. Substitutions 2. Re-Entry’s 3. Movement of the DP and Flex in and out of the line-up. 4. Defensive Conferences 5. Offensive Conferences 6. Courtesy Runners • In order to properly manage the line-up card you should understand the principles of re-entry and substitutions as well as the Shorthanded rule. Also, when can a player get added to the line-up card and what to do about an incorrect number or position on the line-up card. • Managing your line-up card is an integral part of overall game management.

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CHAPTER 5 Base Mechanics

Base Mechanics begin with the fundamentals of positioning, followed by timing, judgment, signals, and a verbal call.

A. General Responsibilities 1. Starting Positions A Slow Pitch base umpire will take a starting position on the First Base side and off and behind of the Second Baseman with no runners on base or a runner at third base only. This position will allow the umpire to move to their primary position when the ball is put into play. With multiple runners on base, the base umpire will take a position on the Second Base side of the Second Baseman. The umpire should make every effort not to take a position that puts them in the line of sight of a defender and a pitched ball to the batter.

In Fast Pitch with no runners on base, start on the foul line 18 – 21 feet behind First Base and walk the line. Walk the line by taking one or two steps toward home plate, pushing off with your left foot to move off the foul line when the ball is batted.

2. Preparation Prior to the Pitch When starting off the line or starting on the line with runners on base, the base umpire will take the “ready position or stance” prior to a pitch being delivered to the batter. Do this by: A) Placing your feet at least shoulder width apart or wider to create a firm foundation as you will have to move when the ball is put into play. B) Stand upright in a comfortable position and lean forward as the ball is delivered to the batter. This will transfer your body weight from the heels to the balls of your feet for better balance. C) Keep your hands in a comfortable position in front of the body between your upper legs and your belt buckle. D) The “Ready Position/Stance allows the umpire to react to a batted ball in the same manner as a defensive player.

3. General Techniques on the Bases: Umpires must be “Students of the Game” in preparation for handling decisions on the bases. The game situation will include the presence of runners on base(s), the number of outs and the count on the batter. These factors will dictate the base umpire’s primary responsibility as a play develops. Your complete concentration, full energies and undivided attention is required from the first pitch to the last out.

Work for the best angle on all plays and do not let the players or coach make the call for you. On a close play, sell the call; but on an obvious play use only a routine signal. 244 UMPIRE MANUAL

Whenever possible, stop to allow yourself time to see the entire play before making your decision. See the play to its completion and give a strong verbal call, followed by a visual signal. This will help your timing and reduce the possibility of the dreaded “out/safe” call.

On a ball that is hit to the outfield that could possibly be trapped, go out on it, even with runners on base. Remember to communicate with your partner(s). On home runs hit out of the park, know where and when the ball left the playing field.

4. Points governing decisions on the Bases: Base umpire decisions are governed by the game situation and the actions of offensive and defensive participants. The four elements of a play consist of: 1) Ball 2) Base 3) Offense 4) Defense The base umpire must hustle to get into the correct position to see these elements come together before making a call.

Umpires should say “SAFE” and give the safe signal when a runner beats the ball to a base on a force out attempt and likewise say “OUT” and give an out signal when the ball beats the runner to the base. A good verbal call and strong signal should be given simultaneously. The volume of the voice should reflect the closeness of the play.

If you think that you were blocked out of seeing the entire play and are asked to “go for help” then go to your partner for information to get the call correct. ALWAYS MAKE THE CALL AND THEN GO FOR HELP, IF NEEDED.

5. Watching the ball: Watching the ball aids a base umpire in reading where the play is likely to develop. The umpire must watch the ball as it is fielded on the infield while moving to the proper position for their primary call. Let the ball turn your head into the play as the four elements of the play come together; stop, watch the play and make the call.

On batted balls to the outfield, the base umpire is required to “buttonhook” into the infield. When you have performed the buttonhook locate the ball with your eyes. Watch the ball and glance at the runner. As the runner gets close to the base change your focus to glancing at the ball and watching the runner to see the runner touch the base.

Know where the ball is at all times, no live ball play can be made on a batter,

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batter-runner or runner without the ball.

B. BASE CALLS 1. Force Plays/Plays at 1B/Tag Plays: Tag plays, force plays and plays at First Base require movement to the proper position to see the entire play. • In Slow Pitch on a play at First Base, with no runner on base, and a ground ball to the infield, move parallel to the base line without taking your eyes off the ball to the position you would have reached had you started on the foul line. Move no further than a 45 degree angle from the foul line and no closer than 18 feet from the base. This keeps the four elements, the base, the ball, the offense, and the defense in front of you as the play develops. Stop; let the ball take you to the play, then make the call. • On a routine out call, keep your feet at least shoulder width apart and bring your body to an upright position. Raise your right arm to a 90 degree angle with the fist closed, so the elbow can be seen with your peripheral vision. On a routine safe call, keep your feet at least shoulder width apart and bring your body to an upright position while bringing your hands chest high with palms down. With forearms parallel to the ground, extend your arms straight out keeping palms down. • In Fast Pitch on a play at First Base, with no runner on base and a ground ball to the infield, without taking your eyes off the ball, move inside the foul line to no further than a 45 degree angle from the foul line and no closer than 18 feet from the base. When the runner is out on a very close play use the sell out signal. This signal is nothing more than simulating a throw by a fielder. Move your feet as if you were fielding a ground ball and give the signal followed by a strong “out” call. When the runner is safe on a very close play use the “sell safe” signal. This signal is made by stepping toward the play, giving an emphatic “safe” signal and a strong “safe” call. Finish the call by bringing your rear foot forward and squaring up to the play. • In Fast Pitch and Slow Pitch with a runner at First Base and a ground ball to the infield for a possible double play, make two movements from the starting position. When the play goes to Second Base, take one or two parallel steps toward Second Base to watch the play and push off with the right foot and make the call while moving parallel to the baseline toward First Base. Without taking your eyes off the play, let the ball turn your head to the play at First Base. Stop; see the play, then make the call. • On a tag play, take a position 90 degrees to the path of the runner

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just short of the base they are trying to reach at a depth of 10 – 12 feet from the play. All four elements will be in front of you. As the play develops, move to get an unobstructed view, read the play, hesitate slightly, and then make the call.

2. Swipe Tag / Pulled Foot Adjustment from Primary position: Once you have obtained the best angle to see the play, further actions may dictate the need to move. Sometimes movement from the primary position will help the umpire get an unobstructed view of the play. • After obtaining 90 degrees to the path of the runner on a tag play, you should adjust as necessary. • After obtaining your angle on the play at First Base and the throw takes the defense off the base for a possible swipe tag, move with the play to keep an unobstructed view. A slight adjustment will put you in a position to see the possible tag. Once you see the tag, point with the left hand say, “TAG,” followed by an “out” call and signal. • After obtaining your angle on the play at First Base and there is a possible pulled foot, move with the play to keep an unobstructed view. A slight adjustment can put you in a better position to see the foot off the base. If the fielder pulls their foot, point with your left hand and say “OFF THE BASE” and give a strong “safe” signal and a clear “SAFE” call.

3. Inside / Outside Theory The Inside / Outside Theory is simple: • If the ball is hit inside the diamond stay outside the diamond. • If the ball is hit outside the infield move inside the infield. This allows the four elements to be in front of you; the ball, the base, the offense and the defense.

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• For the purpose of the Inside / Outside Theory, the umpire will consider the diamond as the area of the infield inside the baselines forming a diamond shape. The infield is defined as that portion of the field that is normally covered by the infielders. • The key to the Inside / Outside Theory is movement and the key to movement to inside the diamond is the button-hook. When moving from the starting position toward the infield, concentrate on your runner responsibility. Alternate between watching the ball and glancing at the runner. Once inside the diamond 10 – 12 feet, plant your right foot and pivot into the play watching the runner touch the base. Move parallel with the runner to the next base or return to the previous base obtaining your 90 degree angle for a possible tag play. • When the ball stays inside the diamond, the umpire should stay outside the diamond. This allows the umpire to keep the four elements in view while gaining the proper angle and distance to make a call.

4. Fly Ball Coverage There are times a base umpire needs to go to the outfield for fly ballcoverage. When going out on a fly ball, the angle you obtain is very important. • When going to the outfield, the umpire should verbally communicate with your partner, using phrases such as “one man”, “two man” or “going”. • When going to the outfield, move for an angle parallel to the flight of the ball as opposed to running directly at the fielder attempting to make the catch. This allows a better view of the catch or no catch. Read the fielder so that you are stopped and set to see the play and make the call by signaling either “out” for a catch or “safe” for no catch. Once the call is made, let the ball turn you back to the infield to observe additional plays. Stay in the outfield and do not come back to the infield until all play has ceased. • When going out on fly balls near the foul line stay near the foul line. You are responsible for “Fair” or “Foul” and “Catch” or “No Catch.” Position yourself near the foul line, and if foul, signal by raising the hands over the head and give a verbal call of “Foul” or “Foul ball.” If the ball is fair, point toward fair territory with the arm closest to fair ground. • When the ball is close to the foul line and is touched, whether caught or not, the umpire must first give the ball status by pointing fair or foul.

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When the ball is first touched over fair territory, point fair and if the ball is not caught the point is followed by a strong fair ball signal. If the ball is caught, an out signal is given. When the ball is first touched over foul territory, point foul and if the ball is not caught give a strong dead ball signal and strong verbal call of “foul” or “foul ball.” If the ball is caught give an “out” signal.

5. Difficult Situations A. Live Ball running violations: There are violations by runners that require a signal and a verbal call when they occur, while allowing the ball to remain live. 1) Running out of the base path to avoid a tag a. Point at the runner with your left hand and verbalize “out of the base path…out”. b. Let the play continue 2) Passing a runner a. Point at the runner who passed their teammate and verbalize “out”. b. Let the play continue

B. Run Downs: When a player is caught in a rundown it is important that the umpire(s responsible for the coverage move(s) to get the best perspective of both ends of the play. Most rundowns are covered by only one umpire. 1) Stay approximately 12 - 15 feet from the rundown and move parallel to the baseline. 2) Know where the ball is at all times. 3) Move quickly toward and around the play to achieve the best angle as the tag is applied. 4) Be alert for obstruction or interference. When covering rundowns with two umpires, each umpire should take a position at their end of the rundown. This is referred to as “bracketing”. When bracketing, one umpire should be outside the diamond and the other umpire should remain inside the diamond.

In all cases, communication is a must. When two umpires are covering a rundown the umpire with a clear unobstructed view of the tag should make the call. To prevent both umpires from making a call, eye contact is essential prior to the call being made.

C. Interference:. To indicate that interference has occurred the umpire should: 1) Step forward while giving a strong “Dead Ball” signal while emphatically calling “Dead Ball”. 2) Point to the interference then give a strong “Out” signal and a verbal “Out” call.

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D. Obstruction: The base umpire should immediately: 1) Give the “Delayed Dead Ball” signal and verbally say “obstruction”. The signal need not be held throughout the play, but just long enough for it to be seen. 2) When the play becomes dead, make the proper obstruction award. Be prepared to explain your ruling. 3) If the obstructed runner is put out prior to reaching the base(s) they would have reached had there been no obstruction, the umpire shall call “time” and award the obstructed runner and all other runners, the base(s) they would have reached had there been no obstruction. 4) When Catcher’s Obstruction occurs, the plate umpire shall give the “Delayed Dead Ball” signal and verbalize “Catcher’s Obstruction”. 5) Be prepared to apply the appropriate enforcement.

E. Collision Contact between defensive and offensive players does not necessarily mean that Obstruction or Interference occurred. The field is laid out in such a manner that it puts the defensive and offensive players on a collision course. Consider the following: 1) Did the Offensive player alter their direction in a way to draw contact with the Defensive player in an attempt to draw an Obstruction call? 2) Did the Defensive player alter their attempt to field the ball to draw an Interference call? 3) Could the Defensive player actually make a play? 4) Did the Defensive player have possession of the ball? Thorough knowledge of Interference and Obstruction rules and their application will assist in making a prompt and accurate decision.

CHAPTER 6 Umpire Systems

ONE UMPIRE

The One Umpire System is being used in many areas of the nation today, mostly in slow pitch. It is not recommended and should be used only when necessity demands. Most softball authorities believe that when only one umpire is assigned to a game, the best location for the umpire prior to each pitch is behind home plate.

Single umpiring is a difficult job that takes a tremendous amount of hustle, alertness and keen anticipation.

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The umpires starting position for each pitch should be from behind home plate. This is the best position for calling balls and strikes, and fair and foul balls. It also enables the umpire to have a clear view of the complete playing field.

On each batted ball or play that develops, the umpire must move from behind the plate and into the infield to obtain the best position possible for any play that develops. A key to help anticipate the play is to watch the feet of the outfielder making a throw, as fielders will step in the direction the throw will be made.

It’s important to keep your eye on the ball, this is especially important when umpiring alone. In some situations, this is almost impossible. The umpire must make the call and still see if the runner coming home touched the plate before the out was made. When this happens there is the possibility of the ball being dropped or bobbled on the tag. As soon as it is determined whether the runner scored or not, turn back to the tag play to be sure the ball was retained by the fielder.

Try to position yourself as close as possible on all play situations, especially tag plays. With no other runners on base, make sure all calls are made from inside the diamond. If there is a play at home plate, position yourself near the back of the right hand batter’s box at a 90 degree angle to the runner. Then adjust your position to allow a follow up secondary position. It is important to get close to the play to obtain the best angle and be able to see the ball, base and runner. Not only is this important to make the calls, but also to watch runners tag the bases.

On situations where a call is made at a base and a subsequent play develops at another base, make sure you watch the ball so as not to be hit with a thrown ball.

Movement to cover the other bases is based on judgment. HUSTLE to the best position possible to make a call. If the ball is live when a runner is on base, such as after a base hit, the umpire should call TIME when the ball is held by a player in the infield area and in the umpire’s opinion, all play has ceased.

There is no excuse for calling a play from behind or just in front of the plate. In the following diagrams, the umpire is designated as “P’’:

Position: Situation: A. Ground ball No runners on

B. Ground ball Runner on First Base or runners on first and Second Base

C. Ground ball Bases loaded hit to the infield

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Fly Ball Situation A. No runners—fly ball to the infield or outfield and not near the foul line. B. Runners on First Base. C. Runners on first and second or second only, move to a possible call at third or to foul territory ahead of the lead runner for a possible play at home if necessary after the catch. D. Runner on second and third or first and third.

NOTE: On all fly ball situations where the ball is near the foul line, the umpire must stay on the foul line to determine whether the ball is fair or foul—then move into the infield to pick up runners and plays.

No Runner on Base Situation A. No runners—single. B. No runners—double. C. No runners—triple. D. No runners—home run.

NOTE: On all base hit situations, umpire must watch runner tag bases and be aware of position of the ball.

Between Inning Mechanics The plate umpire shall take a position at the 1B baseline extended facing the 1B dugout when the team is coming to bat and the 3B baseline extended facing the 3B dugout when that team is coming to bat.

TWO-UMPIRE SYSTEM

The Two-Umpire System is now standard for most leagues. With its use, ninety percent of the situations that will ordinarily arise may be adequately covered. Two umpires, working as a team for any period of time, can cover their plays with ease, be in the right place at the right time, and perform mechanics so smoothly that players and spectators are unconscious of their presence until the play has been made.

The PLATE UMPIRE should be prepared to take a share of the base plays. The lead runner, if there is more than one on the bases, is the plate umpire’s responsibility. To do the job properly, the plate umpire must go to a holding zone in foul territory between home and third base, then immediately pick up the lead runner, and prepare to make the call on the runner, whether it is at third base or the plate. If there are two runners on base and the next batter hits for extra bases which will score the lead runner without a play, the plate umpire pays little attention other than noting that the runner touched third base and the plate. Attention then is directed to the second runner and the play that may be made. The BASE UMPIRE meanwhile ascertains that all runners touch second and First Bases and takes whatever plays are made on the batter-runner. If the batter-runner advances as far as third on the hit, and a play is made, it is the base umpire’s call. If this is the third out of the inning, the base umpire quickly and vocifer- 252 UMPIRE MANUAL ously makes the call, so that the plate umpire may announce whether a runner scoring on the same play has touched home before the third out is made.

The proper position for the BASE UMPIRE to assume at the start of the game in Fast Pitch is down the right field foul line in foul territory about 18-21 feet beyond First Base and at least a step back of where the First Baseman is positioned. One step, because this clears the umpire of any quick lunge by the First Baseman for a drive down the foul line. If the umpire stands in line with the fielder, the fielder may have to slow his charge to prevent colliding with the umpire. In the game of Slow Pitch the base umpire should take a position to the First Base side of the Second Baseman. Their location should be as such that he can obtain a position at 1B they would have reached had they started on the line. Movement to the infield and proper positioning are covered under SECTION 4—The Base Umpire. The base umpire is responsible for making the Fair / Foul, Catch / No-Catch call when going out on fly balls, and the plate umpire will pick up all runners - both tagging up and touching bases.

There are four times a base umpire will make a call at third base: 1. On the batter-runner on a triple with no runners on base. 2. On the last runner into third base. 3. On a lone runner on fly ball advancement. 4. On any return throw from the plate area or a cut-off by a player.

Each umpire has equal authority to call leaving a base too soon on the pitch. Be in position to make the call. The BASE UMPIRE should observe the pitcher (Fast Pitch) and home plate (Slow Pitch) out of the corner of his eye as they watch the runner. Use common sense and think the game. In fast pitch, if more than one runner is on base, which runner is logical to make a steal attempt? Observe that runner closer than the other runner(s). Do not guess a runner out. Be sure the runner actually left the base too soon.

Fly Ball Tag-Up Responsibilities

Fast Pitch and Slow Pitch

THE PLATE UMPIRE has tag responsibilities under the following situations: 1. All runners at third base. 2. The runner at Second Base with runners at first and Second Base.

THE BASE UMPIRE has tag responsibilities under the following situations: 1. All runners at First Base. 2. The runner at Second Base with runners at second and third bases or Sec- ond Base only. 3. Runners at first and Second Base when the bases are full.

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NOTE: These tag-up procedures should be followed at all times, UNLESS there is COMMUNICATION between both umpires. These responsibilities are covered in the duties listed on the following pages.

Positioning and Coverage - General Initial positioning with runners on base is described on the following pages. When mechanics dealing with each situation differ, they will be covered individually, however, there are several basic responsibilities which will not be duplicated.

The PLATE UMPIRE will call all balls hit fair and/or foul. The plate umpire will move out and up the foul line to make these calls, remembering not to make the call too quickly.

The PLATE UMPIRE should always be alert and move to a position to help your partner in case of a run down.

If the BASE UMPIRE goes to the outfield for catch / no catch situations, or goes out on a ball hit close to the foul line, once the base umpire’s back is turned, the calls will be the BASE UMPIRE’S. The PLATE UMPIRE must move into the infield and revert to the one umpire system, covering all bases.

On routine fly balls to the outfield, the BASE UMPIRE will move inside the diamond, watching the assigned runner tag-ups listed above. The BASE UMPIRE follows the Inside-Outside Theory on all batted balls. This was described under the Base Umpire section of the manual.

In fast pitch and slow pitch with stealing, the BASE UMPIRE must be alert for snap throws and a possible pick-off of each base-runner.

BOTH UMPIRES must 1) hustle at all times, 2) keep their eyes on the ball and 3) be in the correct position on all calls. The following responsibilities deal with the individual situation.

REMEMBER, ANY TIME YOU ARE FORCED TO DEVIATE , COMMUNICATE.

Key to Diagrams: P—Plate Umpire; B—Base Umpire; R—Runner or Runners.

No Runners on Base - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. On ground balls hit close to the foul line, stay at home plate on the line and make the call. 2. On infield hits, move up the First Base line observing the play, and be prepared to help your partner. 3. Refer to the PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

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BASE UMPIRE: 1. Basic position is 18 to 21 feet beyond First Base in foul territory. 2. Responsible for the batter-runner all the way to third base. 3. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runner on First Base Only - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. On batted balls to the infield leave to the left of the catcher moving up the First Base line to observe the play, then move toward third base to cover the advancing runner. 2. On steals where there is a wild throw at Second Base, pick up the runner advancing to third base, and be prepared to take the runner home. 3. Refer to the PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about halfway between first and Second Base and outside the base line. This position will normally place the umpire two or three steps behind and to the First Base side of the Second Baseman. 2. If the runner attempts to steal second, move toward the base staying behind the fielder. Should the throw be wild, move inside the base path. 3. On base hits to the outfield, immediately come inside the diamond, button hook and take the batter-runner all the way to third base. 4. On a double play, take one or two steps toward Second Base, follow the flight of the ball and move toward First Base as the ball takes you into the play. 5. Has tag-up responsibility for runner at First Base, and takes single runner all the way to third base after the catch. 6. Refer to the BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runner on Second Base Only - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. On hits, move toward third base. Be ready and in position to make a call by going down the left field foul line in foul ground. When you are about one third of the way from third base, quickly move into the infield for a good position to make the call. 2. If the first play is at First Base, and there is a throw to third, the plate umpire has the call at third. 3. Refer to the PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about two steps behind and to the Second Base side of the shortstop. Be cautious not to interfere with any outfielder’s view of the batter or a play by the infielders. 2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first throw unless it is to home plate. If

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the first throw is to First Base, Second Base, or third base, any subsequent throw to third base is covered by the plate umpire. 3. On all balls hit through the infield or to the outfield that you do not go out on, immediately come inside the diamond, button hook and take the batter- runner all the way to third base. 4. On routine fly balls to the outfield, move into the infield to a position between the pitcher’s plate and the base line. You are responsible for the tag-up of the runner, and after the ball is caught, take the runner into third base. 5. Take the batter-runner to third base, watching that they touch all bases. When the ball is in the outfield, take a position deep enough in the infield to allow movement for a play at either base. 6. On an attempted steal of third, move toward third base and be prepared for a call. Movement should be parallel to the baseline between second and third base. 7. Refer to the BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runner on Third Base Only - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. If a fly ball is hit, move from behind home plate and line up the runner on third base and watch the tag-up. 2. On base hits move toward third base watching the runner. If the runner goes home, drift back toward home and watch the runner touch home plate. 3. Refer to the PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about two steps behind and to the third base side of the shortstop. Be cautious so as not to interfere with any outfielder’s view of the batter or a play by the infielders. 2. If a ball is hit to the infield, wait until the fielder commits, then move quickly toward that base. Don’t take your eyes off the ball. 3. Call all plays made on the first throw by an infielder unless it is to home plate. Take the batter-runner into third base and see that all bases are touched. 4. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runners on First and Second Base - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. On base hits take the lead runner into third base and home. On steals where there is a wild throw at Second Base pick up the runner coming into third base. 2. Be ready and in position to make a call at third base by going down the third base line in foul ground. When you are about one third of the way from third base quickly move into the infield for a good position on the tag play.

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3. On hits move toward third base. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play made, drift toward third but watch the runner touch home plate. 4. Responsible for tag-up at Second Base. 5. Refer to PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about two steps behind and to the Second Base side of the shortstop. Be cautious so as not to interfere with any outfielder’s view of the batter or a play by the infielders. 2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first throw unless it is to home plate. If the first throw is to first, second, or third base, any subsequent throw to third base is covered by the plate umpire. 3. If the runner attempts to steal third, move toward the base to make the call. Movement should be parallel to the baseline between second and third base. 4. On routine fly balls to outfield, move into the infield to a position between the pitcher’s plate and the base line. You are responsible for the tag-up of the runner on first. 5. See that the runner and batter touch second and First Base. When the ball is in the outfield, take a position deep enough in the infield to allow you to move for a play at either base. 6. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runners on Second and Third Base - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. If a fly ball is hit, line up the runner on third base and watch the tag-up. 2. On base hits move toward third base. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play, drift toward third but watch the runner touch home plate. If there is a play at home, move back to a position in the rear and left side of the right-handed batter’s box. 3. If the play is at First Base, watch the lead runner touch home plate, and then go to third for a possible play on the second runner. 4. Refer to PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

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runner all the way to third base. 5. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Runners on First and Third Base - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. If a fly ball is hit, move from behind home plate and line up the runner on third base and watch the tag-up. 2. On base hits move toward third base. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play, drift toward third but watch the runner touch home plate. If there is a play at home, move back to a position in the rear and left side of the right-hand batter’s box. 3. If the play is at First Base, watch the lead runner touch home plate, and then go to third for a possible play on the second runner. 4. Refer to the PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about two steps behind and to the third base side of the shortstop. Be careful not to interfere with any outfielder’s view of the batter or a play by the infielders. 2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first throw unless it is to home plate. If the first throw is to first, second, or third base, any subsequent throw to third base is covered by the plate umpire. 3. If a ball is hit to the infield wait until the fielder commits then move quickly toward that base. Keep your eyes on the ball. 4. On a base hit move inside the diamond quickly and watch the runner on first touch Second Base and be alert for a play at that base, take the batter- runner as far as third base and watch that each base is touched. 5. On fly balls, get inside the diamond quickly, button hook and line up the runner on First Base. After checking the runner tag-up at First Base, be prepared to take the runner into Second Base and/or third base. 6. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

Bases Loaded - Fast Pitch

PLATE UMPIRE: 1. If a fly ball is hit, move from behind home plate, line up the runner on third base and watch the tag-up. 2. On base hits move toward third base in foul territory. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play , drift toward third and watch the runner touch home plate. If there is a play at home plate, move back to a position at the rear and left side of the right-hand batter’s box. 3. If the play is at First Base, watch the lead runner touch home plate, and then go to third for a possible play on the second runner. 4. Refer to PLATE UMPIRE SECTION.

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BASE UMPIRE: 1. Take a position about two steps behind and to the third base side of the shortstop. Be careful not to interfere with any outfielder’s view of the batter or a play by the infielders. 2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first throw unless it is to home plate. If the first throw is to first, second, or third base, any subsequent throw to third base is covered by the plate umpire. 3. If a ball is hit to the infield wait until the fielder commits, then move quickly toward that base. Keep your eyes on the ball. 4. On any ball hit to the outfield move inside the diamond quickly, button hook and be prepared to make a call at first, second or third base. 5. On fly balls, move inside the diamond quickly, to take tag-ups of runners on first and Second Base, and be prepared for any play into Second Base. 6. Refer to BASE UMPIRE SECTION.

TWO UMPIRE SYSTEM-SLOW PITCH

PLATE UMPIRE: The plate umpire has the same responsibilities as Fast Pitch with the following exceptions. In Slow Pitch the plate umpire is responsible: A. For all calls on a pitched ball once it leaves the pitcher’s hand. B. For all fair and foul balls. C. For batter-runner infractions. D. For coverage at third base on a steal or pick-off. E. For all calls at third base and home plate with the following exceptions: 1. The base umpire is responsible for the batter-runner or the last runner to third base. 2. The base umpire is responsible for a lone runner on a tag-up to third base. 3. When there is a play at home plate and a subsequent play at third base or a cut off throw, the base umpire is responsible for the subsequent play in the infield regardless of where the play is made.

BASE UMPIRE: The base umpire is responsible for the following situations: A. If the base umpire does not go out on a fly ball, they are responsible for all calls at First and Second Base. B. For the batter-runner or the last runner to third base. C. For a lone runner on a tag-up and advancement on a fly ball to third base. D. When there is a play at home plate and the throw to home plate is cut off or a subsequent play anywhere in the infield. E. With a runner on base, the base umpire will normally take a position off of the Second Baseman, and shading the lead runner. Under no circumstance shall the base umpire take a position inside the base line or on the shortstop side of Second Base. 259 UMPIRE MANUAL

F. Positioning: The base umpire will take a position between First and Second Base depending on the defensive alignment.

1. No runners on base. The base umpire should be to the First Base side and off of the Second Baseman, if possible. On all ground balls hit to the infield that turn into a play at First Base, the umpire should move parallel with the baseline toward First Base. The base umpire should reach the same position they would have reached had they started in foul territory.

2. Runner on First Base only, Third Base only, and First Base and Third Base only. The base umpire should normally take a position off of and to the First Base side of the Second Baseman.

3. Runner on Second Base only, First Base and Second Base only, Second Base and Third Base only or bases loaded. The base umpire should take a position normally off of and to the Second Base side of the Second Baseman.

Situation 1: In some divisions of play, the infielders play very deep making it difficult for the base umpire to button-hook inside ahead of the runner. Should the base umpire be positioned off of the Second Baseman when the Second Baseman and Shortstop are playing very deep, the base umpire should find a position on an imaginary line directly between the two defenders toward Second Base. When the ball stays in the infield and there is a play at First Base, it is imperative that the umpire move parallel to the baseline to make the call. (DIAGRAM)

Situation 2: In some divisions of play, teams are bringing an outfielder closer to the infield to play behind Second Base, referred to as the fifth infielder. If this occurs and all infielders are playing very deep, the imaginary line should be from the Second Baseman to the defensive player positioned behind Second Base. (DIAGRAM)

THREE-UMPIRE SYSTEM FAST PITCH AND SLOW PITCH

The Three-Umpire system, when executed properly, is not only the most enjoyable system of umpiring, but also assures a complete coverage of everything that may occur on the ball field. Because it entails a 50 percent addition to the two umpire officiating expense, it may never replace the two-umpire system.

The two-umpire system provides adequate coverage for all but a small proportion of the situations that may arise, but the three umpire system, when properly executed, insures the undivided attention of one umpire on every play and at each base.

At the start of the play, the BASE UMPIRES assume positions outside the base lines about 18 to 21 feet behind first and third base. The PLATE UMPIRE judges batted

260 UMPIRE MANUAL balls, foul / fair as per the section on this mechanic. The BASE UMPIRES should only help the plate umpire on these decisions when they turn their back to the infield and go out on a ball hit near the fence or on a sinking line drive.

There are four basic rules governing the coverage of the three-umpire system: 1. Rotation for the three-umpire system is always clockwise. 2. When a BASE UMPIRE turns their back to the infield to go to the outfield on a play, the umpire should remain outside until the play has been completed. 3. When an umpire goes to the outfield, the crew reverts to the two-umpire system. 4. When the umpires start the basic position from a counter rotated position, there will be no rotation.

The counter rotated position is the basic position prior to any pitch when the third base umpire is down the line at third base and the First Base umpire assumes a position behind the Second Baseman.

Throughout this section we have stated the desired positions for base umpires. These are guides, not rigid rules. Situations arise whereby your position will have to vary from play to play. Each umpire should select the position that permits the best coverage of play, yet does not interfere with the play.

NOTE: Fly ball coverage will be the same for fast pitch and slow pitch.

No Runners on Base

Fly Ball Coverage P: Trail batter-runner toward First Base. If the First Base umpire goes out, assist in watching the batter-runner touch First Base. Return to home in foul ground for any possible play at home plate. 1st: Go out on all fly balls hit between center field and right field in fast pitch and right-center field and right field in slow pitch. If the third base umpire goes out on a fly ball, move inside the diamond, button-hook and take the runner to third base. 3rd: Go out on all fly balls between center field and left field in fast pitch and left-center field and left field in slow pitch. If the First Base umpire goes out on a fly ball, move inside the diamond and take the runner to third base.

Base Hit to Outfield P: Trail the batter-runner toward First Base. Release toward third base for a possible call. Look toward home plate to make sure the First Base umpire is there for the play. 1st: Move inside the diamond, button-hook and glance to second to make sure the third base umpire is there. Release, move into foul territory and go to home plate for any play at home. Be positioned on the right hand batter’s box side of home plate.

261 UMPIRE MANUAL

3rd. Move inside the diamond toward Second Base for any play. Glance to third to make sure the plate umpire is there for the play.

Runner on First Base Only

Fly Ball Coverage P: Trail the batter-runner toward First Base. Be prepared to take the lead runner to third if ball is dropped. Take all plays at home plate. Responsible for fly balls to left field, when LF is going toward the foul line. 1st: Move inside the diamond and take tag-up at First Base. Be positioned for calls at First Base and Second Base. Take the last runner to third base. Responsible for fly balls to right field when RF is going toward the foul line. 3rd: Be positioned at Second Base. Take all fly balls between right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When First Base umpire takes fly ball, move inside the diamond for tag-up at First Base.

Base Hit to Outfield P: Trail the batter-runner toward First Base, release and go to third base to get positioned for any calls at third base. 1st: Move inside the diamond, watch the batter-runner touch First Base, release to foul ground, and rotate to home for any calls at home plate. Be positioned on the right hand batter’s box side of home plate. 3rd: Be positioned at Second Base. Move inside the diamond for any play at Second Base. Be alert for any possible plays at First Base.

Runner on Second Base Only

Fly Ball Coverage P: Hustle toward third base in foul ground. Be prepared to take the plays into third base and home plate. Responsible for fly balls hit to right field, when RF is going toward the foul line. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner. Take all fly balls to right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When the PLATE umpire or the THIRD base umpire takes the fly ball, move inside the diamond and take the tag-up at Second Base. Take the last runner to third base. 3rd: Hustle into the diamond for the tag-up at Second Base. Be prepared for plays at Second Base. Take the last runner to third base. Responsible for fly balls to left field when LF is going toward the foul line.

Balls Hit to Outfield (No rotation when First Base umpire positioned at Second Base.) P: Move from behind home plate and get in position for any play at home plate. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner. Move inside the dia-

262 UMPIRE MANUAL

mond and be prepared to take any plays at First Base or Second Base. 3rd: Move inside the diamond and take plays at third base.

Runner on Third Base Only

Fly Ball Coverage P: Move from behind home plate in foul ground. Take the tag-up at third base. Be alert for any possible plays at third base or home plate. 1st: Take all fly balls between center field and the right field line. If the third base umpire goes out, move inside and take the batter-runner to third base. 3rd: Take all fly balls between center field and the left field line. If the First Base umpire goes out, hustle into the diamond to watch the batter-runner touch First Base. Be alert for any possible plays at Second Base or First Base. Take the batter-runner into third base.

Base Hit to Outfield P: Move from behind home plate in foul ground. After watching the runner from third touch home plate, release and go to third base to get a position inside the diamond for any possible calls at third base. Look to home plate to make sure First Base umpire has moved to home plate. 1st: Move inside the diamond and watch the batter-runner touch First Base. Release to foul ground after checking to see that third base umpire is at Second Base. Hustle to home for any plays at home plate. Be positioned on the right hand batter’s box side of home plate. 3rd: Move inside the diamond for any possible play at Second Base. Look to third base to see that the plate umpire has moved there.

Runners on First and Second Base

Fly Ball Coverage P: Hustle toward third base in foul ground, hold and take the tag-p at Second Base. Be prepared to take plays at third base and home plate. Respon- sible for fly balls to right field, when RF is going toward the foul line. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the lead runner. Take all fly balls between right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When the PLATE umpire or THIRD base umpire takes the fly ball, move inside the diamond and take the tag- up at First Base. Take the last runner to third base. 3rd: Hustle into the diamond for the tag-up at First Base. Take calls at First Base or Second Base and the last runner to third base. Responsible for fly balls to left field when LF is going toward the foul line or the tag- up at Second Base if the Plate umpire has fly ball coverage to right field.

263 UMPIRE MANUAL

Base Hit to Outfield (No rotation when First Base umpire is counter rotated) P: Move from behind home plate and get ready for any play at home plate. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the lead runner. Move inside the diamond and be prepared to take plays at Second Base or First Base. 3rd: Move inside the diamond for any play at third base.

Runners on First and Third Base

Fly Ball Coverage P: Hustle toward third base in foul ground and take the tag-up at third base. when the First Base or the Third Base umpire goes out on a fly ball. Be prepared for any play at home plate. Release toward third base after the runner touches home plate, if the batter-runner becomes a runner. Re- sponsible for fly balls to right field, when RF is going toward the foul line. Be alert for a possible play at home plate. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner at First Base. Take all fly balls between right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When the third base umpire takes the fly ball, move inside the diamond for the tag up at First Base. Take the last runner to third base. 3rd: Hustle into the diamond and take the tag-up at First Base. If the First Base umpire goes out on a fly ball, take calls at First Base or Second Base and the last runner to third base. Responsible for fly balls to left field when LF is going toward the foul line.

Base Hit to Outfield (No rotation when the First Base umpire is counter rotated) P: Move from behind home plate and be positioned for any play at home. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner at First Base. Move inside the diamond and be prepared to take plays at First Base or Second Base. 3rd: Move inside the diamond for any play at third base.

Runners on Second and Third Base

Fly Ball Coverage P: Hustle toward third base in foul ground, hold and take the tag-up at third base. Be prepared to take the play at home plate and any possible play at third base if the batter-runner becomes a runner. Responsible for fly balls to right field when RF is going toward the foul line. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner a Second Base. Take all fly balls between right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When the PLATE umpire or THIRD base umpire takes the fly ball, move inside the diamond and take the tag-up at Second

264 UMPIRE MANUAL

Base. Take the last runner into third base. 3rd: Hustle into the diamond for the tag-up at Second Base. Watch the batter- runner touch First Base. Be prepared for plays at Second Base or First Base. Take the last runner into third base. Responsible for fly balls to left field when LF is going toward the foul line.

Base Hit to Outfield (No rotation when the First Base umpire is counter rotated) P: Move from behind home plate and get ready for any play at home plate. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner at Second Base. Move inside the diamond and be prepared to take plays at Second Base or First Base. 3rd: Move inside the diamond for any play at third base.

Bases Loaded

Fly Ball Coverage P: Hustle toward third base in foul ground, and take the tag-up at third base. Be prepared for any play at home plate. Watch the runner touch home plate and release for any play at third base. Responsible for fly balls to right field, when RF is going toward the foul line. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner at Second Base. Take all fly balls to right field and left field, UNLESS EITHER outfielder is going toward the foul line. When the Plate umpire or the Third base umpire take the fly ball, move inside the diamond and take the tag-ups at First Base and Second Base. Take the last runner to third base. 3rd: Hustle into the diamond for the tag-up at Second Base and First Base. Be prepared to take any calls at First Base or Second Base, and take the last runner into third base. Responsible for fly balls to left field when LF is going toward the foul line or the tag-up at third base if the Plate umpire has fly ball coverage.

Base Hit to Outfield (No rotation when the First Base umpire is counter rotated) P: Move from behind home plate and be positioned for any play at home plate. 1st: Be positioned at Second Base shading the runner at Second Base. Move inside the diamond and be prepared to take plays at Second Base or First Base. 3rd: Move inside the diamond for any play at third base.

265 UMPIRE MANUAL TWO OR THREE-UMPIRE SYSTEM BETWEEN INNING MECHANICS

PLATE UMPIRE: The plate umpire shall take a position at the 1B baseline extended facing the 1B dugout when that team is coming to bat and the 3B baseline extended facing the 3B dugout when that team is coming to bat.

BASE UMPIRE: Assume a position approximately 15 feet in the outfield. Stand in fair territory and face the infield. Be alert to hustle players on and off the field. In a two-umpire system, the base umpire is responsible for brushing the pitcher’s plate after the conclusion of the previous inning.

these are the preferred positions, if you need to move to another area, do so.

266 UMPIRE MANUAL

TAG-UP RESPONSIBILITES – THREE UMPIRE-SYSTEM

When neither base umpire goes out on a fly ball:

Runner at 1B only: First Base Umpire Runner at 2B only: First Base Umpire Runners at 1B/2B: Runner at 1B First Base Umpire Runner at 2B Third base Umpire Runners at 2B/3B Runner at 2B First Base Umpire Runner at 3B Third base Umpire Runners at 1B/3B Runner at 1B First Base Umpire Runner at 3B Third base Umpire Bases Loaded Runners at 1B & 2B First Base Umpire Runner at 3B Third base Umpire

Note: If either base umpire goes out to judge a fly ball, tag-up responsibilities will be the same for the plate and base umpire as they are in the Two-Umpire system.

LEAVING A BASE TOO SOON ON A PITCH RESPONSIBILITIES THREE-UMPIRE SYSTEM

Runner at 1B only First Base umpire Runner at 2B only First Base umpire Runner at 3B only Third base umpire Runners at 1B/2B Runner at 1B Third base umpire Runner at 2B First Base umpire Runners at 2B/3B Runner at 2B First Base umpire Runner at 3B Third base umpire Runners at 1B/3B Runner at 1B First Base umpire Runner at 3B Third base umpire Bases Loaded Runners at 1B & 3B Third base umpire Runner at 2B First Base umpire

267 NATIONAL INDICATOR FRATERNITY

Listed below are the 2008 inductees into the National Indicator Fraternity This fraternity is one of the most prestigious honors bestowed upon an ASA umpire. To qualify, an umpire must have officiated in three national tournaments, been an ASA umpire for at least seven years and must be recommended by his/her commissioner and regional umpire-in-chief. A complete list of all National Indicator Fraternity members can be found on www.asasoftball.com or in the Umpire Case Book,

Raymond Farrey Mesa, AZ Walter Planiczka San Francisco, CA Paul Roeger Milwaukie, OR Brad Eisenbeis Moorhead, MN Joshua Hast Livermore, CA Dennis Daniels Waverly, IA Ronald Hast Livermore, CA Dan Pease Renton, WA Jerry Clark N Richland Hills, TX Ken Ellingwood Fayette, ME David Peterson Arlington, TX Kyle Tschetter Sioux Falls, SD Thomas Meyer Jackson, NJ Chad Mickelson Sioux Falls, SD Albert Barcellos San Jose, CA Casey Waite Boise, ID David Kincaid Vancouver, WA Chip O’Connor Wilmington, DE Gordon Frost Watsonville, CA Dennis Gentry Little Creek, DE Ken Kwantes Rolla, MO Thomas Morgan Lincoln, NE Ronald Zimmerman Muscatine, IA William Cooley Litchfield, MI Kevin Phelan Bartlesville, OK David Scott Havelock NC Ralph Mondoro Elizabethtown, PA Robert Snelling Portland, OR Tony Fulkerson Wichita Falls, TX Ralph Leonard Fredericksburg, VA Tim Molle Havre, De Grace, MD G. Phillip Haag Bloomindgale, NJ Hilary Chick Coeur d’Alene, ID Terrence Barlow Toms River, NJ Edward Wanick Goleta, CA William Smith Jr Roselle Park, NJ Bob Swinehart Columbus, OH Jeffrey Pritchard Whiting, NJ Wendell Caulley Hilliard, OH John Cambridge Barnegat, NJ Randall McLamb Hampton, VA Marvin Talley Jonesboro, GA David Brewer Roanoke, VA Bobby Brown Winston-Salem, NC Gerry Ritter Kennewick, WA Edward Whipple Lake Worth, FL Michael Herring Altus, OK Scott Webb Vancouver, WA Richard Sweeting Wellesley, MA Arnold Gray Sterling Heights, MI Jim Rollins Mableton, GA Brian Schmitz Marion, IA Perry Brown Ft. Madison, IA Gerry Ewing Salt Lake City, UT Todd Muldoon Aberdeen, SD Waddie Henderson Topeka, KS Larry Brecht Maple Grove, MN Lorraine Gloster Forestville, MD Ross Thomas Smyrna, DE Tim Steinwandt Aberdeen, SD Mark Barrall San Anselmo, CA Vincent McQueen Jr. Fairfield, CA Bruce Persons Concord, CA Danny Troxell Trout Run, PA Richard Robertson Jr Panama City Beach, FL Steve Gruszkowski Hammonton, NJ Dan Garrison Mechanicsville, MD Stephen Buchly Salisbury, MD Kelly Navarro Ennis, TX Trevor McDonald Waxahachie, TX

268 ASA UMPIRE MEDALS PROGRAM

Listed below are individuals who joined the ASA Umpire Medals Program in 2008. The Umpire Medals program recognizes ASA Umpires for years of service. Each group is divided into gold (20 years), silver ( 15 years), bronze (seven years) and blue (over three years). For a complete list of Umpire Medals visit the ASA web site at www. asasoftball.com. BLUE

Michael Aguirre El Paso TX David Bailey Bloomfield NM Michaul Barnett Anderson IN Casey Batchelor Ft. Gordon GA Don Briscoe Covington GA Scott Buser Lakewood WA Dante Chinni Ellicott City MD John Christensen Rogue River OR Angela Croteau Ellicott City MD Kayleen Dunson Seattle WA Amy Fawcett Cincinnati OH Mark Gerring Columbia MD David Harvey Idaho Falls ID Bob Hogan Frisco TX Dennis Howell Unions City CA Larry Klimek Grosse Pointe Farms MI Susan Kruemmer Macomb MI Louis Lang Coffeen IL Emelita Lujan Las Cruces NM David Mattern Bear DE Steven Meeker Eagle Point OR Chris Myers Toledo OH Blaise Naehu Anchorage AK Dave Nagel Baltimore MD Kelly Navarro Ennis TX Lynne Nemeth Ermira NY Jacob Nutter Jefferson City MO Kevin O’Brien Niagra Falls NY Patrick O’Connor Alliance OH Steve Oliveri Pittsburgh PA Earl Pugh Alliance OH David Russ Zelienople PA Brian Scharf Clinton Twp Mi Mark Sichles Lawrenceville GA Charles Smith Ceres CA Lewis Stapp Clearwater FL Lillie Thomas Ft. Washigton MD Brent Turner Searcy AR Casey Waite Boise ID Robert Warguleski Mattydale NY Michael Warley Middletown CT Kelvin Wise W. Bloomfield MI Henry Yong Round Lake Beach IL

269 ASA UMPIRE MEDALS PROGRAM

BRONZE SILVER

Edward Albrecht Middletown CT Ronald Avant Oneonta AL David Bailey Bloomfield NM John Calamari Ellicott City MD Kenneth Banks Hephzibah GA Phil Cappadonia Payson UT Casey Batchelor Ft Gordon GA Phil Cappadonia Payson UT Ryan Branham Portsmouth VA John Chrisstensen Rogue River OR Richie Branum Decatur AL Kelly Cooper Cincinnati OH Paul Brown Columbus MS Bill Fisher McKinney TX Scott Buser Tacoma WA Tony Fulkerson Wichita Falls TX Phil Cappadonia Payson UT Larry Grant Wixom MI Robert Connelly Middletown CT Rickley Hardwick Bay City MI Billy Craig Columbus MS Woody Hearn Columbia MD Dave Demaio Cromwell CT Steve Hempher Anderson IN Thomas D’Errico Roswell GA Steve Kempher Anderson IN Barbara Gillespie West Richland WA Louis Lang Coffeen IL John Honeycutt Elizabethton TN Louis Lang Coffeen IL Mike Koplow Ellicott City MD Randy Leonhardt Simi Valley CA Louis Lang Coffeen IL Jay Long Oak Harbor WA Ray Larrivee Cromwell CT Gary Mark Aloha OR David Mattern Bear DE Wendy Mark Aloha OR Trevor McCallam Waldorf MD Ronald McZee Bay City Mi Dan Mummert Columbia MD Blaise Naehu Anchorage AK Blaise Naehu Anchorage AK Kelly Navarro Ennis TX Kelly Navarro Ennis TX Lynne Nemeth Ermira NY Lynne Nemeth Ermira NY Patrick O’Connor Alliance OH Patrick O’Connor Alliance OH David Sakata Moorpark CA Steve Oliveri Pittsburgh PA William Sanski Lancaster NY W. Pat Page Wichita Falls TX Donna Shurtz Stanford IL Jimmy Peters Columbia MD Charles Smith Ceres CA Earl Pugh Alliance OH Larry Tripp Bay City MI William Redcross Glen Burnie MD Casey Waite Boise ID Ken Revicki Portland CT Shirley Wall Sandy UT Peggy Ridgeway Royal Oak MI Shirley Wall Sandy UT JR Rogers Millersville MD Scott Webb Vancouver WA Ben Rubalcaba Baltimore MD Ross Wescott West Linn OR Joyce Ruiten Grand Haven MI David Russ Zelienople PA Charles Smith Ceres CA Karen VanKruiningen Moodus CT Blake Vinson Savoy IL Bill Wagner Kennewick WA Casey Waite Boise ID Mark Waldron Rolla MO Curt Weise Sykesville MD

270 ASA UMPIRE MEDALS PROGRAM

GOLD

Don Alexander Prospect OR William Arrington Westford MA Tim Baggett Arlington TX Dennis Brenner Walled Lake MI Thomas Caunter Lowell MA Pete Condino Clinton Twp MI Deane Cowperthwaite Baltimore MD Dennis Daniels Waverly IA Richard Dillen Muskegon MI Jake Diorio Woburn MA John Dye Columbia MD Len Errera Tewksbury MA Joseph Gallagher Lowell MA Sindey Gatling Brooklyn NY Sidney Gatling Brooklyn NY Frank Gomez Lowell MA G. Philip Haag Bloomingdale NJ Don Harrell Baltimore MD Dick Harrison Lowell MA Jim Hastings Wilmington MA Mark Herman Willmar MN Carl Herrmann Chelmsford MA Jim Jakubowski Grand Rapids MI Reginald Kekuewa Valrico FL Frank Kielty Lowell MA Phil King Garner NC Dick Kopycinski Lowell MA John Laffey Tewksbury MA Tony Lagos Dracut MA Louis Lang Coffeen IL Robert Lekites Lowell MA Tony Luzzo Coeur d Alene ID Rick McCauley Ellicott City MD Randall McLamb Hampton VA Paul Mello Wilmington MA Dallas Misenhimer Midlothian TX Steve Molloy Hudson NH Mike Monahan Burkburnett TX Blaise Naehu Anchorage AK Mark Oelfke Plymouth MN Elmen Ogg Muskegon MI Arthur Opalach Livonia MI William Pearson Spartanburg SC Keny Reichie Medina OH Barry Rhoads N. Reading MA Danny Rinas Middletown MD David Roof Paducah KY Jim Scales Mount Airy MD James Schenck Wake Forest NC Charles Smith Ceres CA Mark Syzdek Washington MI John Terry Hartland MI Ross Thomas Dmyrna DE Edward Wanick Goleta CA Richard Wilkison Smyrna GA

271 2008 ELITE UMPIRES

The National ASA/USA Elite Umpire program is designed to recognize umpires who have reached elite status within the program. These individuals must have participated in at least four (4) national championships, and umpired in two (2) of which must have been in the same category of play and from an upper level national championship. These individuals must have been an ASA registered umpire for at least seven (7) years, and a current member in good standing.

SLOW PITCH Mathew Aycock Hoschton GA Roy Ballard Lynn MA Sammy Burge Mesquite TX Keith Furguson Laraime WY Ben Melson Upper Warlboro MD Rudy Ramos Sunnyside WA Richard Robertson Panama City Beach FL Alan Shevitz Montgomery Village MD Jospeh Sollers Falls Church VA Charles Unterbrunner Artesian SD

FAST PITCH

Cindi Brunot Lantana FL Ted Germain Mayville MI Michael LaTona Buffalo NY Steve McCowan Wylie TX Mark Oelfke Plymouth MN Jackie Schults DeSoto TX Marvin Talley Jonesboro GA

MODIFIED

Louis Pearlstein Hamilton MA

272 ASA NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME

The ASA National Softball Hall of Fame was established in 1957 to honor those men and women who have played a major role in the growth and development of softball in the United States. The following list of players, commissioners, umpires, managers, sponsors and other individuals have made outstanding contributions to the success of the sport of softball.

MEN’S FAST PITCH * 1957...... Harold (Shifty) Gears...... Pitcher * 1957...... Sam (Sambo) Elliott...... Pitcher * 1958...... Al Linde...... Pitcher * 1959...... Bernie Kampschmidt...... Catcher * 1959...... Clyde (Dizzy) Kirkendall...... Pitcher * 1960...... Warren (Fireball) Gerber...... Pitcher 1960...... Clarence (Buck) Miller, Memphis, TN...... Pitcher * 1960...... Jim Ramage...... Shortstop * 1961...... John (Cannonball) Baker...... Pitcher * 1961...... Ben Crain...... Pitcher 1961...... Hugh Johnston, Fort Wayne, IN...... First Base * 1963...... John Hunter...... Pitcher * 1963...... B.E. (Gene) Martin...... ASA Executive Secretary * 1963...... Bill West...... Pitcher * 1964...... Tom Castle...... First Base 1965...... Roy Stephenson, Muttontown, NY...... Pitcher 1966...... Jim Chambers, Oshkosh, WI...... Pitcher * 1966...... Robert Forbes...... Outfielder * 1967...... Noland Whitlock...... Shortstop * 1967...... Bill Wojie...... Third Base * 1967...... Ronald Kronewitter...... Pitcher * 1968...... Leroy Hess...... Catcher 1968...... Bob Sprentall, Clearwater, FL...... Outfielder 1970...... John Spring, Aurora, IL...... Pitcher 1970...... Frankie Williams, Stratford, CT...... Second Base * 1971...... John (Buster) Zeigler...... Outfielder 1971...... Ray (Ned) Wickersham, Palatine, IL...... Outfielder 1972...... Don Ropp, Aurora, IL...... Third Base 1972...... Jerry Curtis, Clearwater, FL...... Outfielder * 1973...... Richard Tomlinson...... Shortstop * 1974...... Charles Justice...... Pitcher * 1976...... Bobby Spell...... Pitcher * 1978...... Tom Moore, Clearwater, FL...... Infielder 1978...... Doug Mason, Clearwater, FL...... Infielder 1979...... Bill Massey, Houston, TX...... Pitcher * 1979...... Weldon Haney...... Pitcher 1980...... Ron Weathersby, Clearwater, FL...... Outfielder 1981...... Harvey Sterkel, Aurora, IL...... Pitcher * 1981...... Bill Parker...... Infielder 1981...... George Adam, Branford, CT...... First Base * 1983...... Bonnie Jones...... Pitcher * 1983...... Robert Kuykendall...... Catcher 1984...... Bob Barron, Aurora, IL...... Second Base * 1986...... Herb Dudley...... Pitcher 1988...... John Anquillare, New Haven, CT...... Shortstop 1988...... Vinnie Caserto, Marlboro, NY...... First Base-Outfielder * 1988...... Al Lewis...... Pitcher

273 ASA NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME

1989...... Joe Lynch, Nashville, TN...... Pitcher 1989...... Carl Walker, Providence, RI...... Outfielder * 1990...... Harry (Coon) Rosen...... Pitcher 1990...... Abe Baker, Cranston, RI...... Outfielder * 1991...... Eddie King...... Pitcher 1991...... Sam Lombardo, Detroit, MI...... First Base-Outfielder * 1992...... Elmer Rohrs...... Pitcher 1993...... Leo Luken, Deerfield Beach, FL...... Pitcher 1996...... Ray Allena, Petaluma, CA...... Outfielder 1996...... Jim Brackin, Fairfax, VA...... Infielder * 1996...... Stan Nelson...... Pitcher 1996...... Bill Stewart, Bellevue, WA...... Outfielder 1996 ...... Ray Truluck, Clearwater, FL...... Outfielder 1997...... Roy Burlison, Cincinnati, OH...... Pitcher 1997...... Chuck D’Arcy, Sacramento, CA...... Pitcher 1998...... Mike Parnow, Novato, CA...... Third Base 1998 ...... Tom Dallas, Winton, CA ...... Catcher 1999...... Ray Phillips, San Jose, CA...... Second Base 1999 ...... Glenn Beamon, San Jose, CA...... Outfield 2000...... Dennis Place, Maroa, IL...... First base 2000...... Brian Rothrock, Decatur, IL...... Outfield 2000...... Ted Hicks, Mt. Zion, IL...... Third base 2001...... Bobby Quinn, Clearwater, FL...... Pitcher * 2001...... Harry Kraft...... Pitcher 2002...... Harold (Butch) Batt, Seattle, WA...... Catcher * 2002...... John S. (Sig) Lawson...... Pitcher 2003...... Bill Boyer, Sumner, WA...... Outfielder 2003...... Jimmy Moore, Seattle, WA...... Pitcher 2004...... Ty Stofflet, Coplay, PA...... Pitcher 2004...... Jeff Borror, Shoreline, WA...... Infield 2004...... Metro Szeryk, London, Ontario, Canada...... Pitcher 2005...... Dave Scott, Decatur, IL...... Pitcher 2006...... Avon Meacham, Upper Marlboro, MD...... Outfield 2007...... Peter Turner, Stockton, CA...... Infield-Outfield 2007...... Dave Grimes, Lakeland, FL...... Infield 2008...... Mitch Munthe, Modesto, CA...... Outfield 2008...... Jim March, Yukon, OK...... Catcher 2008...... Kermit Lynch, Oklahoma City, OK...... Pitcher

MEN’S MODIFIED PITCH 1997...... Frank Cecero, Staten Island, NY...... Third Base 1998 ...... Peter Ralph Miscione, Staten Island, NY...... Pitcher

MEN’S SLOW PITCH 1973...... Myron Reinhardt, Alexandria, KY...... Catcher-Outfielder 1974...... Frank DeLuca, Stratford, CT...... Pitcher 1975...... Donald Rardin, Lexington, KY...... Pitcher-Infielder 1982...... Bill Cole, Sterling Heights, MI...... Third Base * 1984...... J.D. McDonald...... Shortstop 1985...... James Galloway, Westbury, NY...... Infielder * 1986...... Hal Wiggins...... Outfielder

274 ASA NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME

* 1987...... Carl (Tex) Collins...... Catcher 1988...... Eugene Fisher, Denver, NC...... Catcher 1989...... Raymond Brown, Covington, KY...... Third Base 1989...... Mike Gouin, Detroit, MI...... Outfielder 1989...... Eddie Zolna, Chicago, IL...... Pitcher 1990...... Dick Bartel, San Antonio, TX...... Outfielder 1990...... Tom Beall, Monticello, GA...... Outfielder 1990...... Ken Clark, Stratford, CT...... Pitcher 1992...... Lou Del Mastro, Pittsburgh, PA...... Pitcher 1992...... Paul Tomasovich, Pittsburgh, PA...... Third Base * 1993...... Don Arndt...... Pitcher 1993...... Eddie Finnegan, Stratford, CT...... Shortstop * 1993...... Steve Loya...... Catcher 1994...... Bert Smith, Charlotte, NC...... Outfielder 1994...... Richard Willborn, San Antonio, TX...... Outfielder 1996...... Stan Harvey, Gastonia, NC...... Outfielder, First Base 1997...... H.T. Waller, Chipley, FL...... Second Base 1999...... Bruce Meade, Bradenton, FL...... Outfield 2000...... Bill Gatti, Louisville, KY...... Catcher 2000...... Dennis Graser, Waukesha, WI...... First Base 2001...... Rick Scherr, Sherrills Ford, NC...... Third Base 2001...... Don Clatterbough, Mechanicsville, VA...... Outfield 2003...... Ronnie Ford, Jacksonville, FL...... Outfield 2007...... Mike Macenko, Brunswick, OH...... Second Base

WOMEN’S FAST PITCH * 1957...... Amy Peralta Shelton...... Pitcher * 1957...... Marie Wadlow...... Pitcher * 1959...... Betty Evans Grayson...... Pitcher 1960...... Nina Korgan, New Orleans, LA...... Pitcher * 1960...... Ruth Sears...... First Base 1963...... Kay Rich, Fresno, CA...... Shortstop 1964...... Margaret Dobson, Portland, OR...... Third Base * 1965...... Majorie Law...... Pitcher-Infielder-Outfielder * 1966...... Carolyn Thome Hart...... Outfielder 1969...... Jeanne Contel, Fresno, CA...... Infielder 1969...... Micki Stratton, Stratford, CT...... Catcher 1970...... Dot Wilkinson, Phoenix, AZ...... Catcher * 1971...... Virginia Busick...... Pitcher 1972...... Bertha Tickey, Stratford, CT...... Pitcher 1973...... Estelle (Ricki) Caito, Phoenix, AZ...... Second Base 1973...... Gloria May, Kerman, CA...... First Base 1975...... Kathryn (Sis) King, Shelton, CT...... Catcher 1976...... Pat Harrison, Stratford, CT...... Outfielder 1976...... Pat Walker, Orlando, FL...... Outfielder 1980...... Jean Daves, Orlando, FL...... Pitcher 1981...... Carol Spanks, Tustin, CA...... Infielder-Pitcher 1981...... Shirley Topley, Tustin, CA...... First Base 1982...... Nancy Welborn, Tustin, CA...... Pitcher * 1982...... Nance Ito...... Catcher 1982...... Billie Harris, Phoenix, AZ...... Pitcher-Infielder 1983...... Donna Lopiano, Austin, TX...... Pitcher-First Base

275 ASA NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME

1983...... Joan Joyce, Stratford, CT...... Pitcher 1984...... Mickey Davis, Sunset Beach, CA...... Outfielder 1984...... Jackie Rice, Monmouth, OR...... Pitcher 1984...... Diane Kalliam, San Francisco, CA...... Outfielder-Shortstop 1985...... Sharron Backus, Fullerton, CA...... Shortstop 1985...... Willie Roze, Wallingford, CT...... Outfielder 1985...... E. Louise Albrecht, New Haven, CT...... Pitcher 1986...... Chris Miner, Omaha, NE...... Infielder 1986...... Peggy Kellers, Stratford, CT...... Catcher 1987...... Lorene Ramsey, Pekin, IL...... Pitcher 1987...... Rose Marie Adams, Orange, CA...... Infielder 1991...... Marilyn Rau, Phoenix, AZ...... Catcher 1991...... Marlys (Taber) Watts, Mundelein, IL...... Shortstop 1992...... Diane Schumacher, West Springfield, MA...... First Base 1992...... Carolyn Fitzwater, Portland, OR...... Second Base 1995...... Dorothy Dobie, Yakima, WA...... Infielder 1996...... Kathy Arendsen, Zeeland, MI...... Pitcher 1997...... Gina Vecchione, New Rochelle, NY...... Outfielder * 1998...... Freda Savona...... Shortstop 1999...... Barbara Reinalda, Shelton, CT...... Pitcher 2001...... Suzie Gaw, Scottsdale, AZ...... Infield-outfield 2005...... Pat Dufficy, Stratford, CT...... Infield-outfield 2006...... Sheila (Cornell) Douty, Diamond Bar, CA...... Infield 2006...... Michele Granger, Granite Bay, CA...... Pitcher 2006...... Dot Richardson, Orlando, FL...... Infield 2006...... Michele Smith, Califon, NJ...... Pitcher 2007...... Louise Mazzuca, Portland, OR...... Pitcher 2008...... Roberta (Robbie) Mulkey, California...... First Base/Catcher

WOMEN’S SLOW PITCH 1976...... Alberta Kohls Sims, Alexandria, KY...... Outfielder 1978...... Norma Eschenbrenner Ante, Cincinnati, OH...... Outfielder 1979...... Donna Wolfe, Covington, OH...... Outfielder * 1982...... Judy Hedgecock...... Pitcher 1983...... Ida Jean (Hoppy) Hopkins, Cleveland, OH...... Shortstop 1994...... Carol Bemis, Golden Valley, MN...... Outfielder 1994...... Sherri Pickard, Raleigh, NC...... Second Base 1994...... Linda Polley, Champlin, MN...... Shortstop 1999...... Nancy Oldham, Sanford, NC...... Third Base 2007...... Brenda Smith Foster, Mechanicsville, VA...... Second Base 2008...... Jenni Harp Oliver, Chattanooga, TN...... Catcher

* Deceased

276 ASA NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME

COMMISSIONERS 1993 Dan Blair, Lowell, NC 2007 Jack Mowatt, Washington, D.C 1993 Billy Monk, 2008 Jerry Stewart, Arcola, IL * 1976 Nick Barack Glenn Heights, TX 2008 Freddie and Virginia Ezell, * 1976 W.W. (Bill) Kethan 1993 Bernie Profato, Niles, OH Midland, TX * 1976 Fred Hoffman * 1999 Herman Beagles * 1976 Einar Nelson 2000 Billy Peterson, St. Paul, MN * 1976 Carl Kelley 2001 Walt Sparks, MANAGERS * 1977 John Nagy San Antonio, TX * 1977 Benny Turcan 2001 Horace Bruff, Oklahoma City, OK * 1976 Commie Currens * 1977 Lou Hamilton * 1976 Willard Fenton * 1978 Ed Clott 2002 Jerry Hanson, Midland, MI 2004 Emily Alexander, * 1977 Vincent Devitt * 1978 Joe Barber * 1977 George (Doc) Linnehan * 1978 Jerry Stremel Phoenix, AZ 2005 Craig Cress, 1977 Bud Gagel, Louisville, KY * 1979 Andrew Pendergast * 1978 Leroy Rutenschroer, * 1979 Al Bishop Terre Haute, IN 2005 Nick Cinquanto, Cincinnati, OH * 1980 W.B. (Bick) Auxier 1978 Duke Denson, * 1980 Matt Urban Philadelphia, PA 2006 Ralph Miller, Fremont, CA Jacksonville, FL * 1980 George T. Cron * 1979 Johnny Moon * 1981 Arnold (Red) Halpern 2007 Dave Epperson, Topeka, KS 2008 Kevin Ryan, Stanley, NC 1980 Marge Ricker, Orlando, FL 1982 Don Snyder, Biloxi, MS * 1980 Ford Hoffman * 1982 Fred Crosby 2008 Ron Galemore, Gaithersburg, MD 1983 Bobby Lutz, Denver,NC * 1982 Fred Blum * 1984 Al Brausch * 1983 Duane (Tiny) Schafer 1984 Bill Caye, Pittsburgh, PA * 1984 Lewis Brasell * 1985 Erv Lind * 1985 Jack Spore MERITORIOUS SERVICE 1988 Maxine Thayer, 1986 O.W. (Bill) Smith, Fremont, NE Indianapolis, IN * 1987 Alfred (Red) Morton * 1976 Raymond Johnson 1988 Roy Lombardo, Detroit, MI 1988 Howard Honaker, Ashland, OH * 1976 Leo Fischer * 1988 William (Red) Jenkins * 1988 John Deaver * 1977 Charles L. McCord 1989 Charles Keeble, 1989 Andrew S. Loechner, Jr., * 1977 Bob Hoffman Jacksonville, FL Lancaster, PA * 1977 Charles Jensen 1993 Ralph Raymond, 1990 Bert Weeks, * 1979 Bernard (Bunny) Lee Worcester, MA Winston-Salem, NC * 1980 James F. Jones 1993 Rocky Santilli, Leesport, PA 1991 H. Franklin Taylor III, * 1980 Nick Frannicola 1998 Dave Neale, Richmond, VA * 1980 Harold Engelhardt Sr., Brook Park, OH * 1993 Elliott Hawke 1981 Charles (Budd) Gilbert, * 2000 Russ Boice * 1995 Fran Mott Cliffside Park, NJ 2002 Tom Wagner, 1999 G. Pat Adkison, 1981 Arthur Noren, Federal Way, WA Rainbow City, AL Pompano Beach, FL 2003 Eugene Kwalek, Shelton, CT 2000 Wayne Myers, 1981 Vince Scamardella, 2007 Hank Bassett, Monticello, KY Terre Haute, IN Staten Island, NY 2003 Cliff Warrick, Austin, TX * 1982 Percy Hedgecock 2004 Ed Lindsey, Buffalo, NY * 1982 Eddie C. Moore SPONSORS 2004 A.C. Williams, Prescott, AZ * 1983 Margaret Nusse * 2006 Pat Lillian * 1983 Cliff Smith * 1976 William S. Simpson, 2008 Garland Thompson, * 1986 Mack Phillips * 1976 Fred Zollner Wilmore, KY 1988 Don E. Porter, * 1976 Charles Hurd Oklahoma City, OK * 1976 William Pharr UMPIRES 1989 Tom E. Beck, Tidewater, VA * 1982 Richard Howard * 1990 Bill Svochak 1992 Fred & Karl Nothdurft, 1991 Kay J. Purves, Lansing, MI Detroit, MI * 1976 George Dickstein 1992 Jerry Pendergast, Miami, FL * 1976 Bernard Iassogna 1993 Jim Carman, West Babylon, NY 1993 Harry (Robbie) Robinson, * 1976 Art Solz Portland, OR * 1976 Ray Ernst 1994 Buck Johnson, Chattanooga, TN * 1994 Woody & Pat Bell * 1977 Robert Deal 1997 Abbott Labratories, * 1977 Ron Derr 1994 Dick Reinmiller, Lincoln, NE 1995 Jack Aaron, Waco, TX Ashland, OH 1979 Ferris Reid, Aurora, IL * 1998 Walt Guanella * 1980 Ivie Apple * 1996 Lewis Rober, Sr. 1998 Claud (Chuck) Davenport, * 1998 Ray Guanella * 1980 Harold Adams 1999 Immor Clyte Franklin Jr., * 1980 Frank Susor Branson, MO 1999 Bill Plummer III, Baltimore, MD 1982 Tom Mason, Newark, DE 2002 Bill Fraley, Lexington, KY * 1982 Eddie Mayhew Oklahoma City, OK 2001 Kinard Latham, * 1983 Bob Quillen * Deceased * 1983 Ed Dressler Columbus, GA 1987 Bill Humphrey, Midland, MI 2002 Marty McGuire, Midland, MI 1987 Henry Flowers, Copley, OH 2004 Bill Williams, Midland, TX 1988 Rex Brown, Bremerton, WA 2005 Bob Savoie, Easton, MD 1989 Bill Finley, Blanchard, OK 2006 Don Brewer, Murphysboro,IL * 1991 Merle O. Butler 2006 Norm Davis, Lewiston, MN * 1992 Henry Pollard, Richmond, VA * 1992 L.R. (Tarz) Timm

277 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Alabama Adult Coed C SP Youth Girls’ 10-Under Invita- Backdoor Lounge tional SP Men’s C SP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Sanyo Alabama Brick Coed D SP Team Arizona The Village Girls’ 10-Under SP Men’s D SP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Bock Stars Flashback Youth Insanity Girls’ 10-Under Machine Men’s Church SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Pitch Hunter Street Baptist Girls’ 12-Under FP Arizona Outlaws Sixers Alaska Northstars 12U Women’s C SP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Girls’ 12-Under Invita- No Mistake Girls’ 14-Under FP Blaze tional SP Alaska Northstars 14U Black Hawks Women’s D SP Girls’ 16-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Nugson Arctic Storm Desert Thunder Girls’ 12-Under SP Stars Coed SP Girls’ 18-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Big Stixx Arctic Heat Insanity Black Buffalo Adult Youth Arizona Girls’ A 16-Under FP Adult Arizona Storm Men’s D SP Rascals Girls’ B 10-Under FP Men’s C FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Satsuma Sidewinders Central Cali- Hurricanes forNia Girls’ A 12-Under FP Men’s C SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Adult Skyhawks Arizona Suncats Madd Skills/Terror Men’s C FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Squad Mixed Company Spanish Fort Arkansas Men’s D SP Adult Youth Girls’ A 14-Under FP Gil’s AZ Heat Thrillers Gen X Men’s D SP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Men’s E SP Tri City Electric Clovis Rockets Girls’ A 16-Under FP Goddard School B’ham Vipers-Hays Men’s E SP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Men’s 50-Over SP HPS Goleta Thunder Girls’ B 16-Under FP Burgers & Beer Saraland Men’s EE SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Men’s 55-Over SP Sting Ray Central California Dirt Girls’ A 18-Under FP Pop-A-Top Stew Dogs Pride Women’s E/EE SP Men’s 60-Over SP Russell Farms Girls’ B 12-Under FP Edward Jones Alaska Bakersfield Blast Youth Men’s 65-Over SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Adult Arizona Force Men’s B SP Girls’ 10-Under A/B FP Coastal Xtreme Casa Cuna Game Time Men’s 70-Over SP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Cardinals Men’s C SP Girls’ 12-Under A/B FP Atascadero Greyhounds Brew Crew Panther Pride Men’s D1 Hispanic SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Roster Check Men’s D SP Girls’ 14-Under A/B FP Fresno Force HHC, 725th Xtreme Men’s D2 Hispanic SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Aztecs Women’s B SP Girls’ 16-Under FP Clovis Rockets Northland Tile Men’s E Hispanic SP Blast Los Bad Guys Central Virginia Women’s C SP Girls’ 18-Under A/B FP Youth Alaska Rim Women’s C SP Cole Minnows Toxic Girls’ A 12-Under FP Women’s D SP Girls’ 6-Under SP Baseliners Teckcominco Miners Women’s D SP Boom Wicked Girls’ A 14-Under FP Women’s Master 35- Girls’ 6-Under Coach Vienna Star Gold Over SP Women’s E SP Pitch Pioneer Bar F-Nuts Lil Cass Girls’ A 16-Under FP Shamrocks Coed A SP Coed B SP Girls’ 8-Under SP Classic Coffee Lost Cause Stars Girls’ A 18-Under FP Richmond Ruckus Coed B SP Coed C SP Girls’ 8-Under Machine Moose’s Tooth Ruger Ranch Pitch Magie Softball 278 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Chicago Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP GREATER SAN JOAQUIN Adult Westside Thunder Colorado Warriors Adult Men’s A FP Men’s C SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Italian Athletic Club Commission Cincy Storm Gold Stasburg Lady Warriors Men’s C FP Men’s D SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Vergedal Shellers Voodoo Lounge Cincy Tribe Colorado Comets Men’s C SP Mid Valley Plastering Men’s A 16-Inch SP Cleveland Girls’ B 16-Under FP Crush Aquasox-French Adult Wome’s A FP Men’s Major 16-Inch SP Men’s D SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Nor Cal Heat Flash SPC Sports/Scalpers Colorado Quicksilver Doc’s Youth Youth Girls’ B 18-Under FP Men’s C SP FC Stars Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Elk & Elk Attorneys All American Sports Wasco Diamonds Dallas Academy Coed B SP Adult Girls’ A 12-Under FP Showcase Girls’ B 12-Under FP Chi-Town Express Black Men’s 40-Over FP All American Sports UAW 845 Vough Aircraft Academy Youth Girls’ A 14-Under FP Chi-Town Black Men’s C SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Outlawz Tri-County Smash Ohio Ice Girls’ A 16-Under FP Top Guns Orland Sparks Men’s D SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Dallas Tigers Grapettes Illinois Outlaws Girls’ B 10-Under FP Wildcats Men’s E SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Cincinnati Crushers Texas O.S.O.S. Grapettes Adult Girls’ A 12-Under FP Ohio Ice Men’s A Industrial Girls’ B 18-Under FP Men’s Major SP TI Grapettes Blitz/Watanabe/Wes- Girls’ B 12-Under FP sel/Bull Sunraze Men’s Major Church SP Hawaii CTB Bear Cats Adult Men’s A SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Copes Sports Adventure Harley- Men’s 40-Over SP Men’s C SP Davidson Quick Move 808 Softball Men’s B SP Flamin’ Fury Last Call/CWB Trio’s Women’s C SP Men’s D SP Girls’ B 14-Under FP A Cats Shut D Men’s C SP Wizards Nappy Dugout/AHC Breakers Gold Women’s D SP Women’s C SP Spankys 808 Softball Men’s D SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Trio’s/Old Spice/WPS Valley Sting Coed A SP Youth Men’s E SP Ohio Slammers Smack Crew Three J’s/RecTech Girls’ A 10-Under FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Coed D SP No Fear Men’s A Industrial Tri County Hurricanes Scrappers Viox Service Stingers Black Smack Crew Girls’ B 10-Under FP Lokahi Men’s B Industrial Girls’ A 18-Under FP Coed Major SP Pipefitters Red Ohio Jaguars Pinche Ralazos Girls’ C 10-Under FP Lady Lasers Palolo Men’s 35-Over SP Youth EAP/Wessell Girls’ B 18-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Willoughby Starzz irls’ A 12-Under FP Taunda Women’s C SP Sunraze Silver Texas Travelers Bobcat/Rumpke Girls’ B 12-Under FP Colorado Girls’ A 14-Under FP Lahaina Girls Women’s D SP Adult Texas Fusion Most Hated Girls’ C 12-Under FP Men’s C FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Kupaa Youth Mile High Texas Glory Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Youth Girls’ B 16-Under FP Island Ladies Riptides Mesquite Angels Girls’ B 12-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP F.C. Stars Girls’ A 18-Under FP Lahaina Girls Cincy Storm Texas Glory

279 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Girls’ A 16-Under FP Rocket Fire Youth Guana Jam Girls’ B 10-Under FP Youth Clinton Gold Girls’ A 10-Under FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Dreams Girls’ 8-Under Coach Ho’onu Girls’ A 12-Under FP Pitch Glen Carbon Black Girls’ B 10-Under FP Lil Rebels Girls’ B 18-Under FP Widows Bloomington Lightning Hawaii RBI Girls’ A 10-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Blue Devils Royal Idaho Streator Cyclones Indiana Stingers Adult Girls’ B 10-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Central Iowa Storm Men’s C SP Quad City Firebirds Indiana Thunder ‘93 Xtreme Softball Club Girls’ C 10-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Tri-County Twisters Men’s D North SP Her-A-Cane Edgewood Blaze Silver Granite Marble Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Xtreme ‘91 Panthers Black Men’s D South SP Midland Magic Strike Force Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Indiana Magic DCG Fillies-Red Coed North SP Team Conxion Shooter Girls’ 18-Under SP Girls’ C 12-Under FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Bad Weather Central Iowa Raptors Youth Mattoon Pride Iowa Girls A 14-Under FP Girls’ 10-Under FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Adult Panthers Black Diamond Bandits Cigs Rebels Gold Men’s A FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ 12-Under FP Indiana Palazzo’s Altoona Rams Black Diamond Bandits Adult Men’s B/C FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ 14-Under FP Men’s C FP Quad City Door RCS Rams Black Golden Gloves CFD Men’s C SP Kansas Girls’ 16-Under FP Men’s D FP Wellman’s/Twisted Adult Wildfire JMT Eagles Parrot Men’s B FP Wildfire 18-Under FP Wave Men’s B SP Men’s D SP Boise Blast Brady’s/Easton Ailine/Phantom EFX Men’s C FP Garnett Illinois Men’s C SP Men’s E East SP Adult Clabber Girl Chuggernauts Men’s D SP ABE’s/Sidepockets Men’s A FP Men’s D North SP Men’s E West SP Mascoutah Pete’s Blues Team Synergy Davies/Yod Dawgs Women’s D SP Elliott Communication Men’s B FP Men’s D South SP Men’s 35-Over SP Belleville Stallions Pabst Blue Ribbon S&R/R&M Metals Youth Men’s B SP Men’s E North SP Men’s A 14-Inch SP Decatur Pennsylvania Maxx Pitts Girls’ 8-Under Gold Chariton Merchants/ Coach Pitch Sports Something Unique Men’s E South SP CG Fire Men’s C SP Fantasy Softball Men’s B 14-Inch SP Girls’ 8-Under Silver North- HOI Vending Climate Engineering South- Granite City Coach Pitch Ripits Rampage Men’s D/E Church SP Men’s Major 14-Inch SP Grace Tailgators Men’s D SP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Kansas Red Hots Arcola Burton Drywall Men’s 35-Over SP Men’s A 16-Inch SP Tim Bauer Construction Oaks Women’s Major FP Girls’ C 10-Under Indy Slammers Women’s C SP Gold FP Men’s B 16-Inch SP Quicksilver DDI Pat Clemons Women’s Open SP Girls’ C 10-Under Quincy Women’s D SP Men’s Major 16-Inch SP Wildones Silver FP Oaks Crossfire Coed A SP Women’s D SP Plainview Grothaus Women’s E SP Ja-Mar Trucking Lady Survivers/Victory Girls’ B 12-Under FP Wichita Impact Coed B SP Youth Coed D/E SP S&R Chop Shop Girls’ C 12-Under Girls’ A 10-Under FP Gold FP Pratt Batbusters

280 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Girls’ C 12-Under Women’s D SP Girls’ 18-Under SP Youth Silver FP Good Times Silver Bullets Garden City Spirit Girls’ B 10-Under FP Coed A SP Massachusetts Slammers Girls’ A 14-Under FP W.E.T. Adult Kansas Renegades Girls’ B 12-Under FP Youth Men’s D SP Germantown Red Devils Girls’ B 14-Under FP WW Clark Riverton Rush Girls’ A 10-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Chaos Men’s 10-Man Modified Bolton Wilcats Girls’ C 14-Under Katman Sports Gold FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Lady Express Southern Crush Germantown Red Devils Youth Girls’ C 14-Under Girls’ A 14-Under FP Michigan Silver FP KY Blitz Girls’ A 10-Under FP Adult Velocity Softball Taunton Dynomite Girls’ A 16-Under FP Men’s A/B FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP KY Thoroughbreds Girls’ A 12-Under FP Lightning Kansas Renegades Firecracker Fury Girls’ A 18-Under FP Men’s C FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP KY Outlaws Girls’ B 12-Under FP Neitzert’s/Kelly’s Red Hot Chili Peppers Grafton Diamonds LOUISIANA Rehoboth Thunder Men’s D FP Girls’ C 16-Under Adult Stallard Asphalt Open FP Sizzlers Men’s D SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Central MA Thunder Men’s E FP Softball Mafia Hasting’s Merchants Girls’ C 16-Under Silver FP Men’s E SP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Mansfield Men’s C SP Impact So What TQI-FGS Girls’ A 18-Under FP Youth Girls’ A 16-Under FP Taunton Dynomite Elite Men’s D SP Kansas Renegades/ Chief’s Bar Heincker Girls’ B 10-Under FP Plaquemine Girls’ B 16-Under FP Central MA Storm Men’s E SP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Jamie’s Auto Salina Techno Cats Girls’ A 12-Under FP Webster Revolution Plaquemine Girls’ A 18-Under FP Men’s F SP Girls’ C 18-Under Brewers Open FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Boston Bat Busters Benders Plaquemine Memphis Men’s Masters 35-Over Adult Div I Girls’ C 18-Under Girls’ A 14-Under FP Monster/Sugar Silver FP LA Patriots Sixers Men’s B FP Dawg’s Men’s Masters 35-Over Girls’ B 14-Under FP Div II Chaos Kansas City Men’s C FP Tony M’s/Aaron’s Adult Gambler’s Girls’ A 16-Under FP Men’s 9-Man B Modified De Ja Vu Men’s D SP Men’s 40-Over FP Chico’s Voo Doo Po-Men Girls’ B 16-Under FP Men’s 9-Man Modified J.P.R.D. Kentucky Men’s C SP Div II Adult Beef O’Brady’s Girls’ A 18-Under FP Team Memphis LA Rebels Men’s C SP Men’s D SP Men’s 10-Man Modified Softball Times Pork Chop Express Div I Girls’ B 18-Under FP Baywood Lounge J.P.R.D. Men’s D West SP Men’s Major Church SP Evil Bartlett Baptist Men’s 10-Man Modified Girls’ 8-Under Coach Div II Men’s D East SP Pitch Summit Scott Sluggers Women’s B SP Air Masters Just For Fun Women’s D SP Men’s E SP Girls’ 10-Under SP Round Tree Bar & Grill Pure Energy Women’s C SP Bo’s Bunch 44’s Women’s E SP Men’s Major Church SP Girls’ 12-Under SP Easy Street X Treme Chaos Women’s 35-Over Sp Ekron Trader’s Coed B SP Men’s 35-Over SP Girls’ 14-Under SP ACS Lake Charles Sluggers Coed B SP Captain L Turtle’s Coed C SP Girls’ 16-Under SP The Wave Silver Bullets

281 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Youth Men’s A Church SP Fall Co-Rec Tier I SP Girls’ 16-Under SP Mount Olivet/AFC Aquatic Gardens BP Amoco Girls’ A 10-Under FP Kalamazoo Klash Men’s B Church SP Fall Co-Rec Tier II SP Girls’ 18-Under SP Central Assembly Crazy Cook All Stars Wild Cats Girls’ A 12-Under FP Kalamazoo Klash 96 Men’s CC SP Fall Co-Red Tier III SP Missouri Blue Vanhouse/Players Liberty Bail Adult Girls’ B 12-Under FP Men’s C North SP Co-Rec A SP Men’s C FP Rockford Krush Schmidt Roofing Thiele Trucking/OFCU Herzog Girls’ A 14-Under FP Men’s C South SP Co-Rec B SP Men’s B SP Compuware Sioux Nation Bada Bing Muddawgs Girls’ B 14-Under FP Men’s D SP Co-Rec C SP Men’s C SP Oakland Sidewinders MTW Towing Pirates Wizards Girls’ A 16-Under FP Men’s DD North SP Co-Rec D SP Men’s DP SP Midwest Lakers Outlaws Billy’s Bar State Farm Men’s DD South SP Youth Men’s E West SP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Gopher State Rogers Rental Next Door Food Store- Blue Girls’ B 10-Under FP Men’s E SP Edina Hornets Men’s E East SP X-Rated Mafia Girls’ A 18-Under FP Michigan Elite Girls’ Rec 12-Under FP Men’s Open SP Willmar Men’s Major Church SP Redwood Bethel A/G Girls’ B 18-Under FP USA Girls’ B 12-Under FP Women’s C SP New Ulm Blue Women’s C SP Financial Consultants Springfield Thunder Minneapolis Adult Girls’ C 12-Under FP Women’s D SP Rockford Women’s D SP Warrior MFG Springfield Fire Men’s C SP Cardinal-Fuzzy’s Girls’ Rec 14-Under FP Women’s DD SP Norwood Young- Coed A SP American Heritage Liberty Orthopedics Men’s D SP America AGT/Knight Cap Women’s EE SP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Coed B SP Moska Electric Hi Tech Collision Men’s D Industrial Rochester Slam Hubert’s Crew Men’s B FP Girls’ C 14-Under FP Youth Jordan Realty Men’s 35-Over SP Brainerd Heat Girls’ A 10-Under FP Minnehaha Merchants Men’s C FP Ducks Girls’ D 14-Under FP Rockers Ostrander Image Hills Fergus Falls Gold Girls’ B 12-Under FP MC Heat Men’s 40-Over SP Men’s D FP 1029 Bar Girls’ A 16-Under FP Granite City Merchants MN Irish Girls’ A 14-Under FP Trojanettes Coed C SP Men’s Modified Tier I Mr Grann Shea Girls’ B 16-Under FP Hollywood Sports Brainerd Shockers Girls’ B 14-Under FP Flames Men’s D SP Men’s Modified Tier II NMDP Searchers Girls’ C 16-Under FP Shadow Brooke D/C Chargers Girls’ B 16-Under FP Coed VA Hospital Stealers Men’s Modified Tier III Girls’ D 16-Under FP Mendora VFW Hit Willmar City Sanitation Squad Wildcats Girls’ A 18-Under FP Missouri Madness Women’s Modified Girls’ A 18-Under FP Minnesota Hoppers Adult MN Sting Elite Girls’ B 18-Under FP Ozark Fall Men’s Slow Pitch Men’s 40-Over FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Tier I Grand Rapids Jordan Realty Welch Plumbing Mississippi Adult Men’s Masters B 35- Girls’ C 18-Under FP Fall Men’s Slow Pitch Rochester Stingers Over SP Tier II Men’s C SP Mr. Monogram Sports Center/Worth Balls Deep Girls’ 12-Under SP R-B Credit Union Men’s Masters C 35- Fall Men’s Slow Pitch Men’s D SO Over SP Hemphill Tier III Girls’ 14-Under SP LGI Trucking /Diamond Above & Beyond Point Bloomington Bullets Men’s E SP Cubs

282 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Men’s Major Church SP Men’s 40-Over FP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Youth Bethlehem Methodist Performance Plus Red Rippers Girls’ B 10-Under FP Women’s C SP Men’s 45-Over FP Girls’ C 10-Under FP Majestix Cidra Brass Rail Yutan Chieftains Girls’ C 10-Under FP Women’s D SP Men’s C SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Vegas Lights Queen of Diamonds TMACIS/Max Muscle Nebraska Blue Dia- monds 12’s Girls’ B 12-Under FP Men’s E SP Men’s D SP Majestix Realty Consultants Pioneer /O’Mally’s Girls’ B 12-Under FP Jr. Belles Girls’ C 12-Under FP Youth Men’s E SP Majestix We Mart Girls’ C 12-Under FP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Wahoo BP/Amoco Girls’ A 14-Under FP Motion 97 Men’s E1 SP LV Rage Valley Girls’ D 12-Under FP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Val Lightning Girls’ B 14-Under FP Sidewinders Men’s F SP Adrenaline Jaliko Trucking Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ C 10-Under FP Ne Blue Diamonds Girls’ A 16-Under FP Wayne County Men’s 35-Over SP Las Vegas Diamonds Mahris Homes Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Dirt Devils Girls’ A 18-Under FP Southern Hurricanes Men’s 40-Over SP Lil Rebels Hagie Girls’ C 14-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Geneva Welding Sparks New Hampshire Tri-County Men’s 45-Over SP Adult Mahris Homes Girls’ D 14-Under FP Girls’ C 12-Under FP Pizza Ranch Men’s D SP Oak Grove Men’s 50-Over SP Craig & Gatzoulis Local Movers Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Lincoln Swingers Men’s A 9 Man Modified Delta Rockers Men’s 55-Over SP JA Jubb & Sons Omaha Spirit Girls’ B 16-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Swingers X-treme Men’s D 10 Man G.C. Storm Men’s Church SP Modified Southside Assembly Girls’ C 16-Under FP SERVPRO Girls’ A 16-Under FP of God Ashland Bluejays Delta Diamonds Girls’ D 16-Under FP Women’s B Modified Women’s C FP Stealers Swanzey Oil Girls’ B 16-Under FP Lincoln Black Magic G.C. Blast Girls’ A 18-Under FP Women’s C Modified Women’s C SP Twin River Vipers Guilbicki’s Towing Girls’ A 18-Under FP Roeder Concrete MS. Pride Girls’ B 18-Under FP Women’s D Modified Women’s D SP Flames of Nebraska Cornerstone Chiro- Girls’ B 18-Under FP T-Shirt Engineers practic Southern Ice Girls’ C 18-Under FP Women’s E SP Logan View Women’s C FP Girls’ 10-Under SP Panic James Starkey Masonry Northern Meridian Girls’ D 18-Under FP Coed B SP Nebraska City Coed B SP Girls’ 12-Under SP High Tech Electric Petey’s Seafood Sting Nevada Coed C SP Adult Youth Girls’ 14-Under SP Midwest Livestock Grenada Rec Men’s B SP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Coed D SP Bully’s Hudson Heat Girls’ 16-Under SP Shake N Bake Clarkdale Men’s C SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Coed E SP Bucks Northeast Hurricanes Girls’ 18-Under SP Sweet Williams Quitman Mudhens Men’s D SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP King 888 Hudson Heat Nebraska Coed F SP Adult Harbor Bar Men’s E SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Here Comes the Boom NH Lightning Men’s C FP Youth Bee Bombers Men’s A 16-Inch SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ 8-Under FP DSS Bats Dracut Panthers Men’s D 1 FP York Golden Girl’s Bill’s Coed B SP Girls’ A 10-Under FP War Party Men’s D2 FP 97 Nemesis Firth

283 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

New York Youth Men’s Masters 50 Girls’ A 14-Under SP Adult Wood Bat Casselton Red Girls’ A 10-Under FP Mandan Dust-Tex Men’s B 10 Man Carolina Attitude Girls’ B 14-Under SP Modified Men’s B FP Hankinson Zukies Randy’s Sports Bar Girls’ A 12-Under FP Devils Lake Risers J.C. Clippers Girls’ A 16-Under SP Youth Men’s C FP Williston Holland Girls’ A 16-Under FP Grand Forks B & M American Girls’ B 10-Under FP Carolina Wildcats Masonry/Kelly’s Bar Val’s Lightning Girls’ B 16-Under SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Women’s C SP Casselton Maroon Girls’ B 12-Under FP Carolina Cobras Fargo Mr. Spindle Cicero Renegades Girls’ A 18-Under SP North Dakota Women’s D SP Williston Holland Girls’ A 14-Under FP Adult Bismarck O’Brian’s/ America HV Hurricanes Universal Men’s Div I SP Girls’ B 18-Under SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Fargo Sperle/First Class Women’s Rec I SP Minot Magic City Select BAGSAI Thunder Mortgage Beulah JO Oakland Girls’ B 16-Under FP Men’s Div II SP Women’s Rec II East SP Adult Classie Lassie Thunder Fargo Schiele/Bud Light Bismarck Eide Ford Men’s C FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Men’s Div III SP Women’s Rec II West Da Bruddahs Mystic Fast Pitch Bismarck Rock Star SP Minot Barley Pop/Car Youth Northern California Men’s Rec I SP Concepts Youth Mandan Monster Girls’ B 10-Under FP Energy Women’s Rec III East Pleasanton Phantom Girls’ A 10-Under FP SP Salinas Storm Men’s Rec II East SP Grand Forks Overtime Girls’ A 12-Under FP West Fargo Dan’s Oil Bar Valley Stompers Girls’ B 10-Under FP San Bruno Storm Men’s Rec II West SP Women’s Rec III West Girls’ B 12-Under FP Dickinson Braun’s/Si- SP Stompers Girls’ A 12-Under FP monson’s/The Rock Harvey Golden Gloves Salinas Storm Girls’ A 14-Under FP Men’s Rec III East SP Women’s Masters Div I Valley Stompers Girls’ B 12-Under FP Grand Forks Valley Bismarck Bistro Burlingame Flames Trader/MLR Trading Girls’ B 14-Under FP Women’s Masters Div II Pleasanton Phantom Girls’ A 14-Under FP Men’s Rec III West SP Bismarck Capital City San Jose Lady Sharks Mandan K & L Homes Construction Girls’ A 16-Under FP Nor Cal Shockers Girls’ B 14-Under FP Men’s Rec IV East SP Women’s Masters Div III San Bruno Storm Grand Forks Buffalo East River Gals Girls’ B 16-Under FP Wild Wings/Cirrus Livermore Smoke Girls’ A 16-Under FP Coed Div I SP San Jose Sting Men’s Rec IV West SP Fargo Budweiser Girls’ A 18-Under FP Rolette Wagon Wheel Young Guns Girls’ A 18-Under FP Coed Div II SP Salinas Rockets Men’s Div I 35-Over SP West Fargo Sperle Oklahoma Bismarck Broken Oar Masonry Adult North Carolina Adult Men’s Div II 35-Over SP Coed Div III SP Men’s A SP Mandan Shirt Shack Fargo The Box All-Star Plumbing Men’s C FP Warriors Men’s Div III 35-Over Coed Div IV Men’s B SP SP Fargo O’Leary’s Black Sox Men’s D SP Traill County Stove Pipe Youth Men’s C SP Men’s Div IV 35-Over BC Stone Men’s B Church SP SP Girls’ 10-Under FP APEX Baptist Mandan Knife River Dickinson Men’s D SP Ten Old Men Men’s A Modified Men’s Div I 40-Over SP Girls’ 12-Under FP Warriors Mandan Dust-Tex West Fargo Men’s E SP T & D Services Coed Church SP Men’s Div II 40-Over SP Girls’ 14-Under FP Mt. Zion Baptist West Fargo McCracken West Fargo Packers Men’s F SP Construction O’Connell’s Black Girls’ A 12-Under SP Men’s Masters 50 SP Valley City Cyclones Men’s A Church SP Mandan Dust-Tex Holy Cross Lutheran

284 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Men’s B Church SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Men’s C 9 Man Modified Girls’ 12-Under SP UCC Tulsa Shootout Metzler’s Cumberland Valley Men’s C Church SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Men’s Open 10 Man Girls’ 14-Under SP Central Baptist Oklahoma Select Modified Steel City Angels Our Gang Women’s D SP Pennsylvania Girls’ 18-Under SP Kaos Adult Men’s A 10 Man Mechanicsburg Modified Women’s E SP Men’s C Level 1 FP Summit Philadelphia Slammin D’Ambrosio Adult Men’s B 10 Man Coed A SP Men’s C Level 2 FP Modified Men’s 23-Under FP Whoosh Yuengling Chick’s Beavers Rec City Wide Coed B SP Men’s C SP Men’s C 10 Man Men’s A SP Ustacoods Craig’s Bullshippers Modified Pat’s Pub Bootlegger’s Coed C SP Men’s C Level 2 SP Men’s B SP UCC Oz J & P Auto Men’s Church 10 Man Chickie & Petes Modified Coed D SP Men’s D SP Indian’s Men’s C SP Shockers Trio’s/Bud Light Paddy Wacks II Men’s D 10 Man Coed A Church SP Men’s D East SP Modified Men’s D SP Glorieta Baptist Indians Geedey’s Towing Jergler’s Gearo’s Coed B Church SP Men’s D West SP Women’s C SP Men’s E SP CRC Revolutimarian Cedars Schemers Breaker’s Pats Steaks

Youth Men’s East Sp Women’s D SP Men’s Major Church SP Kelly’s Insurance Rival’s Beth Ami Girls’ 8-Under Coach Coed B SP Pitch Men’s Church SP Kevin Kitchnefsky Men’s 50-Over SP OK Rockers St. Paul’s Diansours Coed C East SP Girls’ 8-Under Machine Men’s Church FP House of Pizza Men’s 55-Over SP Pitch Willow Street Arno Washington Knockouts Coed D East SP Men’s 35-Over SP Brandywine Realty Trust Men’s Major Modified Girls’ 10-Under Rec FP Craig’s Bullshippers Los Amigos Lexington Chargers Youth Men’s 35-Over “D” Men’s A Modified Girls’ 10-Under Machine AAA SP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Wild Cats Pitch American Legion Post Tri County Thunder Hot Shots 143 Women’s B SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Lenegahans Girls’ A 10-Under FP Men’s 35-Over “D” Philadelphia Spirit Silver Muskogee Impact AA SP Women’s C SP Edinboro Hotel Girls’ B 12-Under FP Paddy Wacks Girls’ B 10-Under FP Mifflin Intensity Tulsa Blast Men’s 40-Over SP Women’s D SP Enola Sportsmen/Vector Girls’ A 14-Under FP Rhawnhurst Girls’ 12-Under Rec FP Warrington Blue Lady Stingers Men’s 45-Over A SP Thunder Women’s Modified Vector Security Athletic RC Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP OK Force 95 Men’s 45-Over D SP Mifflin County High Coed A SP Springfield AA Intensity Boathouse Girls’ B 12-Under FP Ms. Stix Men’s 50-Over SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Coed B SP T.N.T. Pittsburgh Power McGillins Girls’ C 12-Under FP Apache Lady Warriors Men’s 55-Over SP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Youth Springford White Lady Patriots Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ A 10-Under FP Homicide Men’s 60-Over SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Fishtown Lawton Lady Sooners Spring Ford A.A. White Sports Connection Girls’ B 10-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Men’s 65-Over SP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Holy Terrors Velocity Spring Ford A.A. White Juniata Jaguars Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ C 14-Under FP Men’s B 9 Man Modified Girls’ 10-Under SP Somerton Riot McGillicuddy’s Mechanicsburg Girls’ B 12-Under FP Lansing

285 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Youth Men’s Master FP Tardel Riptide Scarlett O’Hara’s Girls’ A 10-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Corona Angels Men’s 16-Inch A SP Bustleton Elimenators Lagers/Coors Light Girls’ B 10-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Placentia/Yorba Linda Men’s 14-Inch A SP Vogt CA TNT Fastpitch Girls Softball Lagers/Coors Light Girls’ B 16-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Girls’ C 10-Under FP Men’s A 35-Over 16- Burholme Riptide Imperial Beach Girls Inch SP Softball Lagers/Coors Light Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Flames Rippers Girls’ A 12-Under FP Men’s B 14-Inch SP Corona Angels Kranz Bombers Girls’ B 18-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Mitchell Shockwave Girls’ B 12-Under FP Men’s B 35-Over 14- Bonita Valley Girls Inch SP Piedmont Virginia Girls’ B 16-Under FP Softball Strudles Liquor Adult Aftershock Girls’ C 12-Under FP Men’s C 14-Inch SP Men’s D SP Girls’ A 18-Under FP San Marcos Girls Dakota Fiberglass County Ballers Elimenators Softball Women’s Div 1 SP Coed B SP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Muth Electric Six N Six Cyclones SoCal Jets Women’s Div 2 SP Youth Sacramento Girls’ B 14-Under FP MLC/Auto Works Youth Los Alamitos Girls Girls’ A 12-Under FP Softball Women’s Div 3 SP Baseliners Girls’ A 10-Under FP Bud Lights American River Girls’ C 14-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP La Canada Girls Softball Women’s Div 4 East SP Vienna Star Girls’ B 10-Under FP Sodak Construction CA Breeze Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Firecrackers Women’s Div 4 West SP Shamrocks Girls’ A 12-Under FP Sharps/Woodys/McK- Fire & Ice Girls’ B 16-Under FP eevers Girls’ A 18-Under FP El Segundo Girls Richmond Ruckus Girls’ B 12-Under FP Softball Women’s Div 5 East SP Five Cities Huron Heat Portland Girls’ A 18-Under FP Adult Girls’ A 14-Under FP 3rd Degree Women’s Div 5 West SP CA Breeze A-1 Chicks Men’s A FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Team CR Girls’ B 14-Under FP Fontana Girls Softball Women’s Div 6 East SP Aftershock Sparkz Men’s C FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP South Dakota Paola’s Lady Magic Adult Women’s Div 6 West SP Men’s C SP Buffalo Station A-1/Haras Girls’ B 16-Under FP Men’s Div I SP Elk Grove Thunder Sanford Power Women’s 35-Over Up- Men’s D SP per Div SP HIS/Squires Girls’ A 18-Under FP Men’s Div II SP Bud Light/Legion Roseville Heat PokerStars.com Men’s E SP Women’s 35-Over Blacksox Southern California Lower Div SP Adult Men’s Div III East SP Juggernauts Men’s A Industrial SP Hungerford/Cubbies Univar Men’s C SP Coed B SP Ruffnecks Men’s Div III West SP Martinmaas Dairy Men’s 50-Over SP Sparks Wilkins Trucking Men’s D SP Coed C SP PSC Men’s Div IV East SP Mad Dogs Coed B SP Sodak Construction/ City Bible Women’s A FP Dakota Catering Youth SoCal Hurricanes Coed C SP Men’s Div IV West SP Girls’ A 12-Under FP TDO Ballerz Women’s B FP Middle Border Estates Flames Red Scorpions Youth Men’s A FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Women’s C FP Crow Bar Lady T’s Girls’ A 10-Under FP OC Impact Mojo Angels Men’s C FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Hartford Explosion SD Fusion Black

286 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Girls’ B 14-Under FP Girls’ A 8-Under Girls’ B 12-Under FP Men’s D SP Platte Velocity Top Fuel Fastpitch Dan’s Sports Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ 10-Under Rec Girls’ A 14-Under FP Men’s E SP SD Flash Lady Astros Texas Travelers Beef O Brady’s Girls’ B 16-Under FP Girls’ B 10-Under FP Girls’ B 14-Under FP Coed A SP KMIT Wolf Pack Xplosion Lovering Auto Sales Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ 12-Under Rec Girls’ A 16-Under FP Youth SD Flash Lady Cats Texas Sting Girls’ 10-Under FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Lakeland Thunder Springfield Impact Rag Dolls Girls’ 12-Under FP Girls’ 12-Under SP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Plant City Lil Raiders Zimmels Furniture Twisters Kaos Girls’ 12-Under FP Girls’ 14-Under SP Girls’ 14-Under Rec Girls’ B 18-Under FP Orlando No Fear Black Northeast Orthodontics Hurricanes Poney Express Girls’ 12-Under FP Girls’ 16-Under SP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Utah Tampa Mustangs Walt Spiegel Construction Fury Youth Girls’ 14-Under FP Girls’ 18-Under SP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Hatters Gold Bumble Bee Gibson Force Charge 95 Wisconsin Boys’ 12-Under FP Girls’ B 16-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP Adult Pizza Ranch Hohenwald Outlaws Sliders Men’s C SP Boys’ A 12-Under FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ A 16-Under FP Fleet Feet Get N’ Go White Lightning SL Flames Men’s D SP Boys’ 14-Under FP Girls’ B 18-Under FP Girls’ A 18-Under FP Budweiser/Electro-Glo Soukup Bulldozers Team Force Pegasus Men’s B 10-Man Boys’ 18-Under FP Texas Modified Explosion Washington Adult Youth Press Box 1 Boys’ 12-Under SP Men’s B FP Men’s C 10-Man Housemaster Girls’ A 10-Under FP Titan Patriots Fastpitch Modified Antiques Boys’ 14-Under SP Men’s B SP Housemaster Girls’ B 10-Under FP Houston Sports Patriots Fastpitch Women’s A Modified Chambers Hill/Bayport Boys’ 16-Under SP Men’s C SP Shell Dollar Loan Center Girls’ A 12-Under FP Texas Steel Patriots Coed A SP Boys’ 18-Under SP Men’s D SP AFT Coors Light/Ida’s Prostrollo Girls’ B 12-Under FP Barley Legal Vipers Youth Tennessee Men’s A Industrial Girls’ A 14-Under FP Adult Solutia Stars The Explosion Girls’ A 10-Under FP Point FP Men’s C Open Men’s 35-Over SP Girls’ B 14-Under FP CCOT/Construct All/ Budweiser DPS Snohomish County Girls’ B 10-Under FP Bugs Express Oshkosh Raiders Women’s C SP Men’s D Open Lady Blue Jays Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Absolute Softball Eruption FP Kenosha Cyclones Coed A SP Men’s E Open East Ryde-R-Die Girls’ B 16-Under FP Girls’ B 12-Under FP Mo’Town Canes Yakima Stealers Blue Waukesha Firebirds Youth Men’s E Open West Girls’ A 18-Under FP Girls’ A 14-Under FP D&D Softball Girls’ A 10-Under FP Washington Glacier Lightning Black Texas Red Hots Men’s B Church Girls’ B 14-Under FP Union Church Girls’ B 10-Under FP West Central Florida Kaukauna Ghosts Lake Jackson Lightning Adult Youth Girls’ A 16-Under FP Girls’ A 12-Under FP Men’s B SP Wisconsin Bandits Girls’ 8-Under Rec Fire Balls Softball Russell’s Auto Body Diamond Dolls Girls’ B 16-Under FP Men’s D SP Freedom American Pop

287 2008 LOCAL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONS

Girls’ A 18-Under FP Racine Belles Girls’ B 18-Under FP Wisconsin Elite

Wyoming Adult Men’s Div I SP Sonny’s Men’s Div II SP Psychos Men’s Div III SP Regulators Women’s D SP Kates Coed B SP Dave’s Flow

Youth Girls’ B 12-Under FP Cheyenne Extreme Girls’ 12-Under Rec FP Cheyenne Ravens Girls’ B 12-Under FP Cheyenne Extreme Girls’ 14-Under Rec FP Cheyenne Comets Girls’ B 14-Under FP Cheyenne Extreme Girls’ B 16-Under FP Cheyenne Extreme Girls’ 18-Under Rec FP Cheyenne Devils Girls’ B 18-Under FP Cheyenne Extreme

288

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