Rules of softball
Important safety rules
1. No sliding to first base - you can overrun first base as long as you
touch it. No sliding to other bases where not necessary.
2. Drop the bat when you run - don't throw it behind you.
3. Base fielders must step away from their base when the ball is not
being thrown to that base, to avoid the runner colliding with them when
touching the base. Otherwise, the fielder should stand on the edge of
the base to allow the runner to reach the base without colliding with
the fielder.
4. Pitchers must never pitch from in front of the pitching box.
5. Batters must not hit the ball in front of the batting box (i.e. no
"running down the wicket" to hit the ball).
6. Players can be given out for dangerous play (I gave a player out in
the 2001 league final for sliding to first base). Please make sure your
players know these safety rules.
Banned bats
This season there is a ban on composite bats on the grounds of safety.
Banned bats are strictly prohibited in our
league. Not because they give an advantage but because they are
dangerous. Team captains are responsible for ensuring that their
equipment complies with this rule.
You can find a list of the banned bats
here.
These bats are not appropriate for recreational softball and, as we have
a lot of beginners each year, are more likely to cause injury. Last year
a couple of experienced players got hit. It's only a matter of time
before a really serious injury occurs and I'm keen to avoid this
happening.
If you have one of these bats you will not be permitted to use it.
Please note that your team will be penalised if any player or players
persist in using it. I propose that two league points will be deducted
for each game the bat is used.
Links to equipment suppliers can be found
here.
If this rules out all the bats of any team, and a replacement cannot be
found before a match, please notify the opposition and ask if you can
use their bats.
Many thanks for your co-operation in advance.
Police
The local park police are on 7935 1259 but the number is not always
manned. If that doesn't work, try 7706 7272.
First Aid
First aiders can sometimes be found in the cricket pavilion in the
middle of the park. If you need an ambulance, you need to dial 999.
Pitch Map
Click on the image to open the full size map
