Today's meeting of the BOD addressed the implementation of the rules recently approved by the BOD and the change to the non league playing schedule (read earlier start time). It was determined that Tuesday, 30 April 2013 would be the effective date for both. Let me start with the easiest change first.
Starting Tuesday, games will begin promptly at 0900 hr. Players need to sign in or call ahead by 0830 hours to get on the roster to play.
Now for the rules changes that will also go into effect on Tuesday. As you know we appointed a rules committee that looked at all suggested rule changes and made recommendations to the BOD. These were then voted on by the BOD and if approved, made a part of the League Rules. The new rules will be posted on the web site prior to the implementation date so everyone can read and understand them. I will attempt to capture the main changes. If I do not mention a change then you should assume the rule remains in effect as previously published.
1. The governing rules will be changed from ASA to ISA. This was driven by the fact that the Florida Half Century follows ISA rules and that ISA has rules written specifically for senior softball. Complete ISA rules can be accessed through the web site.
2. We have redefined the location of the pitching screen and have amended the rule to state that the first ball hit into the screen will be a strike. Subsequent balls hit into the screen will be called dead. You cannot strike out by hitting into the screen.
3. ISA running rules have been adopted with one exception for players in the National League. The major change means that players in the American League can no longer have a runner from home. They must reach first base on their own. Our exception is that the National League players can still have a runner from home. If they do use a runner the old rules about advancement beyond first base applies. Once reaching base a courtesy runner can be substituted. During subsequent at bats the player must again reach first base on his own but can take multiple bases.
4. There will be no intentional walks allowed during non league play. Only one intentional walk will be allowed per team during league play. Umpires will call a 'no-pitch' when it is determined that the pitcher is not attempting to throw a strike.
5. During league play each rostered player must play at least four innings on defense. Pool players cannot play more innings on defense than any rostered player.
6. In the event no coach/umpire is provided all appealed calls will be determined in favor of the team in the field.
7. League play will have two divisions based on established criteria. National League will consist of players generally over seventy years of age, all females players regardless of age, and American League players that have petitioned the BOD and been approved to play "out of league".
The American League will consist of male players between the ages of 55 and generally 69, and National League players that have requested and been approved to play "out of league".
Players desiring to play "out of league" must submit a request to the BOD stating the rational for the request. The request must be received by the BOD no later than 14 days prior to the draft each year.
The BOD appreciates the input made by league players in bringing these issues forward and thanks the rules committee for their work in presenting their recommendations to the BOD. It is the BODs hope that approved changes will better the playing experience for all our members. If some fall short, do not be disheartened because, as we did this year, all rules and requested changes brought forward by the players will be reviewed by the committee for inclusion next year.
The Commissioner
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