April
2024 Newsletter
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Softball Rules Changes Impact Dealers
The rule of thumb in sports is that change is ever-present and change is always on the horizon. That statement especially applies to the world of high school fast-pitch softball. According to the NFHS’ Sandy Searcy, high school fast-pitch softball continues to evolve, due to constant oversight from the NFHS Softball Rules Committee.

“Rule 1-8-6 permits electronic information to be transmitted to the dugout from anywhere outside of live ball area,” says Searcy. “The rule change reflects current technology and still requires that electronic devices used for coaching purposes may only be used in the dugout, but does not stipulate where the video is recorded or how it is transmitted.”

The NFHS Softball Rules Committee is also focused on smaller items and accessories used in fast-pitch softball.

“Rule 3-2-5 removes the color restriction for headbands and ribbons,” adds Searcy. “The NFHS Softball Rules Committee also specified where a wristband with a playbook/playcard may be worn. If worn by the pitcher, the wristband with a playbook/playcard must be worn on the non-pitching wrist or arm.”

In less than three years, there will be a minor change to what will legally be allowed to appear on high school softball uniforms.

“Rule 3-2-2 mandates that beginning January 1, 2027, uniforms may only bear a single manufacturer's logo, school name, school logo, mascot and/or the participant's name. Advertisements, messages, team slogans, etc., will no longer be permitted,” says Searcy.

Searcy says that in the very near future, the NFHS’ Softball Rules Committee will be discussing issues such as electronic communication between coaches and the catchers and/or the defense.

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