Instructional Division Softball Rules

Introduction

The rules outlined herein are to provide guidance and instruction to Pembroke Youth Softball “Instructional Division” for Pre-K and Kindergartners and for coaches and players to administer a fun and safe softball program. “Instructional Division” softball’s goal is to introduce and improve player’s basic softball fundamentals of throwing, catching, hitting, and base running. Fun, safety, and sportsmanship should be the priority. Coaches are required to participate enthusiastically and provide positive and constructive encouragement when needed to foster the player’s development and enjoyment of the sport. When on the field, coaches of all teams are to act as a positive role model for all players and parents and assist when needed in encouraging positive behavior and providing baseball instruction for all players regardless of what team they are on. 

Game Play

• The “game” is scheduled for 90 minutes. This time should be split with a portion dedicated to practice either both teams together or each team practicing separately on a shared field. Coaches will discuss when the “game” portion will start. Typically, the time is split in half (45 minutes practice and 45 minutes game); however, as the season progresses, there could be more game time than practice time. This is to be determined at the start of the session. 
• At least 1-2 coaches from each team will be needed in the field during the game. If the teams have progressed to coach pitch, the batting team’s coach will pitch. 
• The fielding team will have players at the following positions: pitcher, 1st base, 2nd base, shortstop, and 3rd base. The remaining players will be in the outfield. Players are to rotate through the positions so they can learn about each spot on the field. 
• Unless postponed due to weather or other circumstances by the division director in consultation with the coaches (or in extreme cases the executive board), games shall be played according to the league schedule. 
• Rules are subject to change and additional rules may be added pending approval from the league and/or board of directors as the season progresses. 

Pitching 

• At the start of the season, all players are to use the tee. Coaches should gradually introduce coach pitching as the season progresses. Coaches should encourage the kindergarten aged players to attempt coach pitch as the next level (Farm) integrates coach pitch into their season. This will help prepare the player for the next level. 
• There is no kid pitch at this level. 

Batting

• For the “game” portion, each team will be allowed to bat through their entire roster in an inning.
• No balls or strikeouts as players are using a tee. 
• No outs will be recorded. Players are encouraged to make the out at first base but the hitter will stay on base and be a base runner no matter if they were safe or out. There are no doubles or triples. Only the last batter of the inning can run around all the bases for a “homerun”. Existing base runners will run “station to station” before the last batter is announced by the batting team then all runners will continue to home plate. 

Base Running

• There are no doubles, triples or homeruns unless is the last batter of the inning. 
• Runner can leave the base once the ball is hit. 
• Defensive players without the softball are not allowed to interfere with a baserunner. 

Equipment

• Softball bats only - baseball bats will not be allowed. 
• Bats are to be hung on the bat rack or against the fence outside the dugout and out of the field of play. 
• Bats are not allowed in the dugout.
• Recommended bat size for this age group is 22-24 inches. 
• PYBS will provide bows and jerseys. Each player should have athletic, softball, sweatpants, or legging as well as sneakers or softball cleats. Cleats are not required for this level. Shorts are not recommended. 
• Players should come prepared with a water bottle as well as have on sunscreen and bug spray. 
• Batting helmets with a cage are required.
• Fielding face masks are required. 
• A glove is required. Recommended size is 10-11 inches.