Softball

Director: Chad Robinson 817-941-2509

Equipment Requirements:

Bats

The bat shall be a smooth cylinder with a knob. Only bats that pass through a 2-1/4-inch (5.7150 cm) diameter bat ring are legal. Each bat shall be
no more than 2-1/4 inches (5.7150 cm) in diameter at its thickest part, no more than 34 inches (86.360 cm) in length, and not exceed 38 ounces (1077.30 g) in weight. There shall be no devices, attachments, or wrappings that cause the handle to become flush with the knob. All bats shall meet the USA/ASA bat performance standard. Laser etching, other than on the barrel is permissible.
a. All bats must bear the USA/ASA approved certification mark and must not be listed on an USA/ASA Banned Bat list unless it bears the USA/ASA approved
recertification mark; or
b. Must be included on a list of approved bat models published by USA/ASA; or
c. Must be in the sole opinion and discretion of the umpire, have been manufactured prior to 2000 and, if tested, would comply with the USA/ASA bat performance standards then in effect.
d. Safety grip or cork, tape (no smooth plastic tape) or composition material may not exceed two layers of tape and must be a continuous spiral. Any resin or pine tar is permissible on this part of the bat. Tape must be at least 10 inches long and not more than 15 inches.

USA Softball Bat Certification/Decertification lists

Batting Helmets

Batting helmets with a face guard must be worn while batting, on deck, or running bases.

Fielder's Masks

Fielder's masks must be worn by all infield players

Catcher's Gear

Full catcher's gear is required for players 8u and up. Players in the catcher's position in 6u must wear at least a catcher's helmet or batting helmet with a mask.

Cleats

No metal cleats below 14u. No metal cleats allowed on pitching mats.

PONY Rules 2024:

Softball

Interlock Exceptions:

• 6u modified tee ball
  • 3 pitches from coach then two chances off the tee if they miss
    • No unlimited fouls
  • If they hit the pitch at all they run, off tee must touch or go past the circle
  • Runners get unlimited bases until stopped unless ball is out of play, then just one base
  • Throw ball don’t run them down
  • Time can be called
    • When lead runner is stopped
• All age levels are 5 runs per half-inning