2024 BFP Division Rules

BENICIA FASTPITCH 2023 

GIRLS’ SOFTBALL 

OFFICIAL LEAGUE RULES 

Goal: To teach the fundamentals and play the game of fastpitch softball in such a manner that is enjoyable and meaningful. Secondly, to develop through the game of softball those qualities of character, honesty,  sportsmanship, fair play, maturity, citizenship, and leadership. 

A. League Description 

1. Benicia Fastpitch Girls’ Softball (BFP) will provide an organized softball program to players on a first come, first-served basis. BFP will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, or national origin.

 2. Benicia Fastpitch actively recruits and encourages girls from Benicia and the surrounding area to  participate. 

3. Divisions and Birth Years: 

a.PeeWee Divison: (3&4 years) must be 3 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the current league year.

a. Rookie Division: (5&6 years) must be 5 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the  current league year. 

b. Farms Division: (7&8 years) must be 7 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the  current league year. 

c. Junior Division: (9&10 years) must be 9 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the  current league year. 

d. Minor Division: (11&12 years) must be 11 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the  current league year. 

e. Senior Division: (13-18 years) must be 13 years old on December 31st, of the year prior to the  current league year. 

4. In the event that a division cannot be formed due to lack of players, all players will be  evaluated and assigned to another division at the discretion of the BFP Executive Board. 5. All girls playing in the BFP program shall be amateurs as determined by the USA Softball  Association (formerly ASA). 

6. Admission fees will not be allowed at home league games. 

7. All League teams shall be USA Softball registered. 

B. Uniforms 

1. Approved uniforms -- All Divisions 

a. BFP t-shirt and pants. 

b. BFP tube socks 

c. Caps/visors are required at Rookie, Farm, Junior Divisions. 

d. Caps are not required at Minor and Senior Division (visors are optional). 

e. Mouth guards or face masks are required in the Farm. Junior, Minor and Senior Divisions. f. Player sweatshirts must be ordered through Benicia Fastpitch. 

2. All players must wear shoes with rubber cleats for safety purposes. NO STREET SHOES PERMITTED. Metal  spike may be worn in Senior Division only. 

3. During games, all players must wear the approved uniform provided by the League. All players must  have their shirts/jerseys tucked into their pants while participating in the games. 

4. All players must wear batting helmets at all times while outside of the dugout on offense. All players  must wear batting helmets equipped with an approved NOCSAE face mask\guard installed. PENALTY:  Batter/ base runner shall be called out 

5. Any extra clothing (jacket, sweater, sweat shirt/pants, etc.) must be worn beneath approved uniform  while on the playing field. Exception: Rule waived if agreed to by both managers and the umpire in  charge. 

6. Players will vote on a team name. 

7. Any modification of BFP provided uniforms is prohibited. Any player found to be wearing a modified  uniform will be immediately removed from the game and will be forbidden from playing with her team  until the player or player's parent/guardian purchases and receives a valid replacement uniform. The  player/parent/guardian will be required to reimburse BFP for the full cost of the uniform item in advance  of receiving the replacement item. 

C. Protest 

1. Protest: A Manager wishing to protest a game must have the umpire sign the scorebook before the  next pitch. Any protest of a game or act of misconduct by personnel is to be presented IN WRITING,  within twenty-four (24) hours to the League President, along with a $25.00 fee. The Protest will be  evaluated and both Managers will be notified regarding the decision. If the decision is against the  manager who raised the protest, the $25.00 fee will go into the BFP softball general fund. If the decision is

ruled in favor of the protest, the fee will be returned and the situation will be handled according to the  official Softball Rule Book, Rule 11. If the protesting Manager feels the ruling is unjust, the situation may be decided by a vote of the Executive Board. All Managers should read and know this section. 

D. Conduct 

1. GENERAL CONDUCT RULES 

❖❖ Set a good example for participants and fans to follow. 

❖❖ Respect officials and their judgment and abide by the rules of the event. 

❖❖ Treat all coaches, managers, participants & spectators with respect. 

❖❖ Display good sportsmanship at all times & instruct participants in sportsmanship and demand they  also display good sportsmanship. 

❖❖ Coach in a positive manner and do not use derogatory comments or abusive language. ❖❖ Provide a safe environment for all players. 

⮚⮚ Failure to abide by these rules or the Parent Code of Ethics is determined by the Benicia Fastpitch  Board and subject to discipline by the BFP Executive Board resulting in possible game suspension or  suspension from coaching or managing for the season. 

1. Spectator Conduct: All spectators cheering for any team must abide by the General Conduct Rules,  and that team Manager will be responsible for controlling their partisan spectators be they parents,  relatives, or friends. Umpires or Board Member will give ONE (*) warning to the Manager of the team in  question to correct or control his/her group’s behavior. PENALTY: (*) Forfeiture of the game if, in the  judgment of the umpire, a potentially hazardous or unacceptable condition exists. 

2. Manager/Coach Conduct: All manager/coaches must abide by the following General Conduct  Rules. Umpires or Board Member will give ONE (*) warning to the manager to correct or control his/her  own or other coach’s behavior. If a second occurrence happens, the penalty is a (*) forfeiture of the  game. 

*Warning: Umpire must call time out and verbally inform Manager of his/her infraction. This includes  spectator, Manager, and Coaches conduct. 

*Forfeiture: Loss of game by team committing infraction no matter what the score is at the time.  Note: Warnings and forfeitures may not be appealed. Umpire has the final decision on all infractions. 

3. Parental Code of Ethics (from the BFP Registration Form) 

I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care, and encouragement for my child participating in  youth sports by following this Code of Ethics Pledge: 

• I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and  officials at every game, practice or other youth sports event. 

• I will place the emotional and physical well being of my child ahead of a personal desire to win. • I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment. 

• I will support coaches and officials working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and  enjoyable experience for all. 

• I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free of drugs, tobacco and alcohol, and will  refrain from their use at all youth sports events. 

• I will remember that the game is for youth – not adults. 

• I will do my very best to make youth sports fun for my child. 

• I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, fans, and officials with respect regardless of race,  sex, creed or ability. 

• I promise to help my child enjoy the youth sports experience by doing whatever I can, and such as  being a respectful fan, assisting with coaching, or providing transportation. 

• I pledge to “honor the game.” I understand the importance of setting a good example for my child.  No matter what others may do, I will show respect for all involved in the game including coaches,  players, opponents, opposing fans, and officials. I understand that officials make mistakes. If the  official makes a “bad” call against my team, I will honor the game and be silent! 

5. Use of profanity, alcohol, or tobacco on the playing field or dugouts during league games or practices  is strictly forbidden. If a girl is in uniform, she cannot smoke! Managers, Coaches, and Scorekeepers must  leave the field to smoke. Penalty: Umpire has the power to eject any player, Manager or Coach from the  game for violating this rule. This includes an entire team if necessary in which case the game will be  forfeited to the opposing team. Protests pertaining to this rule will not receive consideration. 6. Abusive language (profane or otherwise) directed towards any member of BFP Softball is  unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

E. Registration 

1. Girls will register, pay registration fees, and present a birth certificate photocopy at sign- ups. The  League President or other authorized persons will confirm all information and keep it confidential. No girl  will be refused the opportunity to play due to the lack of financial support from her parents or guardians.  The Player Agent will coordinate the fee waiver with the President. 

2. After the number of teams is set, registration will continue to be open until all teams are equal in  number based on a preset limit. EXCEPTION: If a manager chooses to have an additional player over the  preset limit, other teams will not be forced to equalize numbers of players. Late registrants (after the  draft) will be placed on teams on specific dates designated by the BFP Board. The Player Agent and  Division President will assign late registrants to teams based on specific team needs in that division. 

After the number of teams is established and managers selected, the Player Agent will not accept  players over the maximum established by the division (EXCEPTION: Unless all of the following apply: It is  before tryouts, a suitable manager is available, there are enough players to add another team; but will  place them on a waiting list. If a team is willing to pick up an additional player from the waiting list, it will  be optional and will not force other teams to add another player. The first player from the waiting list will  be assigned. 

3. The annual registration fee shall set by the Benicia Fastpitch Board, and will include cost of the  standard picture package, BFP t-shirt, socks and visor. The second (2nd) player from a family will be  charged $70, and any additional siblings will be charged $60. Any city-imposed player fee and on-line  registration fee will be added to the registration fee. Players dropping out of the League prior to the first  game may have their registration fee refunded, less the cost of issued uniform, city-imposed fee and on line registration fee. All others will forfeit this fee unless special circumstances and they receive a waiver  from the President and Commissioner. An additional fundraising fee may be applied. 

4. The league no longer requires a volunteer fee or for families to participate in 4 hours of volunteering  during the season. If a family received a scholarship then they are required to complete up to 8 hours  (per child) of volunteering (snack shack, manager, coach or other approved position) during the season. 5. Any “A” status Outlaw Team player will not be required to register as a BFP player or be assessed any  of the fees associated with being a BFP player, including fund raising. BFP shall not incur any cost for any  “A” roster player. Any cost incurred by BFP in regards to a Outlaw “A” traveling team will be assessed by  the League President and Treasurer on a per team basis and reviewed by the Outlaw Committee prior to  that team’s acceptance of the BFP related costs. These costs could be reimbursed to BFP through  Outlaw participation in running BFP clinics or providing labor on work for BFP related projects. 

F. Managers, Coaches, and Umpires 

1. Managers: Anyone, male or female. 18 years of age or older approved by the President. The League  STRONGLY RECOMMENDS that a female adult (18 years or above) be present at all practice sessions and  games. 

2. Coaches: Rookie, Farms, Junior, and Minor Divisions-anyone 16 years or older. Sixteen and 17 year olds  are eligible to be Assistant coaches. Senior Division – anyone 18 years or older. 

3. All managers and coaches will provide their drivers license number, date of birth and address to be  registered through USA Softball. They will not be allowed to coach or manage once games begin  unless they have registered through USA Softball and passed their background check. 

4. Umpires: Will be scheduled by the Umpire In-Chief and are in charge of all aspects of the game. All  umpires should be certified as having attended a BFP Softball Umpires’ Clinic and registered through  USA Softball. 

5. In the Junior, Minor and Senior division the home team will be responsible for providing a scorekeeper  for the game. They will fill out a scorecard signed by the opposing manager and umpires then turned  into the snack bar. The division presidents will the use these cards to keep standings. 

6. All managers and coaches must complete Benicia Fastpitch Manager/Coaching Application, USA  Softball ACE Certification, and be approved by Benicia Fastpitch Board. 

G. Safety and Accidents 

1. Team Managers will be responsible to see that all players’ original applications with signed medical  releases and first aid kits are available at ALL games and practices. 

2. The Commissioner, League President, and Managers will investigate all injuries and accidents related  to BFP, keep league records, and be responsible for ensuring that all players who have been under  doctor’s care secure a written medical release BEFORE returning to play. NOTE: The Manager must  present a full medical release to the League President within 24 hours of allowing an injured player to  return. 

3. Managers shall be responsible for replenishing any used first aid items, either on their own or through  the Equipment Manager prior to the next game or practice. The Treasurer will handle expense refunds if  a receipt is provided. 

4. A league provided first aid kit will be maintained at the snackbar.

H. Player Selection 

1. Player selection shall be used in the best interest of the players, to obtain and maintain league parity. All divisions shall follow the selection process outlined below except for the Rookie and Farm Divisions 

2. Draft Guidelines: All players, including coach and manager’s daughters, will attend player evaluations.  The order of player selection shall be made by blind draw, and be reversed at the conclusion of each  round. Manager and coach’s daughters, experienced pitchers & catchers, as well as ‘Elite Players’ 

(see  definition in #3 below) will not be placed in draft selection unless assessments are required

 (see  Protected Players section). All managers start with a first pick in the first round unless they have twins or  exercise a sister option prior to the start of the actual draft selection (See Protected Players section). 

Only  one (1) manager per team will attend and participate in the draft. 

Adjustments shall be made to  achieve league parity. 

3. Placement of Pitchers and Catchers and ‘Elite Players’: All pitchers and catchers will be identified and  ranked prior to the beginning of the draft. Managers and coaches with daughters who are pitchers may not  necessarily play on the same team. This is based on equal distribution of available pitchers.  

4. Exempt Draftees: All named manager’s immediate family (daughter, granddaughter, etc.) will be  identified and ranked within the division. Said players will be placed in the agreed upon draft position for  that manager. The draft will proceed in order of the blind draw and in serpentine order such as 1 through 8, then 8 through 1. 

5. Player Trades: Any player trades will take place after all of the girls have been placed on teams. No  trading will be allowed during the selection process. Trades will be completed and final upon closure of  the draft. 

6. Draft Eligibility: All Players are required to attend pre-season player evaluations for the Junior, Minor,  and Senior Divisions. At the conclusion of player evaluations for a division, all the division managers at the  draft will openly discuss the players that missed the tryouts. All players will be eligible for the draft  including those that missed tryouts. 

7. The team Manager shall be the only spokesperson for a team at the player selection (draft). Each  Manager will be allowed one coach at the draft. That coach's daughter(s) will not be considered a  protected player for that manager. 

8. Late registrants (following draft) will be placed on a waiting list and shall be assigned as needed (by date and time of registration) by the Player Agent, regardless of prior team assignments. 

I. Player Moves/Parent Request 

1. Sisters can remain together if in the same age group. However, if in different age groups, parents must  make a special request in writing before the formation of teams to allow the younger sister to move up to  the older group. Maximum age difference is one (1) year. In no event can an older sister play in a  younger group (Subject to Rule 1-3) 

2. If a player wishes to change teams during the season, all teams shall have an equal opportunity to  receive that player, if the President and Commissioner agree to the change. If no team wishes to pick up  the player, then no move can be made. 

3. Special request by parents to prematurely move a player up an older division, must be approved by  the League President and Commissioner, and only if in the opinion of the player’s previous manager the  move will be in her (the player’s) best interest. New players will be assigned strictly according to age.  Generally, the League does not advocate moving players up to an older division. 

J. Player Evaluations and Clinics 

1. Player Evaluations: All Senior Division, Minor Division, and Junior Division players will be required to  participate in a player evaluation prior to draft. Exception: There are no player evaluations in the Rookie  or Farm Division. The player evaluations will consist of basic skills (batting, catching, throwing, and  running). The evaluations will in no way determine eligibility, but will serve as a guide for drafts. 2. Clinics: Clinics may be held each year to provide instruction in fundamentals for players, coaches,  and umpires. 

K. Game Changes 

1. Game Postponement: The BFP master scheduler is responsible for obtaining the following dates:  Benicia schools spring break, BMS Washington D.C. trip, BHS prom, and all Benicia schools open house  dates. These dates should be obtained before scheduling any BFP league games. Every effort should be  made to try to play games in accordance with the original schedule. Games may be postponed for the  reason of not being able to field a team, only if requested more than 48 hours prior to game start,with

the mutual agreement of both managers and the appropriate Divisional Vice President. NOTE: The  appropriate Divisional Vice President must notify the Umpire In-Chief, Concessions Chair, and Field  Maintenance Coordinator. If not mutually agreed to the game shall be forfeited to the team able to  field a team. 

2. Game Rescheduling: It shall be the responsibility, within 48 hours of the originally scheduled game, of  the manager requesting said postponement to present a date and time for rescheduling, which is  mutually satisfactory to the other manager and the appropriate Vice President. NOTE: the appropriate  Divisional Vice President must notify The Umpire In- Chief, Concessions Chair, and Field Maintenance  Coordinator. PENALTY: Game shall be forfeited to the team not requesting original postponement. 

3. Game Cancellation Due to Weather: In the event that the field maintenance personnel feel the field  conditions are not playable, they shall contact the appropriate Vice President who will make the final  decision and contact the opposing team managers, Umpire-in-Chief and Field Maintenance  Coordinator. If no decision has been made prior to game time, all concerned will show up for the game  and a mutual decision will be made on the spot by both Managers and the Umpire in charge. If  canceled, it shall be the responsibility of the Divisional Vice President to re-schedule the game on a date  and time that is mutually satisfactory to both teams. Managers are urged to be reasonable regarding  rules K-1, K-2, and K-3 in order to play a full schedule. 

L. Miscellaneous 

1. In order to promote attendance, participation, and the “team” concept, parents and players may be  required to sign a contract on the team level. The contract shall consist of a commitment to attend all  team practices and games, as well a timely notification if unable to do so. 

2. It shall be the responsibility of each manager to hold a team meeting each year with all parents. Team  and League policies and parental responsibilities should be stressed at this time. Some topics to be  discussed include: Fundraiser participation, the need of an adult female presence at games and  practices, and player attendance. 

M. Special Player and Team Selection-Outlaws 

1. USA Softball “A, B, & C ” (if applicable) Outlaw teams:

The league may establish teams annually in  the 8 and under, 10 and under, 12 and under, 14 and under, 16 and under, and 18 and under playing  divisions as defined by the USA Softball JO age qualifications. The league may authorize up to two  Outlaw teams in each playing division, teams must be different levels (i.e. “B and C” or “A and B”). The  Outlaw team’s season will run year round as allowed by USA Softball rules. 

a. The League may annually budget $400.00, up to a maximum of $1,600.00 per qualifying  Outlaw “B” team for each tournament played. Qualification for funds shall be based on BFP  player registration (and participation in house league functions and fundraisers). Players will be  required to pay an annual participation fee of at least $200.00 in the 8u, 10u, 12u, 14u, 16u, and  18u age divisions. Uniform cost is additional. Additional funding will be the responsibility of each  team. No one will be refused the right to play due to financial hardship, pending the review of  the Outlaw committee. Team budgets will be subject to review monthly by the Outlaw  committee. If 

b. The Outlaw Committee will create budgets for each team. The Outlaw Committee will review  and accept the team budget prior to any actual costs for that Outlaw team. Each Outlaw  Team will have verified money in their budget prior to incurring any expenses. Costs will be paid  through Director issued checks from each teams’ available funds. If a team has no monies there  will be no check issued. A manager spending his own money does so at the risk of his budget  having no funds to reimburse his/hers cost. The accepted budget will be updated and reviewed  monthly at the Outlaw Committee meetings. The Outlaw Director or appointed treasurer will  maintain the budgets and issue the checks for team costs. The Outlaw Director shall hold an  administrative reserve for each Outlaw team. The Outlaw Director with help from the treasurer  will be responsible for all current and year end fiscal and tax reporting. Monies not spent by the  end of the annual playing season will be directed back into the Outlaw general fund and the  Outlaw committee will create a new budget for the following season. Budgets will commence  on December 1. 

c. Sponsors: Any TEAM is allowed to get corporate sponsors at a 60/40 split. 60% will go directly  to the team obtaining the sponsor and 40% will stay in the Outlaw general fund. 

d. Scholarships: Any PLAYER is allowed to receive a scholarship. Players receiving a donation to  the scholarship fund will receive the funds directed to her player’s fee and equipment costs.  Any monies donated above the players’ requirements will be treated under the rules of sponsor  donations. 

e. Fundraising: All teams will participate in Outlaw sponsored fundraisers. During the off-season  all fundraising will be done corporately. Teams doing individual fundraisers during the Outlaw  season will receive all funds minus any outgoing expenses. There will be no individual “B” team  fundraising during non-season play.

f. Family Volunteer: Each family will be required to volunteer at all home tournaments. Each  family will be required to volunteer 4 hours per day. In lieu of volunteering families may opt out  for $80.00 per tournament. 

2. Outlaw Committee Composition:
The Outlaw Committee for the current year (starting on January 1st  and ending the next year on December 30th ) will consist of: 

a. The Outlaw Director: the Outlaw Director shall be responsible for all aspects of the Outlaw  traveling team program including, but not limited to uniforms, coaches, roster verifications, player  contracts and insurance, player fees and tournament entry fees. She/he shall be a member of  and chair the Traveling Team Committee. She/he will also assist the Tournament Director in  ensuring that league sponsored tournaments are properly scheduled with USA Softball. 

b. The previous year Outlaw Director, is responsible for assisting the current director. 

c. The Tournament Director, shall be responsible for planning, scheduling and coordinating all  matters related to league sponsored tournaments. He/she will submit a tournament budget to  the BFP treasurer, solicit and oversee subcommittee chairpersons, submit a report at season’s  end and answer directly to the BFP President and Board of Directors. 

d. The Outlaw Secretary shall be responsible for keeping the minutes at all Outlaw meetings. The  secretary shall be responsible for all communication from the Outlaw Committee. 

e. The Outlaw Treasurer shall be responsible for all funds, deposit of all monies in the name of the  league. The treasurer shall keep a ledger of all income and expenses, assist in drafting budgets  and be required to give a financial statement to the Outlaw committee each month. She/ he  also will ensure that the BFP treasurer is provided with all accounts for filing taxes. 

f. The Outlaw Uniform Manager shall be responsible for ordering uniforms as necessary and is  responsible for issuing, inventorying, storing and collecting payments for all uniforms. 

g. All current year managers 

h. The newly elected BFP President 

i. BFP Presidential appointee 

j. All members of the Outlaw Committee, as stated above, are voting members. Any voting  committee Member shall not have more than one vote regardless of how many positions they  hold. The Outlaw committee will oversee the Outlaw Program and be responsible for all Outlaw  team related decisions including: manager and coach selection, team and player selection for  “B” squads, USA Softball rule interpretations, conflict resolution and communication between  Outlaw, BFP, and the community. In an effort to assure continuity and smooth transition, the  new Outlaw Committee will be selected by the current Outlaw Committee. Votes for the new  Outlaw Committee will be counted by a non-committee member, appointed by the current  Outlaw Director, and confirmed by the current Outlaw Director and BFP President. 

k. If a current Outlaws Manager is unable to field a team at any point during the current  Outlaws season, the current BFP/Outlaw Board Executive Committee has the right to remove  that member from his/her position on the Outlaws Committee by simple 

majority vote.

3. Prospective managers:

Prospective managers for Outlaws must submit a letter of interest to manage and a resume to the  current Outlaw Director no later than December 1st. The outgoing Outlaw committee in the December  meeting will choose new managers. During the selection process, the Outlaw committee will exercise  caution regarding the qualifications and capabilities of applicants and their player/daughter. The new  managers will now become current managers and members of the new Outlaw Committee, and  convene at the October meeting. Current managers must notify the Outlaw Committee of their  coaching staff ASAP. The Outlaws Board will select Outlaw “C” team managers at the April meeting prior  to Outlaws tryouts. “C” managers are chosen in the even there may be enough players at tryouts to  assemble a “C” team. “C” managers are not voting members of the Outlaws Board. All managers and  coaches are subject to a background using the USA Softball Register website. 

4. Player Eligibility:

All participants must belong to a BFP Girl’s Softball home league team roster or a  previous BFP home league team roster or qualify under the USA Softball high school exemption rule for  age groups 16 & 18 as follows from the JO Handbook: HIGH SCHOOL AGE 16-U, 18-U “B” TEAMS: The  purpose of the High School Division is to provide competition and championship tournaments for players  who are not of the Junior Olympic “A” caliber. It provides a post CIF (California Interscholastic  Federation) summer program that addresses the needs of players who are of high school age and wish  to increase their skill to benefit their league, their high school team, and themselves. 

5. Team Eligibility: 

a. Team rosters may include up to 20 players including pickup players.

b. Teams shall be composed of players meeting all player eligibility requirements above.

c. No more than five (5) high schools shall be represented on any one team and must be  approved by the JO Commissioner or designee. 

d. Players who participate on an intercollegiate softball team at a two or four year college or  university are not eligible to participate in the Junior Olympic “B” tournaments. 

6. Player Selection: 

All “B” teams will have a minimum of two Outlaw try-outs that will be publicized and  held for all interested players. A third tryout is invitational and at the discretion of the manager. All  interested players must attend one of the scheduled tryouts to be eligible for player selection. If she  cannot attend one of the scheduled try-outs it is that player’s responsibility to contact the manager of  her age division to request a tryout. Players selected following tryouts shall be placed on the Outlaw’s  roster. The Outlaw committee must approve all Outlaw rosters. All players and parents are required to  sign an Outlaw contract prior to participation. 

7. Official Rosters: 

Team managers are responsible for completing the USA Softball official A or B  championship roster. The managers are required to obtain signatures of required USA Softball officials.  The managers of “B” rated teams must also obtain the signature of the BFP League President. The  Outlaw Director is responsible for formally registering all Outlaw teams with the local USA Softball J.O. commissioner. 

a. If an Outlaw player is dismissed from any Outlaw team for disciplinary reasons, she may not  play for any other Outlaw team during the same calendar year. No refunds of playing fees will  be granted. 

b. Any player who is on the Outlaw roster and leaves to play on another USA Softball team may  not return to any Outlaw team prior to August 10 of that year or the end of Summer Nationals  and is subject to Outlaw Committee approval. 

c. The Outlaw committee reserves the right to reprimand and dismiss any manager or coach for  violating Outlaw policies or Benicia Fastpitch General Conduct Rules. 

8. Home League Tournament Teams:

 The Executive Board may elect to publicize tryouts for Home  League All-Star Tournament teams in one or more age divisions. Managers must submit an application to  the Executive Board for approval. Supervision of these teams shall be the responsibility of the Executive  Board. League shall annually budget $400.00, up to a maximum of $1,600.00, per League All-Star  Tournament team for each tournament played. Additional funding shall be the responsibility of each  team through league-sponsored fundraisers. Managers for these teams must submit a Roster to the  Executive Board for approval after players have been selected. 

9. League All-Star Teams: 

Benicia BFP may sponsor a post-season league All-Star Game each year in the  Farm, Junior, Minor, and Senior Divisions with 4 teams or more. The players will select All-Star players.  Manager and Coaches of each team, “those players whose skills and past performances will best  represent their team” in the annual intra-Division (East vs. West) All-Star game. All-Star game teams must  be grouped mathematically by order of season standings to form evenly matched All-Star teams.  Example: 1st + 4th + 6th = 11 (East) vs. 2nd + 3rd + 5th = 10 (West). If an uneven number of teams exist in a  Division, divide the players from the 1st place team. Team managers will serve as coaches for the All-Star  teams. The division VP will coordinate these decisions with team managers as appropriate. 10. Sportsmanship Awards: (Junior, Minor, and Senior) Selected each year by each coaching staff, the 2  players from each team who have “demonstrated throughout the season the best qualities of fair play,  character, and good sportsmanship.” These players will receive awards of recognition. Managers and  coaches should demonstrate and emphasize good sportsmanship throughout the season with their  teams. 

N. Field Use 

Each Divisional Vice President will assign fields to teams for practice before the season begins on an  equitable basis. Managers practicing on fields that are designated closed by the City of Benicia or  BFP will be subject to loss of regularly scheduled practice time. 

Any team practicing on city controlled fields outside of their scheduled days/times must obtain written permission from their divisional VP prior to using the field. 

After the season begins, under no circumstances should any team use prepared fields, except for  designated infield, prior to their game. After 5pm Saturday and all day Sunday, fields will be designated  for Outlaw and Home League Tournament team use. Weekday use will be permitted for Outlaw and  Home League Tournament teams if fields are available. The field coordinator and the Outlaw Director  will make every effort to get Outlaw and Home League Tournament teams to practice during the week  at BCP, so that the park is fully utilized. Exceptions will be made for any home league make up games.  Managers should take into considerations any girls who may attend church services. 

O. Administrative Policies 

1. Purchasing Guidelines 

a. Purpose 

1) To provide guidelines for purchases (goods or services) of the organization to fulfill 

officer/director fiduciary responsibility.

2) To ensure that major purchases are made in the best interest of the organization,  

particularly with respect to quality and costs. 

3) To make all purchases in an efficient and practical manner. 

4) To remove single responsibility of major purchases for internal control purposes. 

5) To control use of charge accounts by setting credit limits and controlling authorized  users. 

b. Guidelines – General 

1) No one should gain a personal benefit as a result of making purchases on behalf of  the organization. 

2) All things equal in selection, price and availability, a sponsor should be selected over  a non-sponsor. 

c. Guidelines – Major Expenditures (for expenditures greater than $1,000.00) 

1) A minimum of two proposals required, preferably written. 

2) Requirement of President or Treasurer approval. Board approval for capital expenses  over $1,000.00. 

3) A request for bid (RFP) for uniforms, equipment and trophies shall be implemented  

every three years. A bid due date shall be established along with a bid evaluation form  for ratings. An award letter will be mailed to the successful bidder(s). 

4) It is not expected that purchases be broken down and spread among vendors  

because of varying costs. The intent is that the organization should be expedient as  

well as fiscally responsible. 

5) Concession stand purchases do not fall into this category as not deemed single  

purchases. However, purchases for the concession stand should be made from  

wholesalers to the greatest extent possible. 

6) Although as fiduciaries, price is important; it is not the only factor. Quality and safety  should always be considered first. Availability and convenience are factors that can be  influential. 

7) Copies of any documentation should be organized and given to the Treasurer for  

filing with receipts and check copies. 

8) If a purchaser selects a vendor with higher costs, the reasons should be included in  

documentation. 

d. Guidelines – Ongoing Purchasing 

1) Charge accounts should be assigned authorized chargers with credit limits, which  

are reasonable for the existing budget. The President should name these purchasers via  the budget process with recommendations from the Board. 

DIVISION DETAILS

ROOKIE DIVISION 

SUPPLEMENTAL PLAYING RULES 

A. Uniforms: T-shirt, visors, and socks will be issued. 

B. Equipment: A soft 10-inch safety ball shall be the official ball used in all games and practices. Players must wear  batting helmets at all times while batting and base running. Catchers must wear head, face, throat, chest, and  leg protection. All players must wear rubber cleats to all games and practices. A double bag at first base will be  used. 

C. Draft: The Rookie division will be made up of players 4, 5 & 6 years old. The Rookie division will select players by  method of a blind draft, stressing residency location, player ages, and equality of teams. There will be no player  evaluations in the Rookie Division. 

D. Field dimensions: Bases are 45 feet apart, with a 20 foot pitching distance. 

E. Regulation Game: Four (4) innings or 60 minutes (1 Hour) from the start of the game (whichever comesfirst). 

F. Scoring: There shall be no scoring, no record kept of runs scored, and no winners or losers in the Rookie Division. 

G. Awards: Player participation awards will be presented at the conclusion of the season. 

H. Coaching: Coaches may stand near their battery of defensive players to give advice, but must not interfere  with play. The coach must request “time” from the opposing manger or coach before attempting to demonstrate  a technique or explain a play to the players during the progress of the game. 

I. Umpires: Coaches will act as umpires. 

J. Batting Order: All eligible players present at a game shall be placed in the batting order, and each player shall  bat in each inning. Batting orders shall be exchanged between managers prior to the start of the game. NOTE: It  is suggested that catchers be placed in the middle of the batting order to allow time to remove and put on  safety equipment. 

K. Per managers agreement prior to each game, outs may be recorded in the field, but will not count towards  the batting order. 

L. Defensive Positions:

1. All eligible players present at a game shall play a defensive position each inning (catchers are  optional). The seven (7) positions should be filled, with the remaining players sharing outfield duties.  Managers and Coaches are required to regularly rotate all players to all defensivepositions. 2. The Player who occupies the defensive position of pitcher must remain inside the pitching circle, and  behind the pitching rubber, until the ball is hit. 

M. Side Retired: The side is retired when all players on the offensive team have batted once, and the  ball is returned to the pitching circle. 

N. Batting/Strike-Out: 

1. Batters will be pitched to by their coach and shall be allowed 6 pitches. If upon the 6th pitch, the ball is  not hit into play, the batter must use the tee. 

2. Batters who throw the bat will receive one (1) warning. Upon the next occurrence, the batter shall be  called out. 

3. Batters may hit from a tee. 

O. Fouls/Live Ball: 

1. Same as conventional softball, except the ball that travels less than ten (10) feet in fair territory from  home plate, is called a “foul” ball. 

2. A ball hit into fair territory that strikes an adult (Umpire, Coach) shall be ruled a “live”ball. 

P. Base running 

1. Runners must stay in contact with bases until the ball is hit. 

2. When players have advanced as far as possible without being put out, or the ball has been returned  to the pitcher’s circle, the Umpire shall call “time out.” When all defensive players are in proper position,  the Umpire shall call “play ball.” 

3. There shall be no stealing allowed in the Rookie Division. 

FARM DIVISION  

SUPPLEMENTAL PLAYING RULES 

A. Uniforms: T-shirts, visors and socks will be issued. 

B. Equipment: A soft 11-inch safety ball shall be used as the official ball in all games and practices at the  beginning of the season. Players must wear batting helmets at all times when batting and base running. Catchers  must wear head, face, chest, throat and leg protection when behind the plate. All players are to wear rubber  cleats to all practices and games. A double bag at first base will be used. 

C. Draft: The Farm division will be made up of players 7 & 8 years old. The teams will be selected by blind draft  separating players by age and/or players may be placed on teams based on parent requests from the  registration form. One manager per team will be allowed to attend the draft. Each manager is allowed two (2)  player requests that are shown on the official list of eligible players. Age parity shall be considered, and all draft  decisions should have mutual agreement among the managers. 

D. Player Trades: Any player trades shall take place after all of the girls have been placed on teams. No trading  will be allowed during the selection process. Trades will be completed and final upon the closure of the draft. Any  request for trades after the draft will be managed by the player agent and must have agreement from all of the  division team managers, as well as approval by the President of the Board. 

E. Field Dimensions: Bases are 55 feet apart with a 32 ½ ‘ pitching distance. NOTE: Pitching distance is measured  from the back of home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. 

F. Regulation Game: Drop dead at 75 minutes from the start of the game, no new inning after 65minutes. 

G. Scoring: There shall be no display of total runs scored; runs only need to be kept to enforce the 5 run rule. There  will be no winners or losers in the Farm Division. 

H. Pitching 

1. One coach will position himself or herself behind the pitcher (should be coach pitcher), and one will  position himself or herself behind the catcher to help speed up play. 

2. Players will pitch from the beginning of the season. Pitchers may pitch up to 2 innings pergame. 3. Players will pitch a maximum of four (4) pitches per batter. Foul tips count towards the allotment of  total pitches. 

4. Hit by pitch rule: If hit by a pitch the batter will be allowed two (2) pitches by the offensive coach  pitcher. Upon the third batter hit, the pitcher will be removed for the remainder of theinning. 5. Coach pitcher gets a maximum of three (3) pitched balls. 

6. Foul tips count towards the total pitch count, however a foul ball cannot end the at- bat. 7. Batted ball that hits the coach pitching is a “dead ball”-counts as no pitch against thecoach. 8. The pitching coach must stay inside the pitching circle and is allowed to take one step in the pitching  motion towards the plate. 

I. Batting 

1. There is no dropped third strike rule in effect.

2. All eligible players present at the game shall be placed in the batting order regardless of whether they  are in the defensive lineup or not. 

3. There is no penalty if a player is removed from the batting order. 

4. There will be no walks. A batter must either get a hit or get put out in the field. 

5. Each time will bat through the entire lineup for the first two innings of each game. Outs will be  recorded in the field, but strikeouts will not count towards outs. 

6. Bunting will not be allowed. 

7. A batter may advance to second base on a clean hit (a double), but may not advance beyond first  base due to an infield error. Batters will not advance to third base on a batted ball. 

J. Base running 

1. Sliding is permitted at all bases. 

2. Stealing is not allowed. 

3. Leading off from a base is nis allowed, but not until the ball leaves the pitchers hand. PENALTY: Runner is out, and the ball is dead. 

4. When an overthrow occurs the base runners are allowed to advance only one base. 5. Stealing home is not permitted. 

K. Defensive Positions 

1. Outfielders must start on the grass and can move in after the ball leaves the pitchershand. 2. Managers and coaches are to regularly rotate all players to all defensive positions. 

L. Player Participation 

1. A minimum of seven players is required – one must be a catcher who will be an active participant. 2. Ten players are permitted on the field at one time with six infielders and fouroutfielders. 3. Free substitution is allowed, but equal playing time is required. All players must get at least one inning in  the infield per game if allowable with innings played. 

M. Age enforcement 

1. A 7-year-old has the option to play down to rookies, (5-6 years old) if requested and will require Benicia  Fastpitch Executive Board approval. 

2. 6-year-olds should be strongly encouraged to play in Rookies. Any 6-year-old wishing to play up will be  assessed by the league President as to the reasons and player’s ability. Items such as siblings, age,  ability, and team availability will all be considered. 

3. 9-year-olds are allowed to play in the Farm division if it is a player’s first year of softball and/or they  have little or no baseball/softball experience, or if the Player Evaluation Committee of the Junior Division,  after evaluating a player’s ability at tryouts, recommends a player be put in the Farm Division. 

JUNIOR DIVISION  

SUPPLEMENTAL PLAYING RULES 

The junior division is instructional. The Junior Division Vice President and Master Scheduler will designate “practice”  games on the Junior Division schedule. Practice games will not count towards division standings. The remainder of  the regular season score and standings will be kept and will determine seeding for the end of season tournament.  Based on the amount of teams, a single or double elimination tournament may be scheduled near the end of the  regular season. The junior division will be made up of players 9 & 10 years old (and possibly some 8 year olds). 

Playing rules are the Official rules established by the International Joint Rules Committee and the Amateur Softball  Association of America for FASTPITCH Softball, current editions, with the following exceptions, additions, or  clarifications: 

A. Field dimensions: Bases are 60 feet apart, with a 35’ pitching distance. The distance from home to second  base is 84 feet 10 ¼ inches. NOTE: Pitching distance is measured from the back of home plate to the front of the  pitching rubber. 

B. Equipment: The 11-inch Reduced Impact Ball shall be used in all games and practices. The Junior Division Vice  President will choose the brand of ball. A double bag at first base will be used. 

C. Pitching 

1. It is not necessary for pitchers to “look back” base runners when the pitcher has possession of the ball  within an eight (8) foot radius of the pitching rubber. CLARIFICATION: A base runner must IMMEDIATELY  return to the base that she had prior possession of, if she had not begun her steal before the pitcher  received the ball. 

2. Batters must be pitched to. 

3. The Umpire will sign the official score book for the pitched innings by the pitchers. The official  scorekeeper will note innings pitched for each pitcher. 

4. A player who has pitched or is known to be a pitcher during a previous season cannot be on the same  team as another pitcher. Exception: When there are more pitchers than teams available, placement of  remaining pitchers shall be made under the discretion of the Junior Division Vice President.

5. A pitcher may pitch no more than three (3) innings per game. For purposes of this rule, an inning is  defined as a minimum of one (1) pitch. During the tournament pitchers may pitch no more than (4)  innings per game. 

D. Batting 

1. Once the 5th run has been scored in the offensive team at bat, the inning shall be declared over and  no other runners may score .Exception in last inning team may score enough runs to tie the game 2. Batters are out after three (3) strikes, whether or not the catcher catches the third (3rd)strike. 3. All eligible players present at a game shall be placed in the batting order and bat throughout the  game regardless of whether they are in the defensive lineup or not. 

4. In the event of an emergency or injury where a player is removed from the batting order, the batting  order will shrink and no penalty will be incurred. 

DI. Base running 

1. Sliding is permitted at all bases. If a base runner does not slide and collides with a defensive player,  the umpire may call the runner out based on offensive interference, or if in the umpires judgment that  the play was unsafe. 

2. Runners starting at first or second base are entitled to steal one base only per pitch with liability to be  put out. 

3. Stealing home is not premitted. 

4. A runner attempting to advance beyond the one base they are entitled to steal, may be put out while  between bases. A runner cannot be put out while in sole contact with a base after all play ceases and  the ball becomes dead. If a runner occupies a base beyond the one the runner was entitled to steal, the  runner will be returned to the correct base without liability to be put out. 

5. Leading from the base is not permitted until the ball leaves the pitchers hand as part of the pitching  motion. PENALTY: Runner is out and the ball is dead. 

6. Optional: Hurry Up Rule for Catcher. With two outs and catcher on base, the catcher may be replaced  on base with the player who made the last out in thatinning. 

DII. Time Limits 

1. Six (6) innings. Note: No new innings may be started after 75 min and a drop dead time of 85 min. if  incomplete game will revert back to last inning. A new inning starts when the third out is made. Once an  inning starts, it must be completed. 

2. Thirty (30) minutes prior to any regularly scheduled season game, use of the field will be restricted. The  visiting team shall have the infield twenty (20) minutes prior to the scheduled starting time. The home  team shall have the infield the last ten (10) minutes prior to the start of the game. 

3. Ten Run Rule: If the home team is ahead by 10 or more runs at the end of 4 ½ innings, or the visiting  team is ahead by 10 or more runs at the end of 5 innings, the game shall be called. 

4. Regulation game: Game terminated before regulation time (75 minutes) has expired shall be deemed  a complete game if 2 or more innings have been played. 

DIII. Player Participation 

1. A team shall consist of a minimum of 7 players. A manager has the option to reschedule or play a  game if they have less than 8 players. Each uniformed player on the team roster, who appears for a  game, must participate in that game. She must bat in the continuous batting order and play at least 3 full  innings in the field (in games that go the full 6 innings) otherwise a minimum of 2 full defensive innings.  Those girls that do not play 3 full defensive innings in a given 6 inning game shall start the following game  to insure that equal playing time is given to all girls. Managers/Coaches found not to play all players 2 full  defensive innings in a 6 inning game will receive a written warning from the executive board. Any further  violations will be investigated by the executive board, and based upon the findings, could result in the  suspension of manager/coach duties. 

2. Ten players are permitted on the field at one time with six infielders and four outfielders. Outfielders  must be on the grass at the time of the pitch. 

3. Free Substitution: There will be free substitution allowed. 

4. If a team member is “benched” for disciplinary reasons, the team Manager must notify and obtain  approval from the Divisional Vice President prior to the game. A team member may be benched during  a game, provided the team Manager notifies the opposing team Manager and Umpire of the reason,  and also reports the action to the Division Vice President within 48 hours. PENALTY: To be determined by  the Benicia Fastpitch Executive Board, up to and including forfeiture of the game. 

DIV. Tie Games 

1. Ties are allowed in practice and regular season in the Junior Division. Ties during the regular season will  be recorded as such in the divisional standings 

DV. Calling the Game: The termination or calling of any game in progress, shall be solely determined by the Umpire  in charge, and based on his/her judgment of the situation. This includes weather, darkness, and conduct of the  team, parents, spectators, managers and/or coaches. If a game is called before and inning is completed, the

score will revert back to the last completed inning. If the game is not a regulation game, refer to Section F-4 of  these rules. 

J. End of Season Tournament and Awards 

1. Seeding of teams will be determined by regular season standings. All regular season rules will apply. In  addition, no new inning will start after 1 hr. 25 min. 

2. Tie scores at game time will induce the international tie breaker rule. 

3. For every game, the higher seed will be the home team. 

4. A team must have a minimum of seven (7) players at game time or will forfeit. 

5. The slaughter rule will be a 10 run difference after three (3) innings of play. 

6. Awards will be given to the 1st and 2nd place teams. 

K. Swing Year – 8-Year-Olds in the Juniors 

1. The “Swing Year” Rule 

a. This rule provides for the “Swing Year” age of 8 and pertains to any persons who are 8 prior to  January 1st. 

2. Tryouts 

a. An 8-year-old may “tryout” for the Junior Division if her playing ability has advanced enough to  play in the Junior Division. An 8-year-old who tries out may not necessarily be selected for a Junior  team if her skill level is not deemed high enough by Junior Managers. 

b. Tryouts will be scheduled prior to the Junior Division draft. 

c. Junior managers will attend the tryouts. 

3. Drafts 

a. Junior drafts should occur prior to the Farm drafts to provide a “reaction time” for the Farm  Vice-President. 

b. At the Junior Division draft, managers may choose any 8-year-old who tried out and who is  determined as “ready” to compete as a Junior. 

4. Notification 

a. The Junior Vice President will notify the Farm Vice President and Player Agent of any “Swing  Year” 8-year-olds that were drafted into the Juniors. The players will know the draft results when  their respective team managers call them. 

L. Adjusted Strike Zone 

1. The Junior Division will have an adjusted strike zone to promote areas of play: pitching and batting. The  enlarged strike zone increases the success of pitchers and prompts batters to swing thebat. 2. Umpires will call balls and strikes. The umpire has complete control of strike/ball determination but has  been given the following guidance: 

3. Zone Up/Down: The strike zone will start at mid-calf and continue to the top of the shoulders. 4. Managers shall not argue balls and strikes with the plate umpire.  

5. In the event that umpires cannot be scheduled for a game, the team manager or coaches will umpire  the game. Each team will provide a manager/coach to act as an umpire(s) when his/her team is in the  field. 

MINOR DIVISION  

SUPPLEMENTAL PLAYING RULES 

Playing rules are the Official rules established by the International Joint Rules Committee and the Amateur Softball  Association of America for FASTPITCH Softball, current edition, with the following exceptions, additions, or  clarifications: 

A. Field Dimensions 

1. Bases are 60 feet apart, with a 40 foot pitching distance. The distance from home to second base,  and from first to third base is 84 feet, 10 ¼ inches. NOTE: Pitching distance is measured from the back of  home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. A double bag at first base will be used. 

B. Pitching (IMPORTANT ------Read USA Softball Rule Book) 

1. It is not necessary for pitchers to “look back” base runners when the pitcher has possession of the ball  within an eight (8) foot radius of the pitching rubber. CLARIFICATION: A base runner must IMMEDIATELY  return to the base that she had prior possession of, if she had not begun her steal before the pitcher  received the ball. 

2. Batters must be pitched to. 

3. A pitcher may not pitch more than (5) innings in per game. If a pitcher exceeds the allowable innings  pitched in a given game, the game that the pitcher exceeded her allowable innings pitched will be  forfeited. 

4. In tournament pitcher may not pitch more than(6) innings per game. 

C. Batting 

1. Once the 5th run has been scored in the offensive team at bat, the inning shall be declared over and  no other runners may score. Exception: The last inning of the game there will be no limit on the amount of  runs scored determined by the umpire declaring “open inning.” Due to time constraints the umpire can  determine last inning at any time. 

2. All eligible players present at a game shall be placed in the batting order and bat throughout the  game regardless of whether they are in the defensive lineup or not. 

3. In the event of an emergency or injury where a player is removed from the batting order, the batting  order will shrink and no penalty will be incurred. 

4. The Infield Fly Rule is in effect (see USA Softball Rule 1, Sec. 39) 

D. Base running 

1. Sliding is permitted at all bases. 

2. Stealing of all bases is permitted. 

3. Delayed stealing is allowed if the ball is in play, and the pitcher has not received it into the 8-foot  (radius) circle. 

4. Leading from the base is not permitted until the pitched ball leaves the pitcher’s hand. 5. Exception to the Eight Foot Circle Rule: A player who receives a base on balls may round first base  toward second base. If the runner stops before reaching second base, she must IMMEDIATELY go either  to second or return to first. (Rule application is Umpire’s judgment.) 

6. Optional: Hurry Up Rule for Catcher. With two outs and catcher on base, the catcher may be  replaced on base with the player who made the last out in thatinning. 

7. Sliding at home plate is strongly recommended for any play at the plate. At the umpire’s  discretion, a baserunner may be called out if the umpire deems that a non-slide creates an un safe play at the plate. 

E. Time Limits 

1. 7 innings. Note: No new innings may be started after 85 minutes. New innings start when the third out is  made. Once an inning starts, it must be completed. 

2. 30 minutes prior to any regularly scheduled season game, use of the infield will be restricted. The  visiting team shall have the infield 20 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time. The home team shall  have the infield the last 10 minutes prior to the start of the game. 

3. Ten Run Rule: if the home team is ahead by 10 or more runs at the end of 4 ½ innings, or the visiting  team is ahead by 10 or more runs at the end of 5 innings, the game shall be called. 

4. Regulation Game: Game terminated before regulation time (90 minutes) has expired shall be deemed  a complete game if 3 or more innings have been played. 

F. Player Participation 

1. A team shall consist of a minimum of 7 players. Game time is forfeit time. Each uniformed player on the  team roster, who appears for a game, must participate in that game. She must bat in the continuous  batting order and play at least 2 full innings in the field (in a 6 inning or more game). Those girls that do  not play three full defensive innings in a given game shall start the following game to ensure that equal  playing time is given to all girls. Managers/Coaches found not to play all players 2 full defensive innings  (in a 6 inning or more game) will receive a written warning from the executive board. Any further  violations shall be investigated by the executive board, and based upon the findings could result in the  suspension of manager/coach duties. 

2. Ten players are permitted on the field at one time with six infielders and four outfielders. Outfielders  must be on the grass at the time of the pitch.

3. Free Substitution: There will be free substitution allowed. A pitcher may re-enter the game as a pitcher.  4 If a team member is “benched” for disciplinary reasons, the team Manager must notify and obtain  approval from the Divisional Vice President prior to the game. A team member may be benched during  a game, provided the team Manager notifies the opposing team Manager and Umpire of the reason,  and also reports the action to the Division Vice President within 48 hours. PENALTY: To be determined by  the Benicia Fastpitch Executive Board, up to and including forfeiture of the game. 

G. Tie Games 

1. Ties are allowed in the Minor Division and will be recorded as such in the divisional standings. 

H. Calling the Game 

1. The termination or calling of any game in progress, shall be solely determined by the Umpire in charge,  and based on his/her judgment of the situation. This includes weather, darkness, and conduct of the  team, parents, spectators, managers and/or coaches. 

2. If a game is called before and inning is completed, the score will revert back to the last completed  inning. If the game is not a regulation game, refer to Section E- 4 of these rules. 

I. Coaching Bases 

1. Anyone connected with the team (managers, coach, or player) may coach the bases, however, it is  suggested that at least one player coach the bases, to promote more involvement and attention to the  game. 

J. Scoring and Publicity 

1. Scores will count and standings will be kept. The home manager is responsible to provide the division  VP and Webmaster the score of the game that night. Homebook keeps track of pitched innings by each  pitcher, and game score. Failure to provide score and pitcher innings may result in manager suspension. 

K. End of Season Tournament 

1. The BFP Board may elect to have an end of season single or double elimination tournament based on  the amount of teams in the division and available playing fields. 

2. Seeding will be determined based on regular season standings. All regular season rules will apply. 3. Teams must have a minimum of seven (7) players at start of game time or forfeit 3. Tied games at  game time limit will go to international tie rule. 

4. Tournament seeding will be based on regular season division standings. Higher seed will always  be home team. 

5. Awards to be given for 1st and 2nd place. 

6. Time Limit: 1 hour 45 minutes hours for championship game(s). No new inning to start after 1 hour 45 minutes (regulation time) 

7. Pitchers may pitch 6 innings in a game. 

SENIOR DIVISION  

SUPPLEMENTAL PLAYING RULES 

Playing rules are the Official rules established by the International Joint Rules Committee and the Amateur Softball  Association of America for FASTPITCH Softball, current edition, with the following exceptions, additions, or  clarifications: 

A. Field Dimensions: Bases are 60 feet apart, with 43 foot pitching distance. The distance from home to second  base and from first to third base is 84 feet 10 ¼ inches. NOTE: Pitching distance is measured from the back of  home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. A double bag at first base will be used. 

B. Pitching: (IMPORTANT ----- Read USA Softball Rule Book) 

1. It is not necessary for pitchers to “look back” base runners when the pitcher has possession of the ball  within an eight (8) foot radius of the pitching rubber. CLARIFICATION: A base runner must IMMEDIATELY  return to the base that she had prior possession of, if she had not begun her steal before the pitcher  received the ball. 

2. Batters must be pitched to. 

C. Batting 

1. Once the 7th run has been scored in the offensive team at bat, the inning shall be declared over and  no other runners may score. Exception: The 7th inning of the game there will be no limit on the amount of  runs scored. 

2. The Infield Fly Rule is in effect. (See USA Softball Rule 1. Sec. 39) 

3. All eligible players present at a game shall be placed in the batting order and bat throughout the  game regardless of whether they are in the defensive lineup or not. 

4. In the event of an emergency or injury where a player is removed from the batting order, the batting  order will shrink and no penalty will be incurred. 

D. Base running 

1. Sliding is permitted at all bases. 

2. Stealing of all bases is permitted.

3. Delayed stealing is allowed if the ball is in play, and the pitcher has not received it into the 8-foot  (radius) circle when the attempt begins. 

4. Leading from the base is not permitted until the pitched ball leaves the pitcher’s hand. PENALTY:  Runner is out and the ball is dead. 

5. Exception to the Eight Foot Circle Rule: a player who receives a base-on-balls may round first base  toward second base. If the runner stops before reaching second base, she must IMMEDIATELY go either  to second or return to first. (Rule application is Umpire’s judgment.) 

6. Optional: Hurry Up Rule for Catchers: With two outs and catcher on base, the catcher may be  replaced on base with the player who made the last out in thatinning. 

E. Time Limits 

1. Seven (7) innings. NOTE: No new innings may be started after 90 min. New innings starts when the third  out is made. Once an inning starts, it must be completed. 

2. Thirty (30) minutes prior to any regularly scheduled season game, use of the field will be restricted. The  visiting team will have the infield twenty (20) minutes prior to the scheduled starting time. The home team  shall have the infield the last ten (10) minutes prior to the start of the game. 

3. Ten Run Rule: If the home team is ahead by ten (10) or more runs at the end of 4 ½ innings, or the  visiting team is ahead by ten (10) or more runs at the end of 5 innings, the game shall be called. 4. Regulation Game: Game terminated before regulation time has expired shall be deemed a complete game if 3 or more innings have been played. No new inning will start after 75 minutes  (regulation time). 

F. Player Participation 

1. A team shall consist of a minimum of seven (7) players. Game time is forfeit time. A manager has the  option to reschedule or play a game if they have less than 8 players. Each uniformed player on the team  roster, who appears for a game, must participate in that game. She must bat in the continuous batting  order and play at least two (2) full innings in the field (in games that go the full seven (7) innings). Those  girls that do not play two full defensive innings in a given game, shall start the following game to ensure  that equal playing time is given to all girls. Managers/Coaches found not to play all players two (2) full  defensive innings (in a six (6) inning or more game) will receive a written warning from the executive  board. Any further violations shall be investigated by the executive board, and based upon the findings  could result in the suspension of Manager/Coach duties. 

2. Ten players are permitted on the field at one time with six infielders and four outfielders. Outfielders  must be on the grass at the time of the pitch. 

3. Free Substitution: There will be free substitution allowed. A pitcher may re-enter the game as a pitcher. 4. If a team member is “benched” for disciplinary reasons, the team Manager must notify and obtain  approval from the Divisional Vice President prior to the game. A team member may be benched during  a game, provided the team Manager notifies the opposing team Manager and Umpire of the reason,  and also reports the action to the Division Vice President within 48 hours. PENALTY: To be determined by  the Benicia Fastpitch Executive Board, up to and including forfeiture of the game. 

5. Any girl who has played their last year of eligibility in the Senior Division as an eighteen (18) year old  and wishes to play one (1) final season may be allowed to play, with the permission of the League  President and the Senior Division VP. 

6. A list of minor division girls will be created as a pool to choose from when there is a potential game  forfeit at the Senior Division league level for lack of players (must have 8 or fewer players). Any minor  division player deemed eligible by their manager or group of minor division managers and with the  permission of their parents or guardians can play on an as needed basis in the Senior Division providing  the game is not in conflict with one of their scheduled games or practices. A minor substitute player may  not be used as a pitcher in a Senior Division scheduled game. The Senior and Minor Division Vice  Presidents will manage the list of players. Players may not be picked, but will be selected in alphabetical  order by availability. When a selection is required the order will start from the next available player  following the last player who substituted. 

G. Tie Games 

1. Ties are allowed in the Senior Division and will be recorded as such in the divisionalstandings 

H. Calling the Game 

1. The termination or calling of any game, in progress, shall be sole determined by the Umpire in charge,  and based on his/her judgment of the situation. This includes weather, darkness, and conduct of the  team, parents, spectators, managers and/or coaches. 

2. If a game is called before an inning completed, the score will revert back to the last completed inning.  If the game is not a regulation game, refer to Section E-4 of these rules. 

I. Coaching of Bases

1. Anyone connected with the team (manager, coach, or players) may coach the bases, however, it is  suggested that at least one player coach the bases to promote more involvement and attention to the  game. Player base coaches must wear a batting helmet, regardless of player age. 

J. Scoring and Publicity 

1. Scores will count and standings will be kept. The home manager is responsible to provide the division  VP and Webmaster the score of the game that night. Home scorer keeps track of pitched innings by  each pitcher, and game score. Repeated failure to provide score and pitcher innings may result in manager suspension 

K. End of Season Tournament 

1. The BFP Board may elect to have an end of season single or double elimination tournament based on  the amount of teams in the division and available playing fields. 

2. Seeding will be determined based on regular season standings. All regular season rules will apply.  Highest seed is always home team. Tied records result in coin toss, umpire to select number between 1 &  10, manager closest to number will call the toss 

3. Tied games at game time limit will go to international tie rule. 

4. Minor league “call ups” are allowed but must be preapproved by Senior VP and may only be used if  you have less than 8 players. 

5. Awards to be given for 1st and 2nd place. 

6. Time Limits: 1 hour 45 min time limit for championship game(s). No new inning will begin after 1 hour  45min. 

ORGANIZATION 

A. Board of Directors 

1. The organization shall have a President, Executive Vice-President, Vice-President for each division,  Secretary, Treasurer, Player Agent, Concessions Chair, Umpire-in-Chief, Field Maintenance Coordinator,  Equipment Manager, Uniform Manager, Sponsor Coordinator, Softball Commissioner, Tournament  Director, Outlaw Director, Team Parent Coordinator, and Tournament Team Director. These Officers shall  constitute the Board of Directors of Benicia BFP Softball. 

B. Executive Board 

1. An Executive Board shall consist of the Softball Commissioner, President, Executive Vice-President and  all division Vice-Presidents, Treasurer, Outlaw Director and the Secretary. 

C. Parliamentary Authority 

1. Robert’s Rule of Order shall govern at all meetings of the League, unless otherwise agreed to by the  participants, insofar as the rules are not inconsistent with or in conflict with any special rules of order the  League may adopt. 

D. Membership 

1. Officers, Team Managers, Coaches, and parents of players,  eighteen (18) years or older, shall be  members of the organization. 

2. Membership has the right to remove any member, by majority vote that is a detriment to the  organization. 

E. Elections and Voting 

1. All officers of the organization (except the Outlaw Director and Tournament Director) shall be elected  for a 1-year term. They may be re-elected for the succeeding term, by the membership each year, with  no restriction. 

2. The election of Officers shall take place annually at the July meeting. The newly elected Officers’  terms shall commence on September 1st. 

3. Nominations for Officers will be made at least 30 days prior to the election. Nominees for all board  positions including the Outlaw Board shall be Benicia residents. The Benicia Fastpitch Executive Board  must approve any exceptions. 

4. For decisions concerning major policy or rules changes (outside of annual Rules Committee): One (1)  vote only shall be allowed for each team present and for each Board member present.

 5. “Voting” members of the Rules Committee shall be limited to Board members and team Managers (or  designated team representative). NOTE: All rule and policy changes proposed by the annual Rules  Committee are subject to review and acceptance by the Board of Directors. 

6. The Outlaw Director and Tournament Director will be selected by the Outlaw Committee by  December 30th of the current year and approved by BFP Executive Board at the Octobermeeting. 

7. If a current member of the BFP Board of Directors or Benicia Outlaws Committee leaves the BFP or  Outlaws organization for any reason, the current BFP/Outlaw Board Executive Committee has the right to  remove that member from his/her position on the board by simple majority vote. 

F. Officers

Commissioner:

 The Commissioner shall assist the President with representing the League to the Department of  Parks and Community Services, the Benicia Unified School District, and the City of Benicia. He/she shall serve as  an advisor to the organization: shall cast the tie- breaking vote at anytime such a need may rise on Board issues.  The Commissioner is a member of the Executive Board. 

President:

 The President shall be Chief Executive Officer of the organization and shall, subject to the control of the  Board, give general supervision, direction, and control of the business and affairs of the organization. He/she shall  preside at all board and general meetings, and establish committees when needed. The President shall be the  organization’s direct representative to the Department of Parks and Community Services, the Benicia Unified  School District, and the City of Benicia and shall be responsible for disciplinary actions, approval of any special  player moves, and will seek Executive Board approval. The President is a member of the Executive Board. 

Executive Vice President: 

The Executive Vice-President shall work closely with the President assume responsibilities  and perform such duties as prescribed by the President. The Executive Vice-President shall be responsible for  insurance coverage. The Executive Vice- President, in the absence of the President, will perform all the duties of  the President, with the same power and subject to the same controls as the President. The Executive Vice President is a member of the Executive Board. 

Vice Presidents:

 There shall be six (6) Vice-Presidents, one each for Rookie, Farm, Junior, Minor, Major, and Senior  Divisions. Each Vice-President shall, on the league level, assist with tryouts, player selection, clinics, and team  sponsor solicitations; shall draft an initial playing schedule for the season; and shall perform such other duties as  may be prescribed by the President. All Vice-Presidents are members of the Executive Board. 

Secretary: 

The Secretary shall keep, or be responsible for keeping, the minutes at all Board, and general and  special meetings. The Secretary shall be responsible for all communication from the League. Notice and purpose  of all meetings to all Officers and team representatives shall be the responsibility of the Secretary. He/she shall  perform all other duties as may be prescribed by the Board. The Secretary is a member of the Executive Board.  

Treasurer: 

The Treasurer shall have charge of, and be responsible for, all funds and the securities of the  organization, deposit all monies in the name and to the account of the League and disburse funds as ordered by  the Board. The Treasurer shall keep a ledger of all income and expense, assist in drafting a budget, and is  responsible for providing the Benicia Fastpitch League with required financial information to ensure that  appropriate tax returns may be filed. The Treasurer is a member of the Executive Board. 

Player Agent:

The Player Agent shall be responsible for player registration and assist in tryouts, player drafts, and  player clinics. The Vice-Presidents shall assist the Player Agent in all activities at the division level. The Player Agent  shall determine the eligibility of all players. 

Concessions Chair: 

The Concessions Chair shall be responsible for coordinating the supplying, staffing and  maintenance of the concession stand for regular season play and tournaments. He/she also has the responsibility  for keeping accurate records of games worked for payment by the Treasure or towards credit for volunteer hours.  

Umpire In-Chief: 

The Umpire Chief shall be responsible for hiring, training, scheduling and overseeing all Umpires.  He/she also has the responsibility for keeping accurate records of games worked for payment by the Treasurer. 

Field Maintenance Coordinator:

 The Field Maintenance Coordinator is responsible for seeing that fields are lined  and for any field maintenance that the City or High School does not take care of. 

Equipment Manager: 

The Equipment Manager shall be responsible for ordering equipment as necessary, and is  responsible for issuing, maintaining, storing, and the collecting of equipment from Managers. 

Uniform Manager: 

The Uniform Manager shall be responsible for ordering uniforms as necessary, and is responsible  for all issuing, inventorying, and storing of uniforms. 

Sponsor Coordinator:

 The Sponsor Coordinator shall be responsible for soliciting sponsors for the League, including  keeping accurate records of sponsors’ payments, business cards for advertising, and especially a “Thank You” to  our sponsors as acquired. The Sponsor Coordinator is responsible for the production and printing of the League  Sponsor book. 

Tournament Director:

 The Tournament Director shall be responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating all  matters related to League sponsored tournaments. He/she will submit a tournament budget to the Treasurer,  solicit and oversee subcommittee chairpersons, submit a report at season’s end, and answer directly to the  President and Board of Directors. 

Outlaw Director:

 The Outlaw Director is responsible for all aspects of the Outlaw traveling team program. She/he  shall be a member of and chair the Traveling Team Committee. The responsibilities of this committee are outlined  in Rule M-1. Also, the Outlaw Director is responsible for uniforms, roster verifications, player contracts and  insurance, player fees, and tournament entry fees, she/he will also assist the Tournament Director in ensuring that  League-sponsored tournaments are properly scheduled with USA Softball. 

Master Scheduler: 

Responsible for scheduling all house league games and tournaments prior to opening day of  the current season. Also will coordinate with division VP’s regarding make up games. 

Webmaster: 

Responsible for updating and maintaining the www.beniciafastpich.com website.

 Registrar: 

The registrar is responsible for inputting all player registration information and distributing said information  to managers when players are drafted or assigned to a team. The registrar is also responsible for all registration  through the website and registering all players, managers and coaches through the USA Softball Register website  prior to the beginning of the season.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY 

Article I Purpose 

The purpose of the conflict of interest policy is to protect the interest of Benicia Girls Softball Association (dba  ‘Benicia Fastpitch’ hereafter the ‘Organization’) as a tax-exempt organization when it is contemplating entering  into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of an officer or director of the  Organization or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction. This policy is intended to supplement but not  replace any applicable state and federal laws governing conflict of interest applicable to nonprofit and  charitable organizations. 

Article 2 Definitions 

1. Interested Person 

Any director, principal officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers,  which has a direct or indirect financial interest, as defined below, is an interested person. 

2. Financial Interest 

A person has a financial interest if the person has, directly or indirectly, through business, investment, or  family: 

a. An ownership or investment interest in any entity with which the Organization has a  

transaction or arrangement, 

b. A compensation arrangement with the Organization or with any entity or individual with  which the Organization has a transaction or arrangement, or 

c. A potential ownership or investment interest in, or compensation arrangement with, any entity  or individual with which the Organization is negotiating a transaction or arrangement.  Compensation includes direct and indirect remuneration as well as gifts or favors that are not  insubstantial. A financial interest is not necessarily a conflict of interest. Under Article III, Section 2,  a person who has a financial interest may have a conflict of interest only if the appropriate  governing board or committee decides that a conflict of interest exists. 

Article 3  Procedures 

1. Duty to Disclose 

In connection with any actual or possible conflict of interest, an interested person must disclose the  existence of the financial interest and be given the opportunity to disclose all material facts to the  directors and members of committees with governing board delegated powers considering the  proposed transaction or arrangement. 

2. Determining Whether a Conflict of Interest Exists 

After disclosure of the financial interest and all material facts, and after any discussion with the interested  person, he/she shall leave the governing board or committee meeting while the determination of a  conflict of interest is discussed and voted upon. The remaining board or committee members shall  decide if a conflict of interest exists. 

3. Procedures for Addressing the Conflict of Interest 

a. An interested person may make a presentation at the governing board or committee  meeting, but after the presentation, he/she shall leave the meeting during the discussion of,  and the vote on, the transaction or arrangement involving the possible conflict ofinterest. b. The chairperson of the governing board or committee shall, if appropriate, appoint a  disinterested person or committee to investigate alternatives to the proposed transaction or  arrangement. 

c. After exercising due diligence, the governing board or committee shall determine whether  the Organization can obtain with reasonable efforts a more advantageous transaction or  arrangement from a person or entity that would not give rise to a conflict ofinterest. 

d. If a more advantageous transaction or arrangement is not reasonably possible under  circumstances not producing a conflict of interest, the governing board or committee shall  determine by a majority vote of the disinterested directors whether the transaction or  

arrangement is in the Organization’s best interest, for its own benefit, and whether it is fair and  reasonable. In conformity with the above determination it shall make its decision as to whether  to enter into the transaction or arrangement. 

4. Violations of the Conflicts of Interest Policy 

a. If the governing board or committee has reasonable cause to believe a member has failed  to disclose actual or possible conflicts of interest, it shall inform the member of the basis for such  belief and afford the member an opportunity to explain the alleged failure todisclose. b. If, after hearing the member’s response and after making further investigation as warranted  by the circumstances, the governing board or committee determines themember has failed to

disclose an actual or possible conflict of interest, it shall take appropriate disciplinary and  corrective action. 

Article 4 Records of Procedures 

The minutes of the governing board and all committees with board delegated powers shall contain: 1. The names of the persons who disclosed or otherwise were found to have a financial interest in  connection with an actual or possible conflict of interest, the nature of the financial interest, any action  taken to determine whether a conflict of interest was present, and the governing board’s or committee’s  decision as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed. 

2. The names of the persons who were present for discussions and votes relating to the transaction or  arrangement, the content of the discussion, including any alternatives to the proposed transaction or  arrangement, and a record of any votes taken in connection with the proceedings. 

Article 5 Compensation 

1. A voting member of the governing board who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the  Organization for services is precluded from voting on matters pertaining to that member’s  compensation. 

2. A voting member of any committee whose jurisdiction includes compensation matters and who  receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Organization for services is precluded from voting  on matters pertaining to that member’s compensation. 

3. No voting member of the governing board or any committee whose jurisdiction includes  compensation matters and who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Organization,  either individually or collectively, is prohibited from providing information to any committee regarding  compensation. 

Article 6  Annual Statements 

Each director, principle officer and member of a committee with governing board delegated powers  shall annually sign a statement which affirms such person: 

1. Has received a copy of the conflicts of interest policy, 

2. Has read and understands the policy, 

3. Has agreed to comply with the policy, and 

4. Understands the Organization is charitable and in order to maintain its federal tax exemption it must  engage primarily in activities, which accomplish one or more of its tax-exemptpurposes. 

Article 7 Periodic Reviews 

To ensure the Organization operates in a manner consistent with charitable purposes and does not  engage in activities that could jeopardize its tax-exempt status, periodic reviews shall be conducted. The  periodic reviews shall, at a minimum, include the following subjects: 

1. Whether compensation arrangements and benefits are reasonable, based on competentsurvey  information and the result of arm’s length bargaining. 

2. Whether partnerships, joint ventures, and arrangements with management organizations conform to  the Organization’s written policies, are properly recorded, reflect reasonable investment or payments for  goods and services, further charitable purposes and do not result in increment, impermissible private  benefit or in an excess benefit transaction. 

Article 8 Use of Outside Experts 

When conducting the periodic reviews as provided for in Article VII, the Organization may, but need not, use  outside advisors. If outside experts are used, their use shall not relieve the governing board of its responsibility for  ensuring periodic reviews are conducted. 

COMPENSATION POLICY 

Article 1 Board Compensation Committee 

A Board Compensation Committee shall meet at least annually to make decisions regarding the Organization’s  compensation for all employees. The duties of the committee shall be as set forth in this policy. The Committee  members shall consist of the President, Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. The Secretary shall  record the minutes of each Compensation Committee session. 

Article 2 General Policy

Wage and salary administration will be externally competitive, internally consistent, compliant with applicable  law, and performance related. 

Wage and salary information is confidential information owned by the Organization. 

Compensation will not be based on an individual's race, sex, religion, national origin, color, citizenship, or other  protected characteristic. 

Wage and salary decisions will be based upon objective appraisal of employee performance. All merit increases  will require substantiation by a performance review. 

The Board compensation committee will administer all compensation policies and will maintain all policies and  records required by law. 

The Board compensation committee will approve new or changed pay policies. 

The Board compensation committee is responsible for changing compensation procedures to comply with  applicable laws. 

The Board compensation committee will monitor external pay practices to ensure the Organization's  compensation is competitive. 

Jobs will be classified in terms of relative value to the Organization, and each job classification will be assigned an  appropriate pay range including minimum, midpoint, and maximum amount. The Board compensation  committee will review pay ranges at least annually. 

The Board compensation committee will classify an employee as exempt only if the employee meets both the  federal and state standard for exemption from overtime. The Board compensation committee will monitor  internal pay practices for consistency. 

The Organization defines the elements for compensation and sets compensation standards. The compensation  program consists of: 

1. Position evaluation 

2. Written job descriptions 

3. Performance evaluations 

4. Wage and salary structures 

5. Compensation surveys 

Article 3 Rate Ranges 

Maximum and minimum rates have been established for each job classification, either through formal job  evaluation or through informal matching of jobs with equal value. All rate ranges and job titles are approved by  the President. The Director managing the area prepares approved rate ranges for all jobs in a job class. The Board  Compensation Committee shall periodically, through frequent outside contacts in the area with organizations  similar to ours, and with the assistance of the full Board, keep informed on rates paid in the area and, when the  situation warrants, recommends adjustments for a particular rate range or for our entire rate structure. 

Article 4 Hourly Payroll 

Hourly employees are reviewed by the Board compensation committee once every season until they reach the  top of the rate range for their particular jobs. Increases are limited to the amount and the frequency indicated by  the table of wage progression. 

Article 5 Flat Payroll 

Flat payroll or salaried employees are reviewed for increases on a yearly basis by the Board compensation  committee prior to each season.