SQUIRTS  RULES
BASE DISTANCE  55’	PITCHING DISTANCE   35 ’

In addition to the Inter league General Rules the following adaptations have been made for this division.
All Softball Canada and OASA Rules will apply for all games with the following exceptions.

1.	Any one pitcher may pitch a maximum of three innings or the equivalent of 9 outs.
Clarifications of rules often questioned
	The ball is alive and in play until the pitcher has control of the ball or the umpire calls time.
	On an overthrow out of bounds, the runner receives the base he/she was headed for plus one base (including home).
	A batter may run on the third strike if the catcher misses or drops the ball, provided first base is not occupied and there are less than 2 out.  When there are 2 out, first base may be occupied and the batter can still run on a dropped third strike.
	Stealing is permitted and the runner may leave the base once the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand.
	The infield fly rule applies in this division.  An infield fly will be called and the batter will be automatically out when first and second or first,second and third bases are occupied and a fair flyball is hit within the infield area and there are less than 2 out.
	Five (5) run mercy in effect for all innings except the “open” inning.   A maximum of 15 runs will apply for the “open” inning.
	Use of the double base at first base: if there is a play being made or attempted to be made at first, the runner must touch the outside red/orange bag, or they will be called out; the defensive player must touch the inside white bag or the runner will be called safe.   If there is not a play being made at first base the defensive player must move out of the way and cannot interfere with the runner.  The runner may touch the inside white bag whether advancing to second or staying on first.

It is our goal to foster enthusiasm, positive team sportsmanship and softball skills.  The following adaptations and exceptions were implemented with these goals in mind.

Make it fun.

2010