It is the responsibility of coaches, managers, sponsors and players to know the PFS Softball Rules and By-Laws. Ignorance of these Rules and By-Laws is NOT grounds for protest or appeal. Softball is a contact sport, played with Composite, Aluminum, Wood and other approved materials in design of approved bats. The game of softball can be a dangerous sport to participate in. Playing the game of softball, the player(s) participating in the game of softball assume for themselves the risk of serious injury or possible death. By purchasing a PFS Softball Players Card
and/or agreeing to be placed on a PFS Softball roster, the participants understand these risks.

PFS Softball has implemented a ZERO alcohol tolerance rule at all parks that don't serve alcohol. Players and/or other participants caught consuming alcohol at the fields will be asked to leave the facility. If players argue they will be subject to suspension. We will no longer tolerate drinking and the resulting bad behavior. Players' will never be permitted to consume alcohol in dugout areas during game play at a park that does allow alcohol.

RULE INTERPRETATIONS
PFS Softball: Any rule that is not outlined or has a grey area in this rule book, said director of that event will be able to make an active decision and ruling on that situation. This will cover all scenario’s that aren’t completely outlined and/or are missing from the rule book.

General slow-pitch terms used in PFS Softball softball play, such as batter, runner, fielder, infield fly, etc., will be generally the same as defined by all major softball associations. If an interpretation is unable to be made by the Tournament Director and/or the UIC of a specific event, then a team may protest to the Area Director for a decision. Should there be no Area Director binding, any Freedom Director or Umpire who has any interest in an appeal (whether player, coach, sponsor, etc.) may have any involvement on the final ruling.

ALTERED BAT – A bat is considered to be altered when the physical structure of a legal bat has been changed, or a non-approved bat has been changed to resemble a legal bat. Using any process that exerts more pressure on a bat than is experienced during normal play, such as rolling or shaving a bat, is considered altering a bat. Bats with cracks will be considered illegal and are not deemed allowed in play and can result in a suspension if player is caught using one. EFFECT: Player will be warned and if caught using the cracked bat again player will be immediately ejected and suspended for (1) year from any PFS Softball event. NOTE: If a Tournament Director is made aware of a cracked bat the Tournament Director will hold the bat out of play until the event is completed or the team owning the bat has been eliminated from play. The owner of the bat may reclaim the bat after their team has been eliminated or the event is completed without penalty. However NO further use of the bat in any PFS Softball Events, including Leagues, Tournaments, Practice or Other Events will be allowed and if found the player and / or owner of the bat may be subject to suspension.

APPEAL PLAY - A play in which an umpire cannot make a ruling until requested by a team manager, coach, or player. Appeal must be made to the umpire making the call. Appeal must be made ANYTIME before any of the following:

A. Next legal pitch
B. The pitcher and all infielders have left fair territory
C. The Officials have left the field of play.
**Judgment calls cannot be appealed.

BALL - Official “PFS Softball” stamped 44-400 or 44-425 core-compression or EVIL-Ball With Vapor Block Model MC-EVIL-Y Composite Cover Poly Core softballs must be used in all PSF play. The ball must be optic yellow and 12 inches in circumference for men and 11 inch in circumference for women in the women’s and coed divisions. Women electing to play in a Men’s Division will be required to hit the Men’s Division ball. NOTE: Use of a non-approved ball may be protested by the opposing pitcher/team (once batter has taken the batter's box.) and an out will be declared. If protested before the batter has taken the batter’s box, the ball is to be replaced with the correct ball and no penalty will be enforced. Any player on the opposing team may also protest a ball that has been put in play as long as the ball remained in play and in the sight of the Umpire. EFFECT: All runners shall return to last base occupied, and player hitting the ball is out. NOTE: PFS Softball optic yellow ball is the only ball legal for game play.

BATS – The official bat shall be round in cross section, straight in length and measure 34 inches long, including
tape or other grip additions to the bat and not more than 2-1/4 inches in diameter at its largest part. Its weight shall
be at least 25 ounces but not more than 38 ounces. The bat must be stamped USSSA approved with either the old
or new USSSA stamps. All bats that meet the USSSA Bat Testing Standard of BPF 1.20 (New Thumbprint or
Old Logo, 220 or 240) will be allowed in PFS Softball Slow Pitch Play. EXCEPTION: We do not allow bats
that only have the ASA stamp, DeMarini Aftermath, DeMarini Flipper, senior bats (See Masters Rulebook for
exceptions) or ANY bat that does not allowing testing in the normal PFS Softball testing methods in the field
of play of any PFS Softball events. The bat shall have a safety grip of tape or some other material to facilitate holding the
bat during the batter’s swing. The safety grip shall be not less than 6 inches long, nor extend more than 15 inches
from the small end, or handle end, of the bat. The bat must be smooth, round and free from deep dents, cracks, flat
spots, rivets or other such hazardous defects. NOTE: Any bat with such defects will be deemed unsafe and
removed from game play. Graphics, including BPF markings, must be permanent and cannot be decals or any
other method that can be easily removed or added to the bat. The performance standard for all non-wooden bats
will be a Bat Performance Factor (BPF) of 1.20, or less under the ASTM BPF testing procedure. The bat shall be
made of aluminum, composite, fiberglass, wood, or other such materials approved by PFS Softball
ASSOCIATION.
BASE PATH –The imaginary direct line, as well as (3) feet to either side of the direct line, between a base and a
base runner’s position at the time a defensive player is attempting to apply a tag.
BLOCKED BALL - Any ball hitting a player or offensive equipment other than the on-deck batter or batter’s
equipment, shall be declared an out. Baserunner closest to home plate shall be the out and all other runners must
return to their last held base. A Blocked Ball is NOT declared when the ball strikes a base coach, or an Official as
an Official is deemed part of the playing field.
BUNT - A bunt is a fair ball in which the batter does not take a full swing at the ball but holds the bat in such a
manner in the path of the ball to tap the ball slowly to the infield. A chopped ball is not a bunt.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.
CATCH - A catch is a legally caught ball that occurs when a fielder secures a batted or thrown ball with his/her
hand or glove. If the ball is merely held in the fielder’s arms or prevented from dropping to the ground by some
part of the fielder’s body or clothing, the catch is not complete until the ball is in the grasp of the fielder’s hand or
glove. It is not a catch if a fielder, immediately after he/she contacts the ball, collides with another player, fence,
or falls to the ground and drops the ball as a result of the collision or falling to the ground. In establishing a valid
catch, the fielder shall have complete control of the ball, and his/her release of the ball is voluntary and
intentional. Exclusion applies only when fielder drops the ball during the transfer in an attempt to make another
play.

CHOPPED BALL – When the batter strikes downward with a chopping motion breaking their wrists during the
swing so that the ball bounces high into the air, this is considered a chopped hit ball. EFFECT: A chopped ball is
a legal swing in PFS Softball.
COACH- A member of the team at bat who takes his/her place in the coach’s box to direct his/her players in
running the bases. Two coaches are allowed, one positioned at first base and one positioned at third base. One
coach can have in his possession a scorebook and an indicator, which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes
only. The defensive coach(s) / manager(s) must remain in the dugout, as their normal position, when their team is
playing defense. Failure to obey this rule, after a warning is issued, will result in the coach/manager being ejected.
COUNT BALLS/STRIKES - Batters start with a 1 and 1 count and no courtesy foul. Any Qualifier, State &
National Tournaments shall be 1 and 1 count and no courtesy foul as well.
DISLODGED EQUIPMENT – When a fielder contacts or catches a batted or thrown ball with his or her cap,
glove or any part of his or her uniform while detached from its proper place.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, and the runner shall be entitled to three (3) bases if a batted ball or two (2) bases if a
thrown ball. If the illegal act was made on a fair ball that, in the judgment of the umpire, would have cleared the
outfield fence in flight, a home run shall be awarded, and a four (4) base error will be scored on the play with the
home run not counting against the team’s home run total.
DEAD BALL - The ball is not in play and not considered in play again, until the pitcher has the ball in his
possession and the umpire has called “play ball”.
DELAYED DEAD BALL - An infraction, signaled by the umpire, in which the ball remains live until all play
has been completed and the umpire calls time.
DIVISIONS OF PLAY –The different divisions of Men’s play offered are: A – (12hr), B – (8hr), C – (5hr), D -
(4hr), E (3hr), Rec - (1hr). Coed Divisions are as followed Open Coed (8hr), D Coed (5hr), E Coed (3hr), Rec
Coed (1hr). Military Divisions: Military Upper (12hr) and Military Lower (6hr). Women’s Divisions: Upper
Women - (Women Classified B or Higher) (Unlimited Homeruns), Women’s C - (Women Classified C) (3hr)
and Women’s D - (Women Classified D and Below) (1hr). Master’s Divisions: 35+ AA, 35+ AAA, 35+ Major,
40+AA, 40+AAA, 40+ Major, 50+AA, 50+AAA, 50++ Major, 60+AA, 60+AAA, 60++ Major - (8 Homeruns).
Women may participate in every division of play with no minimums (except as specified in Coed Rules) or
maximums per team. Meaning, they can play in the Men’s divisions, Coed divisions or Women’s divisions, they
like any other player must be 18 yrs. of age or the required age of the Masters Division and have registered,
signed the online waivers and purchased / maintained a PFS Softball Slow Pitch Players Card.
DROPPED BALL (INTENTIONAL) – Any line drive or fly ball touched by a fielder not ruled to be a "catch”
or an infield fly and, in the umpire’s, judgement was allowed to drop intentionally with runners on first, first and
second, first and third, or bases loaded (with less than two outs). This includes a ball that's natural path has been
altered by a fielder, guided to the ground or otherwise touched by a fielder in a manner as to set up a double play
or additional defensive outs. EFFECT: The umpire shall call a dead ball. The batter is out and all runners are
allowed to safely return to their original base(s) at the time of the pitch. The umpire shall issue a warning to
defensive player, and a second infraction deeming same said defensive player will result in that player being
ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct. NOTE: A fielder MAY allow a ball to drop intentionally without penalty as
long as the fielder does not make contact with the ball.

EQUALIZER: When combining divisions, the lower of the teams will be given an equalizer when playing
against a team above their said division. The Equalizer will be 5 runs or 11 fielders unless the Director deems it
necessary to award the teams both 5 runs and 11 fielders.
o WOMEN’S DIVISIONS WILL USE A DOUBLE EQUALIZER: Upper Women Division teams will
spot all Women’s C Division teams (5) runs and the Women’s C Division teams will be permitted to use
(11) fielders as well. Women’s C Division teams will spot all Women’s D Division teams (5) runs and
the Women’s D Division teams will be permitted to use (11) fielders as well. Upper Women’s Teams
ARE NOT permitted to compete against Women’s D Division teams without prior approval by the
Tournament Director.
NOTE: The Equalizer Rule is to make both teams “more equal” only. Home Team will be determined by the
flip of a coin.
EXTRA INNINGS - When a regulation game ends in a tie, OR the completion of the current inning after the
time has expired and the score is tied. EFFECT: The Tie Breaker rule will be used. At the beginning of each
team's at-bat the last batted out from the previous inning (the player that last completed a turn at bat) or the
FREEDOM RUNNER is placed on 2nd base. Extra innings shall be 1-Pitch, no courtesy foul. It is not sudden
death. Each team has an opportunity to bat each inning. No additional homeruns are given, but teams may still
hit any remaining homeruns per Division rules and Freedom Hitter rules. Per Division rules with “One Up”
option the home team cannot go “One Up” in the bottom of any extra inning. The game ends when one team is
ahead at the end of an inning.
FAKE TAG - When a fielder not receiving a throw fakes the catching/tagging motion. EFFECT: Fake tags are
prohibited. Fake tags shall result in a dead ball and each base runner being awarded one additional base. Player
shall also be warned. A second offense shall result in player being ejected from the game.
FAIR BALL - A batted ball that:
1. Is on or over fair territory when stopped in the infield or is bounding toward the outfield. Contact with
any Base shall be a fair ball.
2. First makes contact in fair territory beyond 1B or 3B including the foul line.
3. Passes over the outfield fence while over fair territory or hits the foul poles.
4. Hits an outfield fence on or between the foul poles.
FIELDING GLOVE - all fielders must wear a Glove. Players have the FREEDOM to use ANY glove (not
greater than 15 fifteen inches) at any position, at any time.
FOUL BALL - Any batted ball that stops or settles in foul territory without first being touched in fair territory, or
which is first touched in foul territory, or that first touches some out-of-play object or area in foul territory, or that
first touches foul ground beyond first and third base, or which does not conform to the requirements that would
make it a fair ball. EFFECT: Baserunners have the freedom to make an attempt to advance on any caught ball,
this includes third strike caught ball.
FOUL TIP - A foul tip is a batted ball that goes directly from the bat, not higher than the batters head, to the
catcher’s hands or glove, and is legally caught by the catcher. A foul tip is a strike. The batter is out if it is the
third strike. A foul tip is also a Dead Ball.
FORCE OUT - A force out is an out which can be made only when a baserunner loses the right to the base he/she is
occupying because the batter becomes a runner, and before the batter or a succeeding baserunner has been put out.
FORFEIT - Score of a forfeit game shall be deemed a 7-0 win for the non-forfeiting team in such case as the
tournament director is unable to obtain an alternate team to play in the forfeiting team’s place. Forfeit games are
considered a guaranteed game. Teams winning a forfeit game will not be given additional guaranteed games
as a result.

GENDER / SEX – A Player’s Gender / Sex is determined at BIRTH. Those assigned female at birth may
participate in Men's Divisions, but those assigned male at birth may NOT participate in Women's Divisions
as identified in Sec. 3. PLAYER ELIGILITY (h). If a Male Player is wanting to play in a Women’s Division, it
will be solely upon the player to provide proof of their Sex at BIRTH (i.e. Birth Certificate).
ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL – Batters have the FREEDOM to hit the ball when at least one portion of his/her
foot is making contact with the batter's box and the other foot is not touching the ground completely outside of the
batter's box or is making any contact with home plate. Penalty shall be a dead ball out.
ILLEGAL PLAYER - Player playing without a PFS Softball Players Card, playing under a false name,
playing in a class he/she doesn’t belong to, playing with too many drop downs on the team or playing without
officially being added to an online roster. Tournament Director or UIC may declare a player illegal immediately
without having a team protest, regardless of their roster status. EFFECT: Penalty shall result in immediate
Forfeit of game if protested properly. Players playing without a current PFS Softball Players Card will face
possible suspension based on the PFS Softball Players Card Rules. The Tournament Director may remove
any player without penalty when there is no protest as deemed necessary based on classification rules (too many
drop downs, playing in a class he/she doesn’t belong or incorrect age for division). If the Tournament Director
removes a player, that player will be treated as being ejected and cannot be substituted for once deemed removed.
INELIGIBLE PLAYER - Illegal use of re-entry rule, or an unreported substitute or base runner shall be deemed
an Ineligible Player. This ineligible player will be deemed an ejection and will be an out in the lineup. This player
cannot be substituted for per the ejection rule once deemed ineligible.
INFIELD FLY - An infield fly is a fair ball, not including a line drive, which can be caught by an infielder with
ordinary effort when 1st and 2nd or 1st, 2nd, and 3rd bases are occupied before two are out. Any fielder can catch
an infield fly. NOTE: When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the umpire shall
immediately signal and declare “INFIELD FLY – BATTER IS OUT” to aid the runners. If the ball is near the foul
lines, the umpire shall declare “INFIELD FLY – BATTER IS OUT, IF FAIR”. The ball is live, and runners may
advance at the risk of the ball being caught, or retouch and advance after a fielder touches the ball.
INTERFERENCE – The act of an offensive player or coach, which impedes or confuses a defensive player
while attempting to execute a play. At the discretion of the umpire, Vocal interference may also be deemed
interference. An example would be a baserunner attempting to intentionally block a thrown ball. That said player
would automatically be out.
INNING - An inning is that portion of a game within which the teams alternate between offense/defense and
there are three outs for each team. A new inning begins when the third out of the bottom of an inning is recorded.
LEGALLY CAUGHT BALL - A legally caught ball occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball,
provided the ball is not caught in the fielder’s cap, hat, pocket, protector or any other part of his/her uniform. It
must be caught and firmly held with the hand, hands or glove.
LINEUP – Men’s and Women’s teams must have a minimum of 8 players to be eligible to begin a game.
However, teams have the FREEDOM to submit a lineup with only 8 or 9 players without penalty. Late arriving
players are only eligible to fill in the 9th and/or 10th positions without penalty if they were NOT listed on the
lineup card and the 9th and 10th spot were blank spots on the card. A team can prelist up to 12 players, but outs
will be declared in the vacant spots until the player arrives for game. If missing players were listed, then the
vacant spots in the lineup shall be declared outs until such time as the late arriving players can take their turn in
the lineup or substitutions can be made for those positions. A pitcher has the FREEDOM to intentionally walk a
batter to get to missing player outs. Teams may bat up to 12 players in the lineup with 10 players on defense. See
Coed Rules for Coed Lineup Requirements. All teams that are playing in PFS Softball events have the right to
see the official lineup card before the game after each team has filled it out.

OBSTRUCTION – When a defensive team member or coach hinders or impedes a batter’s attempt to make
contact with a pitched ball or who impedes the progress of a runner or batter-runner legally running the bases,
unless the fielder is in possession of the ball or is fielding a batted ball, executing a play or catching a thrown ball.
The act may be intentional or unintentional, physical or verbal.
NOTE: Catcher obstruction is called when the catcher obstructs the batter who is attempting to hit or swing at
a pitch. Prior to the pitch, catcher obstruction does not apply, a dead ball shall be called and allow the batter to
reset themselves. Effect: If obstruction occurs, the base runner will be awarded the next base, and deemed safe if
he is tagged out in the process of an obstruction. The player must be in the process of advancing and must occupy
the next bag to be awarded that base.
ONE UP HR - A team will be allowed to go Up one home run once the opposing team has reached their homerun
limit with No maximum on the HR limits. If a team hits a homerun before the opposing team hits the limit the
penalty will be based on Division rules. The Home team may not go up in the bottom of the last timed inning or
7th inning to win the game or any extra innings. Example: 3-1 up – team hits 3 hr and other team only has 2 the
team with 3hrs cannot hit another home run until the team with two gets their 3rd, at that point either team can go
one up on the me home runs.
OVERTHROW – A play in which a ball is thrown to retire a runner who has not yet reached or is off base and
goes into foul territory beyond the boundary lines of the playing field or is blocked.
PROTEST - When a team disputes an umpire’s interpretation of a playing rule, a player’s eligibility or
equipment. Protests must be declared to the Plate Umpire before the next pitch following the dispute. No protest
will be allowed after the game is completed. Tournament Officials and UIC will rule on all protests and their
decision will be final
RETOUCH - The act of a runner in returning to touch a base as legally required.
SLAP SWING / SLAP HIT - A slap swing is a short swing in which the batter does not take a full swing and
does not break the wrists during the swing and/or slap at the ball with stiff wrists while in motion through the
batter box in such a manner to slap the ball slowly to the infield. A slap swing is not a chopped ball and is not a
bunt.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.
STEALING - The act of a runner attempting to advance during the pitch or after the pitch has reached the plate is
considered to be the act of stealing. NOTE: Baserunners may attempt to advance upon the ball hitting the
ground anywhere before or beyond the plate, once it crosses home plate or makes contact with the plate,
whichever occurs first. It is a Dead Ball, if the batter swings, makes a false swing attempt or fouls off the ball. The
ball is live, and stealing can occur if it hits home plate.
STRIKE ZONE - The strike zone is only that part, or any part of the area, over home plate that is lower than
the top of the batter’s back shoulder, or higher than the bottom of his front knee of a batter in a normal batting
stance, adjacent to home plate. This position is assumed whether the batter is standing in such stance or not. The
ball must cross in this zone and the pitch must be from 4 feet minimum to 10 feet maximum from the ground.
TIME – The term used by the umpire to order suspension of play. NOTE: Most divisions in PFS Softball
allow stealing. the ball will be deemed live until the umpire/official signals time and or calls the play dead and
stopped. Time is to never be assumed.
THREE FOOT LINE - Is a line parallel to, and three feet from the base line, starting at a point halfway between
home plate and 1st base. The batter-baserunner is declared out when he/she runs outside the three-foot line, and in
the judgment of the umpire interferes, intentionally or unintentionally, with the fielder attempting to field a batted
ball, or interfering with a thrown ball.
TURN AT BAT - A player’s turn at bat begins when he/she enters the batter’s box and continues until he/she is
put out or becomes a base runner.

GUIDELINES
PFS Softball National Office has complete autonomy regarding player and team
classification. If the PFS Softball National Office deems a player or team should be
reclassified based upon any guidelines to include but not limited to: player history, current or previous misclassification,
new or updated information, performance with PFS Softball or any
recognized organization or any other reasons within their control. Players and teams MAY BE reclassified
AT ANY TIME as deemed necessary, including DURING AN EVENT. Players and teams MAY BE
REMOVED from ANY EVENT if the PFS Softball National Office feels the incorrect
classification was intentional by the player or team providing false, fake or alternate information.
Sec. 1. TEAM CLASSIFICATION: Teams/Coaches are allowed to register online for their desired team
classification. Once registered it is the SOLE RESPONSIBILITY of the Coach to add their players to their online
roster. The online system will ONLY allow the correct number of players from One Division higher than the
teams classification and WILL NOT allow any player from more than one Division higher than the teams
classification. With the exception of the REC Divisions, teams are allowed three players from one class higher
but NO players from two or more classes higher. The REC Divisions in all groups are NOT allowed any players
from any level higher than the REC Division. Freedom reserves the right to bump or drop a team at any time at
their sole discretion. All rosters must be submitted online and approved for PFS Softball play. All players
must be added to the online roster to be eligible to play with that team and cannot be on two rosters of the
same division. See Women’s Division Rules for Women’s Team Classification Guidelines, See Coed Rules for
Coed Team Classification Guidelines and See Masters Rules for Masters Team Classification Guidelines.
Sec. 2. PLAYER CLASSIFICATION: Players MUST be classified by the State Director, National
Classification Committee or National Office BEFORE they can be added to an online roster. Player
classification is based upon a player’s highest playing history within the past few years in any association
relevant to that player. Example: Playing year of 2025 PFS Softball will use the current year (2025) and history from 2024
and 2023 to determine class. PFS Softball Classification Committee, State and National Offices
alone will determine a Player’s Classification for Freedom Sport’s Association play. The classification will be the
player’s current status. Player classification will be searchable at www.freedomsoftball.com and visible on the
PFS Softball Player’s Card page. Player classification in other associations will not necessitate
the player’s classification in PFS Softball. The online system will not allow a player that is
two or more classes higher than the team’s classification to be added to their online roster. The online system will
also not allow a player that is one class higher than the team’s classification to be added to the online roster that
currently has their allotted three drop down players and will not allow any player that is NOT a REC classification
to be added to a REC roster. Players MUST purchase their PFS Softball Player’s Card to be able
to be classified by the State and/or National Offices. NOTE: All Players are responsible for their own
classification and knowing what class they are ranked within the PFS Softball “player
classification" system. NOTE: Player History for Players that have taken time off will revert to the Player’s last
classification or playing history. Note: Taking time off DOES NOT allow a player to drop classification. Player
reclassification is only available through the National Classification Committee and may be initiated through the
player’s State Director.
a. Players that have been “reclassified” per Player Re-Classification Request, have been Classified Higher as
a result of a Bumped Team or other requirements or by any other discretional reasoning by the State or
National Office(s) will carry the designation of a (+) with their classification. Players with a (+)
designation MAY NOT be a drop player on a team’s roster. Example: a Player with a D+ Designation
may play the D Division or higher but MAY NOT play as a drop player on an E Division Team.

Sec. 3. PLAYER ELIGILITY: Players must be at least 18 years of age to play FREEDOM sanctioned adult
softball tournaments and leagues. All players MUST register, purchase their own PFS Softball Slow Pitch
Players Card and agree to the liability waiver online to be allowed to participate in any PFS Softball
ASSOCIATION league or event. Players may purchase a full season card and/or optional special event cards at a
discounted rate. Players MUST purchase a PFS Softball Player’s Card or Renew their Player’s
Card BEFORE playing in any event. The card MUST be Renewed BEFORE it expires to avoid penalty. Proof of
current PFS Softball Player’s Cards may be requested the Tournament Director at any time.
Players MUST also provide a photo ID when requested by the Director. Players are REQUIRED to have their
photo ID on them at all times during play. If a player is caught playing without having purchased a Freedom
Sports Slow Pitch Players Card the game will be an immediate forfeit. NOTE: Teams playing without updating
their online roster means the roster is illegal and shall be cause for immediate forfeiture of the team. Players are
not eligible for play in PFS Softball until they purchase their PFS Softball Player’s Card
and have been classified by a Freedom State Director, Regional Director, National Office or the Freedom
Classification Committee.
a. Player Classification will be designated by the State, Freedom Classification Committee or
National Office and will be kept updated in the system at the National website
www.freedomsoftball.com.
b. Player Classification will be initially decided at your State Director Level. If the player is from a
State that does not have PFS Softball or a State Director, player classification will be decided at the
National Level. Once the initial player classification level is assigned, the player must submit for
Re-Classification to their State Director by the Re-Classification Committee / National Office.
c. Upon Registration and Payment, players must digitally sign the online waiver to compete in
PFS Softball Slow pitch events.
d. Proof of Current PFS Softball Player Card may be requested to validate a
player’s participation in the events they are attending.
e. Upon successful completion of the online registration and payment the players will receive a QR
Code and their specific PFS Softball Players Card Page and Players Card
Number. Players Cards may be searched at www.freedomsoftball.com. The Player’s Card
number will be necessary to be added to an online roster and to be classified in the system.
f. Players will need to enter their specific email address when registering. Coaches may not use
their own email address for Player Registration. The player’s email address will be the Player’s
“key” to access their online Player Card Page, make changes (i.e. address, etc.), request reclassification
and have access to any future online features.
g. Players MUST be released from any other team of the same Division to be added to an online
roster. Players and coaches may be removed or added to any roster throughout the year as long
as the player is the correct classification for the roster they are being added, have a valid
PFS Softball Player’s Card and be in good standing with PFS Softball
Association (i.e. not suspended). Players may remove themselves from any roster at any time at
www.freedomsoftball.com/rosrem.php

h. All Players MUST have one of the following items listed below, no exceptions will be allowed.
If you are unable to obtain a driver’s license and do NOT have another form of acceptable ID
listed below, you MUST apply for a State Photo ID to be able to provide upon request.
a. Valid State Driver’s License that is Legible and with Driver Photo
b. Valid State Photo ID if you aren’t able to legally Drive
c. Valid Passport with Photo
d. Valid Government ID (Civilian CAC Card Allowed) with Photo
Sec. 4. REQUIRED TEAM / PLAYER MOVE UP POLICY: All Divisions (except Coed) teams, which finish
1st, in the Super World Tournament will be required to move up to the next higher classification the following
year. If a team is bumped in other associations and accepts the bump that said team will also be bumped in
PFS Softball. If a team is bumped in other associations and does not accept the Bump by “not playing” said
division the team will not necessarily be bumped in PFS Softball unless they were already being bumped with PFS Softball.
Teams required to move up will not be allowed to re-class as a team or individual players the following calendar
year. NOTE: The roster that you play with in other associations will also be used to determine bumped players.
If a team does not have an online roster with the association that they are bumped then the last roster on file with
PFS Softball or Other recognized associations will be used to determine the players bumped. This does not apply to co-ed
divisions as those are determined by the current year player classification.
a. Players that have been required to Move Up will be Classified with (+) designation with their
classification. Players with a (+) designation MAY NOT be a drop player on a team’s roster. Example:
A Player with a D+ Designation may play the D Division or higher but MAY NOT play as a drop player
on an E Division Team.
Sec. 5. TEAM ROSTER GUIDELINES – PFS Softball rosters will be limited to 20 players per
sanctioning year of which every player must be included on an online roster at www.pfssoftball.com. If a
team changes its name during said calendar year, they are required to pay a new sanction fee. The online system
will monitor all players being added per the “Drop Down Rules” for the team’s division based on player’s
classification. In addition:
a. With the exception of the REC Divisions teams can have (3) Drop downs from one division higher than
they currently play. Example: An E Division team can have (3) drop downs from the D Division. The
REC Division of Men, Women D and Rec Coed MAY NOT have any Drop Players. Player
Classification will be searchable at www.freedomsoftball.com and on individual PFS Softball Players Cards at the
same location.
b. Players may not drop down more than one level. Example: Players from C division can NOT play down
in the E division.
c. If the coach/manager releases a player from the roster he/she is free to be added back to that roster at any
time at the coach’s discretion.
d. If a player plays up a level from his/her original class in a National event (Winter Worlds, Winter
Nationals, States, NIT or Worlds) and their team places high in the final standings that player will be
locked into the higher class. EXCEPTION: A team can have a player play up with prior approval from
the National Office or State Director with NO penalty as long as player will not be a permanent player
e. All teams that were not moved up during the previous year and had drop down players, those players who
were drop downs will still count as drop downs once again. Player Classification does not change without
proper requests and National Classification Committee Approval. Those players have a right to appeal to
be dropped a class through the PFS Softball National Website www.freedomsoftball.com.

f. Rosters are LOCKED each week a team competes in a Tournament. Rosters will be Locked by 12am the
night before the event begins. World, National and State Level events (i.e. Super World, Winter World,
NITs, State Tournaments, etc.) “may” LOCK rosters earlier in the week. Coaches will be notified when
Rosters will Lock in these events. Even if the “system” allows a coach to make roster adjustments after
the deadline Rosters are Physically and/or Notionally Locked at the Deadline. Any adjustments to rosters
after the deadline MUST be for extreme cases and MUST be approved by the Tournament Director
PRIOR to the adjustment. Players added after the deadline will be deemed ILLEGAL and will result in
possible Forfeit if discovered or protested.
g. Teams may always play up to any division without penalty but can never play lower than their current
approved division of play. Teams regularly playing up and being competitive in that higher division may
be requested to compete at that higher division at the discretion of the Tournament Director. Teams that
are dominant in their division may also be requested to play at a higher level at the discretion of the
Director.
h. The online system will not allow more drop players than allotted per Division Rules. Attempts to add
more drop players than allotted will be rejected and attempts to add players that are not eligible for the
team’s classification will be rejected by the system. Example: An E team with (3) D Players will NOT
be allowed to add an additional D Player without first removing one of their current rostered D Players.
An E Team will NOT be allowed to add a C Player to their online roaster without first “changing” their
teams classification to C.
i. There will be no rotating of drop-down players. This means a team cannot bring more than 3 drop downs
per team. All players playing must be on the roster, and when more than allowed drop downs are on the
roster, the team will be considered a classification level higher or applicable to who they carry on their
roster. The team will also be forfeited out of the game or tournament with illegal rosters.
j. Players will have the ability to “Release” themselves from any roster at
www.freedomsoftball.com/rosrem.php (www.freedomsoftball.com Info/Forms / Roster
Removal)
k. Players may be on multiple rosters of differing style of play. Example: a female player can be on a
Men’s E Roster and a Women’s D Roster. A male player can be on a Masters 40+ Roster and a Men’s D
Roster. Both female and male players can be on a Coed E roster and respective Women’s D and/or Men’s
E rosters.
Sec. 6. LOCKED ROSTERS – Entire Rosters WILLL BE LOCKED if a team owes money or is suspended
from PFS Softball game play. Rosters are LOCKED each week a team competes in a Tournament. Rosters
will be Locked by 12am the night before the event begins. World, National and State Level events (i.e. Super
World, Winter World, NITs, State Tournaments, etc.) “may” LOCK rosters earlier in the week. Coaches will be
notified when Rosters will Lock in these events. Even if the “system” allows a coach to make roster adjustments
after the deadline Rosters are Physically and/or Notionally Locked at the Deadline. Any adjustments to rosters
after the deadline MUST be for extreme cases and MUST be approved by the Tournament Director PRIOR to the
adjustment. Players added after the deadline will be deemed ILLEGAL and will result in possible Forfeit if
discovered or protested.
Sec. 7. FREEDOM ROSTER (PLAYER CARD REGISTRATION/WAIVER FORM) Any team caught
playing in a FREEDOM Tournament or league without entering their roster online at www.freedomsoftball.com,
with ANY players that have not registered for or renewed their individual PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s
Cards and getting classified by the State or National Offices, playing with players that are not on their online
roster will forfeit any game that began without roster being completed online. Also:

a. Any player caught playing using an invalid PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card or another person’s
PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card, will receive a (1) year suspension from the date of said
occurrence for the first offense, second offense would result in a 5-year suspension and third offense will
result in a lifetime ban from PFS Softball. A Valid PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card is
defined as Purchased, maintained yearly and in good standing (i.e., Not Suspended)
b. Any team with a player playing without a PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card will result in an
immediate forfeit. If this is not their third or final loss the teams may continue in the event “without” the
illegal player. The illegal player will be allowed to “coach” but may NOT be entered into the game in
any capacity. The player will receive a (1) year ban/suspension from the date of said occurrence for the
first offense, second offense would result in a 5-year suspension and third offense will result in a lifetime
ban from PFS Softball. A Valid PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card is defined as Purchased,
maintained yearly and in good standing (i.e., Not Suspended)
c. The registration form for the PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card includes a Waiver and Release of
Liability. The voluntary player’s signature on the Waiver and Release of Liability Form constitutes their
acceptance of the waiver and releases PFS Softball and its affiliates of any liability.
d. Players MUST purchase a PFS Softball Player’s Card at www.freedomsoftball.com to be
added to any online roster. Player’s may purchase a full season or special event card (when available) and
sign the Waiver/Release of Liability. Players cannot be OFFICIALLY added to roster until they are
approved for their proposed classification by the State or National Office and are deemed Non-Eligible
until officially approved. Players Cards and status of classification may be searched at
www.freedomsoftball.com.
e. Special Event PFS Softball Players Cards “may” be available for specific events. These
cards are good for that event only and will “expire” once the event has passed regardless if player
participates in the event or not.
f. Full Year PFS Softball Players Cards will be valid for a full year (365 days) from the date of
purchase. Special Term Cards “may” be available from time to time and the designated time of validity
will be posted with the card purchase.
g. Card Expiration: PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card’s will EXPIRE at 12:00am the day
BEFORE the Card Expiration Date (365 Days from the Date of Purchase or as Specified on Special
Event Player’s Cards). Any team with a player playing with an Expired PFS Softball Slow-Pitch
Player’s Card will result in an immediate forfeit. If this is not their third or final loss the teams may
continue in the event “without” the illegal player. The illegal player will be allowed to “coach” but may
NOT be entered into the game in any capacity. The illegal player will NOT be eligible for the remainder
of the event EVEN IF they Renew their card “During” the event. A Valid PFS Softball Slow-Pitch
Player’s Card is defined as Purchased or Renewed, maintained yearly or per Special Event Card
availability and in good standing (i.e., Not Suspended)
• Coaches are SOLELY responsible for their rosters. NOTE: Players whose cards EXPIRE will be
Removed from the online roster automatically by the system and will show as Green if on the roster but
have an expired card. It is the responsibility of the coach to add players BACK to their rosters if the
player’s card has expired once the player renews their card. Coaches should check their roster before
each event and verify that players are all current, valid and on their online roster!
Sec 8. PENALTY FOR TEAM REMOVAL FROM AN EVENT – If a team pulls out of a said tournament
once game times are announced; the team will be required to pay the full entry fee for that tournament. All
tournament game times for regular events are posted no later than the Thursday before the event, on all larger
events, game times may be released as early as Monday before the event. Please be aware of the penalty of
pulling out of a tournament after schedule announcement. Penalty: The team and all players will be
suspended until the full amount has been paid for this penalty. This is the coach’s sole responsibility!

Every effort will be made by each Freedom Director to obtain Softball Complexes with the official field
dimensions. Each director will compensate any varied distances when possible.
Sec. 1. BASE PATHS. The primary distances for FREEDOM are 70’ Base Paths.
Sec. 2. PITCHING PLATE. The pitching plate shall be 24 inches in length, white and made of rubber.
DIVISIONS PITCHING DISTANCE
Adult and Master’s Men's Slow Pitch 53ft
Adult Women’s Slow Pitch 53ft
Adult Coed Slow Pitch 53ft
Adult Military Slow Pitch 53ft
Sec. 3. FENCE DISTANCES. The suggested fence distance for all divisions is 300ft. Distances may vary
depending on park or complex.
Sec. 4. DOUBLE BASE. The double first base may be used. One portion of the base is white [which will be in
fair territory and the other is orange or colored [which will be in foul territory].
a. Any batted ball hitting the white portion of a double first base bag will be called a fair ball. Any batted ball
hitting the orange or colored portion of a double first base bag will be called a foul ball.
b. B. Whenever a play is being made by the defensive player at first base, the defensive player must use the
white portion of a double first base bag and the batter-runner must use the orange or colored portion of a
double first base bag. When a throw pulls the defensive player over the orange or colored part of the double
base, the runner may use the white portion to avoid a collision. When this occurs, no penalty will be enforced
on the runner. A base runner may be in contact with only the white bag when occupying/standing on base.
1. If a batter-runner touches the white portion of a double first base bag when a defensive player is making a
play, the umpire will call the runner out, and a dead ball will be declared.
2. Interference and an out will be called on the batter- runner if that said batter- runner touches the white
portion of a double first base bag and collides with the defensive player who is about to catch a thrown
ball. This will also result in a dead ball being called and all other runners must return to their last
occupied base.
This rule is in effect only on the initial play at first base. This does not include:
a. Returning to the base after over running,
b. Running on a base hit to the outfield (runner may touch the orange or white part)
c. Re-tag to advance on a fly ball.
NOTE: If the base runner uses the orange portion at any time after safely securing first base and is not in contact
with the white portion before the pitcher throws the next legal pitch. EFFECT: He/she is considered off the base
and Umpire shall call a Dead Ball Out.
Sec. 5. BATTER’S BOX. The batter’s box shall be seven (7) feet in length and three (3) feet wide. The batter’s
box shall be six (6) inches from the plate and the front of the batter’s box shall be four (4) feet from the center of
the plate.
Sec.6. COACHES BOX. The coach’s box is behind a line 15 feet long drawn outside the diamond. The line is
parallel to, and eight feet from, the foul lines extended from the bases toward home plate.
NOTE: If during the playing of any game the base distance, pitching distance or any other marked distance is
found to be in error, the error should be corrected immediately (if possible), and the game should be continued.
This is not a point to be protested and all previously scored runs and or outs will stand as scored.

All equipment must conform to industry standards and must not be altered in any way or form.
Sec. 1. OFFICIAL BAT - The approved bat shall be not be more than 34 inches in length and at least 25 ounces
but no more than 38 ounces in weight. The performance standard for all non-wooden bats will be a Bat
Performance Factor (BPF) of 1.20, or less under the ASTM BPF testing procedure. The bat shall be made of
aluminum, composite, fiberglass, or other such materials and shall meet PFS Softball
bat standards. The following will also apply:
PFS shall reciprocate the approval of all bats on the current USSSA approved bat list new and old
stamp. Banned Suncoast bats in USSSA are allowed. Senior bats are not allowed in Freedom in any division other than a Senior labeled division, even if they are on the USSSA approved bat list.
No ASA only bats are allowed in the play of PFS Softball or ANY bat
that does not allow testing in the PFS Softball method. Any bat not identifiable by the markings on the bat as an approved
bat or with any visible cracks, shall be considered illegal. In addition:
a. KNOB CUFF: Players are free to use knob cuffs. Cuffs are not required to be taped over.
b. BARRELL: Any bat with a foreign substance such as spray glue, stick’em, pine tar or any other substance
that may help the bat grip the ball above the taper of the bat and onto the barrel of the bat will be removed
from the game at the umpire’s discretion and may not be used for the remainder of the tournament or until the
substance is completely removed to the umpire’s and director’s satisfaction.
c. INSPECTION: During all FREEDOM play, any Umpire, UIC, or Director has the right to request the
inspection of any bat or ball that is brought into the sports complex. If a bat is suspicious of being altered or
player is unsure of bat's status, the player will have (3) three options:
1. Admit that the bat has been altered, give the bat up to be destroyed, and take an immediate 1-year
suspension. Player must make that decision before leaving event.
2. Allow PFS Softball to test the bat. If the bat fails compression testing, the bat will be sent to the manufacturer for
a formal determination on why the bat failed the compression test. Should the bat be found to be altered,
the player will receive a 5-year suspension. If the bat passes compression testing, the bat shall be returned
immediately. Any refusal to allow PFS Softball to test a bat shall result in an immediate 5-year suspension.
Suspensions shall be binding on the person swinging the bat as well as the bat owner, if different.
3. If player chooses not to agree to inspection, the player will receive an immediate 5-year suspension with
no eligible appeal.
a. PUBLIC NOTICE: The user and/or owner’s name of any bat found to be altered shall be posted on the
PFS Softball national website for the public to view.
b. BAT PROTEST FEE: For a protest fee of $100.00, a team may protest an opposing team player's bat (or
ball). If the bat is tested and fails compression testing, the fee shall be returned to person who protested. If bat
or ball passes test, PFS Softball shall retain the fee. The protest must be made
before the umpire leaves the field of play at the completion of the game. Any team caught with an altered bat
shall be forfeited from the tournament, placed last in the standings, and shall forfeit all points and prizes.
c. ALTERED BAT - A bat is considered to be altered when the physical structure of a legal bat has been
changed, or a non-approved bat has been changed to resemble a legal bat. Using any process that exerts more
pressure on a bat than is experienced during normal play, such as rolling or shaving a bat, is considered
altering a bat. In the event a bat is suspected of being altered:
1. PFS Softball Directors may at any time ask to inspect any bat that has been brought into
the sanctioned Freedom event.

2. Any player can withhold the bat from inspection and accept a 5-year suspension and must leave the
sanctioned event. Second time offenders will accept a lifetime suspension from all Freedom sanctioned
events.
3. If after a bat has been inspected by a director and deemed potentially altered, the owner may allow
Freedom to send the bat for further testing to determine whether the bat has actually been altered. When a
bat is sent for further testing, Freedom will allow that said player/owner the right to continue to
participate in any Freedom sanctioned events. However, if a bat fails all testing and is determined to be
altered, that said player/owner would be subject to a minimum of a one (1) year suspension to a max of a
five (5) year suspension for first time offenders. Any second time offenders will be subject to a lifetime
suspension from all PFS Softball sanctioned events. Freedom’s National Director’s will
determine all suspensions. NOTE: Any bat determined to be altered will be retained by PFS Softball
and destroyed. PFS Softball will not replace any destroyed altered bats.
4. If any bat is determined not to be altered, the bat will be returned to the owner with no suspensions given.
Sec. 2. OFFICIAL BALL - The official ball of PFS Softball will be spherical in design, shall
have raised seams and be smooth in surface and be 11 or 12 inches in circumference based on the division of play.
The center or core of the ball shall be of material approved by PFS Softball and customarily used to make
softballs. The cover shall be made of horsehide, cowhide, or other material approved by PFS Softball and shall
be cemented to the core. The official ball shall be stitched with customarily used material (nylon, cotton, linen) or
a material approved by PFS Softball. The official ball cover color shall be optic yellow. The ball must be
stamped with the PFS Softball Logo, have “PFS Softball” clearly marked on it or be the EVIL-Ball With
Vapor Block Model MC-EVIL-Y Composite Cover Poly Core and no other logo ball shall be used unless
approved by the National Office. The maximum compression/core for PFS Softball Adult Slow Pitch balls
shall be 44-425. The standard compression/core for PFS Softball Adult Slow Pitch balls shall be 44-425, 44-
400 or 44-375 unless otherwise approved by the National Office. NOTE: The men’s division will use the twelve
(12) inch softball. The women’s division will use the eleven (11) inch softball. Co-Ed Divisions will use both balls
with the men hitting the (12) inch softball and the women hitting the (11) inch softball. Women electing to play in
any Men’s Division will be required to hit the (12) inch softball.
ALTERED BALL if a ball has been put in a cooler, frozen, re-stitched or stamped to appear to be a Freedom
Sports Association stamped ball - the team will be forfeited from the game and possibly suspended from Freedom
Sports play.
Sec 3. GLOVES / MITTS. All defensive players must wear a glove in the field. Gloves must be no more than 15
inches in length, uniform in color (no optic yellow), be made of leather or other approved material and contains
no circles or writing on the outside that will give the appearance of a ball. Any glove not meeting these
requirements will be considered illegal and removed from the game of play.
Sec 4. FOOTWEAR. All individuals in the field of play must wear shoes. No sandals will be allowed. Shoes
must be made of leather, canvas, nylon, plastic or other similar material. Cleats must have either modeled plastic
(soft or hard cleats) or have a smooth surface. Metal cleats or spikes are prohibited.
NOTE: If an offensive player is found to be wearing metal cleats or spikes during the game, an out will be
declared for that player. And runners must return to their previously occupied base. The umpire will request the
player to change into proper footwear. If a player is unable to or unwilling to change, said player will be ejected
from game.
Sec. 5. UNIFORMS. DELETED
NON-COMFORMING PENALTY: DELETED

Sec 6. OTHER MATERIALS. A Cast (hard or soft), worn by any player and judged dangerous by the umpire
may not be worn during the game, by any coach coaching the bases or by any player. Any braces, splints or
prosthesis (knee braces, elbow pads, sliding pads) can be worn as long as all metal areas are well protected or
padded so that no hazardous material is visible or can come into contact with any other player. At any time, the
umpire can deem any material unsafe or hazardous and must be removed from the game.
Sec 7. REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT. All PFS Softball Directors and Umpires have the right at any given
time to inspect or remove equipment from a said game or complex. Any refusals of this will result in suspensions
for teams and players. NOTE: If a batted ball strikes a player in the Infield (grounder, line-drive, etc.), the
umpire has the right to remove the bat and ball from the game for inspection, that said player does not need to
leave the game for this action to take place.
Sec 8. RADIOS. Radios are allowed in the dugout and at the park as long as the Umpire, Director, Park Staff or
Opposing Team(s) do not feel the music is offensive or too loud. Radios “may” be allowed off the field in the
park areas providing they are not distracting from the game(s) being played, distracting the Umpire(s),
Director(s), Staff or other fans. Any PFS Softball Official Staff Member can require Radios to be turned
down, off, music changed or removed from the park at their sole discretion. NOTE: If it is a park rule that NO
Radios can be brought in the park then that rule overrules the PFS Softball Rule and Radios must not be
brought in the park. Additionally, Directors reserve the right to notify coaches in advance of the event that Radios
Will Not be allowed for specific events per their sole discretion and may require any Radios to be turned off and
removed from the dugouts and park.
ADDITIONALLY: The lyrics of the music CANNOT contain language that is not allowed on the
field by the participants for the same reasons. Therefore, no abusive, vulgar, offensive, indecent or
distasteful language will be allowed in the music. Participants are required to maintain their own music,
devices, etc. whether on the field of play or spectating.
Sec 9. BLOOD RULE. A player who is bleeding, has an open wound, or has blood on the uniform shall be
considered an injured player. Such players may not return to the game until the bleeding has stopped and
the wound properly covered, and soiled clothing has been treated with a bleach disinfectant. The umpire
and/or staff assistant on duty shall determine a reasonable amount of time to get the wound covered and
the bleeding stopped so that the player does not have to substitute out of the game.
• The bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered, and if there is an excessive amount of blood on
the uniform, it must be changed before the athlete may participate.
• Care should be practiced using gloves or other precautions to prevent skin membrane exposure when
contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated.
• Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if contaminated (in contact) with blood or other body
fluids. Wash hands immediately after removing gloves.
• Clean all blood contaminated surfaces and equipment with a solution made from proper dilution of
household bleach (CDC recommends 1-100) or other disinfectants before competition resumes.
• Practice proper disposal procedures to prevent contamination or exposure.
• Contaminated towels should be properly disposed of / disinfected.
• Follow acceptable guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and when handling bloody dressings,
mouth guards, and other articles containing body fluids.

Sec 1. HOME/AWAY. The choice of the first or last bat in the inning shall be decided by the toss of a coin
unless otherwise stated in the rules of the organization under which the schedule of games is being played. When
applicable, if a team is not in compliance with the uniform rule, the opposing team has the choice of being the
home or visiting team if they are in total uniform compliance. EXECEPTION: The undefeated team in the
Championship game only will automatically get choice of home/away, the IF game will revert back a coin toss or
uniform rule.
Sec 2. REGULATION GAME. A regulation game shall consist of seven (7) innings or when the time limit is
reached. A regulation game officially begins when the defensive team has taken the field and the umpire indicates
(verbally or physically) to “play ball". Any game played four and a half (4 1/2) or more innings shall be deemed
OFFICIAL. A new inning starts if the 3rd out is recorded before the audible alarm of the timer. A Timer with
both an audible alarm and a digital display are part of the Freedom Umpire’s Official Uniform. NOTE: A game
that is tied after the seven inning or when time expires and shall require additional innings shall be governed
according to the rules of “Extra Innings”. NO Time limits for all Nationals, NIT’s, States, and Worlds. NOTE:
Under Certain Circumstances Time Limits will be used for National Events. Teams will be notified in Advance.
Time Limits Per Division for Regular Tournaments:
Rec - 1HR - 55 Minutes per game
E - 3HR - 60 Minutes per game
D - 4HR - 65 Minutes per game
C - 5HR - 70 Minutes per game
B - 8HR - 75 Minutes per game
A - 12HR - 80 Minutes per game
Women’s D – 55 Minutes per game
Women’s C - 60 Minutes per game
Women’s Upper – 65 Minutes per game
Rec Coed - 55 Minutes per game
E Coed - 60 Minutes per game
D Coed - 60 Minutes per game
Open Coed - 65 Minutes per game
Masters (35+, 40+, 50+, 60+) - 75 Minutes per game
Sec.3. RUN RULE.
• Play shall cease in each of the following divisions if the home team is winning at the completion of
the following inning: Rec Division (1HR), E (3HR), D (4HR), Rec Co-Ed (1HR), E Co-Ed (3HR), D
Co-Ed (5HR) and All Women’s:
15 runs - after 3rd Inning
12 runs – after 4th Inning
10 runs – after 5th Inning
• Play shall cease in each of the following divisions if the home team is winning at the completion of
the following inning; A Division (12HR), B Division (8HR), C Division (5HR), Open Co-Ed (8HR)
and All Master’s Divisions:
20 runs - after 3rd Inning
15 runs – after 4th Inning
10 runs – after 5th Inning
NOTE: At the State and National Program levels, a predetermined run rule may be adopted.
*Unless Home Team is leading by run rule during the bottom of the above innings of which game shall be
declared complete upon the finish of the top half of the inning.

Sec 4. EXTRA INNINGS. Extra Innings shall be declared upon the completion of the 7th
inning OR the
completion of the current inning after the time has expired, and the score tied. EFFECT: Starting with the top of
the eighth inning, and each half inning thereafter, the offensive team shall begin its turn at bat using the
FREEDOM RUNNER OR LAST BATTED OUT from the previous inning (the player that last completed a turn at
bat) being placed on second base. Team must let the official know if they are using the Freedom runner at 2nd
Base to start their half of the extra innings. NOTE: All Extra-inning games will be played in the one pitch format
with NO extra foul.
Sec 5. END OF GAME. The end of game shall be called when the team behind in score, records its 3rd out at the
end of the seventh inning, when time has expired or in any extra inning. Also:
a. The winning team will be the team that scores the most runs when the “end of game” is called.
b. The recorded score at the end of a regulation game shall be the score at the end of the last completed
inning or incomplete inning if the home team scores more runs than the away team in the incomplete
inning.
c. The umpire is entitled to call a game at any time because of darkness, weather, or any other hazardous
events.
Sec 6. Inclement Weather. PFS Softball directors will do everything in their power to make sure their tournament can
finish but if weather starts to be a problem the procedure will be as followed:
a. Director will try and finish with a one pitch format
b. If weather continues to be a problem and the event cannot continue, we will go to a coin flip. If the
winner bracket game has been played and there is one team sitting undefeated waiting for the
championship that team will be declared the winner of the event all other team will flip until all spots on
the bracket have been decided. NOTE: There is no set way for directors to do a coin flip
c. Each director will exercise their best efforts to do what’s best for everyone at the event, most events a
refund isn’t an option as fields are prepaid and umpires are paid for what they have done also.
Sec 7. FORFEIT GAME. Score of a forfeit game shall be deemed a 7-0 win for the non-forfeiting team in such
case as the tournament director is unable to obtain their opponent or an alternate team to play in the forfeiting
team’s place. An umpire for one of the following reasons shall call a forfeit:
• At the SOLE Discretion of the Tournament Director: A Forfeit will be called on a case-by-case
basis, if a Team does not have a minimum of eight players ready to play and at the field to be played
30 minutes prior to the scheduled game time as designated by the Tournament Director.
a. A team is late in appearing for a scheduled game. Director Discretion always.
b. If a team refuses to play or continue play after 2 minutes once “play ball” has been announced.
c. If a team uses tactics to delay or shorten a game.
d. If a team willfully violates any of the rules after being warned by the umpire.
e. If a team can no longer field eight defensive players.
f. If a team (including fans, spectators or associated individuals to a team) or coach of a team threatens or
attacks an umpire, any PFS Softball personnel, or any other player/team.
g. If a player or coach refuses to leave a game after being ejected or remains in the field of play longer than
2 minutes.

Sec 8. A CALLED STRIKE. A batter shall be charged a strike when:
a. A legally pitched ball enters the strike zone in the air and is not swung at.
b. A batter swings at a pitched ball and misses.
c. A ball is fouled off and not caught.
d. A batter takes greater than fifteen (20) seconds to obtain proper position in the batter’s box.
Sec 8. A CALLED BALL. A batter shall be charged a ball when:
a. A pitched ball does not enter the strike zone and the batter does not swing.
b. A pitcher pitches an illegal pitch not swung at or hit.

Sec 1. A team shall consist of a minimum of eight (8) players and a maximum of twelve (12) players. A minimum
of eight (8) players and a maximum of ten (10) players shall play defense. A player can play anywhere in the field
as long as it’s in fair territory at the start of every pitch except the pitcher and the catcher who shall play in legal
positions. NOTE: The designated positions are: Pitcher, Catcher, First Baseman, Second Baseman, Third
Baseman, Short Stop, Left Fielder, Left Center Fielder, Right Center Fielder, Right Fielder and Additional Hitters
or Extra Players.
Sec 2. LINEUP AND SUBSTITUTIONS. Lineup cards must be filled out and handed over to the home plate
umpire prior to the start of the game. The lineup card shall contain first initial, last name and jersey number. The
following governs the substitution of players:
a. A substitute may take the place of a player whose name is in the teams batting order.
b. The coach or team representative of the team making the substitution shall immediately notify the plate
umpire at the time when the substitute enters. The umpire shall then report the change to the scorer and
the other team. A substitute is not officially in the game until a pitch has been thrown or a play has been
made.
c. If a substitute player enters the game without reporting, and after one legal or illegal pitch has been thrown,
or after a play has been made, the use of an unreported substitute must be brought to the attention of the
umpire by the offended team. An out will be declared and opposing team shall lose said player as
substitute for remainder of the game. An out will be given to his/her spot in the lineup for rest of game.
d. If the coach or player in violation informs the umpire prior to the team bringing this violation to the
attention of the umpire, there is no violation. All action prior to the discovery is legal.
e. If a team is left with a vacant spot in their lineup due to a player being ejected, then an out will be declared
when that vacant spot occurs in the batting order. A team may walk a batter in order for the vacant spot to
occur and receive an automatic out.
f. A substitute shall be reported to the official and will be officially declared in the game when:
a. The substitute steps into the batter’s box and a pitch is made.
b. The substitutes steps onto the field into a fielding/defensive position and a pitch is made.
c. The substitute replaces a runner on a base and a pitch is made.
Sec 3. RE-ENTRY Any of the starting players, may be substituted and re-entered once, provided players occupy
the same batting positions whenever in the line-up. The player and the substitutes may not be in the line-up at the
same time. Once a substitute leaves the game and the starter re-enters the substitute is no longer allowed to reenter
the game. Violation of the re-entry rule is handled as a protest when brought to the attention of the umpire
by the opposing team and may be made any time during the game. The protest need not be made prior to the next
pitch. EFFECT: Both the manager and illegal player are ejected. All play that occurred while the illegal re-entry
was in the game will stand. NOTE: If the re-entry violation also violates the unreported substitute ruling, those
penalties would also be in effect.
NOTE: A starting player removed from the pitching position by the umpire and substituted for, can re-enter the
game at another position, but cannot return to the pitching position. EFFECT: If an illegal pitcher returns to the
pitching position and has thrown one pitch, he is ejected from the game. NOTE: This is not considered a re-entry
violation, so the manager is not ejected.

Sec 4. ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION. The opposing team must make an appeal to the umpire at any time during
the game. An umpire cannot declare an illegal substitution violation until a player is officially in the game. As a
result, any change can be corrected. An illegal substitution must be declared prior to:
a. The next pitched ball for an offensive illegal substitution.
b. The next pitched ball or before the defensive team and umpire have left the field for an illegal defensive
substitution. NOTE: If an umpire declares an offensive illegal substitution violation, the player shall
be declared out, ejected from the game and all other runners must return to previous occupied base.
Any outs made during the play shall stand. If an umpire declares a defensive illegal substitution
violation, the offensive team shall have the option to replay the pitch or let the play stand and the
illegal player shall be ejected from the game.
Sec 5. REMOVAL OF PLAYER. When a team is left with a vacant spot in the lineup, regardless of cause, and
there is no substitute available, an out shall be declared each time the vacant spot is due to bat. If the vacant spot
is due to injury and there is no substitute available, the opposing coach shall have at their sole choice, the option
to request that an out be declared each time the vacant spot is due to bat OR to allow the lineup to be compressed,
thus removing the injured player permanently from the game and lineup and with no out being declared. NOTE:
If a player is ejected his/her spot in the lineup cannot be replaced and an out will be in place of their position in
the batting order. If a team is batting more than 10 batters an extra hitter may take a position in the field so the
team with the ejected player will still have 10 players on defense. A team cannot finish a game with less than 8
players so the coach shall have no decision should the opposing team only have 7 players remaining.

Sec 1. A base runner shall touch the bases in the order of first (1st) base, second (2nd) base, third (3rd) base and
then home plate. EXCEPTION: The batter-runner and all baserunners do not have to run the bases on a
homerun in “Hit and Sit” play.
Sec 2. Base stealing is permitted. A runner shall steal a base:
a. After a pitched ball leaves the pitchers hand and hits the ground.
b. After a pitched ball leaves the pitchers hand and crosses the plate
c. After a pitched ball leaves the pitchers hand and hits the plate
d. After a Batter is awarded a base on balls since the ball is live until the batter touches 1st base or Stops
Walking to 1st Base.
NOTE: It is a Dead ball, if batter swings and misses, makes a false swing attempt or fouls off the ball.
NOTE: The ball is live, and stealing can occur if it hits home plate.
Sec 3. Two base runners shall never occupy the same base. EFFECT: The first legal base runner to occupy the
base shall be called safe and the other base runner shall be called out.
Sec 4. A runner must touch all awarded bases.
Sec 5. A dead ball shall be declared and each runner including the batter-runner shall be awarded:
a. One base when:
1. If less than two (2) outs, a defensive player catches a ball and then comes into contact with
dead ball territory with both feet.
2. When any defensive player obstructs a batter or touches the bat in order to reach a pitched
ball.
3. If a defensive player on a tag causes a ball to go into dead ball territory.
b. Two bases when:
1. A fair-batted ball bounces or goes underneath fence or over fence and becomes dead.
2. A defensive player throws, holds their glove/clothing/equipment in a manner not consistent
with its normal use or kicks a mitt/glove or detached player’s equipment at a live pitched or
thrown ball.
3. A defensive player intentionally throws a live ball into dead ball territory. Note: If two
runners are between the same bases, the lead runner shall be awarded the two (2) bases and
the second runner shall be awarded one (1) base.
c. Three bases when:
1. A defensive player throws, holds their glove/clothing/equipment in a manner not consistent
with it’s normal use or kicks a mitt/glove or detached player’s equipment at a fair-batted ball.

d. Four bases when:
1. A fair-batted ball goes over and above the fence line in the air between the two (2) foul poles.
2. A fair-batted ball comes into contact in the air with a foul pole.
3. A defensive player throws, holds their glove/clothing/equipment in a manner not consistent
with it’s normal use or kicks a mitt/glove or detached player’s equipment at a fair-batted ball
and prevents the ball from going over the fence in the air between the two (2) foul poles.
4. A spectator prevents a fair-batted ball from going over the fence in the air between the two
(2) foul poles.
Sec 6. When a thrown or batted ball comes into contact with any player not on deck or coaching the base, the ball
shall be declared dead and interference shall be called. The umpire shall base on his/her judgment award or
penalize teams in order to correct the interference.
Sec 7. A RUNNER IS CALLED OUT WHEN:
a. When running to any base in regular or reverse order and the runner runs out of the base path to avoid
being touched by the ball in the hand(s) of the fielder.
b. When the ball is in play and the runner is not in contact with a base, and is legally touched with the ball in
the hand(s) of a fielder
c. When, on a force play, a fielder contacts the base while holding the ball, touches the ball to the base or
tags the runner before the runner reaches the base
d. When the runner fails to return to touch the base previously occupied or missed and is properly appealed.
e. When the runner physically passes the lead runner before that runner has been put out. EFFECT: The
ball is in play and the runner is out.
f. When a base runner leaves the base to advance to the next base before a fly ball has been touched or
touches some object, provided that if the ball is caught and legally held on the base left, or a fielder
touches the runner with the ball before the runner returns to touch the original base.
g. When the runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases in regular or reverse order and the ball is
returned to that base and is properly appealed.
h. When the batter-runner legally overruns first base, attempts to run to second and is legally touched while
off the base.
i. When running or sliding for home plate, and the runner fails to touch it, makes no attempt to return to it,
and runner leaves the field of play, if fielder properly appeals to the official for a declared out before the
next pitch.
j. When the runner interferes with a fielder attempting to field a battled ball, interferes with a fielder
attempting to throw a ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If this interference, in the
judgment of the official, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, the immediate succeeding runner
will also be called out. NOTE: Umpires may also call a Runner out for Verbal Inference if in their
judgment a runner interferes will with a defensive player trying to make a play by yelling as they
approach the defensive player.

k. When the runner is struck with a fair untouched batted ball while not in contact with the base in fair
territory, and the runner is struck prior to the ball passing an infielder, excluding the pitcher: EFFECT:
The ball is dead, runner is out for interference and the batter is awarded 1st base. All other runners may
advance one base if they are pushed. For Example: Runners on 1st and 3rd, a batted ball strikes the
runner on 3rd base while not in contact with the base. Batter will get first base awarded and push the
runner from first to second. The runner on 3rd
base is out.
l. When a batter-runner fails to touch an intervening base or bases in regular or reverse order while the ball
is in play, and the ball is legally held on the missed base, or the runner is touched with the ball while off
the base.
m. When the base-runner jumps over a defensive player to avoid a tag NOTE: IF the base runner’s feet go
over knee high, or if the defensive player is kneeling, and the base runner’s feet go above the waist. The
base-runner is out, and may be ejected from the game.
n. When the runner intentionally kicks a ball, which an infielder has missed.
o. When anyone, physically assists the runner while the ball is in play. If the assistance occurs prior to a
caught, batted fly ball, regardless of whether the ball is fair or foul, a delayed dead ball call will be made,
after which the runner will be declared out. EFFECT: The ball is dead if not caught. If a fair ball, award
the batter- runner one (1) base, and if a foul ball the batter will bat again. This includes a home run.
p. When the coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate on or near the third base line while a
fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
The runner closest to home will be declared out.
q. When one or more members of the offensive team stand or collect around a base to which a runner is
advancing thereby confusing the fielder and adding to the difficult of making the play. NOTE: Members
of the team include a batboy or any other people authorized to sit on the team’s bench.
r. When a coach intentionally interferes with the defensive team’s opportunity to make a play on a runner.
The runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference shall be declared out. EFFECT: The ball
is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base legally touched at the time of
the interference.
s. When, after being declared out or after scoring, a runner interferes with a defensive player’s opportunity
to make play on another runner. EFFECT: The runner closest to home plate at the time of the
interference shall be declared out.
t. When a defensive player has the ball and the runner remains on their feet and deliberately, with great
force, crashes into the defensive player with intent to cause harm. EFFECT: The runner is out and
ejected from the game, the ball is dead and each runner must return to the last base touched at the time of
the interference.
u. When the runner fails to keep contact with the base to which the runner is entitled until a pitched ball
touches the ground, passes/hits home plate or is batted. NOTE: Standing on the safety or double bag at
first is defined as standing off the bag. EFFECT: The ball is dead; the runner is out.
v. When the runner abandons a base and enters the teams’ dugout area or leaves the field of play.
w. If a base runner does not return to the base and be in contact with the base at the time the pitcher releases
a legally pitched ball to the batter.

x. If a player touches 1st base with the bat in their hand when the ball is in play. NOTE: if they touch 1st
base with a bat in their hands when an over the fence home run has been hit, it will not be deemed an out
since home runs are "hit and sit".
y. If a batter swings and hits a pitched ball that bounces before the plate, the ball will be a dead ball and the
batter will be declared out.
Sec 8. THE RUNNER IS SAFE WHEN:
a. When the runner is struck with a fair untouched batted ball while in contact with the base. EFFECT: The
ball is dead and the batter is awarded 1st base.
b. If runner is still in contact with the bag when struck the runner will be deemed safe and the batter is
awarded a single, all other runners may advance one base if they are pushed. i.e. Runners on 1st and 3rd,
a batted ball strikes the runner on first base while in contact with the base. Batter will get first base
awarded and push the runner from first to second. The runner on third will remain at 3rd
base.
c. When a fielder without the ball obstructs a runner by faking a tag. Each runner affected by the obstruction
shall be awarded the base they would have reached per umpire’s judgment.
Sec 9. FREEDOM RUNNER/ PINCH RUNNER. One “FREEDOM” Runner per team shall be designated
before the game on the official lineup card. In Coed Divisions One “FREEDOM” Runner will be designated for
male and one for female players. In Coed Divisions the male Freedom Runner can only run for male players and
the female Freedom Runner can only run for female players. A FREEDOM Runner can be any player on the
roster, regardless if they are in the lineup or not. They are FREE to run an unlimited number of times per
inning/game. Note: If a team opts to designate a Freedom Runner that is in the official lineup, and the Freedom
Runner is on base during their turn to bat, an out shall be declared and the Freedom Runner shall be removed
from the base to take their turn at bat. A team does not have the option of substituting the Freedom Runner if he is
in the lineup once he/she has occupied a base for a player, only if reached on hit of his/her own. If a team does
not declare a Freedom Runner on the official lineup card, then they will forfeit their right to any courtesy runners
unless an actual substitution has been made.
Sec 10. OVERTHROWS- When the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines) or is blocked.
Awarded bases shall be determined by the position of the baserunners at the time of the infraction.
EFFECT: For offensive equipment or an offensive player causing a blocked ball, the player closest to home plate
is declared out, and all other runners must return to the last base touched when the ball becomes blocked.
a. The ball is dead. In all cases where a thrown ball goes into the spectators’ seats, goes over, through, or
under any fence surrounding the playing field hits any person or object not engaged in the game,
including bats lying near benches, goes into the player’s benches, whether the ball rebounds onto the
playing field or not, or remains in the meshes of any wire screen, each and every base runner shall be
awarded one (1) base.
b. When the first throw is made by an infielder, one (1) bases shall be awarded. The award shall be governed
by the position of each runner at the time the pitch was made; however, if all runners, including the
batter-runner, have advanced at least one (1) base when the infielder makes the wild throw on the first
play after a pitch, the award shall be governed by the position of the runners when the wild throw was
made.
c. When a throw is made by an outfielder or is the result of any succeeding play or attempted play, the two
(2) base award shall be governed by the position of each runner and the last base he/she has Touched at
the time the throw was made. If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the
position of the lead runner.

d. When a fielder loses possession of the ball such as on an attempted tag and the ball enters a dead ball area
or becomes blocked, all runners are awarded one (1) base from the last base touched at the time the ball
entered the dead ball area or became blocked. If a runner touches the next base and returns to his/her
original base, the original base he/she left is considered the “last base touched” for the purposes of an
over throw award.
e. When a ball bounces or rolls into the stands, over, under, or through a fence; bounces out of play
unintentionally off a defensive player or other obstruction marking the boundaries of the playing field.
EFFECT: The ball is dead and all baserunners are awarded two (2) bases from the time of the pitch.
Exception: If ball bounds over the fence between the foul poles unintentionally off a defender or
a defender’s glove, a four base error is recorded and batter and all runners are awarded four
bases. This will not count against a teams home run limit.
f. When a live ball is unintentionally carried by a fielder from playable territory into a dead ball area, the
ball becomes dead immediately. All baserunners are awarded one base from the last base touched at the
time the fielder enters dead ball territory. If, in the judgment of the umpire, a fielder intentionally carries a
live ball into dead ball territory, the ball becomes dead and all baserunners are awarded two (2) bases
from the last base touched at the time he/she entered the dead ball area. NOTE: A fielder carrying a live
ball into the dugout or team area to tag a player is considered to have intentionally carried it there. A
dead ball line is considered in play.
Sec 11. If a runner coming from 3rd base to home grabs or is handed a bat that may be laying in the baseline and
could cause harm to a runner No penalty will be issued if they touch home plate with it in their hand as long as
there is NO play at the plate. NOTE: If there is a play at the plate and the runner touched the plate with the bat in
their hand the runner will automatically be declared out.

Sec 1. Pitcher shall be given three (3) warm up pitches upon beginning of game and when a new pitcher comes
into the game. One (1) shall be allowed at the beginning of each inning pitched after the first inning pitched.
Sec 2. Before the Pitcher’s motion starts the pitcher shall take a position with one or both feet in contact with the
pitcher’s plate or within six (6) feet behind the pitching plate and the ball in view of the umpire before delivering
the pitch. His / Her foot does not have to be in contact with the pitching plate upon release. The ball may be
released up to six (6) feet behind the pitching plate. Exception: When releasing the ball in front of the pitching
rubber, the pitcher must have pivot foot in contact with pitching rubber.
Sec 3. Pump fakes/juking will be permitted for a maximum time of (3) seconds. The time count starts when the
pitcher makes his/her first motion. Any pump lasting longer than (3) seconds will be deemed a dead ball and a
ball will be awarded to the batter.
Sec 4 The pitcher may not use the glove to pitch the ball, the ball must be pitched from a bare hand.
Sec 5. The ball must be pitched underhand at a slow rate of speed and must arc at least four (4) feet from the
ground and may not rise higher than ten (10) feet from the ground. The speed of the pitch and height of the
pitched ball are left entirely to the judgment of the umpire
Sec 6. The pitcher can deliberately drop, roll, or bounce the ball to the batter either on or off the pitching rubber
NOTE: Ball is live and all runners have the Freedom to steal once the ball hits the ground.
Sec 7. There shall be only one charged conference between the manager or other team representative from the
dugout with each and every pitcher in an inning. The second charged conference shall result in the removal of the
pitcher from the pitching position for the remainder of the game. NOTE: It is not a charged conference when the
coach or team representative enters the field of play and removes the pitcher from the pitching position. The
player may return to the pitching position.
Sec 8. The pitcher may NOT attempt to hit the batter with a pitched ball. In the umpire’s discretion if the pitcher
is attempting to hit the batter the with the ball the Pitcher will first be warned and the second offense will be
ejected from the game.
This Ball is LEGAL for play in PFS Softball as of January 1, 2025 in addition to any official
ball stamped with the PFS Softball official logo.

Sec 1. Each batter shall bat in the order in which each player's name appears on the lineup card. NOTE: The
order shall be followed for the entire game except when substitutions have been made and have followed the
substitution rules.
Sec 2. If batter improperly bats out of order and is discovered by the offensive team prior to that batter completing
a turn at bat, time may be called and the proper batter placed up to bat and assumes the improper batters pitch
count. If discovered by the defensive team, an out will be declare for the batter and the next correct batter in the
batting order will be up to bat.
Sec 3. When a player bats out of order and completes a turn at bat, an out shall be declared on appeal of the
opposing team. All runners must return to their previously held base.
a. If a defensive team appeals to the umpire prior to the next pitch or before the defensive team leaving the
field of play an improper batter, who has become a runner or has been put out, the umpire shall declare
the proper batter out and all runners must return to previous occupied base prior to the pitch. Any outs
made on the play stand.
b. If no appeal is made prior to the next pitch or if the defensive team has left the field at the end of the half
inning, then the improper batter becomes the proper batter and that turn at bat becomes legal. The batting
order shall then continue with the name of the player that follows that of the now legal improper batter.
Sec 4. A batter shall have twenty (20) seconds to step into proper position in the batter’s box once the umpire
states "play ball" or requests for a batter. EFFECT: A strike shall be called.
Sec 5. A batter shall have at least one portion of his/her foot making contact with the batter's box and the other
foot is not touching the ground completely outside of the batter's box or is making any contact with home plate
EFFECT: If one foot is making contact with the ground outside the batter’s box or making contact with home a
dead ball shall be called and the batter shall be called out.
Sec 6. A batter shall not interfere with a catcher who is attempting to make a play or throw. If an interference
occurs due to the batter improperly not making an attempt to move out of the way of the catcher who is
attempting to make a play or throw, and any runner is unsuccessfully put out then the batter is declared out and all
runners shall return to the previously occupied base. If there are two outs in the inning, then the batter shall be
declared out and sides will change.
Sec 7. The on-deck batter is the offensive player whose name follows the name of the batter in the batting order.
The on-deck batter may loosen up with two official softball bats, an official warm up bat, or any other product
that has been approved by PFS Softball National Headquarters. NOTE: Attachments are prohibited, such as a
donut, fan etc. when loosening up.

Sec 8. A BATTER IS CALLED OUT WHEN:
a. A third strike is called.
b. A batter swings at a third strike and the ball hits the batter.
c. A batter intentionally hits a batted ball for a second time and no runners shall advance.
d. A batter attempts to Chop the ball with two strikes and the ball lands in foul territory.
e. A batted ball is caught in the air either in fair or foul territory by a defensive player.
f. If a batted ball is hit in the air in fair territory in the infield and the infield fly rule is in effect.
g. If a batter steps into the batter’s box with an illegal bat.
h. If a batter steps into the batter’s box with a bat with a foreign substance such as spray glue,
stick’em, pine tar or any other substance that may help the bat grip the ball above the taper of
the bat and onto the barrel of the bat after being warned by an umpire in that or any previous
game during the event.
i. A defensive player intentionally drops a fly ball or line drive with runners occupying bases. A
dead ball shall be declared and the batter shall be out and the base runners shall return to
previous occupied base.
j. A batter steps out of the batter’s box and hits a pitched ball.
k. A batter swings at a pitched ball that lands way before home plate.
l. A batter bunts the ball.
m. A batter slap swings or slap hits the ball.
Sec 9. A Batter has the Freedom to swing the bat with one hand with NO Penalty
Sec 10. FREEDOM HITTER
In 2022 PFS Softball will be removing 1 Up Rule and Adding a Freedom Hitter in the Men’s
Divisions.
Freedom Hitter (FH) Rule: The Freedom Hitter (FH): Will be added to the following Divisions: Men's E, D, C,
B & A. A "Freedom Hitter" will be defined as the first batter in the lineup that hit's a batted ball over the outfield
fence in fair territory that isn’t a 4 base error and is defined as a legal homerun. This homerun will NOT be
subtracted from the total number allowed in the division. This player will become your Freedom Hitter who will
have the “FREEDOM” to hit a homerun anytime he/she comes to bat. If this player is walked during the game as
a base on balls accidentally or intentionally this opens the Freedom Hitter back up to the next Legal Homerun
during the game and “that” player will become the Freedom Hitter. At no time will homeruns hit by the Freedom
Hitter count toward the teams allotted homerun maximum/total. If the Freedom Hitter is substituted or injured
and removed from the game during the game the team will lose their Freedom Hitter’s ability to “freely” hit
homeruns and subsequent homeruns by that batter or any other will continue to count toward the maximum
allotted homeruns for the game for that team. NOTE: A Freedom Hitter that has been substituted from the game
can re-enter the game per substitution rule and hit any available Home Runs but those Home Runs will count
toward the teams total.

Sec 11. HOME RUNS The following over the fence home runs are allowed:
CO-ED
REC Division 1 Homerun, Additional Homerun Penalty – Inning Ending Out
E Division 3 Homeruns, Additional Homerun Penalty – Inning Ending Out
D Division 5 Homeruns & 1 Up, Additional Homerun Penalty Out.
Open Division 8 Homeruns & 1 Up, Additional Homerun Penalty Out.
Note: Women’s Homeruns count against the Homerun limit in Coed
WOMEN
Women’s D Division 1 Homerun, Extra Homerun Penalty– Inning Ending.
Women’s C Division 3 Homeruns, Extra Homerun Penalty– Inning Ending Out.
Upper Women’s Division Unlimited Homeruns.
MEN
REC Division: 1 Homerun (All other Homeruns Inning Ending Out) (NO Freedom Hitter Allowed)
E Division 3 Homeruns + Freedom Hitter (All other Homeruns Inning Ending Out)
Men's D: 4 Homeruns + Freedom Hitter (All other Homeruns Out)
Men's C: 5 Homeruns + Freedom Hitter (All other Homeruns Out)
Men's B: 8 Homeruns + Freedom Hitter (All other Homeruns Out)
Men's A: 12 Homeruns + Freedom Hitter (All other Homeruns Out)
MILITARY
LOWER MILITARY DIVISION 6 Homeruns, Additional Homerun Penalty – Inning Ending
Out.
UPPER MILITARY 12 Homeruns Additional Homerun Penalty – Out
MASTERS
MASTERS DIVISION – 8 Homeruns Additional Homerun Penalty Out.

Sec. 1. The ball is dead and not in play:
a. When the ball is batted illegally.
b. When a batter steps from one box to another when the pitcher is ready to pitch. Note: If the batter
swings at an illegal pitch, the play stands.
c. When a ball is pitched illegally.
d. When the umpire declares “No Pitch”.
e. When a pitched ball touches any part of the batter’s person or clothing, whether or not the ball is
struck at.
f. When a foul ball is not caught.
g. When a baserunner is called out for leaving a base too soon on a pitched ball.
h. When the offensive team causes interference.
i. When the ball is outside the playing limits of the playing field. A ball is considered “out of play”
when it touches the ground, person, the ground or object outside the playing area.
j. In case of interference with the batter or fielder.
k. When the batter bunts a pitched ball.
l. A batter slap swings or slap hits the ball.
m. When the umpire calls time.
n. When the umpire calls time and an appeal play follows, the ball remains dead throughout the
appeal.
o. When any part of the batter’s person is hit by his own batted ball while he is in the batter’s box.
p. When a runner runs the bases in reverse order.
q. When a coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate on or near the baseline while the
fielder is attempting to make a play, and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
r. When a baserunner fails to keep contact with his/her base until the pitched ball has reached home
plate.
s. When a play is being made on an obstructed runner, or if the batter-runner is obstructed before
he/she reaches first base.
t. When a blocked ball is declared.
u. When the batter enters the batter’s box with, or uses, an illegal bat or altered bat.
v. When a caught fair ball, including a line drive, which can be handled by any infielder with
ordinary effort, is intentionally dropped, with less than two outs, and with a runner on 1st, 1st and
2nd, 1st and 3rd or 1st, 2nd or 3rd bases.
w. When a fielder carries a live ball into dead ball territory.
x. When a batter is hit with his/her own-batted ball in fair territory outside the batter’s box.
y. When a fair ball strikes an umpire or baserunner on fair ground before passing or touching an
infielder.

Sec. 2. The ball is in play:
a. At the start of each half inning, when the pitcher has the ball in the pitching position and the
umpire has called “Play Ball”.
b. When the infield fly rule is enforced.
c. When a thrown ball goes past a fielder and remains in playable territory.
d. When a fair ball strikes an umpire or baserunner on fair ground after passing or touching an
infielder.
e. When a fair ball strikes an umpire on foul ground.
f. When the baserunners have reached the bases, which they are entitled, when the fielder illegally
fields a batted or thrown ball.
g. When a baserunner is called out for passing a preceding runner.
h. When no play is being made on an obstructed runner, the ball shall remain live until the play is
over.
i. When the batter legally hits a fair ball.
j. When a baserunner must return, in reverse order, while the ball is already in play.
k. When a baserunner acquires the right to a base by touching it before being put out.
l. When a base is dislodged while runners are running the bases.
m. When a runner runs out of the base line in regular or reverse order to avoid a tag by a fielder.
n. When a runner is forced or tagged out.
o. When the umpire calls the baserunner out for failure to return and touch the base when play is
resumed, after a suspension of play.
p. When a live ball strikes a groundskeeper, photographer, policeman etc. assigned to the game.
q. When a thrown ball strikes an offensive player.
r. If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory, and in the judgment of
the umpire, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball. The batter is not out and
the ball is live and in play.
s. When a thrown ball strikes an umpire.
t. When a thrown ball strikes a coach.
u. As long as there is a play as a result of the hit by the batter. This would include an immediate live
ball appeal before the umpire has called “time”. Once the umpire has called “time” however, the
ball remains dead during a subsequent appeal play.
v. When a foul ball is caught NOTE: All runner can advance as long as they return to the bag they
occupied when the ball was hit. (See Rule 6 Sec 7-F)
w. When, in the judgment of the umpire, a coach touches or physically helps a runner. Note: A
delayed dead ball signal will be given and play shall continue. The touched or assisted runner
shall be ruled out and all other subsequent play will be ruled upon accordingly.
Sec. 3. The ball remains live:
Until the umpire calls “time”, which should be done when the ball is held by a player in the infield area,
and in the judgment of the umpire, all play has ceased. *Note - the ball is live until the batter/runner gets
to first AND all other play has stopped or deemed stopped by the umpire.

Sec 1. During a dead ball appeal, the pitcher shall announce which runner and which base that is being appealed.
NOTE: A defensive team is only allowed one (1) appeal per runner.

Sec 1. TYPES OF PROTEST.
a. Misinterpretation of a playing rule – must be made before the next pitch or if on the last play of the game,
before the Official(s) leave the playing field.
b. Illegal Substitute or re-entry – must be made while they are in the game, before the last play of the game
and before the Official(s) leave the playing field.
c. Illegal Player –Protested players must produce a PFS Softball Slow-Pitch Player’s Card along with
a Legal/Photo ID. Should the protested player not be able to produce both IDS’ within 5 minutes, the
protest shall be upheld.
d. Protest of non approved or altered equipment. NOTE: Team must pay protest fee to the umpire and then
show the umpire the equipment in question for him to take to the director with the protest fee. This must
be done during game play, not after the game has finished or when the Official(s) leave the playing field.
NOTE: Protests will not be considered or accepted if an Official bases them solely on a decision on the accuracy
of a judgment call.
Sec 2. PROTEST PROCEDURE.
a. The coach or manager of the protesting team shall immediately notify the plate Official that the game is
being played under protest. The Official shall then notify the opposing manager and Tournament Director.
b. Both team managers and the Official shall record the information (in official scorebook), details, and
conditions surrounding the protest.
c. A $100.00 Cash (or Director approved digital payment option) protest fee must be paid by the protesting
team. Said fee will be immediately returned if protest is upheld. Failure to submit the $100.00 Cash (or
Director approved digital payment option) will result in the protest being null and void.
Sec 3. PROTEST DECISION. Shall result in one of the following:
a. The protest is determined to be invalid. The game stands as played.
b. When a protest is found to be valid due to a misinterpretation of a playing rule, the decision will be
corrected, and the game shall be replayed from the point at which the incorrect decision was made.
c. When a protest for an illegal player is determined to be valid, the offending team shall forfeit the game
being played.

Sec 1. UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT – Any verbal action by team members, spectators, fans or
participants from other teams not participating in the game made towards umpires, PFS Softball Directors or
Staff, members of the opposing team, or spectators as deemed “Unsportsmanlike” by any Freedom Official, shall
be grounds for an immediate ejection and possible suspension for ONE additional game. Spectators, fans or
participants from other teams not participating in the game guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct as deemed by any
Freedom Official, Staff, Director or National Office Member will be removed from the park and if a “player”,
could face suspension to be determined by the State and National Offices on a case by case basis. Any physical
action shall result in the MINIMUM of an immediate ONE-year suspension from all Freedom sanctioned
events.
Sec 2. If a player is ejected from a game, said player must leave the park until the game is over. The player may
return once the game they were ejected from is complete unless they were suspended for an additional game or
removed from the event. If said player refuses to leave the park or tries to sneak back in the game or park once
they are ejected, they will automatically be suspended for a period of ONE year unless the National Office feels
the penalty should be longer.
Sec 3. If a player commits unsportsmanlike conduct after the game is over or between games as deemed by any
PFS Softball Official, said player will be ejected from their next game. If after the event is complete or after
their team has been eliminated, they will be ineligible for at least one game of their next tournament played.
Unless the State and/or National Offices feel the penalty and/or suspension should be longer.
Sec 4. In the case of physical action/contact or altercation between players, teams, fans and/or officials: the
Tournament Director will gather information regarding the incident and log all of the persons involved. A
Tournament Incident Report will be filled out within 72 hours of the end of the event and sent to the State and
National Offices. The Tournament Director will send a copy of the Incident Report to the coaches of each team
and the offender and victim via their email address per their PFS Softball Players Card Registtraion. The
offenders and victim(s) will have 48 hours to add any comments or evidence to the Incident Report including but
not limited to written comments, additional information and supporting documentation such as video, sound
recording, additional personal witnesses and/or police reports. The State and National Offices will have one (1)
week to respond to the coach(s), (offenders(s) and victim(s) with a formal decision, unless at the sole discretion of
the State and /or National Offices additional time is required to gather evidence, witnesses or information. The
Tournament Director will be the point of contact and will notify the coach(s), (offenders(s) and victim(s) with
updates if additional time is required by the State and National Offices.
*NOTE* - The offender will be deemed suspended and illegal for any activity in any PFS Softball events
including but not limited to League(s), Tournaments, Worlds, Winter Worlds, States, NITs and any other
PFS Softball Events while the investigation is ongoing.
Sec 5. Threat With a Weapon: ANY threat that involves ANY weapon including but not limited to a bat,
firearm, knife or ANY such item that can be used to induce great bodily harm will result in an immediate Lifetime
Bann from ALL PFS Softball events including but not limited to League(s), Tournaments, Worlds, Winter
Worlds, States, NITs and may other PFS Softball Events while the investigation is ongoing. *NOTE* Verbal
threats of physical violence with weapons may also be considered a Threat with a Weapon and could result
in a 1 year to lifetime suspension if deemed necessary by the National Office.
Sec 6. Spectators, fans and players/participants with teams not participating in the game at hand can also be
suspended and or removed from the park. Any fan or spectator that threatens a PFS Softball Director or
Official, other participant, player, coach or fan will be removed from the park and if a player or coach, they may
face suspension of one (1) year up to Lifetime depending on the seriousness of the infraction. Spectators/fans
that are required to leave the facility and refuse to leave the facility can result in a forfeit of the game for the team
they represent. Any unruly fan/spectator that is not involved with either team participating in the game will be
required to leave the park and may not return at the discretion of the Tournament Director.
NOTE: PFS Softball reserves the right to reciprocate any suspension(s) that a player may
receive from other sports associations including but not limited to USA (ASA), ISA, NSA, GSL, WSL, ONE
NATION and USSSA.

Sec 1. The umpire shall be the Official(s) appointed to officiate each PFS Softball game. The
umpires are the representatives of the league or organization for the particular game that they have been assigned.
They are authorized and required to enforce the rules contained in this book. The umpires have the power to
order a player, coach, captain, or manager to do or refrain from doing, any act that is necessary to enforce
any of these rules; and to inflict any penalties prescribed. The plate umpire shall have the authority to rule on
any situation not specifically covered in these rules. NOTE: An umpire shall not be a member of either team (i.e.
player, coach, officer, scorekeeper or spectator.)
Sec 2. All PFS Softball Umpires must be register online at www.freedomsoftball.com
and have a valid umpire I.D. number prior to officiating any PFS Softball sanctioned game.
Umpire registration should be completed at least One Week prior to the Umpire officiating any game to allow
the National Office time to get them properly registered in the system.
Sec 3. The Umpire uniform shall consist of:
• The official royal blue PFS Softball Polo style shirt or other as PFS Softball Officially Licensed
shirt.
o The Tournament Director will notify Umpires prior to the event of the shirt that will be approved
for the event to be officiated,
• The official Freedom Umpires hat.
o The Tournament Director will notify Umpires prior to the event of the hat that will be approved
for the event to be officiated,
• Solid black slacks or solid black shorts.
o NO Logos from any other association shall be visible.
• Black belt, black socks, black ball bag (optional) and black or “approved” blue shoes.
• The official Freedom Umpires Coin
o If the umpire does not have the Official PFS Softball Umpires coin, they may use a regular US
Minted coin (currency) or other Non-Associated Coin
o Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES shall an umpire officiating an PFS Softball event use a coin
from any other association.
• Jackets may be worn in cold or wet weather conditions.
o NO Logos from any other association shall be visible.
o DO not wear jackets, pants or other apparel that is uniquely colored or tailored to another
association and would give the appearance of another association.
• Clicker, brush, “pen or pencil for keeping the umpire card, audible timer (if needed)
NOTE: Slacks do not include jeans, sweatpants, jogging pants, or other pants or slacks that would
not be considered a dress slack.
NOTE: Umpiring for the National Office at Winter Worlds, End of Year Super Worlds or other National Events
is a prestigious occasion and may require umpires to purchase specific uniform item(s). Umpires that intend to
work these events should understand that they may be responsible to purchase certain items in accordance with
the PFS Softball Umpire Uniform Policy for World and National Events. The National Office will set these
requirements and notify all umpires attending of those specific requirements.

PFS Softball Basic Rules will govern women’s play with the following exceptions:
GENDER / SEX – A Player’s Gender / Sex is determined at BIRTH. Those assigned female at birth may
participate in Men's Divisions, but those assigned male at birth may NOT participate in Women's Divisions
as identified in Sec. 3. PLAYER ELIGILITY (h). If a Male Player is wanting to play in a Women’s Division, it
will be solely upon the player to provide proof of their Sex at BIRTH (i.e. Birth Certificate).
DIVISIONS OFFERED:
PFS Softball Women’s teams will consist of the following player classifications:
• Upper Women’s Division: Women Players from the B Division and above, excluding Major Players.
• Women’s C Division: Women Players from the C Division. Women’s C Division Teams will be allowed
3 drop players from the Upper Women’s Division.
• Women’s D Division : Women Players from the D, E, and Rec Divisions ONLY. Women’s D Division
Teams WILL NOT be allowed drop players.
PFS Softball Basic Rules will govern women’s play with the following exceptions:
Sec 1. Official “PFS Softball” stamped 44-375, 44-400 or 44-425 core-compression softballs must be
used in all Freedom play. The ball must be optic yellow and 11 inches in circumference for all women’s divisions
and women competing in any Coed Division. Women that elect to compete in any Men’s Division will be
required to hit the Men’s Division ball. NOTE: Use of a non-approved ball may be protested by the opposing
pitcher/team (once batter has taken the batter's box.) and an out will be declared. If protested before the batter
has taken the batter’s box, the ball is to be replaced with the correct ball and no penalty will be enforced. Any
player on the opposing team may also protest a ball that has been put in play as long as the ball remained in play
and in the sight of the Umpire. EFFECT: All runners shall return to the last base they occupied, and player
hitting the ball is out. NOTE: PFS Softball optic yellow ball is the only ball legal for game play.
Sec 2. PFS Softball Representatives, Tournament Directors, and State Directors reserve the right to equalize by
run spot and/or additional fielders any Women’s tournament as deemed appropriate. Each respective State
Director will set the equalization standard for tournaments with the authority over the Women’s Program. All
National Events WILL BE PLAYED by National Rules as per this section.
Sec 3. As per rule 8, section 10, Homeruns in the Women’s program will be unlimited for the Upper Women
division, 3 homeruns for the Women’s C Division with an inning ending out penalty for additional homeruns and
1 homerun for the Women’s D Division with an inning ending out penalty for additional homeruns.
Sec 4. WOMEN’S DIVISIONS WILL USE A DOUBLE EQUALIZER: Upper Women Division teams will
spot all Women’s C Division teams (5) runs and the Women’s C Division teams will be permitted to use (11)
fielders as well. Women’s C Division teams will spot all Women’s D Division teams (5) runs and the Women’s
D Division teams will be permitted to use (11) fielders as well. Upper Women’s Teams ARE NOT permitted to
compete against Women’s D Division teams without prior approval by the Tournament Director.
NOTE: The Equalizer Rule is to make both teams “more equal” only. Home Team will be determined by the
flip of a coin.
Sec 5. If a Women’s C Division team picks up more than three (3) players from the Upper Women’s Division
they also will now be considered an Upper Women’s team.
Sec 6. Women’s C Division teams may have three (3) players from the Upper Women’s Division but cannot
have any Major Players.
Sec 7. Women’s Division games WILL PLAY under a Time Limit per Rule 4 Section 2 unless otherwise notified
by the Tournament Director for the event.

PFS Softball basic slow pitch rules will govern play with the following exceptions:
Sec 1. NOTE. It is not permissible to use eleven (11) players. Unless the additional player is Female.
a. REC Division- Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5) Females or
(7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females. NO Drop Down
Players are allowed for men or women. All players MUST be classified Rec for Men and women,
whereas women would be Women’s D (D, E or Rec). Teams must always have 4 Women in the lineup
at all times. There are no batting lineup requirements. If a man is walked with a woman behind him, he
will take second and the woman will have the option to take her turn at bat or take 1st base. If a man is
walked with a man behind him in lineup it’s just one base. NOTE: if a team is dominating the division
or a Director thinks they are not a true Rec team they will be bumped a division
b. E – Division- Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5) Females or
(7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females. (2) Drop Down
players are allowed for both men and women. Teams will be allowed (2) Drop Players from the Men’s
D Division and (2) Drop Players Women’s C Division. Teams must always have 4 Women in the
lineup at all times. There is no batting lineup requirements. If a man is walked with a woman behind
him he will take second and the woman will have the option to take her turn at bat or to take 1st base. If
a man is walked with a man behind him in lineup it’s just one base.
c. D – Division- Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5) Females or
(7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females. (2) Drop Down
players are allowed for both men and women. Teams will be allowed (2) Drop Players from the Men’s
C Division and (2) Drop Players Women’s Upper Division to include Major Players. Teams will be
allowed (2) Drop Players from the Men’s C Division and NO Players from any Division higher than the
Men’s C Division. Teams must always have 4 Women in the lineup at all times. There is no batting
lineup requirements. If a man is walked with a woman behind him he will take second and the woman
will have the option to take her turn at bat or to take 1st base. If a man is walked with a man behind him
in lineup it’s just one base.
d. Open – Coed- Rosters must consist of (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females…. Bring
Your Team and play… Any player can play. There is no batting lineup requirements also. If a man is
walked with a woman behind him, he will take second and the woman will have the option to take her
turn at bat or to take 1st base. If a man is walked with a man behind him in lineup it’s just one base.
Sec 2. It will be permissible to have more females than the required number of females in the lineup, but never
more males than the allowed amount. EXCEPTION: IF a female player(s) gets injured, ejected or unexpectedly
leaves the game, the team may continue to play as long as a minimum of (4) female players remain in the line-up.
EFFECT: The team will have to take an Out for the vacated female spot(s) in the lineup when no substitute is
available or allowed (ejection). If a female player is injured and stays in the line-up but is unable to play defense,
the team can continue to compete “a player down on defense”. If at her turn at bat she is able to play or decides
to chance taking a walk, she may take her turn at bat and if walked it is possible to be replaced by the female
Freedom Runner on base per the Freedom Runner rules. It ill be permissible under “an injury” situation ONLY
for the Freedom Runner to take the female place on first without her physically walking to first. The umpire must
deem all play has otherwise stopped and declare time, Freedom Runner on First and then allow the switch for the
injured female player.
Sec 3. No batting order guidelines with Males & Females, you may set up the lineup any way you would like.
Sec 4. A team may end the game with only (8) players. EFFECT: If injury occurs, an out is called if there is no
substitute for the injured player if the player is completely unable to compete. (see Section 2 Exception for
Injured Female Players)

Sec 5. Male batters will hit the approved 12” softball and female batters will hit the approved 11” softball with
PFS Softball logo. Note: Females have option to hit the 12" ball.
• If a male batter hits an 11” ball and the ball stays in play and within the umpires sight, any defensive
player can make the umpire aware of the incorrect ball. EFFECT: The correct 12 inch ball will be
put into the game. The play will be declared dead. All runners will return to the base held at the time
of the pitch. The batter will return to the plate and assume the pitch count last held by the umpire
before the hit (as if a no pitch was declared) and resume his place at bat.
Sec 6. Base on Balls – Any male batter who receives a base on balls whether intentional or not when a female
batter is following him, will be awarded second base (all other runners will advance only if forced by this walk.)
and the female batter following him, will have the option of taking an award of first (1st) base or taking an actual
at bat. If she elects to take the base on balls, she must do so before the first legally pitched ball is thrown to her.
No pitch may be made until the next female batter confirms her choice. The male batter will be declared OUT if
he does not walk the bases in the correct order (going to first then second). Exceptions: if a male is walked and
another male follows him he will only be awarded 1st base and if a female is walked and a female follows her she
will only be awarded 1st base.
Sec 7. Freedom Runners - Teams may use an unlimited "Freedom Runner" of each sex per half inning all game
long. One male and one female must be declared before the game as the Freedom Runners if no Freedom runner
is declared then the team will have no option to use a Freedom Runner the entire game. The female Freedom
Runner can run for any female player unlimited times per half inning and the male Freedom runner may run
unlimited times for any male per half inning. The Freedom Runner may be anyone on the team lineup or on
roster but must finish their run before their turn at bat when applicable. Freedom Runners should always be
assuming the role of base coaches to keep the game flowing and moving smoothly. Male Freedom Runner
CANNOT run for female players and female Freedom Runners CANNOT run for male players.
Sec 8. Defensive team must have the required amount of women in the lineup per division
A. REC - 4 women in the lineup
B. E - 4 women in the lineup
C. D - 4 women in the lineup
D. Open - 5 women in the lineup
Sec 9. Home Runs – ALL Home Runs including hit by Females will count against the Home Run Limit.
A. REC 1 Homerun, All Additional Homerun Penalty will be Inning Ending Out.
B. E 3 Homeruns, All Additional Homerun Penalty will be Inning Ending Out.
C. D 5 Homeruns and One Up Rule, All Additional Homerun Penalty will be an Out.
D. Open 8 Homeruns and One Up Rule, All Additional Homerun Penalty will be an Out.
Sec 10. Stealing is permitted in all the coed divisions.

Sec 11. Rosters shall be:
GENDER / SEX – A Player’s Gender / Sex is determined at BIRTH. Those assigned female at birth may
participate in Men's Divisions, but those assigned male at birth may NOT participate in Women's Divisions
as identified in Sec. 3. PLAYER ELIGILITY (h). If a Male Player is wanting to play in a Women’s Division, it
will be solely upon the player to provide proof of their Sex at BIRTH (i.e. Birth Certificate).
a. REC Division- Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5)
Females or (7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females.
NO Drop Down Players are allowed for men or women. All players MUST be classified Rec
for Men and women, whereas women would be Women’s D (D, E or Rec). Teams must always
have 4 Women in the lineup at all times.
b. E Division - Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5) Females
or (7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females. (2) Drop
Down players are allowed for both men and women. Teams will be allowed (2) Drop Players
from the Men’s D Division and (2) Drop Players Women’s C Division. Teams must always have
4 Women in the lineup at all times.
c. D Division - Rosters can consist of either (6) males and (4) Females, or (6) males and (5)
Females or (7) males and (5) females, or (5) males and (5) females or (6) males and (6) females.
(2) Drop Down players are allowed for both men and women. Teams will be allowed (2) Drop
Players from the Men’s C Division and (2) Drop Players Women’s Upper Division to include
Major Players. Teams will be allowed (2) Drop Players from the Men’s C Division and NO
Players from any Division higher than the Men’s C Division. Teams must always have 4 Women
in the lineup at all times.
d. Open Division- will be allowed any ranked player you want to bring. Roster Can consist of either
(5) males and (5) Females, or (6) males and (6) females
Sec 12. LINEUP – Coed teams must have a minimum of 8 players to be eligible to begin a game providing the
team has the minimum number of female players in the lineup. In the case of only 8 players, divisions required to
have 4 female players per division rules would be able to begin the game with a minimum of 3 female players and
5 male players. For divisions required to have a minimum of 5 female players per division rules would be able to
begin the game with a minimum of 4 female players and 4 male players. In the case of only 9 players, divisions
required to have 4 female players per division rules would be able to begin the game with a minimum of 4 female
players and 5 male players. For divisions required to have a minimum of 5 female players per division rules
would be able to begin the game with a minimum of 5 female players and 4 male players. Teams have the
FREEDOM to submit a lineup with only 8 or 9 players without penalty. Late arriving players are only eligible to
fill in the 9th and/or 10th positions without penalty if they were not listed on the lineup card and the 9th and 10th
spot were blank spots on the card. Teams can add the ninth female player but cannot add a ninth male player
without also adding a tenth player that is female. A team can prelist up to 12 players, but outs will be declared in
the vacant spots until the player arrives for game. If missing players were listed, then the vacant spots in the
lineup shall be declared outs until such time as the late arriving players can take their turn in the lineup or
substitutions can be made for those positions. A pitcher has the FREEDOM to intentionally walk a batter to get to
missing player outs. Teams may bat up to 12 players in the lineup with 10 players on defense. All teams that are
playing in PFS Softball events have the right to see the official lineup card before the game after each team has
filled it out.
Sec 13. It is not possible to condense the roster for an injured player in Coed. If there is not a replacement for an
injured player, the team must take an out when that player come to bat. The opposing team may walk batters
either intentionally or by physically pitching to them to get to the position in the batting lineup. If batters are
walked the ball is live until the batter/runner reaches first base and all other runners may advance at their own risk
until the umpire calls time. The ball will be deemed live until the umpire deems that all play has stopped or no
additional play is possible. (see Section 2 Exception for Injured Female Players)

Sec 14. Once the game has officially started the number of female players and the number of male players must
stay the same throughout the game. Even if the requirement is 6 males and 4 females and the team started with 5
males and 5 females. A female player cannot be replaced with a male player once the game has officially started
per Division Guidelines.
Sec 15. EXTRA INNINGS. Extra Innings shall be declared upon the completion of the 7th
inning OR the
completion of the current inning after the time has expired, and the score tied. EFFECT: Starting with the top of
the eighth inning, and each half inning thereafter, the offensive team shall begin its turn at bat using the
FREEDOM RUNNER OR LAST BATTED OUT (the player that last completed a turn at bat) being placed on
second base.
This Ball is LEGAL for play in PFS Softball as of January 1, 2025 in addition to any official
ball stamped with the PFS Softball official logo.

RECOMMENDED AT THE FIELD GUIDELINES
1. Follow all local and state guidelines for facilities and events.
2. All Players & Staff Must Complete the Return to Play Waiver & Liability Forms before being involved with
any PFS Softball Sanctioned Event.
3. Directors and tournaments may be required to cap the total number of teams that can enter an event, to stay
within potential gathering limitations. Spectators will be encouraged to not attend events until gathering
limitations are increased or removed.
4. Adjust playing formats to ensure events stay within gathering limitations.
5. Directors are asked to discuss these protocols/restrictions with all locations that host PFS Softball events
and also cover any additional items said facilities might require. This information must be distributed to all
participants prior to the start of the event, to ensure the safety of all attending, including facility staff.
6. All staff, players, umpires and spectators are encouraged to continue social distancing on and off the field
during an event.
7. All staff, players, umpires and spectators are encouraged to wear a mask or other face covering (during nonplay)
until CDC, state and local authorities declare that masks are no longer recommended. If a player
chooses to wear a mask or other face covering during game play, they may do so as long as it doesn’t become
a safety issue.
8. It is recommended that new softballs remain in their original packaging until they need to be introduced into a
game.
9. All players should stand outside the dugout and hang their bags 6 feet apart to allow for social distancing, but
do not allow them onto the field of play unless it’s for defensive purposes. The offensive team will have one
player hitting, one on-deck batter and one batter in the hole can be inside the dugout. All other offensive
players must be outside the dugout (not standing on the field). The coach may be inside the dugout along with
a scorekeeper. Base coaches should maintain social distancing guidelines.
10. Recommend staff, players, umpires and spectators bring hand sanitizing products.
11. One coach per team will conduct a pregame meeting at home plate, all involved are requested to keep 6 feet
social distancing during ground rules and coin toss. The lineup for each team will be dictated to the umpire at
the plate to avoid passing back and forth of the lineup card.
12. Directors are encouraged to allow for adequate time in event scheduling, to ensure adherence to social
distancing during the crossover of teams.
13. It is recommended that all players and umpires use their own equipment while participating. This includes
gloves, bats, etc.
14. The catcher and umpire shall position themselves during a player’s at-bat to allow for social distancing.
15. Collection of entry fees should be accomplished electronically before the event when at all possible. Cash
should be a last resort, but if it must be used should be placed with the exact amount in a zip lock bag to the
director. All check-in should be done by one coach only, prior to the event, while wearing a mask. Player
cards should be collected by this same coach, scanned while holding them for the director, then re-distributed
to the team. Limit or space out staffing to ensure social distancing. There should be a single point of contact
for teams during events.
16. Discontinue the physical posting of brackets, rules, etc., and utilize online options instead.
17. All teams are directed to clean their dugouts and team bench areas on arrival and departure.