NFHS has published the new rule changes for 2002.........for those of you who are interested......
I am copying them here.....if they get all screwed up in the conversion.......the link to the changes are at the bottom of this post.
Let's here some comments.........
Joel
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2002 NFHS Softball Rules Changes
1-1-5 g New New sub-article added indicating that players shall wear their uniforms properly and as designed.
3-1-1 Note 2 & 6-2-5 Note 2
The rules prohibiting a pitcher from returning to pitch if the umpire permits her substitute more than five warm-up pitches were deleted.
3-1-3 All substitutes will be permitted one re-entry, which is currently just the rule for starters. Therefore, all players will be permitted one re-entry provided they return to the same spot in the batting order.
3-1-7 d New New sub-article added indicating that once a team has gone shorthanded and another eligible player arrives, that player may fill the empty space in the line up.
7-3-5 Changed three offensive interference rules to standardize the penalties - an immediate dead ball and an out being called on the offender.
8-4-2 (old) When interference is called on:
8-6-10 thru 13 (new) The batter the batter is out and runners are returned regardless of the number of outs. (7-3-5)
8-6-10 b(new)& The runner the runner is out. (8-6-10 through 13)
7-4-1 i A runner for interfering with a foul fly ball the runner is out and a strike is called on the batter. (8-6-10 b/7-4-1 i)
8-4-2 k (old)
8-8-10 (new)
A no pitch will be declared and a runner will be permitted to return to her base when she was legally off her base after a pitch and didnt have sufficient time to return.
8-4-2 k Note (old)
8-7-1 (new)
The "look back rule" has been revised to be in effect after the batter-runner reaches first base.
10-4-2 Permits each state association to determine the states official umpire uniform (color of shirts/slacks).
2002 MAJOR EDITORIAL REVISIONS
1-1-6 A batting helmet bearing the NOCSAE embossed stamp and exterior warning label is mandatory for each batter.
1-1-7 Requires a catcher to wear a head protection with double earflaps.
Beginning January 1, 2003, the catchers helmet and mask combination shall meet the NOCSAE standard and have full ear protection (dual earflaps).
2 Rule 2 has been completely re-written.
3-3-1 j The coach shall not be in possession of any object in the coachs box other than scorekeeping materials/devices.
6-2-5 Pen A sentence was added to the last part of the penalty that indicates the penalty does not apply if the umpire delays the start of play due to substitution, conference, injuries, etc.
8 Rule 8 has been completely re-written utilizing penalties and effects.
No old rule
8-3-4 (new)
Clarifies that when a runner passes a base, she is considered to have touched it for the purpose of an appeal.
8-4-2 k Note (old)
8-7-1 (new)
Clarifies that the ball need only be in the pitchers possession for the Look-Back Rule to be in effect.
2002 POINTS OF EMPHASIS
1. Appeal play passing a base
2. Awarded bases 3-foot lane
3. Properly fitting helmets, uniforms, equipment
4. DH/substitutes/batting order/line-up cards
http://www.nfhs.org/sports/softball_rules_change.htm