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Have coached, and called in several associations, and see a HUGE difference in abilities at same age. Most leagues play A, B, and even C ball. A first year 12U team may need the "instructional" rules, rec leagues should try and accomodate all levels, and tournament directors try and group A, B, and C levels. I called a 12U tournament this weekend, and was amazed at the level of play. We used ASA rules, with a 75 min limit, 10-8-6 runs after 3-4-5, bat up to 11, play any 9. This was excellent ball, games were exciting, and all teams were evenly matched. It wouldnt have been the same without the base stealing, D3K's, infield flies, etc. These girls were capable of play at this level, not all are. There are enough different leagues to accomodate all, you just gotta find them. BTW, in 9 games, only two were ended by run rule!
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