Is this a balk? Please help!

[steelehead]

Runner on third. The pitcher assumes the windup position. He steps backwards off the pitcher's plate with his non-pivot foot first and proceeds to assume the set position. I was told by a fellow umpire that "in high school, as long as the pitcher does not feint/make a move toward a base (attempt a pickoff) that he can step off the rubber with either foot. But, if he is trying to pickoff a runner - he must step back with his pivot foot.

Which is correct? And can anyone site a rule in the NFHS 2002 rule book?

Thanks!

[ozzy6900]

Per FED 6-1-2 .... With his feet in the wind-up position, the pitcher may only deliver a pitch or step backward off the pitcher's plate with his pivot foot first....

In order to change positions the pitcher has to step off with his pivot foot.

[steelehead]

Thanks for your help!