NFHS On Deck Circles

[Duke]

Here is the answer you are looking for. Got this from WMB when asking a simular question.......

NFHS 3.6 Bench & Field Conduct Art 6.Note:"A single on-deck batter shall remain in her team's on-deck circle while the opposing pitcher is warming up."

This is something I watch closely, especially at the sub-varsity level. The lead-off batter wants to wander up to or close to the plate before warm-ups are completed. For their safety (and your legal protection) they should not be there. Send them back to the circle. Also send the current batter back to the on-deck circle when the defense changes pitchers.

Another issue that I am having this year is with fields having on-deck circles chalked at the end of the dugout closest to the plate. That is simply too close to home plate. In two of three games I am wiping out the circles and having the coaches draw new circles at the far end of the dugout. NFHS recommends a distance of at least 30' from the batters box.

WMB