Obstruction question from the NFHS board

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by greymule

I cannot imagine calling OBS on that play (assuming nothing outrageous occurred a moment before).

I could, but only if the ball is NOT caught by the defender and her foot kept the runner from contacting the base. It is nothing at the point of the photograph since it seems the runner is advancing in the proper fashion. The defender's foot is irrelevant to the play UNTIL it's placement actually keeps the runner from obtaining the base while the defender does not have possession of the ball.

It would not be "ticky tack", it would be making the appropriate call for the situation since you have no idea of what subsequent action may take place. The call also deters arguments with the coaches since it demonstrates that you saw it and are not afraid to make the call. Remember, the call is to protect the umpire as much as the runner and there is no possible down side to it.