Question for the NCAA Guys RE: Illegal Pitch

[BretMan]

This came up in a discussion with a parent of an NCAA pitcher. His daughter was recently called for an illegal pitch because she took a signal from the catcher before stepping on the pitcher's plate.

I know this is perfectly fine in ASA/NFHS ball, so long as the pitcher subsequently takes, or simulates taking, a signal once she does step on the plate. I also understand the intent of the rule is to have the pitcher pause before delivering the pitch, to prevent a quick pitch. And, I know that this rule is often misinterpreted to mean that the pitcher is forbidden from taking a signal anywhere except while on the plate.

The question is this: Is the NCAA rule interpreted exactly the same as for ASA/NFHS? A reading of their rule doesn't make me think it would be. But that doesn't eliminate the possibility that their umpires have been instructed otherwise.