Conference at the mound...and the plate

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by tcannizzo

This would equate to a "huddle" in Fed, depending on how long they are there.

And the violation for this is...?

Seriously, I can't find anything in the rule book that covers "huddles" in Fed softball.

[MD Longhorn]

Originally Posted by Manny A

And the violation for this is...?

Seriously, I can't find anything in the rule book that covers "huddles" in Fed softball.

That's kind of the point. No violation at all (assuming the defense is ready to pitch when they are supposed to be, and the offense is ready to bat when they are supposed to be).

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Manny A

And the violation for this is...?

Seriously, I can't find anything in the rule book that covers "huddles" in Fed softball.

OK, who has maintained a library of annual NFHS rules books?

Several years ago, huddles were a Point of Emphasis, no huddling to be allowed on the field of play. Safety reasons coming in and out of the dugout each half inning (huddling where the other team is throwing a ball around), and to maintain a pace of game management with the unnecessary huddle and handslaps at the pitching circle every half inning (at a minimum).

We were directed to break up any/all on the sidelines but on the field, give an unsportsmanlike warning to the head coach if repeated, and eject for unsportsmanlike conduct if still ignored. We were directed to warn, and then announce "play" and start the 10 second count for the first pitch if ignored at the circle.

To my knowledge, despite not being stated in a rule, that direction regarding safety and game manegement has not been rescinded.