USSSA umpires and rulebook will govern all play with exception to rules noted below.

·        Pool games will be scheduled for 70 minutes – complete the inning. Bracket games will be scheduled for 75 minutes – complete the inning. The ITB will be used to break game ties at time limit or after 7 innings in bracket play only. The championship games will have a 90-minute (1 hr-30 mins) time limit and will use ITB if tied after 7 innings. Teams must be prepared to play up to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled game time.

·         Bats must display the 2012 USSSA logo or be subject to a penalty for use of the non-approved bat. Penalty for using a non-approved bat is immediate ejection of the offending player and coach. This means stepping into the batter’s box with an unapproved bat.

·         Teams have the option to use 2 AP (Additional Players) along with the DP/Flex rule for a 12-person line up. Roster batting can also be used for both Pool and Bracket play, but short-handed rules will apply.

·         A courtesy runner is permitted for the pitcher and/or catcher. The player who had the last completed at bat (LCAB), if no unused substitute is available, is eligible to be a courtesy runner. This is one time per inning for either the pitcher and/or catcher.

·         JEWELRY RULE - Modified to allow stud earrings, while continuing to prohibit dangling hoops, necklaces, bracelets, rings, etc. judged by the umpire to be dangerous. Also requires batters to wear play indicators (wristbands) as they were designed to be worn (on the wrist, not the belt).