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The
Constitution and Bylaws of
The Amateur Softball Association of
Pennsylvania
As amended at the
ASA Of PA Council Meeting
March 2002
Article 1 - General Provisions
1.01 NAME
The name of the organization shall be The Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania. The headquarters of the association shall be located in
Columbia, PA with offices at 3955Columbia Avenue, Columbia, PA 17512.
The Association shall be incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under the
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
1.02 OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Association shall be:
(a) To promote amateur softball, within the boundaries assigned
to the Association by the Amateur Softball Association Of America, for all
persons regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, or
ancestry.
(b) To promote all phases of amateur softball including men’s,
women’s, youth, industrial, church, fraternal and civic.
(c) To establish uniform softball rules and regulations that can
be observed by all its members.
(d) To provide the game of softball with the proper safeguards,
in accordance with the spirit of true sportsmanship, so that the game will be
fostered as a non professional sport, engaged in by its members as a recreational
activity.
(e) To encourage the union of all eligible teams, organizations,
or groups, into such separate divisions of play, with active membership in
the Association, as is deemed necessary to advance the cause of amateur
softball.
(f) To establish and maintain, by allied and affiliated
membership, alliances with other organizations devoted to the promotion of
amateur softball.
(g) To conduct well organized and planned qualifying, district,
area, state, regional and national tournaments, in all divisions of play
where possible.
(h) To be represented in all divisions of play in regional
and/or national area and national championship tournaments.
(i) To define areas and districts in a manner that will benefit
member teams.
(j) To educate and train, in the proper skills of amateur
softball play and rules, through promoting, organizing, and conducting
clinics, seminars, and training courses.
1.03 RULES
The Official Rules of Softball and the Code of the Amateur Softball
Association Of America/USA Softball shall be, and hereby are made a part of,
the Constitution and Bylaws of this Association, and with like force and
effect as if they were herein set forth. Where a conflict occurs, the rules
and regulations as they are specifically written with in this Association’s
Constitution and Bylaws shall have precedence unless specifically involved
with teams advancing to national championship play.
1.04 JURISDICTION
The Association is the governing body of amateur softball played within the
state of Pennsylvania, except for softball played in the county of
Philadelphia and is so recognized as such by the Amateur Softball Association
Of America/USA Softball.
1.05 DEFINITIONS
Whenever used in this Code, unless otherwise specifically mentioned, the
following words, terms, and phrases are defined to mean:
1. “Amateur” - an amateur softball player who engages in
the sport solely for the pleasure, physical, mental, or social benefits he or
she derives there from, and to whom softball is no more than an avocation.
2. “Area” - A group of three or more Districts.
3. “A.S.A.” or ASA/USA Softball - Amateur Softball
Association Of America, the national organization.
4. “A.S.A. Of PA”- Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania - the state organization.
5. “Association” . Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania.
6. “Bonified Resident” A person actually residing
within the ASA Of PA area.
7. “Borderline Resident”- Is one who resides at a
location that is near the borderline between two or more states or metro
association, ie. the Amateur Softball association Of Pennsylvania and another
state or metro association bordering it.
8. “Championship Tournament” - A tournament from
which the winner and/or other selected teams may advance to a higher level of
play toward a state, regional, nation-al, or national championship final.
9. “Code” - The Constitution and Bylaws of the ASA
Of PA.
10. “Council” - The governing body of the
Association.
11. “District” - A geographical area, encompassing a
specific county or counties within the territory of the A.S.A. Of PA.
12. “Host Team” - A team selected to represent the
sponsoring organization of a championship tournament
13. “Ineligible Player” - A player who is not
eligible to participate in ASA com- petition.
14. “Invitational Tournament” . A tournament that
does not lead to a championship tournament, and that is sanctioned by the ASA
Of PA.
15. “Pick-Up Player” . An individual not
participating as a regular season roster member of the same particular team
in the same league. In order to be eligible as a Pick-Up Player that
individual must meet all of the requirements as stated in the Code of The
Amateur Softball Association Of America. Pick Up Players must have played for
an ASA registered team during the current season and must have played in the
same division of play and at the same or lower classification as the team for
which they are being picked up.
16. “State Office” - The headquarters of the ASA Of PA.
17. “Suspension of the Rules” - While in regular session
and with consent of 3/4 of the council members voting, the council may vote
to consider any provision of the ASA of PA.
1.06 AMENDMENTS
A. This code may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Council
Members voting at the Annual Spring Meeting, providing the proposed amendment
was presented to the Secretary of the Association by one member of the
Council, in writing, at least thirty(30) days prior to the meeting.
(1) The State Office will make all proposed
amendments available to each member of the Council in attendance at the
Annual Spring Council Meeting,
(2) A change may be made to a proposed amendment
that is being considered by the Council with the permission of the presenter.
A change may also be made in any pro-posed amendment by consent of 3/4
majority of all council members voting on the proposed change. However, any
proposed amendment that has been changed must receive a 3/4 vote of the
council members voting in order to be approved.
(3) While in regular session and with consent of 3/4 of
the council members voting, the council may vote to consider any provision of
the ASA Of PA.
B. All amendments approved at the Annual Spring Meeting shall go into effect
on the first day of January of the next year unless an earlier date is
specified in the proposed amendment.
ARTICLE 2 - MEMBERSHIP
2.01 TEAMS
(a) Adult - The membership of the ASA Of PA is open to any
team, providing they play in a league where all of the teams are registered
with the ASA Of PA, and they are able to abide by this Code, and who pay the
required dues as set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Note: A league is defined as a group of four or more teams, playing a minimum
of 8 games, scheduled over no less than a thirty (30) day period, with no
more than two games being played in one day. This shall include both adult
and youth play.
(b) Independent Adult - The membership of the ASA Of PA is
open to the independent team unable to play in an available organized ASA
sanctioned league providing they are able to abide by this code, and who pay
the required dues as set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Note
- (1) An independent adult team will only be eligible to compete in
championship play tournaments that lead to national championships in either
the adult Class "A", major or super divisions of play. To be
eligible to compete in these tournaments, the team must have the written
approval of the District Commissioner and State commissioner.
(c) Youth . Youth membership is open to teams of local athletic
associations or organizations where all teams within that athletic
association or organization are registered members of the Amateur Softball
Association Of Pennsylvania.
Note: With the various benefits the Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania offers its members, it is our policy to accept only those teams
from associations where all teams within their program are registered with
the Amateur Softball association Of Pennsylvania.
(d) Independent Youth - The membership of the ASA Of PA is open
to the independent team unable to play in an available organized ASA
sanctioned league providing they are able to abide by this code, and who pay
the required dues as set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
NOTE: Unless approved by the State Commissioner or State Junior Olympic
Commissioner, an independent youth team will be eligible to compete only in
championship play tournaments that lead to a national championship at the
highest level of play available for their respective age group. (Junior
Olympic Gold Level for 18 and Under Girl’s Fast Pitch and the Class A Level
Tournaments for all other age groups.) To be eligible to compete in these
tournaments, the team must have the approval of the District commissioner,
State Junior Olympic Commissioner, and the State Commissioner.
2.02 PLAYERS
(a) Players may sign only one championship roster per type or
division of play each year for advance play.
2.03 UMPIRES
(a) Adult - The membership of the ASA Of PA is open to all
umpires that are members of a local umpiring association that holds an ASA Of
PA Charter, are able to abide by this Code, and who pay the required dues as
set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(b) Youth - The membership of the ASA Of PA is open to umpires
who will not reach their eighteenth birthday prior to September 1 of the
current year, after receiving the recommendation of their District Umpire In
Chief and paying the required dues as set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
2.04 ALLIED MEMBERS
Allied members are such associations as may enter into
alliances with the ASA Of PA, to further the promotion of amateur softball.
Allied members shall pay dues of fifty (50) dollars annually unless waived by
unanimous vote of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
2.05 INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
(a) Players, managers, and coaches, automatically acquire
membership in the ASA of PA upon payment of the team registration fee by
their team.
(b) Associate members are those individuals who desire to aid in
the promotion of amateur softball and who have previously served as members
of the Council. Associate members shall pay an annual membership fee often
dollars, and shall be entitled to attend the Annual Spring Meeting of this
Association without voice, and to receive the official publications of the
ASA and the ASA Of PA.
(c) Trade members are those companies who desire to aid in the
promotion of amateur softball. Trade members shall pay an annual fee of Two
Hundred Fifty ($250.00) dollars and meet all requirements established by the
BOARD OF DIRECTORS and shall be entitled to receive the official publications
of the ASA Of PA. The privilege of exhibiting at the Annual Spring Meeting
shall be extended to those meeting the requirements for such as established
by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
2.06 TERM OF MEMBERSHIP
All memberships are annual, and expire on December 31 of the current year.
ARTICLE 3 OFFICERS, PLAYER REPRESENTATIVES
AND OTHER OFFICIALS
3.01 TITLES
(a) The titles of the elected officers of the ASA Of PA are:
President and Vice presidents.
(b) The Chief Advisor of the ASA OF PA shall be the State
Commissioner who is appointed by the ASA..
(c) The officers of the ASA Of PA shall include the President,
Vice Presidents, and all members of the Board Of Directors and Executive
Committee.
3.02 DISTRICT COMMISSIONER
(a) Nomination - A new District Commissioner should be
recommended by the Area Vice President
(b) Appointment- After reviewing the recommendation of the Vice
President, the state Commissioner will make the appointment
(c) Term of Office. A District Commissioner shall serve until he
or she resigns or removed from office.
(d) Removal - A District Commissioner may be removed at any time
for just cause by the State Commissioner.
(1)
A decision to remove may be appealed by the District Commissioner, in
writing, to the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(2)
The BOARD OF DIRECTORS may sustain the removal action taken by the State
Commissioner by a majority vote.
(3)
The decision of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS is final.
(e) Duties - The duties of a District Commissioner are those duties
promulgated by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS and State Commissioner and shall
include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1)
Being responsible for all monies and dues owed to the ASA Of PA.
(2)
Promote ASA Of PA softball in the counties and areas assigned.
(3)
Appoint a District Umpire In Chief.
(4)
Appoint all District Deputy Commissioners, County Commissioners, and Area
Directors and approve their appointees.
(5)
Send all registrations to the State Office no later than one week after
receiving same.
(6)
Police all sanctioned tournaments within the district
(7)
Administer all championship tournaments within the district and file all
tournament results with the state office within three days of the completion
of the tournament
(8)
Classify each Fast Pitch pitcher and all teams in the district not previously
classified by the State, Regional or National Classification Committee or the
code of the Amateur Softball Association Of America.
(9) Attend the Annual
Spring and Fall Meeting of the ASA Of PA.
(10)
Attend all meetings of the ASA Of PA Commissioners Council.
3.03 VICE PRESIDENTS (a) Election - A Vice
President from the eligible council members of each area shall be elected by
ballot at the annual area meeting.
(b) Term Of Office - Vice Presidents shall serve a term of one
year and be eligible for reelection.
(c) Removal - A Vice President may be removed from office by a
two-thirds majority vote of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(d) Duties - The Vice President’s duties shall include but not
be limited to the following:
(1) Represent his area on the BOARD OF
DIRECTORS.
(2) Conduct an area meeting prior to
March 1.
(3) May appoint an Area Umpire In Chief.
(4) Assist the President in the
performance of his duties. The Senior Vice President shall act in the
absence or inability of the President to perform.
(5) Appoint an Area Junior Olympic Youth
Commissioner.
(e) Vacancies- If the Vice President for any reason dies,
resigns, is unable to act, or is removed from office, then a new Vice
President shall be appointed by the State commissioner with the ultimate
approval of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS until such time as a new Vice President is
elected at the next area meeting.
3.04 PRESIDENT
(a) Nominations- Presidential candidates shall be nominated at the
Annual Spring meeting.
(b) Election - The President shall be elected by a majority vote of
the Council.
(c) Term Of Office - The President shall serve a term of one year and
is eligible for reelection.
(d) Vacancy . If the President is absent or unable to perform, the
Senior Vice President in terms of service as a Commissioner, shall act as
President. If a President resigns or is removed from office, a new President
shall be elected by a majority vote of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS from among its
members until a new President is elected at the Annual Spring Meeting.
(e) Removal A President may be removed for just cause by a two-thirds
majority vote of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(f) Duties . The duties of the President shall include but not be
limited to the following:
(1) Preside at all sessions of the BOARD
OF DIRECTORS and the Council.
(2) Direct the
policies of the ASA Of PA.
(3) Perform such
duties as may be necessary for the proper and efficient conduct of the ASA Of
PA.
3.05 STATE COMMISSIONER
(a) Appointment - The State Commissioner shall be appointed by the ASA
and will be the Chief Advisor of the ASA Of PA.
(b) Removal - The State Commissioner may only be removed by the
ASA.
(C) Duties - The State Commissioner’s duties are as follows:
(1) Advise the ASA Of
PA in all affairs concerning amateur softball in its territory.
(2) Appoint and remove
District Commissioners in accordance with article 3.02.
(3) Manage the State
Office including the Hall of Fame, and perform such duties as delegated
herein and as designated by the ASA.
(4) Negotiate and
execute all contracts and agreements on behalf of the ASA Of PA.
(5) Make the decisions
on any request to interpret the Code.
(6) Act on behalf of
the ASA Of PA in all matters of emergency that are not directly covered by
the Code.
(7) Appoint the
secretary and treasurer of the ASA Of PA, subject to the approval of the
Council.
(8) Appoint
all committees except the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(9) Fill all vacancies
as specified in this Code.
3.06 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(a) Appointment - The Executive Director shall be appointed by the
State Commissioner.
(b) Term Of Office . At the pleasure of the State Commissioner.
(c) Duties
(1) Supervise the day to day
operations and administrative duties oft he Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania State Office.
(2) Interpret the Code of
the Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania in the absence of the State
Commissioner.
(3) Process all paperwork,
rosters and necessary forms and forward to the location of advance
tournaments.
(4) Must be available to attend
and/or administer any ASA Of PA meeting as directed by the State Commissioner
or Board of Directors.
(5) and ALL other special projects
and duties as assigned by the State commissioner or the Board of Directors.
3.07 TREASURER
(a) Appointment . The ASA Of PA Treasurer shall be appointed by the
State Commissioner subject to the approval of a majority vote of the Council.
(b) Removal The Treasurer may be removed by the State Commissioner.
(c) Duties . The Treasurer’s duties are as follows:
(1) Prepare the budget for the fiscal
year subject to approval by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS and a majority vote of the
Council.
(2) Prepare the year end financial
report
(3) Attend all meetings of the BOARD OF
DIRECTORS.
(4) Pay the bills incurred by the
Association and record all the transactions of the Association in a timely
manner.
3.08 SECRETARY
(a) Appointment . The ASA Of PA Secretary shall be appointed by
the State Commissioner subject to the approval of a majority vote of the
Council.
(b) Removal . The Secretary may be removed by the State
Commissioner.
(c) Duties . The Secretary will be assigned duties as they arise
and will record the minutes of all meetings.
3.09 PLAYER REPRESENTATIVE
(a) District
(1) Three Player Representatives
shall be appointed by the District commissioner.
(2) Term Of Office - District
Players Representatives shall serve a term of one year and are eligible for
reappointment.
(3) Vacancy If a District Player
Representative position becomes vacant, it shall be filled by appointment of
the District Commissioner.
(4) Removal. District Player
Representatives may be removed for just cause by the District Commissioner.
(5) Duties. The District Player
Representatives should advise and convey to the District Commissioners of the
area, suggestions, recommendations, and criticism of::
Programming
Rule Changes- playing and Eligibility
Tournament playing conditions and facilities
Umpiring
Any other pertinent matters
(6) Voting. District Player
Representatives should attend and be a voting member of the Area and State
Meeting
(b) Area
(1) Election . Three Player
Representatives, of which one must represent the women’s program, shall be
elected from each area.
(2) Term Of Office - Area Player
Representatives shall serve a term of one year and are eligible for
reelection.
(3) Vacancy If an Area Player
Representative’s position becomes vacant, it shall be filled by appointment
of the Area Vice President.
(4) Removal - Area Player
Representatives may be removed for just cause by the Area Vice President.
(5) Duties - The Area Player
Representatives should advise and convey to the BOARD OF DIRECTORS
recommendations, suggestions, and criticism of:Programming rule Changes-
Playing and Eligibility tournament playing conditions and facilities umpirinG
any other pertinent matters
(6) Area Player Representatives shall
attend and be a voting member of the Council of the ASA Of PA at the Annual
Spring Meeting.
(c) State
(1) Election - A State Player Representative
shall be elected at the Annual Spring Meeting of the ASA Of PA by a majority
vote of the Area Player Representatives.
(2) Term Of Office - The State Player
Representative shall serve a term of one year and is eligible for reelection.
(3) Vacancy - If the State Player
Representative’s position becomes vacant, it shall be filled by appointment
of the State Commissioner.
(4) Removal - The State Player Representative
may be removed for just cause by the State Commissioner.
(5) Duties - The State Player Representative
should advise and convey to the Central Atlantic Regional Council,
recommendations, suggestions, and criticism of the following:
Programming:
Rule Changes- Playing and Eligibility
Tournament playing conditions
Facilities
Umpiring
Any other pertinent matters
(6) The State Player Representative shall
attend and be a voting member of the Central Atlantic Regional Council.
3.10 UMPIRE IN CHIEF
(a) State
(1) Appointment - The State Umpire In
Chief will be appointed by the State Commissioner.
(2) Term Of Office - At the pleasure of
the State Commissioner.
(3) Duties
Promote and organize umpires associations statewide.
Arrange, conduct, and approve rules interpretation and umpire clinics
throughout the state.
Preside at all meetings of the umpire’s committee.
Other duties as assigned by the State Commissioner.
(b) State Deputy
(1) Appointment - The State Deputy Umpire In
Chief will be appointed by the State Umpire In Chief.
(2) Term Of Office . At the pleasure of the
State Umpire In Chief.
(3) Duties:
Promote and organize umpire associations where needed throughout the state.
Conduct umpire clinic where assigned.
Attend all meetings of the state umpires committee as called by the State
Umpire in Chief.
Other duties as assigned by the State Umpire In Chief.
(c) District
(1) Appointment - The District Umpire In Chief will
be appointed by the District Commissioner.
(2) Term Of Office . At the pleasure of the District
Commissioner.
(3) Duties:
Promote and organize umpire associations throughout the District.
Conduct
umpire clinics where needed.
Other
duties as assigned by the District Commissioner.
Attend
all meetings of the Umpire’s Committee as called by the State Umpire In
Chief.
3.11 JUNIOR OLYMPIC COMMISSIONER
(1) Appointment - A Junior Olympic
Commissioner shall be appointed by the State Commissioner.
(2) Term Of Office . At the pleasure of the
State Commissioner.
(3) Duties - To promote the Junior Olympic
Softball Program of the State, attend and represent the State Junior Olympic
Program at the state and Central Atlantic Regional meetings, and other
activities that may relate to the Junior Olympic program as may be
delegated by the State Commissioner, BOARD OF DIRECTORS or EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
3.12 Deputy State Commissioner
(1) Appointment.- Deputy State Commissioners
shall be appointed by the State Commissioner as required.
(2) Term Of Office . At the pleasure of the
State Commissioner.
(3) Duties . To promote softball statewide and
perform such duties as may be delegated by the State Commissioner.
3.13 AREA JUNIOR OLYMPIC COMMISSIONERS
(1) Appointment - An Area Junior Olympic
Commissioner shall be appointed by the Area Vice President.
(2) Term Of Office - At the pleasure of
the Area Vice President but not to exceed the term of the Area Vice
President.
(3) Duties~ To promote the Junior
Olympic Softball Program of the area, and other activities that relate to the
Junior Olympic Program, as may be delegated by the Area Vice President
3.14 COMMISSIONER EMERITUS
(1)Upon completion of twelve (12) years of
service, any commissioner that has reached sixty (60) years of age may be
recommended by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS or his Area Vice President for the
status of Commissioner Emeritus upon his retirement as an active
commissioner.
(2) The BOARD OF DIRECTORS shall consider all
such recommendations and a 2/3 vote of approval is required to confirm a
person for this position.
(3) A person that has been named Commissioner
Emeritus is entitled to attend the Annual Spring Meeting of the Association
and shall have one vote on all matters.
3.15 AREA UMPIRE IN CHIEF
(a) Appointment when deemed necessary shall be
made by the Area Vice President.
(b) Term Of Office. At the pleasure of the
Area Vice President.
(c) Duties -:To promote and organize the
development of umpires and their development within the area by arranging,
conducting and approving rules interpretation clinics and mechanics schools
within the area. Preside at the umpires committee meeting at the Area
meeting. Other duties as directed by the Area Vice President
3.16 UMPIRE IN CHIEF EMERITUS
(1) Upon completion of twelve (12) years of service,
any District umpire In Chief that has reached sixty (60) years of age may be
recommended by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS or his Area Vice President for the
status of Umpire In Chief emeritus upon his retirement as an active Umpire In
Chief.
(2) The BOARD OF DIRECTORS shall consider all such
recommendations and a 2/3 vote of approval is required to confirm a person
for this position.
(3) A person that has been named Umpire In Chief Emeritus
is entitled to attend the Annual Spring Meeting of the Association and shall
have one vote on all matters.
ARTICLE 4 - COMMITTEES
4.01 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(a) Members - The BOARD OF DIRECTORS shall
consist of the President, the Executive Director, the Vice Presidents, the
Treasurer, the Secretary, and the State Commissioner.
(b) Duties The BOARD OF DIRECTORS shall
oversee the finances of the ASA Of PA and fix the salary, if any, of the
State Commissioner, the Executive Director, Treasurer, Secretary and State
Umpire In Chief. It shall also be responsible for the general affairs of the
Association in the interval between meetings.
4.02 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(a) Members - The EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE shall consist
of the State Commissioner, Executive Director, State Umpire In Chief,
Secretary, Treasurer, the district Commissioners, the State Junior Olympic
Commissioner and others that may be appointed by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
(b) Duties - To meet at the Annual Spring Meeting and such
other times as deemed necessary by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS to determine
policies in the administration and enforcement of the programs and articles
of the Code of the ASA Of PA.
4.03 CLASSIFICATION COMMITTEE
(a) Members - The Classification Committee shall consist
of the Classification Director and at least three members representing fast
pitch, at least three members rep-resenting slow pitch, and at least three
members representing modified pitch. One of the members representing each
division of play shall act as the chairman of that division. All committee
members shall be appointed by the State Commissioner.
(b) Duties - The Classification Committee shall be responsible
for the observation and evaluation of the performance and potential ability
as displayed in any regular season or championship tournament play, whether
or not ASA sanctioned, to determine classification for ASA Of PA purposes.
ASA of Pennsylvania Classification Guidelines
The following classification guidelines and policies will be reviewed and
followed in classifying teams.
The level of achievement or place of finish in any regular season or
Championship tournament Play, whether or not ASA sanctioned, shall be considered
in the determination of classification for ASA play.
The results of teams that willingly participate in tournaments with home run
limits unlike those of the official Amateur Softball Association Rules for
that level of classification will be considered in determining the future
classification of those teams. Teams that demonstrate an ability to compete
with a particular home run limit will be considered for classification at the
level commensurate with that home run limit in ASA play.
POWER HITTER
For the purpose of classification, a power hitter shall be defined as
an individual capable of hitting a home run over fence distances as specified
in the official guide and for whom the outfielders play deeper in their
defensive positioning than they normally play for other offensive batters.
Any current season’s roster containing four or more members in fast or slow
pitch, or two or more members in modified pitch, of any roster from any
previous season which was reclassified by either the State, Regional or
National Classification Committee must carry at least the new level of
classification of the roster reclassified by the State, Regional or national
Classification Committee.
The ASA Of PA classifies teams, not individual players or leagues. Teams do
not receive a level of classification simply by playing in a particular
league. Admittedly, some leagues are better than others, but it also must be
recognized that all teams within a league do not possess the same ability or
potential.
MEN'S SLOW PITCH
ASA Championship Play Home Run Rules shall apply in all classes of play.
CLASSIFICATION POLICIES
CLASS "D" SLOW PITCH
Any team with four or more roster members returning from any team that:
1. Finishes in the top Eight (8) places in the
ASA of PA State Championship Final.
2. Wins a national qualifying
tournament.
3. Finishes in the top six places in the
National Tournament (Labor Day Weekend).
4. Finishes in the top four in any NIT
tournament.
5. Wins three tournaments or finishes first or
second in any four tournaments.
6. Finishes in the top four in the regional
championship tournament MUST play at the next higher classification level the
next year.
CLASS "C" SLOW PITCH
Any team with four or more roster members returning from any team that:
1. Finishes in the top Four (4) places in the
ASA of PA State Championship Final.
2. Wins a National or Regional qualifying
tournament and finishes in the top eight places in the state championship
finals.
3. Wins a National or Regional Qualifying
Tournament and finishes in the top two places at the Central Atlantic
Regional Championship Tournament.
4. Wins or finishes as the runner-up in any
three or more tournaments.
5. Wins a National or Regional Qualifying
Tournament and finishes in the top four in the National Tournament (Labor
Day).
6. Wins the Regional Championship Tournament.
7. Wins the National Tournament (Labor Day).
8. Finishes first or second at any NIT
Tournament.
Must play at the next higher classification level the next year.
CLASS "B" SLOW PITCH
Any team with four or more roster members returning from any team
that:
1. Wins the ASA of PA Class "B"
State Championship Finals and finishes in the top four places in two
consecutive years.
2. Finishes first or second at the Central
Atlantic Regional Tournament.
3. Finishes first or second at the National
Tournament (Labor Day).
4. Finishes first or second at any NIT
Tournament .
5. Wins a National or Regional Qualifying
Tournament and finishes in the top four places in State, Regional, or
National Tournament or NIT Tournament.
6. Wins or finishes second in four
tournaments.
MUST play at the next higher classification level the next year.
Teams classified in accordance with these policies and procedures have the
right to appeal their classification after participating in three sanctioned
ASA tournaments at the higher classification. The appeal must be filed on the
proper ASA Of PA Official Classification appeal Form and submitted to the
state classification director with the approval of the District Commissioner.
The State Classification Committee will review and evaluate the appeal. The
decision of the State Classification Committee will be final. If the appeal
is granted, the team’s roster will be frozen for the balance of the year. If
the team adds a player to their roster the appeal is nullified and the team
is reclassified to the next higher classification level.
CLASS "D"
This level of slow pitch competition is basically for those teams incapable
of maintaining a winning percentage (record above 500) in any competition
rated Class “C” or above.
A Class “D” team has virtually NO power and does not score any great sum of
runs with any regularity. Home runs hit over any fence 275 foot distance or
greater must be a rarity. “D” teams have NO great hitters or real finesse in
their defense.
With NO power and very little ability to score regularly, “D” teams do not
win consistently in any level of competition, showing a winning percentage
only against “XYZ” teams (very poor caliber teams).
ASA Championship Play Home Run Rules restrict “D” teams to NO
home runs hit over the fence.
CLASS "C"
A Class “C’, men’s slow pitch team is capable of winning without scoring any
great sum of runs with power hitting or home runs.
A “C” team is one which is inconsistent both defensively and offensively.
They have no more than one power hitter. They are not a team that wins
consistently by scoring a large sum of runs in any particular game. They rely
upon the base hit to score thus they must bunch many hits in an inning to
score a large number of runs. A “C” team is a singles hit-ting team. They hit
very few home runs and many of their extra base hits are the result of
hustle, speed, and good base running.
It must be remembered that even though some teams have very little power they
continue to score large numbers of runs consistently, making them more than a
“C” team.
Classification is based on a team’s ability to score runs and their defensive
soundness, especially through the middle (2nd base, shortstop, right
centerfield, and left centerfield).
Class "B"
A Class “B” team is capable of scoring regularly without a great deal of
power. A “B” team is strong defensively and capable of turning the double
play with ease and consistency. They run bases well and field the ball with
finesse.
Even though capable of scoring large sums of runs, Class “B” are not what
would be considered a power hitting team. They may have more than one long
ball hitter but the team is not built around power.
CLASS "A"
A Class “A” team is capable of scoring runs regularly, some as the direct
result of power. They are a strong team both offensively and defensively and
can rely on their power to win. Defensively they are capable of taking games
away from their opponents with strong, clean fielding.
MAJOR
A Major team is a team with recognized ability. They utilize their power to
score in any given inning or situation. They have a line-up capable of power
in any part of the order. They have class in their defense and turn the
double play with ease. The Major team is built around power and utilizes it
to its fullest advantage.
SUPER A
Super team is the top of the line and reflects that in all of its play. They
have super talent and tremendous power. Their ability is unquestioned.
MEN'S MASTERS
35 and Over Major is for teams interested in or capable of advancing to and
competing in national Championship Tournament play in this division of play.
Teams may be formed from roster members of ASA Of PA registered teams for
play in this division.
35 And Over Class “A” is for teams without the talent or ability to compete
in National championship Tournament play in this division. To be eligible,
teams must be active members of ASA regular season leagues.
35 and Over Class “D”. Must play together as a team in an ASA of Pa League
and be classified "D" by the ASA of PA Masters and Seniors
Classification Committee. These teams are not capable of better
than a “D” level of classification within the open slow pitch division of
play.
RECREATIONAL MEN'S SLOW PITCH
This level of play will be for class “D” men’s slow pitch teams who:
* have never won more than one game in any Class “D” state championship
competition
* have a verifiable record below 500 and
* have not won more than two games in any tournament throughout the season
(exception: under 500 tournaments).
The Class “D” home run rule will be in effect
In order to participate in championship play at this level the team must be
approved and recommended by their District Commissioner with a verifiable
record below .500. Teams which are questionable or have borderline ability or
potential will not be permitted to participate at this level of championship
play. Teams discovered participating at this level of state championship
competition with unquestioned winning records will be subject to immediate disqualification
with NO refund of entry or expense fee.
NEW TEAM To be considered a new team for classification
purposes the team must not have more than three members of any roster from
the previous year. A team that has four or more members from a previous
year’s roster must carry at least the level of classification of that team.
Their classification could be higher if their ability dictates such, but in
no case is a lower classification permitted.
In the classification of teams and their personnel, potential is an important
factor along with ability. Many times, for various reasons, teams do not play
well early in the season yet seem to come together or develop as the season
progresses. Classifications must be made early in the season, many times long
before the team reaches its true potential. Commissioners must consider many
variables in making their classification of teams in the early season.
WOMEN'S SLOW PITCH
CLASS "D"
Any team with four (4) or more roster members returning from any team that:
1. Finishes in the top four (4) places in the ASA of Pa State
Championship Finals.
2. Participates in the ASA National Championship Tournament
Finals.
3. Finishes in the top four (4) in the Eastern National
Championship Finals.
CLASS "C"
Any team with four (4) or more roster members returning from any team that:
1. Finishes in the top two (2) places in the ASA of Pa State
Championship Finals.
2. Finishes in the top four (4) in the Eastern National
Championship Finals
3. Wins three (3) tournaments or finishes first or second in any
four (4) tournaments.
Class "B"
Any team with four (4) or more roster members returning from any team
that:
1. Finishes first or second in the ASA of Pa State Championship
Finals in two consecutive seasons of play at the Class "B" level.
CLASS "A"
“A” teams have good power and team speed. They are capable of making things
happen on offense and are solid defensively in the critical middle positions.
They turn the double play with ease and consistency. They are capable of
scoring large sums of runs in any given game, but do not require large leads
to win. Their defense is capable of winning without any great number of
runs..
MAJOR
A major team has good team speed and good power. It has excellent talent and
is strong both offensively and defensively. They too are capable of scoring
many runs in any given game but do not require large numbers of runs to win.
They are capable of winning with excellent defense. Their overall ability is
unquestioned.
Team speed plays an important part in the classification of women’s softball,
much more so then in the men’s game. Power is important as the ability to
score runs is a determining factor in the classification of any women’s team.
Defense plays a much more important role in this classification also, simply
because there are not nearly as many runs scored per game in the upper
classifications of women’s softball, thus making team speed that much more
important
CO-ED OR CO-REC
MAJOR
Major teams may be formed from other ASA registered teams. Teams that
contain players from rosters classified Major. These teams represent top
quality Co-Ed teams with quality players.
CLASS "A"
Teams with better than average ability both offensively and defensively.
Teams containing players from “A” or Major rosters and teams not necessarily
participating as a team in a Co-Ed or Co-Rec League.
CLASS "B"
Teams must participate as a team in an ASA registered league. The
championship roster can not contain any player, individual, or roster member
of any team classified “A” or above.
CLASS "C"
Teams participating as a team in a registered ASA league whose roster
contains no members from rosters of Class “B” or better teams.
CLASS "D"
Teams participating as a team in a registered ASA league whose roster
contains no members from rosters of Class "C" or better teams.
MEN'S MODIFIED PITCH
CLASSIFICATION POLICIES
CLASS "B" MODIFIED PITCH
Any team with two or more roster members returning from any team that
1. Finishes first or second in the ASA Of PA
Class "C" State Championship Tournament.
2. Finishes in the top four in the Class
"C" ASA National or NIT Tournament
3. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
in the top four in the ASA Of PA Class "C" state Championship
Tournament.
4. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
first or second in three tournaments.
MUST play at the next higher classification level the next year.
CLASS "C" MODIFIED PITCH
Any team with two or more roster members returning from any team that
1. Finishes first or second in the ASA Of PA
Class "D" State Championship Tournament
2. Finishes in the top four places in the
Class "D" ASA National or NIT Tournament
3. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
in the top four in the ASA Of PA Class "D" State Championship
Tournament
4. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
first or second in three tournaments.
MUST play at the next higher classification level the next year.
CLASS "D" MODIFIED PITCH
Any team with two or more roster members returning from any team that:
1. Finishes in the top four places in the ASA
Of PA State Championship tournament.
2. Finishes in the top four places in the ASA
National or NIT Tournament.
3. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
in the top six places in the ASA Of PA State Championship Tournament .
4. Wins at least one tournament and finishes
first or second in two tournaments.
MUST play at the next higher classification level the next year.
Teams classified in accordance with the above policies and procedures have
the right to appeal their classification after participating in three
sanctioned ASA tournaments at the higher classification. The appeal must be
filed on the proper ASA Of PA Official classification Appeal Form and
submitted to the State Classification Committee chairperson with the approval
of the District Commissioner. The State Classification committee will review
and evaluate the appeal. The decision of the State Classification committee
will be final. If the appeal is granted, the team’s roster will be frozen for
the balance of the year. If the team adds a player to their roster, the
appeal is nullified and the team is reclassified to the next higher
classification level.
CLASS "D" MODIFIED PITCH
This level of modified pitch is for teams unable to maintain a definite
winning percentage (record of 500) in any competition rated class “C” or
lower due to pitching problems and the inability of its members to execute
the basic offensive and defensive fundamentals of softball with any
regularity. These teams usually score few runs due to a lack of power and an
inability to “bunch” base hits. Defensive weaknesses often allow unearned
runs. The pitching is usually very weak due to poor location and a lack of
speed which results in many “fat” pitches being offered.
In order to participate in championship play at this level the team must be
approved and recommended by their District Commissioner with a verifiable
record below .500. Teams which are questionable or have borderline ability or
potential will not be permitted to participate at this level of championship
play. Teams discovered participating in this level of state championship
competition with unquestioned winning records will be subject to immediate
disqualification with NO refund of entry or expense fee.
Note: Teams should clarify any question
concerning their classification with their District Commissioner prior to
participating in Championship Play.
CLASS "C"
A class “C” team is inconsistent both offensively and defensively.
They are not a team that wins repeatedly by scoring a large sum of runs in
any particular game. They rely upon the base hit to score, thus they must
bunch many hits in an inning to score a large number of runs. They hit few
home runs and many of their extra base hits are the result of hustle, speed,
and aggressive base running. Their pitching is inconsistent often resulting
in base runners due to walks. They have difficulty making the offensive team
put the ball in play through their inability to throw strikes.
CLASS "B"
A class “B” team is capable of scoring regularly, without a great deal of
power. They are strong defensively and able to turn the double play in most
instances. They run the bases well and field the ball with finesse. Even
though they are capable of scoring large sums of runs, they are not
considered a power hitting team. Pitching doesn’t handicap the defense by
providing unnecessary base runners through a lack of control.
Open
An Open team is strong both offensively and defensively. Although capable of
scoring regularly, they do not require large leads to win. Defensively, they
are capable of defeating their opponents with strong, clean fielding.
An Open team is the top of the line and reflects that in all of its play.
WOMEN'S MODIFIED PITCH
OPEN
An Open team is strong both offensively and defensively. Although
capable of scoring regularly, they do not require a large lead to win.
Defensively, they are fundamentally sound and make a few errors, ofton
winning games on the strength of their defensive plays. Strong
pitching is an unquestioned characteristic. An Open team is capable of
scoring regularly without a great deal of power. Pitching, although not
over-powering, doesn't handicap the defense by providing unnecessary base
runners through their lack of control. These team are capable of
winning regularly.
CLASS "B"
A “B” team is offensively and defensively inconsistent. They commit many
errors and their pitching provides the offensive team with numerous base
runners due to walks. This team does not score any great sum of runs with
regularity and has no true power hitters.
MEN AND WOMEN FAST PITCH
CLASSIFICATION POLICIES
CLASS "C" FAST PITCH
Any team with four or more players on their roster or any player transferring
from any team:
1. Finishing first or second in State
Championship Tournament.
2. Winning a National Qualifying Tournament.
3. Participates in the National Tournament.
4. Wins or finishes second in the Regional
Championship Tournament in TWO successive years must play at the next higher
classification level the following year.
CLASS "B" FAST PITCH
Any team with four or more players on their roster or any player transferring
from any team:
1. Winning the State Championship.
2. Winning or finishing second in the Regional
Championship Tournament.
3. Winning a National Qualifying Tournament in
TWO successive years must play at the next higher classification level the
following year.
Teams classified in accordance with the above policies and procedures have
the right to appeal their classification after participating in three
sanctioned ASA tournaments at the higher classification. The appeal must be
filed on the proper ASA Of PA Classification appeal Form and submitted to the
state classification committee chairperson. The state classification
committee will review and evaluate the appeal. The decision of the commit-tee
will be final. Any classification changes will be filed with the state
office.
If the appeal is granted, the team’s roster shall be frozen for the remainder
of that year.If the team adds a player to their roster, the appeal will be
nullified and the team reclassified to the next higher classification level.
Any team not falling into any of the above guidelines will be dealt with by
the District Classification Committee. Any classification changes must be
filed with the State Office by March first of the current year.
Any men’s Class “B” team winning or finishing second in the ASA Of PA state
championship tournament finals in TWO successive years will be moved to Class
“A” for the immediate following year. (This will include any pitcher with
three or more championship play decisions for that team during the season).
The National Classification Code requires any team that finishes in the top
six positions at the national championship tournament to be moved to Class
“A” for the immediate following season. Other ASA Of PA teams that win
regional or area championships will be subject to reclassification based upon
meeting further criteria established by the state classification committee.
Any men’s Class “C” team winning or finishing as runner-up in the ASA Of PA
state championship tournament finals in TWO successive years will be moved to
Class “B” for the immediate following year. (This will include any pitcher
with three or more championship play decisions for that team during the
season). The National Classification Code requires any team that finishes in
the top twelve positions at the national championship tournament to be moved
to Class “B” for the immediate following season. Other ASA Of PA teams that
win regional or area championships will be subject to reclassification based
upon meeting further criteria established by the state classification
committee.
40 and OVER MEN'S FAST PITCH
No Major pitchers are permitted. Former Class “A” pitchers must be out of the
game three years in order to be eligible for participation. Current class “B”
and Class “C” pitchers will be eligible. Any Pick Ups for ASA Of PA State
championship Tournament Play must be made from within the district of the
team.
(c) Appeals - All classifications made by the state classification
committee (teams and roster members thereof) shall remain the exclusive
responsibility of the state classification committee. Appeals must be
properly submitted in writing to the Classification director whose decision,
with the ultimate approval of the committee, will be final.
(d) Any current season’s roster containing four or more members in
fast and slow pitch or two or more members in modified pitch, of any roster
from any previous season which was reclassified by either the State,
Regional, or National Classification committee must carry at least the new
level of classification of the roster reclassified by the State, Regional, or
National Classification Committee.
(e) District Classification Committee Slow- Fast - Modified Pitch
(1) Members - District Classification
Committees shall consist of the District Commissioner or his designee and any
number of members as deemed necessary by the District Commissioner or his
designee. Membership is not restricted, and all committee members shall be
appointed by the District Commissioner or his designee.
(2) Duties - The District Classification
Committee shall be responsible for the observation and evaluation of the
performance and potential ability as displayed in any regular season,
invitational tournament, and/or championship tournament play, whether or not
ASA sanctioned, to determine classification for District purposes, which
shall be consistent with Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania
Classification guidelines as defined by the State Classification Committee.
(3) Appeals - All classifications proposed by
the District Classification Committee shall be presented to the District
Commissioner for approval. All teams reclassified shall be notified promptly,
and shall have the right of appeal. Appeals shall be submitted in writing to
the committee whose decision, with the approval of the District Commissioner,
will be final. Any team may formally apply in writing to the District
Classification Committee for reclassification, with formal action being taken
by the committee. All appeals for classification in which the appealing team
was classified by either the State, Regional, or National Classification
Committee may be considered by the District Classification Committee for
recommendation by the District Commissioner to be forwarded to the State
Classification Committee for further action. The District Classification
Committee is not permitted to revise any classification adjustment or
realignment made by the State, Regional, or National Classification
Committees.
(4) Roster - Any team whose current season’s
roster conforms with Article 4.03. (d) of the Constitution and Bylaws of the Amateur
Softball Association Of Pennsylvania must carry at least the new level of
classification of the roster reclassified or adjusted by the State, Regional,
or National Classification Committee.
(5) Roster Personnel - Any team whose current
season’s roster contains two or more members of any roster from any previous
season whose classification was higher must be reviewed by the committee to
determine evaluation of the performance and potential ability of that team.
All teams will be responsible to report any such players who fall into the
above category to the committee. Failure of teams to report any such players
will, upon discovery by the District or State Classification Committee,
result in immediate reclassification to the higher level as represented by
those players. Failure to review any affected team, when known by the
committee, will result in automatic and immediate reclassification to that
higher level by the State Classification Committee when a formal appeal in writing
is received and reviewed for validity.
(f) Any team that wins two or more games (excluding forfeits) in a
state tournament (including Area or Divisional State Tournaments in Men’s
Class “C” and “D” Slow pitch) may not participate in a lower classification
in the same division of championship play during the following season. A team
which has five or more players on a roster from such a team shall be
considered the same team.
(g) An adult team which has four or more players on a roster from a
team that has won an ASA Fast Pitch or Slow Pitch State Championship
tournament, two or more players on a roster from a team that has won a
Modified Pitch State Championship tournament, at the Class “B”, “C”, or “D”
classification levels must play at the next higher classification for the
following season unless they played in the Co-Ed division.
(h) Teams classified in accordance with 4.03 (g) have the right to
appeal their classification after participating in three sanctioned ASA
tournaments at the higher classification. The appeal must be filed on the
proper ASA Of PA Official Classification Appeal form and submitted to the
proper State Classification Director. The State Classification committee will
review and evaluate the appeal. If the appeal is granted, the team’s roster
shall be frozen for the balance of the year. If the team adds a player to
their roster, the appeal is nullified and the team is reclassified to the
next higher classification level.
4.03(1)
The standings of all ASA of Pa. State Championship
Tournament Finals shall be posted on the ASA of Pa. Web Page in a timely
fashion upon the conclusion of the tournament. The classification of
all teams that will be adjusted by their finish in the tournament as
specified by the ASA National or the ASA of Pa. Code or by the classification
committee of the ASA of Pa, Central Atlantic Region or the ASA Nationally
will be indicated on the standings as posted. This shall include all
teams with Mandatory Classification because of their finish in the tournament
or Restricted Classification due to winning two or more games in the
tournament as per code of the ASA Nationally or ASA of Pa.
4.04 UMPIRES
(a) Members - The umpire’s committee shall consist of the State
Umpire In Chief, the State Deputy Umpire In Chief, the Area Umpire In Chiefs
and all District Umpire In chiefs.
(b) Duties . To meet annually at the Spring Meeting of the ASA
Of PA and at other times as deemed necessary by the State Umpire In Chief to
determine policies relating to umpiring and the enforcement of the playing
rules.
4.05 PLAYER REPRESENTATIVES
The Player Representatives Committee shall be composed of the District and
Area Player representatives.
(a) Duties: Its duties shall include but not be limited to
electing the Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania State Player
Representative as directed by the Code, and hear and review all information
concerning legislative proposals and championship play tournaments and make
their findings known to the council.
4.06 HALL OF FAME The Hall Of Fame Committee shall be appointed
by the State Commissioner.
(a) Duties: It’s duties shall include gathering and
reviewing all material and information for selection of individuals into the
Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania Hall Of Fame.
4.07 TOURNAMENT ORGANIZING AND EVALUATIONS
(a) Members . To be appointed by the State Commissioner.
(b) Duties shall be to gather information from and concerning State
championship Tournaments and their sites in an effort to improve and promote
more effective and professional championship tournaments
4.08 ADULT WOMEN'S COMMITTEE
(a) Members - The Adult Women’s Committee shall consist of a
chairperson appointed by the State Commissioner and a representative from
each District, appointed by their District Commissioner.
(b) Duties - To meet at the annual Spring Meeting of the ASA Of PA and
at any other time deemed necessary by the State Commissioner, Chairperson or
Board of directors.
ARTICLE 5 - MEETINGS
5.01 ANNUAL SPRING MEETING
(a) Date and Site: The date and site of the Annual Spring
Meeting of the ASA Of PA will be set and determined by the BOARD OF
DIRECTORS.
(b) Notice: Notice of the annual meeting shall be
sent to all District Commissioners at least thirty (30) days prior to the
meeting. It shall be the responsibility of the District Commissioner to
contact each of their representatives.
(c) Voting: Each Council Member shall have one vote
on all items at the Annual spring Meeting.
(d) Council: The Council of the ASA Of PA shall be
composed of the President, the State Commissioner, the State Director, the
State Umpire In Chief, the duly appoint-ed District Commissioners, the
District Umpire In Chiefs, the District Junior Olympic commissioners, all
Player Representatives, Deputy Commissioners, Area Directors, League
officers, and a representative of each Allied Member.
(e) Removal of Council Members: Any elected member
of the council may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the council providing
notice has been given to each member of the council at least ten (10) days
prior to the vote on removal. An appointed member of the council may be
removed from office for just cause deemed detrimental to this Association by
the State Commissioner.
(f) Quorum - A quorum shall consist of a majority of the
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE plus a minimum of 25 additional eligible voting members.
(g) Proxy - Authorization or representation by proxy at a
meeting may be obtained from the State Commissioner and/or President prior to
the meeting.
(h) Roll Call - A roll call of all eligible council
members shall be taken at each session of the Council or Committee Meeting to
verify attendance and those eligible to vote.
5.02 FALL MEETING
(a) Date and Site - The date and site of the fall meeting
shall be set by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
5.03 REIMBURSEMENTS
(a) Each officer, member of the Board Of Directors, member
of the Executive committee, Player Representative, Junior Olympic
Commissioner, District Umpire In Chief, and such District Deputy, County, and
Area Directors and additional personnel invited by the District Commissioner
and approved by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS attending the annual Spring Meeting
and fulfilling their obligation of attendance at committee meetings and
council sessions verified by a roll call shall be reimbursed an amount as
directed and approved by the BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
No reimbursement shall be made unless assigned duties have been met and
attendance verified by roll call.
ARTICLE 6 - DISTRICTS AND AREAS
6.01 DISTRICTS
(a) District 1
Counties of Wyoming, Susquehanna, Upper Luzerne, Bradford, Sullivan.
(b) District 2
Counties of Lebanon, Lancaster, Dauphin.
(c) District 3
Counties of Berks, Lower Schuylkill, Lehigh, Northampton.
(d) District 4
Counties of Juniata, Lycoming, Clinton, Mifflin, Union, Snyder,
Montour, Tioga, Northumberland.
(e) District 5
County of York.
(f) District 6
Counties of Chester, Delaware.
(g) District 7
Counties of Washington, Green, Fayette.
(h) District 8
Counties of Center, Cambria, Blair, Huntingdon, Bedford,
Clearfield, Somerset, Jefferson.
(i) District 9
Counties of Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, Armstrong, Indiana, Clarion,
Venango, Mercer, Crawford, and Erie.
(j) District 10
Counties of Allegheny and Westmoreland and the City of
Pittsburgh.
(k) District 11
Counties of Perry, Cumberland, Franklin, Adams, Fulton
(l) District 12
Counties of Lower Luzerne, Carbon, Monroe, Columbia, Upper
Schuylkill.
(m) District 13 Counties
of McKean, Elk, Cameron, Potter, Forrest, Warren, City of DuBois.
(n) District 14
County of Montgomery.
(o) District 15
County of Bucks.
(p) District 16
Counties of Wayne, Pike, Lackawanna
(1) Upon a District Commissioner leaving
office for any reason, the BOARD OF DIRECTORS will review all pertinent
information concerning the area and its past performance as a district to
determine the feasibility of its continuation as a district or the
possibility of merging the area with another district
6.02 AREA
(a)
Southeastern Districts 2, 6, 14, 15
(b) Northeastern Districts 1, 3, 12, 16
(c) Central Districts 4, 5, 8, 11
(d) Western Districts 7, 9, 10, 13
ARTICLE 7 - ELIGIBILITY
7.01 FOREIGN PLAYERS
NO Foreign Players are eligible to compete in Adult Fast Pitch, (exception
Men's Major); Adult Slow Pitch; or Junior Olympic Gold 18 and Under Fast
Pitch. Foreign Players are eligible to compete in Men's Major Fast
Pitch; Modified Pitch; and Junior Olympic Class A and Class B Fast Pitch or
Slow Pitch.
7.02 IDENTIFICATION
At all State Championship Areas and Finals, in order to be eligible, a player
must provide proper identification (which shall include a current photograph
of the player and the player's signature) to the Tournament Director or
designee before the start of the competition. The Tournament Director
or Designee shall compare the identification with a name and signature
appearing on the team's championship roster.
ARTICLE 8 - DISQUALIFICATIONS
8.01 ACTS OF DISQUALIFICATION
An individual or team may be disqualified for any of the following:
(a) Unsportsmanlike conduct.
(b) Physically assaulting an umpire or an
official of the ASA Of PA or for violation of the rules of the ASA Of PA.
(This applies to any player, manager, coach, sponsor, or anyone connected
with a team, or an umpire registered with the ASA Of PA. Bumping, pushing or
shoving shall be considered physical violence in terms of enforcing this
article.
(c) Commission of fraud, such as playing under
an assumed name, falsifying an affidavit or roster, or giving false
information to tournament officials.
(d) Participating while not meeting the
eligibility requirements of the ASA or the ASA Of PA.
(e) Competing on a team or against a team that
has failed to obtain a travel permit when one is required.
(f) Competing on a professional softball
program without the approval of his commissioner.
(g) Knowingly competing with or against players that
are disqualified from or ineligible to participate in either the ASA or ASA
Of PA.
(h) Engaging in any act which results in the
destruction of property belonging to others or is in violation of State or
Local law, or is contrary to the purposes and objectives of the ASA Of PA,
while participating in ASA Of PA activities.
(i) Issuing a bad check or failure to pay
rightful indebtedness owed to any officer or official of the ASA Of PA.
(j) Competing with ineligible players in
championship play of the ASA Of PA.
(k) Failing to produce valid identification upon
request for such by a tournament official in championship play.
(l) Qualifying for and failing to advance to the
next level of championship play, unless due to circumstances beyond the
control of the team.
(m) Forfeiting a Championship Play Tournament Game.
(n) Failing to meet substance abuse standards.
(o) Competing while ineligible.
8.02 DISQUALIFICATION PROCEDURES
(a) The Person(s) subject to suspension shall be entitled
to a hearing before the state Commissioner, the State Junior Olympic
Commissioner, or a Deputy or District commissioner in whose jurisdiction the
violation took place.
(b) The person must be notified in writing of the time,
place, and date of the hearing. He/she/they is/are entitled to an alternate
date if, for a good cause, the original date is not acceptable. Should the
accused fail to attend the hearing, the person conducting the hearing may
proceed and take the evidence of those in attendance.
(c) After hearing all of the evidence, the person
presiding at the hearing may take whatever action he deems appropriate in
accordance with this Code. The person(s) involved should be advised, in
writing, of the action taken, by the person presiding at the hearing. A copy
of such must be sent to the State Office. The State Office shall send notice
of all suspensions to all District Commissioners who in turn will notify the
District Umpire in Chief.
(d)Any person(s) suspended from ASA or ASA Of PA play may
appeal the decision to the State President. The decision of the State
President may be appealed further according to the ASA Code. Those wishing to
appeal must notify the State Commissioner, in writing, of such intention to
appeal within fifteen (15) days after the mailing of the notice of
disqualification.
(e) Under NO circumstances will any individual involved be
permitted to participate in ASA activity until he has either been found not
guilty or has completed his term of suspension and has formally filed a
written reinstatement request with his District commissioner.
8.03 JURISDICTION
An individual or team shall cease to be eligible to compete in all ASA Of PA
sanctioned activities while disqualified by either the ASA or the ASA Of PA.
These activities include Championship Tournaments Invitational Tournaments,
League Games, Exhibition Games, and All-Star Games.
8.04 PENALTIES . An individual or team must be disqualified for a
period of time at the discretion of the person responsible for holding the
hearing, for violations outlined in 8.01 of this Code, with the exception
that the following acts of disqualification require a minimum of one year
loss of eligibility:
(a) Physical Violence
(b) Commission of fraud
(c) Competing knowingly with or against disqualified
players.
(d) Issuing a bad check or stopping payment on a check or
failing to pay rightful indebtedness to any officer or official of the ASA Of
PA.
(e) Competing with ineligible players in championship play
of the ASA or ASA of PA.
(f) Substance abuse.
(g) Competing while ineligible.
ARTICLE 9 - REINSTATEMENT PROFESSIONAL
9.01 APPLICATION
See ASA Code.
9.02 PROCEDURE
See ASA Code.
9.03 ELIGIBILITY CODE
See ASA Code.
ARTICLE 10 - CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY
10.01 DIVISIONS & LEVELS
The ASA Of PA recognizes the following division and levels of championship
play.
(a) Fast Pitch
(1) Men’s Major (6)
Women’s Class “B”
(2) Women’s Major (7) Men’s Class
“C”
(3) Men’s Class “A” (8) Women’s
Class “C”
(4) Women’s Class “A” (9) Men’s 23 & Under
(5) Men’s Class “B”
(b) Church Fast Pitch
(1) Men’s
(c) Industrial Fast Pitch
(1) Men’s
(2) Women’s
(d) Master’s Fast Pitch
(1) Men’s 40 & Over (3) Women’s 35
& Over
(2) Men’s 45 & Over
(e) Junior Olympic Youth Fast Pitch
(1) Girl’s 18 & Under Gold
(2) Girl’s 18 & Under Class “A”
(3) Girl’s 16 & Under Class “A”
(4) Girl’s 14 & Under Class “A”
(5) Girl’s 12 & Under Class “A”
(6) Girl’s 10 & Under Class “A”
(7) Boy’s 18 & Under
(8) Boy’s 16 & Under
(9) Boy’s 14 & Under
(10) Boy’s 12 & Under
(11) Girl’s 18 & Under Class “B”
(12) Girl’s 16 & Under Class “B”
(13) Girl’s 14 & Under Class “B”
(14) Girl’s 12 & Under Class “B”
(15) Girl’s 10 & Under Class “B”
(16) Girl’s 18 & Under Class “C”
(17) Girl’s 16 & Under Class “C”
(18) Girl’s 14 & Under Class “C”
(19) Girl’s 12 & Under Class “C”
(20) Girl’s 10 & Under Class “C”
(f) Modified Pitch
(I) Modified 9
(1) Men’s
Open (4)
Women’s Open
(2) Men's Class
"B"
(5) Women's Class B
(3) Men's Class "C"
(II) Modified 10
(1) Men’s Open
(5) Women's Open
(2)
Men’s Class “B” (6) Women's Class
"B"
(3)
Men’s Class “C” (7) Women's Class
"C"
(4)
Men’s Class “D” (8) Women's Class
"C"
(g) Modified 10 Church
(1) Men’s
(2) Women's
(h) Modified 10 Industrial (1)
Men’s
(i) Modified 10 Master’s (1)
Men’s 35 & Over (3) Men's 45 &
Over
(2) Men’s 40 & Over
(j) Modified 10 Master’s (1)
Men’s 35 & Over (3) Men's 45 &
Over
(2) Men’s 40 & Over
(1) Modified 10 Senior Modified Pitch (4) Men’s 50 & Over
(5) Men's 55 & Over
(k) Modified 10 Junior Olympic Youth (1) Boy’s 18 & Under
(5) Girls' 18 & Under
(2) Boy’s 16 & Under (6) Girls'
16 & Under
(3) Boy’s 14 & Under (7) Girls'
14&Under
(4) Boy’s 12 & Under
(8) Girls' 12 & Under
(I) Slow Pitch
(1) Men’s Open
(6) Women's Open
(2) Men’s Class “A” (7) Women's
Class C
(3) Men’s Class “B” (8)
Women's Class D
(4)
Men’s Class “C” (9) Men's Recreation
(5) Men’s Class “D”
(m) Church Slow Pitch
(1) Men’s Major (6)
Women's Major
(2) Men’s Class “A” (7) Women
A
(3) Men’s Class “B” (8)Women
B
(4) Men’s Class “C”
(9)Women C
(5) Men’s Class “D” (10) Co-Ed
(n) Industrial Slow Pitch
(1) Men’s Major
(5) Women's Major
(2) Men’s Class “A” (6)
Women's "A"
(3) Men’s Class “B” (7) Women
B
(4) Men’s Class “C” (8)
Women's C
(o) 16 Inch Slow Pitch
(1) Men’s Major (3) Men's
Class "B"
(2) Men’s Class “A” (4) Womens' Major
(p) Master’s Slow Pitch
(1) 35 & Over Men’s Major (2) 35 & Over Men's Class
C C
(3) 35 & Over Men’s Class “D” (4) 40 & Over Men’s
(5) Grand Masters 45 & Over Men’s (6) 35 & Over Women’s
(q) Senior Slow Pitch (1) 50
& Over Men’s
(4) 65 & Over Men’s
(2) 55 & Over Men’s
(5) 70 & Over Men’s
(3) 60 & Over Men's
(r) Volunteer Fireman Slow Pitch
(1) Men’s
(2) Co-Ed
(s) Co-Ed Slow Pitch
(1) Major
(4) Church
(2) Class “A”
(5) Co-Rec Class "A"
(3) Class “B”
(6) Co-Rec Class B
(7) Co-Rec Class "C"
(8) Co-Rec Class "D"
(t) Junior Olympic Youth Slow Pitch
(1) Boy’s 18 & Under (11) Girl’s 18 &
Under Class “B”
(2) Boy’s 16 & Under (12) Girl’s 16
& Under Class “B”
(3) Boy’s 14 & Under (13) Girl’s 14
& Under Class “B”
(4) Boy’s 12 & Under (14) Girl’s 12
& Under Class “B”
(5) Boy’s 10 & Under (15) Girl’s 10
& Under Class “B”
(6) Girl’s 18 & Under (16)
Girl’s 18 & Under Class “C”
(7) Girl’s 16 & Under (17)
Girl’s 16 & Under Class “C”
(8) Girl’s 14 & Under (18)
Girl’s 14 & Under Class “C”
(9) Girl’s 12 & Under (19)
Girl’s 12 & Under Class “C”
(10) Girl’s 10 & Under (20)
Girl’s 10 & Under Class "C"
(21) Women’s 23 & Under JO
10.02 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP ENTRIES
(a) Fast Pitch - All
entries and positions will be determined and awarded by the Executive
Committee and Commissioner’s Council.
(b) Modified Pitch -
All entries and positions will be determined and awarded by the Executive
Committee and Commissioner’s Council.
(c) Slow Pitch - All
entries and positions will be determined and awarded by the Executive
Committee and Commissioner’s Council
(1) After the draw is made the District Commissioner accepting the position
is responsible for the entrance fee.
(2) If a team drops out for any reason, the District Commissioner sending the
team may send a replacement. If that district cannot send a representative
the host district may send an additional team. If the host district is unable
to send an additional team the position shall be filled by the State
Commissioner. Any position unable to be filled will result in the forfeiture
of all games scheduled to be played by that team. NO refund of fees will be
made unless the vacated position is filled.
10.03 QUALIFIER TOURNAMENTS
(a) Eligibility
Any member team that meets the eligibility requirements set forth under
Article 2, may compete in a qualifier tournament in their division of play.
( b) Refunds
A full refund will be given any team that has previously won the right to
advance in an earlier tournament, providing they notify the tournament
director of the tournament they are dropping out of within twenty-four (24)
hours of their winning another tournament.
If a tournament is postponed because of weather conditions, before any games
are played, and the team notifies the tournament director immediately upon
notification of the postponement that they cannot return, they will be
refunded (90%) of their entrance fee.
If a team has played one game when the postponement occurs and the team
notifies the tournament director immediately, upon notification of the
postponement, that they cannot return, they will be refunded fifty percent
(50%) of the entrance fee.
If a
team played two games, or if they do not notify the director immediately that
they cannot return, they will not be entitled to any refund.
10.04 COMPETING IN MORE THAN ONE TOURNAMENT
A team after qualifying in an advance play qualifying
tournament may elect to play in another qualifying tournament, the winner of
which advances to a higher championship tournament than the first qualifier,
or the State Tournament in the same classification Rights to further
advancement gained from the first tournament must be used with all positions
won for the same level of advance play from the second tournament granted to the
highest place finishing non qualified team from the second tournament.
10.05 ROSTERS
Teams must compete with the same roster as used during regular season league
play. Any player appearing on the championship roster must have played for
that team in regular season league games. Exception: Adult Super ,
Major, Class “A” (including Class “A” Co Ed Slow Pitch) Master’s 40 and
45 & Over, Senior’s 50, 55, 60,65, 70 and Over teams and Junior Olympic
Gold Level Fast Pitch teams - See ASA Code. No individual roster member may
participate on more than one roster team in the same league for the purpose
of meeting these ASA Of PA Roster requirements. Teams that play in leagues
with open rosters will minimally be classified Class "B" or higher
by the District Commissioner and/or by the ASA of Pa. Classification
Committee. NUMBER OF PLAYERS
(A) A maximum number of players as indicated in each specific division
including pick ups will be permitted on a team roster.
(B) PICK UP PLAYERS Fast Pitch, Slow Pitch, and Modified Pitch teams are
permitted to add or substitute three (3) players as follows:
(a) Added players must be from other ASA Of PA teams (except in major Fast
Pitch).
(b) Added players must be from the team’s same division and the same or lower
classification level.
(c) A player may play with only one (1) team other than his own regular
season league team within a division in a season.
(d) Pick Up Players may be selected only from teams which are no longer eligible
for championship play. Players that have competed in the highest level
tournament in a classification (i.e. national championship in Super, Major,
“A”, “B”, “C”, “D”)will not be eligible Pick Ups.
(e) Additions prior to state championship play must be made from the team’s
own district or county.
(f) Pick Up players must sign an official “Added Player” form prior to the
start of the tournament The Pick Up players may enter competition at any time
during the tournament
(g) Pick Up players must have played for an ASA registered team of the same
classification or lower during the current season and must have played in the
division of play (slow or fast), but are limited to only one (1) age
classification within a division of play. Individual players are also
eligible to play in the Adult Program as a Pick-Up player.
(h) Junior Olympic players may participate in more than one (1) division of
play (slow or fast), but are limited to only one (1) age classification
within a division of play. Individual players are also eligible to play
in the Adult Program as a Pick-up Player.
(I) Church and industrial teams may add only those players that meet
the eligibility requirements of the division of play and these Advance Play
Tournament rules.
(1) SLOW PITCH: Roster
is limited to a maximum of twenty (20) players per team. Teams may add PICK
UP PLAYERS in championship play according to the rules and regulations of the
National ASA Code. The team may add or substitute three (3) players from ASA
Of PA teams in the same division and the same or lower classification.
(2) FAST PITCH: Team rosters
are limited to a maximum of twenty (20) players per team, including Pick Ups.
Note: ADDED PLAYER RULE Fast Pitch teams are permitted to add or substitute
no more than three (3) players.
HOST TEAM
Host fast pitch teams may add three (3) players to their regular season’s
roster. The added players cannot be selected from the District Champions or
any other team that has qualified or is otherwise eligible to participate in
the State Tournament. The host team may add its three players from its
respective area only after the winning team has had its opportunity to select
three players.
Class "B"
Fast Pitch teams may add or substitute three (3) players to their regular
season’s league roster as per the Added Player Rule as stated above. The
players must be from another ASA Of PA team. Rosters are limited to twenty
(20) players, including pick ups.
Class "C"
Fast Pitch is the same as Class "B" Fast Pitch Above.
Master 40 & Over Men's Fast Pitch: Teams may be formed for
participation at this level.
(3) Modified Pitch (Modified 9 and
Modified 9A: Roster is limited to a maximum of twenty (20)
players per team, including Pick Ups.
(4) Modified Pitch (Modified 10):
Roster is limited to a maximum of twenty (20)players. Three (3) Pick up
players are permitted. Players must meet the requirements as stated in the
Pick Up player rule as stated above.
(5) Church Fast Pitch:
A team is permitted to add three players to their regular season league
roster, providing the added players played in the same church league. No
pitcher classified“A” or higher may pitch in the church state tournament.
(6) Industrial Fast Pitch:
Intramural industrial teams may form one or more teams to participate
in the Industrial State Championship Tournament providing all teams in the
league are registered ASA Of PA teams, and all the players meet the
eligibility requirements of an industrial team.
(7) Volunteer Fireman Slow Pitch:
All players on these teams must be active members of the Fire
Department they represent.
(8) Master's Slow Pitch:
35 & Over Major -This division is for teams interested in or capable of
advancing to and competing in National Championship Tournament play in this
division. Teams may be formed from players on member ASA Of PA teams for this
division.
35 & Over Class “A” -This division is for teams participating as a team
of ASA Of PA Leagues. Teams may advance to National Championship Tournament
Play from this division.
Note: There will be no pickup
players allowed for any team playing in this State Championship Tournament.
35 & Over Class "D"-This division is open to all ASA OF PA
member teams of this age group.
40 & Over - This division is open to all ASA Of PA member teams of this
age group.
45 & Over - This division is open to all ASA Of PA member teams of this
age group.
50 & Over - This division is open to all ASA Of PA member teams of this
age group.
55 & Over - This division is open to all ASA Of PA member teams of this
age group.
60 & Over. This division is open to all ASA Of PA member teams of this
age group.
(9) Co-Ed or Co-Rec Slow Pitch
Major - Teams may be formed from individual roster members of ASA sanctioned
teams.
Class “A” - Teams having been classified “A” or teams utilizing players from
Class “A” rosters and teams not participating as a team in a Co-Ed or Co-Rec
League.
Class “B” - Teams that have no roster members of Class “A” or Major teams and
play together as a team in a Co-Ed or Co-Rec League.
Class “C” . Teams with no roster members of Major, Class “A” or Class “B”
teams and play together as a team in a Co-Ed or Co-Rec League where they are
unable to maintain a winning percentage.
Class "D" Teams with no roster members of Major, Class
"A", "B" or Class "C" teams and play together
as a team in a Co-Ed or Co-Rec League.
10.06 ROSTER PROCEDURE
(a) Each player must sign the current year’s three part copy of the Official
amateur Softball Association Championship Roster.
(b) The County or Deputy Commissioner will sign each roster.
(c) The team manager retains one copy of the roster for verification purposes
at any tournament in which the team participates. The County Commissioner
retains the other copies on file.
(d) When the team qualifies to advance, the County Commissioner sends a copy
of the roster to the District Commissioner.
(e) When the team qualifies to advance past the District level, the District
Commissioner signs the roster and forwards it to the Tournament Director of
the tournament for which the team has qualified and a copy to the State
Office.
10.07 TOURNAMENT PROTEST COMMITTEE
(a) A tournament protest committee shall be appointed, to whom a decision,
(except one based on an umpire’s judgment) may be appealed. The decision of
such committee is final. The selection of the committee will be the
responsibility of the Tournament director.
(b) Protests pertaining to the interpretation of the playing rules must be
ruled on, and made final, by the protest committee, prior to the next pitch.
(c) Protests pertaining to the use of an ineligible player should be made as
soon as it is apparent that an ineligible player is being used. This protest
can be made by anyone present and not necessarily someone involved in the
immediate game. The burden of proof rests with the protesting member.
10.08 ADVANCE PLAY TOURNAMENT RULES
Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania Advance Play Tournament
Rules
(A) Rules - All State Championship Tournaments
shall be decided by elimination tournaments conducted in accordance with this
Code and that of the Amateur Softball association Of America,
(1) No ASA of Pa.
Championship Play Tournament which leads to ASA National Championship
Tournament Play of any type or level may set aside any rule or regulation of
the official playing rules or code of the ASA or the ASA of Pa. (Note:
This includes excluding the use of any equipment approved by the ASA or ASA
of Pa.), with the following exceptions:
(a)
All games must be completed. In the event of rain or any other cause which
interrupts the play of a game, the game must be resumed at the exact point of
interruption. Exception: In the event the tournament can not be
completed as scheduled, the tournament director will ascertain the procedure
to determine the final results.
Note: The following order should be used by tournament
officials in order to complete any championship play tournament where weather
conditions threaten the ability to conclude the tournament as scheduled.
1. Play
Winner’s Bracket Games First
2. 3 - 2
Count
3. 5
Inning Games
4. One
Pitch
5. Single
Elimination
(b) An approved restricted flight softball shall be used in all Men’s Slow
Pitch games leading to National Championship Tournament Play.
(B) Rosters - Prior to the deadline date each team
participating in ASA Of PA championship play must properly complete duplicate
copies of the Official ASA Championship roster as per Section 10.06 of this
Code.
(1) One copy of the roster must be filed with
and approved by the team’s County or district ASA Commissioner and submitted
to the Tournament Director. A copy must be retained by the manager and made
available when requested for various inspections throughout the course of the
tournament.
(a)
The roster must contain all required information pertaining to each
individual player.
(b)
An individual may participate as a player on only ONE Championship Roster
Team per division or type of play during a season in ASA Championship Play,
unless otherwise specifically noted in the Bylaws and Constitution of the ASA
Of PA. No individual player may participate as a roster member for more than
one team in the same league.
(c)
If a participating roster member is a minor his or her parent or legal
guardian must affix his or her signature to the roster in the designated
area.
(d)
Roster personnel in order to be eligible for championship play, must meet ALL
requirements for the Advance Play Tournament Rules and be an active member of
the league roster of the team for whom he/she is competing at the time of the
championship play.
(e)
The Advance Play Tournament Rules of the Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania; permits the use of PICK UP PLAYERS, as is specified in the
National Code of the Amateur Softball Association.
(f)
A PICK UP PLAYER is any individual player added to the roster that does not
participate with that same particular team in the same league in regular
season league play. No individual may participate as a player for more than
one team in the same league to meet these roster requirements.
(1) Unless a player actually participates as a player with the particular
team in regular season league games he or she cannot participate as a regular
season roster member with that team in Championship Play. No individual may
participate as a player for more than one team in the same league to meet
these roster requirements.
(2) Simply being listed on the roster does not make an individual
eligible to play in Championship Play.
(g)
No team is to leave their district without a copy of their roster, properly
completed and signed by their District Commissioner and either a Deputy or
County commissioner. BE CERTAIN your District Commissioner has forwarded a
second copy of your roster along with the Official ASA Of PA State Tournament
Entry Form to the commissioner or Tournament Director where the tournament is
being held. A copy of all team rosters MUST be in the Tournament Director’s
possession prior to the start of the first game of the tournament. Any team
not abiding by this procedure will not be eligible for participation in the
tournament and thus will not be permitted to compete.
(1) The official ASA Of PA State Tournament Entry Form MUST be forwarded with
the official championship roster.
(h) Under no circumstances will any player be permitted to sign a roster at
the tournament.
(i) Teams must compete with the same roster in championship play as used
during the regular season league play, except teams are permitted to add
three (3) PICK UP PLAYERS as specified in the National Code of the Mateur
Softball Association.
(j) Teams and players may participate on only ONE team per division of
championship play leading to a state, regional, area, or national
championship during any one season. (Exception for pick up players as stated
earlier.)
(C) Protests must be filed properly according to the Official ASA Rules.
Decisions on protests involving the playing rules must be made prior to the
next pitch.
Note: Modified Pitch is recognized as a single division. Therefore a team may
compete as a team with the same roster in Modified 9, Modified 9A and
Modified 10 Championship Play. No individual is permitted to participate on
more than one Modified Pitch Roster. Therefore no individual may participate
for one team in Modified 9 and/or Modified 9A championship play and another
team in Modified 10 championship play.
(D) Housing - Each team is responsible for making their own housing
arrangements. It will benefit the individual team to do this as soon as
possible after qualifying.
(E) Fields, Games, and Times -It shall be the responsibility of each team
manager to obtain the proper starting time and field for his team’s games. He
in turn shall be responsible for seeing that his team is available for play
at the proper time and field. This shall also hold true in the event of a
weather delay. The original starting time and field may be obtained from the
team’s local District Commissioner prior to the start of the tournament All
other official times and fields are to be obtained from the tournament
director or tournament committee.
(a) Directions - Contact the
District Commissioner in the area of the tournament, or the Tournament
Director to determine directions and when and where the team must report It
is the responsibility of each team to be at the proper field at the proper
time for all games.
(b) Upon arrival at the tournament
site competing teams must contact the tournament Director as soon as possible
to file information regarding their team representative and where and how
that individual may be reached for emergency purposes throughout the play of
the tournament A meeting of all participating managers may beheld prior to
the start of the tournament A copy of the tournament rules, ground rules, and
Field Directors’ names should be given each manager or team representative to
be read carefully. Starting times and pairings will be confirmed at this
time.
(F) Uniforms - All members of each team must be properly dressed on the
playing field. This means every player on the field must have the same
identical uniform, including hats where applicable. Mixing of shorts and long
pants is permitted but must meet the requirements as stated in the official
ASA Playing Rules and the ASA Code. Hats are mandatory for fast pitch male
players only and must be worn properly. There is Nil exception to this rule.
All managers and or coaches must be neatly attired, dressed uniformly, and in
accordance with the color code of the team. (See Amateur Softball Association
Of America Code for specifics on requirements for head wear and mixing of
shorts and long pants.)
Penalty - Any player, manager, or coach not complying with the
uniform code will not be permitted to participate in the tournament
(G) Rain or Delay - In the event of rain or inclement weather which causes a
delay in the tournament, it shall be each team manager’s responsibility to
report to the Tournament director to obtain his team’s proper time and field
for the rescheduled contest He in turn shall be responsible to see that his
team is available for play at the proper rescheduled time and field.
(H) Officials - ASA Umpires will be assigned to all games. All rulings will
be made in accordance with the Official ASA Rule Book and Guide. An official
scorekeeper will be at each field. However, it is suggested that each team
have its own scorekeeper should there be no official scorekeeper available in
which case, unless otherwise designated, the home team must assume the
responsibility for providing a capable and responsible scorekeeper that will
be recognized and so designated as the official book. Any player, coach,
manager, or other member of a team using abusive language, pushing or
striking an umpire or official of the tournament or committing any other acts
that could be considered unsportsmanlike conduct will be immediately removed
from the game, playing field, and grounds. Failure of the offender to comply
with the above will warrant forfeiture of the game. Since situations vary,
all decisions on removal from the entire tournament must be made by the
tournament Director after the team or team member has been given fair notice
for a hear-ing before the Tournament Committee whose decision shall be final.
(I) Alcoholic Beverages - NO alcoholic beverages of any kind are allowed in
the playing area. It will be the responsibility of the team to see that this
rule is followed or the game is to be forfeited after the umpire or
Tournament Official has given said team one minute to comply with this rule.
(J) Dugout Limits - Maximum allowed is twenty-five (25). The umpire will
request all unauthorized personnel to leave.
(K) Balls - will be supplied by the tournament sponsor. ASA . 47 Restricted
Flight softballs are required for all Men’s Slow Pitch championship play
leading to National championship Tournament play. A minimum of one new
Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania approved softball must be used
to begin the play of each game in State championship Tournament Play. Bats
may be checked for weight, size, and legality before each game.
(L) Brackets -. Brackets will be posted at a convenient site at the tournament.
An official tournament bracket will be available to the manager or team
representative of each participating team during their play in Amateur
Softball Association Of Pennsylvania State championship Play.
(M) NO batting or infield practice of any type will be permitted on the field
where the game is scheduled. Check with the Tournament Director for the
proper practice area.
(N) Smoking - NO smoking will be permitted on the playing field. Failure to
comply will result in removal from the playing area. The use of tobacco in
any form is prohibited in the dugout in Junior Olympic Play.
(0) Awards: Awards approved by the ASA Of Pennsylvania will be presented to
at least the winner and runner-up teams. (a) Awards Ceremony - All trophies
and awards for Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania State
Championship Tournament Play must be presented at an Awards ceremony
commensurate with the tournament. This ceremony, when possible, should be
conducted at or near the field where the tournament is concluded.
(P) Home Team - The home team for each game will be decided by a coin flip
prior to the start of the game.
(Q) Illegal Players - Any team found using illegal or ineligible players will
be dropped immediately from the tournament. Opposing team will be declared
the winner. Only the protest-ed game will be considered for the purpose of
won lost records, no previous game will be affected. Any violations to the
ASA Advance Play Tournament Rules do not have to be formally protested upon
by an opposing team to be considered. It is the responsibility of Tournament
Director to act upon any alleged violation immediately. Proof of
ineligibility must rest with the protesting team. If there is any doubt in
respect to the eligibility of any player, the situation should be cleared by
the manager in writing through the District commissioner or the State
Commissioner prior to the tournament. Illegal, ineligible players are subject
to disqualification and/or suspension for a minimum of one year. Any
individual in the uniform of the team and occupying a position on the bench
or in the dugout or on the list of players or substitutes for the team
involved in the play of the contest in question, will subject the team and/or
player to the penalties for ineligibility.
(R) Tournament Results -. In the event a State Tournament or National
Qualifier is curtailed by inclement weather conditions and cannot be
continued and more than 40% of the scheduled games have been completed, and a
winner must be declared to advance to regional, area, or national
competition, the following will prevail:
(A) The team advancing the furthest in the
winner’s bracket
(B) The teams will be ranked according to the
best won-lost record except among undefeated teams
(C) If only two teams are tied for a position
and have played each other, the winner of that game will be awarded the
higher position
(D) In the event of a tie in (A) and (B), the
teams shall be ranked according to the fewest runs allowed per game played.
(E) If a tie still exists, the teams shall be ranked
according to the most runs scored per game played.
(F) If there should still be a tie after all of the
above, the winner will be decided by a coin toss.
Every effort will be made to complete State Tournaments, even if the site and
dates must be changed. All decisions on the continuation of the tournament
for both the site and dates will be the responsibility of the Tournament
Director.
(S) Run Ahead Rule - A run ahead rule will apply after five
innings in ALL tournament games including the finals. At any time after four
(4) or more full innings of play, any team obtaining a point spread of twenty
(20) or more runs in slow pitch or after five or more innings of play, any
team obtaining a point spread of twelve (12) or more runs over the opposing
team in slow pitch, ten (10) or more runs in Modified Pitch or eight (8) or
more runs in Fast Pitch, will be awarded the game without further play. The
losing team must have had their opportunity to bat in the inning in question.
(T) Lineup Cards - Lineup Cards listing the first and last
name, uniform number and position of each member of the starting line up and
all substitutes available for play in that game must be submitted to the hom
e plate umpire or official scorer prior to the start of each game.
(U) Bad Check - Any team issuing a bad check or stopping
payment of a check will automatically be suspended from ASA play for a period
of at least one (1) year from the date of the check in question fails to
clear the bank. At no time will any member of the team in question be
permitted to be reinstated until full restitution has been made. This will
also apply for any situation which results in nonpayment of entry fee or
rightful indebtedness to any officer or official of the ASA Of PA.
(V) These rules were written for the protection of all
involved, and to assure the success of the State Tournament Program, will be
strictly enforced at all tournaments. Action palpably designed to circumvent
any part of these rules will not be tolerated and will resulting removal from
all further play in the tournament or suspension from future ASA play.
ARTICLE II - INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENTS
11.01 AUTHORIZATION Invitational tournaments may be conducted
by various members, and sanctioned by the ASA Of PA, providing the following
conditions are met:
(a) Teams - Must be registered with the ASA or the ASA Of PA.
(b) Conflict- No tournament will be sanctioned that conflicts with an ASA Of
PA qualifier or championship play in that division.
(c) Added Players - Teams may use added players in accordance with the
individual tournament rules.
(d) Umpires- Must be registered with the ASA Of PA.
ARTICLE 12 - UMPIRES
12.01 MEMBERSHIP
An umpire must be a member of a local umpire chapter that is chartered by the
ASA Of PA.
12.02 REGISTRATION
An umpire may register only through the District Commissioner in whose
territory he resides or is employed. Deadline for registration is June 15.
12.03 STATE CHARTER
Upon recommendation of the District Commissioner, the State Office shall
issue a charter, free of charge, signed by the State Commissioner and the
State Umpire In Chief.
A minimum of ten (10) Amateur Softball Association Of Pennsylvania approved
umpires are necessary in order to apply for or maintain a charter.
12.04 FEES
The annual registration fee for each umpire shall be set by the Board Of
Directors.
12.05 GAME FEES & EXPENSES
Any requests for adjustments to game fees and expenses for state tournaments,
must be made by the District Umpire In Chiefs and the Umpire’s Committee
through the State umpire In Chief, and acted upon by the Board Of Directors
at the Annual Spring Meeting. Any adjustment approved by the Board of
Directors will go into effect on January 1 of the next year.
12.06 UMPIRE ASSIGNMENTS
Umpires may work only league and tournament games approved by
the State Umpire In chief.
12.07 TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP
Transfers of membership, between chapters in the same district, may be made
before March 1 of the current year. Notification of such transfer must be
made in writing with a copy sent to the District Commissioner.
12.08 SUSPENSION
Umpires may be suspended who:
(a) Are palpably unfair or biased in their decisions
in games.
(b) Conduct themselves, on or off the field of play,
in an unethical, immoral, or unprofessional manner.
(c) Does not cooperate with the ASA Of PA in the
promotion of softball.
(d) Pursues a course of action that is detrimental
to the welfare of this organization or the members thereof.
(e) Fails to abide by or conduct themselves within
the provisions and guide lines of the Code of the ASA, ASA Of PA, or Local
Umpire’s Chapter Of ASA Of PA.
12.09 RIGHT OF APPEAL Any umpire suspended may appeal the
suspension to the Board Of Directors, through the state Secretary. A hearing
will be scheduled by the state office. Note: Suspensions made by and through
the Local Chapter must be appealed through the Local Chapter and District
prior to being appealed to the Board Of Directors of the State Association.
12.10 STATE TOURNAMENTS
Allocation for state tournament assignments will be made by the State Umpire
In Chief to each district based on the total number of umpires registered the
previous season when all other requirements and deadline specifications have
been met.
12.11 STATE TOURNAMENT ASSIGNMENTS
The District Umpire In Chief will recommend umpires for State Tournament
assignments awarded his district to the District Commissioner who must
approve the recommendation. The District Umpire In Chief will then notify the
State Umpire In Chief of those individuals being sent to the tournament from
the district.
In order to be eligible for consideration for State, Regional, Area,
National, or other championship Play
Tournament Assignments, the individual umpire must have attended a state
approved rules interpretation clinic or mechanics school in the year of the
assignment.
ARTICLE 13 - HALL OF FAME PROCEDURES
13.01 PURPOSE
To honor those men and women who have played a major role in the growth and
development of softball in the State of Pennsylvania.
13.02 GENERAL INFORMATION
There are three categories for admittance to the Amateur Softball Association
Of Pennsylvania Hall Of Fame. (1) Administrator
(2) Player
(3) Umpire
(4) Manager or Coach
A minimum of 15 year affiliation with the Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania in either of the above categories or a combination of all three
is a requirement for consideration.
(A) ADMINISTRATOR Must have been a District Commissioner, County
Commissioner, League President or an officer of the association or a
benefactor or company that has made contributions to improve the game of
softball in the jurisdiction of the Amateur Softball Association Of
Pennsylvania.
(B) PLAYER Must have played softball in Pennsylvania for at least 15 years
and played in at least five(5) State or National Championship Tournaments
during their career. To be selected the person’s active playing days must
have been terminated for a minimum of three (3) years.
(C) UMPIRE Must have been an active umpire or Umpire in Chief for a period of
at least 15 years. Must have umpired in five (5) State or three (3)
Regional Championship Tournaments or served as Tournament Umpire In Chief or
Tournament Director for any Regional or National championship Tournament.
(D) MANAGER OR COACH Must have been involved in ASA Of PA play for a period
of at least 15 years. Must have participated as manager or coach in five (5)
or more State or three (3) or more Regional championship Tournaments during
their career or managed or coached a team that won a State, Regional, Area,
or National Championship.
13.03 SELECTIONS
A maximum of four (4) candidates will be inducted each year.
13.04 NOMINATIONS TO INCLUDE
All nominations and applications must include a picture of the nominee for
use in any award or program and publicity.
13.05 DEADLINE
Nominations must be submitted to the Selection Committee by November 1 to be
considered for induction the following year.
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