8U FASTPITCH RULES - COACH PITCH
Standard USSSA RULES apply with the exception of the below in the state of Arkansas.
Arkansas Fastpitch USSSA 8U Coach Pitch Rule Exceptions. Effective 3/25/2025
1) 5 pitches total thrown by pitching coach or 3 swinging strikes (if the ball is fouled off on the 3rd strike or on the last pitch, then the batter continues to bat).
2). The runner may lead off when the ball leaves the Coaches hand. The Player is NOT allowed to advance on a non-batted ball. The baserunner must return to the same base from where they started after the ball passes home plate and is not batted into play. The Defense may try and make a play on a baserunner leading off, If the baserunner advances on the throw or is tagged before returning to the bag to where they started then the result will be the baserunner is OUT. If the baserunner returns to the base before being tagged they are safe.
3). 10 defensive players allowed on the field. 4 outfielders are allowed on defense and must remain 20' behind the base path until the ball leaves the coaches hand. The pitcher must have one foot in the 8' circle and must be even or behind the pitching coach until the ball crosses home plate.
4). A minimum of 9 players for either team and standard USSSA line up rules will apply.
5). Two coaches are allowed to coach in foul territory only along the outfield lines but can not enter the playing field when the ball is live.
6). Bunting and slapping is allowed. NO SMASH HITTING (Faking a bunt and then hitting away) If an offensive player squares or shows bunt they must either bunt or pull the bat back without making contact with the ball. NO EXCEPTIONS. Once Bunt is shown the batter can NOT SWING for any reason. Violations of this rule will result in a head coach warning for 1st offense and batter out, ejection of the head coach for 2nd violation.
7). Play stops and Time is called when the ball is back in possession of a fielder playing the pitchers position inside the pitching circle or if the lead runner is/has stopped. It is at the umpire's discretion if the runner has advanced past the halfway point from the occupied base. If not, the runner will be returned to the previously occupied base.
8). No stealing or delay stealing.
9). If a batted ball or thrown ball hits the pitching coach, it will be ruled a dead ball, no pitch and no runners advance.
10). 6 runs per half inning allowed on offense.
11). The pitching coach must be in contact with the pitching rubber at the time of delivery.
12). The player pitcher and infielders must remain behind the front of the pitching circle until contact is made with the ball from the batter here.