2024 Tournament Rules – 8u Coach-Pitch
USSSA 8U – Coach Pitch Tournament Rules-Addendum:
Click here for rules in .pdf format: USSSA 8u – Coach Pitch Rules Addendum
These rules are in addendum to regular tournament rules that are in use such as time limit, etc.
- Teams may use a maximum of 10 defensive players. Four outfielders must be 10 feet behind the base path.
- May bat entire lineup, with free defensive substitution.
- No bunting, slapping, or base stealing.
- Catcher must squat behind home plate in full gear.
- Maximum of 5 runs per inning. Note for POOL PLAY only: If we get to the final inning and the losing team is behind by more than the 5 run cap, they do still have the option to complete their turn at bat. This is to give them a chance to get the 5 runs which can affect tie-breaks and seeding. The losing team also has the option to take the score at the time and end the game without their final at-bat. In bracket play, the game will be over at this point.
- 5 pitches or 3 strikes – Player may continue to bat if they continue to foul off pitches.
- No infield fly rule will be in effect.
- Defensive players must be 35+ feet from the batter (behind the pitching plate).
- Play is stopped when the progress of the lead runner is stopped.
- The pitcher must have one foot in circle even or behind the pitching coach.
- It is highly recommended that the pitcher and infielders wear face guards. Face guards with plastic visors must be clear and able to see the players eyes. No smoked or reflective visors are permitted.
- Game length will be 1 hour 10 min or 6 innings.
- Base length will be 60 feet.
- Pitching rubber set at 35 feet. The pitching coach must have one foot on rubber when pitching.
- The base runner shall not leave the base until the pitched ball crosses the plate.
- If a thrown ball hits the pitching coach, it is considered a live ball, unless the Umpire determined the coach intentionally interfered. If Ump feels it was intentional, it will be a dead ball and the play is repeated (do-over).
- If the Pitching Coach is hit with a ball leaving the bat, all runners will return to their previous base and the batter will bat again (do-over).
- Defensive coaches may take a position in the outfield in foul territory in accordance with the USSSA Rule book.
- Run rule that will be in effect for all games:
- 12 runs after 3 completed innings.
- 10 runs after 4 completed innings.
- 8 runs after 5 completed innings.
