Basic Rules

• The Special Olympics follows the rules and standards set by the International Softball Federation. All games are seven innings. If one team is ahead by 10 runs or more, the game will be considered over after five innings. All bases are 60 feet apart. The pitcher's mound is 50 feet from home plate, but coaches may decide to shorten the distance by up to 10 feet before the start of the game. Teams may play with 10 or 11 players; that is up to the coaches who will decide prior to the game. A 10-player team has a pitcher, a catcher, four infielders and four outfielders. An 11-player team has an extra player or "EP." The EP is a designated hitter who does not play a position in the field.
  
  

Safety Rules

• All batters and base runners must wear a batting helmet with a protective face mask and the helmet must be attached to the player with a chin strap. If the player's helmet comes off, the umpire will instruct the player and his coach to reattach the helmet.
  
  

Skills Competitions

• Special Olympics softball players will have an opportunity to participate in skills competitions. Players will get the chance to show their hitting, fielding, throwing, pitching and base-running skills. Top performers will be awarded medals (Gold, Silver and Bronze) for their performance.