SPRING 13U RULES

13U Spring rules overview

These rules apply specifically to the 13U division and are intended to support player development, safety, and fair play. All general SGSL and ASA rules also apply.

Game Format

  • Games are 1 hour 10 minutes or six (6) innings, whichever comes first
  • If an inning is started, it must be completed unless it will not affect the outcome
  • No new inning will begin with less than 5 minutes remaining
  • Playoff games are six (6) innings or 1 hour 30 minutes 

Field & Equipment

  • Pitching distance: 40 feet
  • Base distance: 60 feet
  • Pitching circle: 16 feet in diameter
  • Game ball: 12” softball

Catchers must wear full protective gear (helmet, mask, chest protector, and shin guards) during all practices and games. Face guards are required on all batting helmets.

Pitching Rules

The following pitching styles are allowed:

  • Slow pitch (flat)
  • Windmill
  • Slingshot

Each team is limited to four (4) walks per inning. After four walks, a coach will pitch:

  • Each batter receives three (3) pitches only
  • Batter must hit or will be called out
  • Maximum of five (5) runs per inning

Base Running

  • Runners may steal one base per pitch once the ball is released from the pitcher’s hand
  • Stealing home is not allowed

Gameplay Rules

  • Dropped third strike is in effect only if first base is unoccupied
  • Runner may advance but cannot steal home
  • Courtesy runner for catcher is required with two outs (last recorded out)

Game Timing

  • Games follow standard SGSL time limits
  • No new inning will begin with less than 5 minutes remaining
  • No timeouts may be taken within the final 5 minutes

Tiebreaker Rule

If the game is tied at the end of regulation:

  • One (1) inning will be played using the International Tiebreaker (ITB)
  • The last batter from the previous inning will start on second base
  • If still tied after one inning, the game will end in a tie

Player Participation & Substitutions

  • Substitutions may not occur until the top of the 3rd inning unless due to injury or illness
  • All players must meet minimum play requirements (see General Rules) 

Team Requirements

  • Teams must field at least nine (9) players
  • Teams may start with nine (9) players without taking an out for the tenth position
  • A team with fewer than nine (9) players will forfeit

Dugout & Conduct

  • Only approved coaches and players are allowed in the dugout
  • Maximum of three (3) coaches in the dugout
  • All individuals in the dugout must wear a team shirt

Additional Notes

All SGSL General Rules and ASA Rules apply.