Hi Art
Tried to call you
Thought it would be easier to ask in person.
PSSSA web site. Would like to get it up to date.
Tad told me you have been paying for it out of your pocket.
Let me know what it costs etc.
Would like to have it going from January through July.
I don’t know anything about it. Do you need it operating for keeping the scores
And will you keep the scores again this year???
Please call me or email me with info
Thanks’ Art for all you do
Harlen
2026
Page 1 of 7 2/18/2026
PUGET SOUND SENIOR SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION
(PSSSA)
SENIOR SOFTBALL RECREATION LEAGUE
PLAYING RULES AND REGULATIONS
I. “CODE OF CONDUCT”
ADOPTED AND ENFORCED AS A RULE GOVERNING THE MANAGERS,
COACHES AND PLAYERS OF PSSSA.
1. Abide by all current PSSSA Rules.
2. Accept the decisions of the umpires and any team manager in good sportsmanship.
3. Neither taunts nor degrades any opponent.
4. Avoid bodily contact that may cause injury to others.
5. Never direct abusive or profane language at officials, opponents, or spectators.
6. Exercise control over my family members and friends to the extent of numbers 3 & 5
above.
7. Not commit any act that could be considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
8. Create an atmosphere that promotes sportsmanship, camaraderie and friendship.
VIOLATION: Any person affiliated with PSSSA that is found to violate any of the above
rules of conduct will be subject to disciplinary action, as determined appropriate to prevent
recurrence, by the PSSSA Board of Directors, up to and including a life time suspension.
II. PLAYING RULES
Section A: General
1. All games shall be played under current SSUSA Rules, except as noted.
2. There are no residency requirements for players.
3. The Association shall provide team roster forms/format. A roster with player’s names and birth date will
be turned in with the league fees. Players signatures are no longer required. Rosters are due with
league fee and you will not receive game balls until received. Rosters shall be limited to twenty players.
Players must be listed on the roster to be eligible to play.
Page 2 of 7 2/18/2026
4. Should an umpire fail to show up for a game, the home team shall notify Harlen Ward (Cell Phone 253-334-
9897) as soon as possible of the no show. If a paid umpire does not show up and if both managers agree, a
league member only may be used. Umpires can leave at the end of an inning if after 1:05 PM. The
games can be finished using any league player as an umpire.
5. Team managers are responsible for determining if their scheduled game is canceled due to poor weather.
Teams may call the Field Coordinators between the hours of 7:30 am and 8:30 am to learn if games have
been canceled for that day. If cancellations have not been made by then, teams are expected to show up at
the field by game-time for an on-site decision by the umpire.
FIELD COORDINATORS
Crestwood’s rainout # (425) 587-3345
Crestwood’s, Walt Hogg (206) 406-2236
Celebration/Steel Lake, Harlen Ward (253) 833-9210 or Cell (253) 334-9897
Rain out for Steven Underwood (Des Moines) (206) 870-6597, Hogan Park 253-856-5020
Puyallup Fields are turf so rainout will be decided by team managers
6. The home team score book is the official score book.
7. Both team managers are responsible for reporting scores to the PSSSA web site immediately following the
game. Input league game scores here:
http://www.bashman01nwseniorsoftball.com/scoresmessages
8. Protests must be submitted in writing by the team manager, with a $25 protest fee, to the Chairman of the
Executive Committee within 48 hours of game time. The fee will be returned if the protest is upheld.
Section B: The Playing Field
1. A one piece home plate mat measuring 19”W x 34.5”L shall be used. 65 foot base path will be used.
2. A regular base (with attached orange) or a safety mat shall be used at first base. The safety mat shall be
fifteen (15) inches square and be placed one foot into foul territory from the regular first base. Batter-runner
must touch the orange or safety mat on plays to first base if the initial throw comes from the infield. They
shall be called out if they touch the regular first base in these situations. The only exception is if the batter-
runner has to avoid a collision with the defensive player. The defensive player must touch the regular first
base, not the safety mat, on all plays to that base. The defensive player may also tag the batter-runner.
3. A scoring line eight foot long shall be placed in foul territory starting four (4) feet from the base line directly
in line with the corner of home plate that is closest to third base. Runner coming in contact with the ground
on or beyond the scoring line shall be, in effect, considered to have scored. Runners shall be called out if they
touch or cross over any portion of the strike mat or the batter’s box. (Catcher’s safety zone)
4. A six foot long commitment line shall be marked in foul territory twenty feet from home plate towards third
base at a ninety degree angle to the base line. Once a runner touches the ground on or beyond the
commitment line, he/she cannot return to third base. The defensive player(s) must touch any part of the
home plate mat for an out. The defensive player cannot tag the runner out. A runner crossing back over the
commitment line toward third base shall be called out.
5. There shall be a two foot wide by ten foot long pitching box behind the pitching rubber.
6. There will be a pinch (courtesy) runner starting line drawn on the field. It shall be in line with the outside of
the batter’s box, six feet back. For further assistance see: ATTACHMENT “B” page 7
.
Page 3 of 7 2/18/2026
Section C: Equipment
1. No bat can exceed 1.21 BPF. No team playing in the PSSSA is permitted to use a titanium bat,
original 2001 Ultras (grey, end loaded or balanced) bat. Bat warmers are allowed in league play.
2. ANY PLAYER SUSPECTED OF USING AN ALTERED OR JUICED BAT MAY BE SUBJECTED
TO A LIFETIME SUSPENSION, BASED ON THE FINDINGS AND THE DECISION OF THE
PSSSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Section D: Players
1. Ten defensive players shall constitute a normal team. Teams may start with a minimum of nine players. A
team unable to start with at least nine defensive players forfeits the game. However, there is no penalty for
dropping below the minimum of nine players after the game has started. As per SSUSA rule 4.5 American
with Disability Act Rule a player may play only either offense or defense as long a he has the required
medical certification.
2. If only seven players are available you may pick up to a maximum of ten and play with ten defensively
regardless of age group. Pickup players must be identified with their full name and home team prior
to the start of the game and if possible be pickup from same group (5up-5down). Pickup players must
play only the following positions: First player-catcher, second player-first base, and third player-right field.
Pickup defensive players can only play other positions if agreed upon by both managers. Pickup Players
can bat only if agreed upon by both mangers and pickup players will be limited to a single with base
runners only advancing one base unless waived by the opposing manager. No able-bodied rostered
players can be on the bench with pickup players on the field. When possible pickup players should be
within the same group (5up-5down) as team picking up players. If pickup players are not from the
same group or a team must pick up more than 3 players, outcome of the game will be registered as a
forfeit but will not be counted in either teams win/loss record for season. The opposing team may
catch for shorthand teams with no penalty. If it is determined that a team violates any of the above the
team manager will be suspended for one game.
3. If a team has all players on their roster over the age of 65, they may use 11 defensive players unless in
conflict with D 2. Any team can use 11 players if agreed upon by both managers. Teams that have all players
over 70 are allowed to alternate players from each other’s rosters due to illness, injury, etc. in compliance
with D 2.
Section E: The Game
1. All league games are intended to be seven inning games. All Double Header games are to be off the fields by
1:30 pm. Upon mutual agreement prior to start a game may be shortened to less than 7 innings.
2. The “ONLY” exception to rule 1 is if there is a 3 rd game scheduled on that field, then there is a 1 hour 30
minute time limit per game. After one hour fifteen minutes, the umpire will notify both coaches that it will be
the last inning.
3. There shall be a five run rule per inning for each team except the seventh or last declared inning, which has
no run limit. There is no catchup rule. If at the end of 7 innings the score is tied. The game will end in a tie
and be recorded as such.
4. MANDATORY FLIP-FLOP RULE: In the event that at the end of the 6 th inning, the home team is 8 or
more runs behind, they shall become the visiting team and bat first in the 7 th inning.
5. In the event of circumstances beyond the control of either team, four complete innings constitutes a game.
6. Forfeited games will not count as a game played.
Page 4 of 7 2/21/2026
7. Pitcher must wear a mask or use a Safety Screen (PSS) See: ATTACHMENT “A” page 6.
8. This is intended to be a recreational league that encourages continued play for all players regardless of
age. To encourage continued participation a batter/runner running to first base cannot be thrown out
by an outfielder unless he makes a turn towards second base with an intent to advance. If the
batter/runner attempts to advance to second base, they may be tagged out at second or returning to
first base.
Section F: Batting
1. Teams may use more than ten players in the batting order if the umpire is notified before the game and the
names are entered on the lineup card. A team may use all available players in its batting lineup. If a player
needs to leave the game and there is no substitute available, all players in the lineup shall move up one place
on the lineup card unless a player is ejected. If a player is ejected with no substitution, then the lineup
stays intact and an out will be declared for each at bat. Player(s) leaving the game cannot re-enter the
game. Players arriving after the lineup cards have been exchanged can enter the game at the end of the
batting lineup as a player.
2. Batters are allowed 4 balls and/or 3 strikes. A legally pitched ball hitting any part of the home plate mat is
a strike. The pitch zone will be 6 to 12 feet. The umpire will call illegal pitch when it reaches its highest
point. If both managers agree the game can be played with the one and one count.
3. Any batter is out if he/she hits a foul ball on the third strike. Runners may tag up and advance (at their own
risk) on any caught fly foul ball unless it is the third out.
4. 2 UP HOME RUN RULE: Two home runs progressive. A team can only have two home runs more that
the opposing team. Any home run exceeding the two up shall be a dead ball single. No runner shall advance
unless forced. When an over-the-fence home run is hit with less than two up, or a 4 base award the batter and
base runners DO NOT need to advance to the next base but may proceed directly to the dugout. Thus, THE
HIT & SIT CONCEPT.
Section G: Running
1. The base runner may use either white or orange safety base at first base prior to the pitch. No sliding is
permitted going into first base or scoring line at home. Sliding is allowed going into second and third or
going back to first, second or third base. No run-by, the runner will have to run to the base when going to
second and third base. Defensive players must tag runners to put them out except in normal force-out
situation.
2. A no collision rule shall be used. A runner shall be called out for excessive contact with a defensive player,
if in the umpire’s judgment, the contact was severe, deliberate or the runner could have easily been expected
to avoid contact but failed to do so. A runner should not be called out for slight or unavoidable contact. The
ball is dead when an umpire calls a runner out for interference.
3. A base runner leaving a base, in an attempt to advance, before the batter makes contact with the ball, or when
a batter swings and misses the ball, will be called out.
4. A batter-runner may turn to right or left after over running first base or safety base as long as no attempt is
made to advance to second base. Any attempt to advance or decoy the fielder cancels this protection.
Section H: Courtesy Running
1. General Information
A. A courtesy runner must report to, and be acknowledged, by the umpire. The courtesy runner can
replace a runner at any base but must be entered before the first pitch to the next batter. A player
can only be a courtesy runner once per inning.
Page 5 of 7 2/18/2026
B. Prior to the start of the game, a player in need of a courtesy runner from the plate must be identified
and a specific player designated as his committed runner. That courtesy runner cannot be a courtesy
runner for any other player in the game.
C. A player replaced by a courtesy runner may elect to run for himself at any time.
D. A player using a courtesy runner cannot become a courtesy runner for the duration of the game.
2. Courtesy Batter-Runner
A. A courtesy runner may run for an injured or at risk-batter from home plate. A designated courtesy
runner start line will be drawn 6 feet behind the 3 rd base line. See: ATTACHMENT ‘B” page 7.
When using a courtesy runner from home plate the runner is limited to a double. On a batted ball
once the courtesy runner from home plate safely reached second base it is a dead ball for that
player/runner only. If a play is made on said runner before reaching second base and the ball is
overthrown the runner may advance to third, at their own risk, but not further. If the batter
hits the ball over-the-fence it is a home run.
B. A batter that uses a courtesy runner from home that crosses a line 15 feet from home plate toward
first base shall be called out. This is a dead ball out and no runner can advance.
C. A courtesy runner from the plate crossing the start line prior to batter contacting the ball will be
called out. This is a dead ball out and no runner can advance.
3. Courtesy Base Runner
A. Any player on the roster may be used as a courtesy runner. A courtesy runner cannot replace a
courtesy runner at any time. A player can only be a courtesy runner once per inning.
B. A courtesy runner whose turn at bat comes, when he/she is on base will be called out as a runner.
C. A courtesy runner is in the game when he/she touches the base. He/she may not be inserted for a
batter-runner until after the batter-runner has safely reached base and the umpire has called time out.
CRESTWOOD GROUND RULES
1. An outfield fly ball that hits the ground in fair territory within the view of the umpire and rolls or bounces out
of view of the umpire (Bushes, Trees, Ground Slope) is a ground rule double.
2. An outfield fly ball that hits the ground in fair territory out of view of the umpire (Bushes, Trees, Ground
Slope) is a ground rule home run.
3. An outfield fly ball in fair territory that is touched by a defensive player prior to rolling or bouncing out of
view of the umpire remains in play. Runners can advance.
Page 6 of 7 2/18/2026
ATTACHMENT “A”
PITCHER SAFETY SCREEN
PSS Rule
The use of the PSS is voluntary and optional. However, if a PSS is not used the pitcher must wear a safety mask. There
will be no penalty applied for a batted ball striking the pitcher whether the PSS is in use. However, the use is strongly
recommended by the PSSSA Officers and Body due to the National recognition of the increased hazards of the game due to the
advanced equipment in the last 10 years.
The PSS is a designed piece of safety equipment approved by PSSSA and permitted on the field solely for the pitcher’s safety
and protection, and is NOT intended nor approved for, or to be used to supplement a team’s defense. The PSS rule was
adopted with the specific intent that the pitcher is to release the pitched ball with his body remaining behind the PSS, NOT off
to the side or in front of the PSS. Therefore, the acceptable position of the PSS is that it must cover no less than 50% of
the pitching rubber, whether positioned within the 2’ x 10’ pitchers box, or placed the maximum of 3’ in front of the pitching
rubber, when viewed from the catcher/umpire positions. This requires a left-handed pitcher to have the screen on his right side
and a right-handed pitcher to the screen on his left side. If the pitcher is not using the PSS appropriately or staying behind
the PSS at the time of the release of the pitch for his own protection, THEN IT WILL BE THE UMPIRE’S
RESPONSIBILITY TO ASSURE THE PSS IS BEING USED APPROPRIATELY OR HAVE IT REMOVED FROM
THE PLAYING FIELD IMMEDIATELY. During the game, it is permissible for one team to use a PSS while their
opponent elects not to use it.
If a team elects to use the PSS it must be in place before the first pitch of that half of the inning and must continue to be utilized
until the completion of that half of the inning. A team may elect to use or not use a PSS at the start of each inning. If a
replacement pitcher is entered into the game he may elect to use or remove the PSS prior to his first pitch and must finish that
half of the inning accordingly. When a PSS is not in play it must be moved completely off the playing field, stored behind the
fence or in a dugout when not being used by the pitcher on the field.
Any batted ball that makes contact with a PSS any time prior to being touched by a defensive player will be an automatic
“Dead Ball”. If the batter has less than two strikes it will be called a “Foul Ball” strike. However, if the batter has two strikes,
then it will be a no penalty “Dead Ball” until the batter completes his time at bat.
Any thrown or touched ball by a defensive player that makes contact with a PSS will be a live ball until the ball goes out of
play or the umpire declares “Dead Ball”.
EQUIPMENT: A PSS may be constructed of plastic, mental, pvc, etc. It must be free of any sharp or dangerous
projections and finished. The umpire may remove a PSS from the game at any time he feels player
safety may be in jeopardy.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 7’ (84 inches) measured from the ground.
MAXIMUM WIDTH: No part of the PSS (screen or base) may exceed 3’ 6” (42 inches) wide.
Page 7 of 7 1/21/2026
PSSSA Agenda
Wednesday February
February 18, 2026
Wednesday February
February 18, 2026
The meeting was called order via Zoom by President Harlen Ward at 9:04 AM. Harlen Ward,
Joel Neier, Rich Miailovich, Wayne Fricke and Tom Frare were present. Jan Page was absent.
Secretary Report—Minutes approved as posted.
Treasury Report— No significant change from as reported at January meeting. Tom Frare filed
the Secretary of State Report and paid the $20 fee.
Team Fees and Teams—We currently have 20 teams listed for the 2026 season. We currently
only have 4 dozen extra softballs. Harlen was directed to purchase an additional 24 dozen ball
for the 2027 season as they are currently available at a reduced price. Please let us know if you
wish to purchase extra balls and we will purchase additional from Baden. Price to be
determined. We have been informed of increased insurance costs and the umpire association is
requesting higher fees. The teams voted 12 to 8 to play without umpires. If we proceed without
umpires we will most likely reduce the fee. We are still evaluating the impact of the increased
fees and umpire costs. We should have a cost to you after the meeting in March. A roster with
player’s names and birth date must be turned in with the league fees. Players signatures are no
longer required so there is no excuse for not having the roster. You will not be given your game
balls until fee and roster are received. Rosters can be modified as players are added or dropped.
Rules, Umpires and Balls—PSSSA League games are played under SSUSA rules unless
otherwise stated. The Board has modified the rules as they relate to pick up players. The Board
also adopted a rule that does not allow a runner to be throw out at first base from the outfield. If
anyone would like the League to consider additional rule changes, please get you concerns to
Harlen or Tom. The rules are currently being modified to reflect the recent Board action and will
be mailed to players once edited and proofed. It is strongly suggested that coaches/managers
print the rules and bring them to all games. If question arise respectfully refer to the written rule.
As stated above the vote was 12 to 8 to proceed without umpires. Most would like to see us
continue with umpires but not at the increased fee. Harlen is negotiating with the umpire
association in an attempt to continue with umpires.
Schedule—League play will start the week of May 4 and end the week of August 5. PLEASE
CONVEY TO WAYNE FRICKE AND TOM FRARE ANY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
SUCH AS INABILITY TO PLAY BECAUSE OF A CONFLICT WITH A
TOURNAMENT. I MAKE THIS REQUEST EVERY YEAR AND FEW COMPLY.
New Business—It has been suggested that we create a web presence so we have a broader
audience and reach more Seniors. Harlen will be talking with Art Eversole who currently
maintains our web site and Tom has contact with Dave Kelliher who has volunteered to help
upgrade our website. Meeting adjourned with no time noted. Next meeting March 18 at 9 AM
via Zoom. The meeting in April will be on Wednesday the 15 at 10 AM at the Tukwila
Community Center 12424 42nd Avenue S Tukwila, WA 98168.
Joel Neier, Rich Miailovich, Wayne Fricke and Tom Frare were present. Jan Page was absent.
Secretary Report—Minutes approved as posted.
Treasury Report— No significant change from as reported at January meeting. Tom Frare filed
the Secretary of State Report and paid the $20 fee.
Team Fees and Teams—We currently have 20 teams listed for the 2026 season. We currently
only have 4 dozen extra softballs. Harlen was directed to purchase an additional 24 dozen ball
for the 2027 season as they are currently available at a reduced price. Please let us know if you
wish to purchase extra balls and we will purchase additional from Baden. Price to be
determined. We have been informed of increased insurance costs and the umpire association is
requesting higher fees. The teams voted 12 to 8 to play without umpires. If we proceed without
umpires we will most likely reduce the fee. We are still evaluating the impact of the increased
fees and umpire costs. We should have a cost to you after the meeting in March. A roster with
player’s names and birth date must be turned in with the league fees. Players signatures are no
longer required so there is no excuse for not having the roster. You will not be given your game
balls until fee and roster are received. Rosters can be modified as players are added or dropped.
Rules, Umpires and Balls—PSSSA League games are played under SSUSA rules unless
otherwise stated. The Board has modified the rules as they relate to pick up players. The Board
also adopted a rule that does not allow a runner to be throw out at first base from the outfield. If
anyone would like the League to consider additional rule changes, please get you concerns to
Harlen or Tom. The rules are currently being modified to reflect the recent Board action and will
be mailed to players once edited and proofed. It is strongly suggested that coaches/managers
print the rules and bring them to all games. If question arise respectfully refer to the written rule.
As stated above the vote was 12 to 8 to proceed without umpires. Most would like to see us
continue with umpires but not at the increased fee. Harlen is negotiating with the umpire
association in an attempt to continue with umpires.
Schedule—League play will start the week of May 4 and end the week of August 5. PLEASE
CONVEY TO WAYNE FRICKE AND TOM FRARE ANY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
SUCH AS INABILITY TO PLAY BECAUSE OF A CONFLICT WITH A
TOURNAMENT. I MAKE THIS REQUEST EVERY YEAR AND FEW COMPLY.
New Business—It has been suggested that we create a web presence so we have a broader
audience and reach more Seniors. Harlen will be talking with Art Eversole who currently
maintains our web site and Tom has contact with Dave Kelliher who has volunteered to help
upgrade our website. Meeting adjourned with no time noted. Next meeting March 18 at 9 AM
via Zoom. The meeting in April will be on Wednesday the 15 at 10 AM at the Tukwila
Community Center 12424 42nd Avenue S Tukwila, WA 98168.
