In arena softball, all the fun of the game gets moved indoors. The change in location eliminates the possibility of a rain-out and also speeds up the game, with the enclosed playing field rendering foul balls a thing of the past. Official rules might vary depending on the league, but arena softball often institutes pitch limits and other rule changes to increase excitement and keep the game moving.
Playing Field
Arena softball can be played in any gymnasium or indoor arena. Unless space is limited, the infield should be the same size as a regulation softball diamond, with bases 60 feet apart. Spaces specifically tailored for arena softball might feature artificial turf and tight netting to protect the ceiling and walls.
Equipment
Traditional softball equipment can be used in arena softball, although heavy foam bats and balls can be substituted for safety. Padded mats can be positioned behind the batter to protect against a discarded bat damaging the wood floor of a gymnasium.
Rules
Arena softball generally is slow-pitch, and sliding, stealing and bunting are prohibited. Teams typically consist of five to nine players, with the pitcher usually called upon to cover second base. Games might be limited to 60 minutes or contested over seven innings. Three outs still determine a half-inning, although some leagues limit each half-inning to 16 legal pitches.
Balls and Strikes
Many arena softball organizations require only two balls for a walk or two strikes for an out. Other leagues maintain the traditional four balls and three strikes, but they start each batter with one ball and one strike to speed things up.
Batting
In most versions of arena softball, every hit ball is live. There are no fouls. Batted balls that hit the ceiling, walls or netting are still in play and may be caught for an out. A small area of one wall might be designated for home runs, still allowing for the thrill of round-trippers. Another variation has certain walls, typically the backstop, established as foul territory, with all fouled third strikes counted as outs.
Scoring
Like traditional softball, arena softball players score runs for crossing home plate. However, if a pitch limit is used instead of outs, the defensive team also can earn half a run for each out recorded. Other scoring variations include awarding the hitting team a run for each walk or a run for reaching second base.
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