Soft pitch softball has its roots in fast pitch softball and baseball but features a set of rules specifically unique to the sport. Because it is played by the old and young, athletic and non-athletic, safety rules have been integrated into the game to make it more enjoyable and less injury-prone to all. Though there is no published rules on etiquette, the game is a recreational activity and therefore players expect others to behave in a more casual manner than in competitive softball and baseball.
Pitching
Pitchers in soft pitch softball stand the same distance from the batter as in fast pitch softball but are required to lob the ball for their pitches. The softball rules for leagues at Rice University require that pitches arc between six to 12 feet from the ground and that the pitcher must keep a foot on the rubber during the delivery. Some leagues also require that the batting team have one of its own players do the pitching. In this situation, the defense has a player stand next to the pitcher to play the defensive aspect of the position.
Baserunning
Stealing bases is not allowed in soft pitch softball. The rules at Bates College explicitly state that baserunners can not leave their base until the pitch crosses the plate. Many leagues also have bases for baserunners and separate ones for fielders at first base. The white base, which is where a normal bag would be, is the one the fielder tags to make an out, while the orange one on the foul side of it is for the baserunner to step on. To score runs, some leagues do not require the player to step on home plate, but rather just cross a line that extends behind the plate. The rule is in place to prevent collisions.
Rosters and Lineups
The University of San Diego's intramural program requires that teams have no more than 18 players on their roster. The USD program allows teams to put the customary nine players on the field for defense, but requires that every player on the roster to be in the batting order. The order may not be rearranged. Umpires do not record defensive substitutions or positions but do keep track of the batting order to ensure that every player hits in his spot.
Sportsmanship
Soft pitch softball games end with a team handshake lineup in which every player shakes hands with every player on the opposing team. Etiquette for the postgame handshake is for players to say "Good game" as they move down the line and refrain from any disparaging remarks. During the game, players are urged to avoid physical contact and heckling as well.
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