The Introduction to Softball Umpiring course is a comprehensive, certification-level training program designed to prepare new and developing officials to confidently officiate high school softball.
This course goes far beyond basic rule memorization. Officials will develop a clear understanding of game administration, pitching mechanics, the Look-Back Rule, obstruction and interference enforcement, DP/FLEX management, appeals, and end-of-game procedures — all through detailed instruction and real-game scenarios.
Each module includes in-depth explanations, multiple real-world situations, and structured knowledge checks to ensure officials understand not only what the rule says, but how and when to apply it on the field.
Whether you are brand new to officiating or transitioning from baseball to softball, this course builds the confidence, awareness, and rule knowledge required to manage games professionally and consistently under NFHS standards.
Features
- NFHS Rules-Based Instruction Every lesson is aligned with NFHS softball rules and administrative standards.
- In-Depth, Scenario-Driven Learning Each lesson includes multiple real-game situations, including extended and high-pressure scenarios.
- Look-Back Rule Mastery Clear, practical breakdown of one of softball’s most unique and misunderstood rules.
- Pitching & Illegal Pitch Enforcement Detailed coverage of crow hopping, leaping, quick pitch, and enforcement mechanics.
- Includes DP/FLEX, batting out of order, illegal substitutions, appeals, and suspended games.
- Focused on decision-making, timing, communication, and professionalism — not just rule text.
FAQs
Curriculum
- 8 Sections
- 47 Lessons
- Lifetime
- MODULE 1 – The Role of the Softball Umpire & NFHS Foundations8
- 1.1Lesson 1.1 – The Authority and Jurisdiction of the Softball Umpire
- 1.2Lesson 1.1 Scenarios
- 1.3Knowledge Check – Lesson 1.13 Questions
- 1.4Lesson 1.2 – Key Differences Between Baseball and Softball Rules
- 1.5Lesson 1.2 Scenarios
- 1.6Knowledge Check – Lesson 1.23 Questions
- 1.7Lesson 1.3 – Professional Mechanics and Presence
- 1.8Knowledge Check – Lesson 1.33 Questions
- MODULE 2 – Pitching Rules and Illegal Pitches11
- 2.1Lesson 2.1 – Legal Pitching Motion and Delivery Requirements
- 2.2Lesson 2.1 Scenarios
- 2.3Knowledge Check – Lesson 2.13 Questions
- 2.4Lesson 2.2 – Crow Hopping and Replanting
- 2.5Lesson 2.2 Scenarios
- 2.6Knowledge Check – Lesson 2.22 Questions
- 2.7Lesson 2.3 – Leaping
- 2.8Lesson 2.3 Scenarios
- 2.9Lesson 2.4 – Quick Pitch
- 2.10Lesson 2.4 Scenarios
- 2.11Lesson 2.5 – Illegal Pitch Enforcement and Confidence
- MODULE 3 – Baserunning and the Look-Back Rule10
- 3.1Lesson 3.1 – The Look-Back Rule: When It Begins and What It Requires
- 3.2Lesson 3.1 Scenarios
- 3.3Knowledge Check – Lesson 3.13 Questions
- 3.4Lesson 3.2 – Reversing Direction and Being Declared Out
- 3.5Lesson 3.2 Scenarios
- 3.6Lesson 3.3 – Look-Back Rule and Walks
- 3.7Lesson 3.3 Scenarios
- 3.8Lesson 3.4 – Fake Tags and Obstruction
- 3.9Lesson 3.4 Scenarios
- 3.10Lesson 3.5 – Enforcement Mechanics and Confidence
- MODULE 4 – Interference and Obstruction9
- 4.1Lesson 4.1 – Offensive Interference: Runner Interference on Batted Balls
- 4.2Lesson 4.1 Scenarios
- 4.3Lesson 4.2 – Batter’s Interference
- 4.4Lesson 4.2 Scenarios
- 4.5Knowledge Check – Lesson 4.23 Questions
- 4.6Lesson 4.3 – Defensive Obstruction (Types A & B)
- 4.7Lesson 4.3 Scenarios
- 4.8Lesson 4.4 – Catcher’s Obstruction
- 4.9Lesson 4.5 – Malicious Contact
- MODULE 5 – Batted Balls, Fair/Foul, Catch/No Catch, Infield Fly6
- MODULE 6 – Game Management and Crew Communication5
- MODULE 7 – Advanced Softball Situations & Administrative Rules5
- Introduction to Softball Umpiring FINAL EXAM1
Instructor
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