RULES KNOWLEDGE IS ESSENTIAL

The following NFHS rules , which are optional by state association adoption and other modifications, have been approved by the FHSAA: 

• 1-2-9 Note. A double first base is permitted. 

• 1-4-4. Commemorative or memorial patches permitted with written approval of FHSAA Office. 

• 2-33-1. Speed-up rules may be exercised by either or both head coaches without any need for agreement. 

• 3-1-4 DH Rule Addition (does not replace rule): The designated hitter and the starting pitcher may be the same person. If the pitcher opts to bat for himself, he is treated as two separate positions - a pitcher and a designated hitter (abbreviated P/DH on the lineup card) - and may be substituted for as such (i.e. if he is removed as the pitcher, then he may remain as the designated hitter and vice versa).  

A player listed as P/DH is in both the offensive and defensive lineups. If P/DH leaves the DEFENSIVE lineup, they can remain in the OFFENSIVE lineup. For Example: Smith is the P/DH to start the game. In the 5th inning Jones comes into play RF for Smith. Smith is now the DH only and Jones the fielder only; however, if Smith is pinch hit or pinch ran for, then we lose the DH. The substitute is now in both offensively and defensively for Smith and there in no longer a DH.

Courtesy Runners are NOT allowed for P/DH combo when the pitcher is serving as the P/DH. NFHS states that the P/DH, when batting, is in as the role of DH. As such no CR is allowed for the DH. So CR are only allowed for a pitcher who is not listed as P/DH.

However, if a player who starts the game as a P/DH is relieved as the starting pitcher, he may not return to the mound even if he remains in the game as DH, and he may not play another defensive position after being relieved as the pitcher.

(See P/DH PowerPoint below under Pitching).

• 4-2-2. The 10-run rule will be in effect after four-and-one half or five complete innings. 

• 4-2-2. The 15-run rule will be in effect after three-and-one half or four complete innings.

• 4-2-4. A game that has been called because of weather, mechanical failure or other conditions in which a winner cannot be determined will be treated as a suspended game. If the game is to be completed, it will be continued from the point of suspension, subject to the rules of the game. A game that has been called because of weather, mechanical failure, or other conditions after four and one-half innings or five innings have been completed will be declared a completed game. 

• 4-5-1. Decision of the officials is final. No protests allowed. 

Coaches’ Helmets. While occupying the first and third base coaches’ box, a coach must wear a non-ear flap style helmet. 

NOTE:  A coach MAY wear a batting helmet.  A player in the coaches/ box MUST wear a batting helmet .