Softball is a team game similar to baseball with differences that include the field size, bats and balls used, and the method of pitching.http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/refpages/RefArticle.aspx?refid=761568314 The two primary types of softball are fastpitch and slowpitch. While fastpitch softball is a highly competitive game usually associated with young female athletes, slowpitch is a game played by by all ages and genders.http://www.faqs.org/sports-science/Sc-Sp/Softball-Slow-Pitch-vs-the-Fast-Pitch.html
There are only a few differences between baseball and softball. First, the ball is larger, approximately 12 inches in circumference. Also, the games are 7 innings long, as opposed to 9 innings in professional baseball. In addition to that, players are not allowed to steal bases, or lead off.http://westlake.k12.oh.us/hilliard/whspe/softball/softball_rules.htm
Amateur Softball Association
The Amateur Softball Association ASA, founded in 1933, was appointed the national governing body of softball by the United States Olympic Committee in 1978. There are 245,000 registered ASA teams, with over 3.5 million players. The ASA is headquartered in Oklahoma City.Official Site: ASA Quick Facts
Softball for Beginners
This video is a very simple overview of the basic rules and regulations for softball. The differences between baseball and softball are explained, including stealing bases, slap-hitting, differences in the size of the field, and how the smaller field changes the strategy of the game.
References
Fast Facts
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Pitching
Pitcher throws underhanded
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Number of NCAA teams
over 600
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Rules
Similar to baseball, only 7 innings, cannot lead off or steal a base
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The Ball
Larger than a baseball, usually about 6 1/2 ounces
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Equipment Needed
Rubber cleats, bats, gloves, helmets
