Softball

Beginning Fastpitch Umpiring

Learn the fastpitch rules and habits that make every inning clearer.

7 weeks 4.5 hrs13 lessons + final exam

Aligned with NFHS Softball Rules for fastpitch. Always confirm current-year rules and state association adaptations; youth competition may use additional modifications.

Individual enrollment

$50

One-time, full course access

student with a class code?

Course outline

Week 1

Role, Preparation, and Pregame

The Fastpitch Umpire's Role and Equipment
Start with the responsibilities and preparation of a fastpitch umpire. Learn to keep a professional appearance while protecting yourself and serving both teams fairly.
20 min
Pregame Duties and Crew Preparation
Use a practical pregame inspection and plate conference. Establish crew responsibilities before the first pitch.
20 min

Week 2

Venue, Equipment, and Competition Basics

The Diamond, Equipment, and Lineups
Identify fastpitch field references and common equipment checks. Learn to handle substitutions and the DP/FLEX structure carefully.
20 min
Game Flow, Runner Release, and Scoring
Track live-ball action, outs, and scoring. Learn the fastpitch timing that governs when runners may leave their bases.
20 min

Week 3

Core Rules I

Strike Zone, Bunting, and Batter Decisions
Learn the NFHS softball strike zone and common batter rulings. Practice distinguishing a foul tip, foul ball, and uncaught third strike.
20 min
Legal Pitching and Illegal-Pitch Enforcement
Observe the fastpitch delivery using current NFHS requirements. Learn the delayed-dead-ball procedure without carrying over outdated runner awards.
20 min

Week 4

Core Rules II

Look-Back Rule and Base-Running Decisions
Learn when the look-back rule applies and what runners may do. Distinguish a violation from ordinary live-ball advancement.
20 min
Interference, Obstruction, and Appeals
Separate offensive interference from defensive obstruction. Learn protected runner responsibilities and the proper purpose of an appeal.
20 min

Week 5

Positioning, Mechanics, and Communication

Positioning and Two-Umpire Coverage
Use approved fastpitch starting positions and rotations. Develop useful angles while accounting for the speed and size of the diamond.
20 min
Plate Work, Signals, and Partner Help
Practice protected plate mechanics and readable signals. Learn when a partner can provide useful information and how to communicate a final decision.
20 min

Week 6

Management, Sportsmanship, and Safety

Sportsmanship and Difficult Conversations
Handle questions without becoming defensive. Establish boundaries for misconduct and use game management for spectator issues.
20 min
Safety, Weather, and Written Reports
Recognize medical and environmental reasons to stop play. Practice documenting incidents accurately and through the proper channels.
20 min

Week 7

Final Review

Final Review & Certification Exam
Review the course decision process and complete a twelve-question assessment. Passing this course assessment does not replace state association registration, testing, observation, or certification requirements.
30 min