The NEDSO Code: League Rules & Legacy
Mission Statement:
NEDSO unites Deaf, CODA, and SODA softball players across New England to celebrate identity, build community, and compete in a spirited, respectful environment. We play hard, honor our roots, and grow the game for future generations.
League Values:
• Respect: We honor our players, opponents, and umpires.
• Unity: We play for the team, not ourselves.
• Pride: We represent our regions with passion and humility.
• Growth: We welcome newcomers and help everyone improve.
League Overview:
NEDSO is an independent softball league created to unite and celebrate Deaf, CODA, and SODA players across New England. While not affiliated with USSSA, NEDSO adopts a modified version of the USSSA Men’s Softball Rulebook to provide a consistent and familiar playing experience. All league-specific rules and adjustments are outlined below.
1. Teams
1.1 Eligibility and Formation
• Only officially registered teams will appear on the schedule and scoreboard.
• Teams must submit rosters by published deadlines.
• Roster size: 12–15 players (max 18 with commissioner approval).
• Players must reside in or have previously lived in the team’s location.
1.2 Team Naming
• Names must reflect geography, culture, or history of the team’s area.
• All names require commissioner approval.
1.3 Roster Freeze
• Rosters freeze after the 2nd tournament.
• Commissioner may approve additions due to injury or relocation.
1.4 Free Agent Types
• Hometown Free Agents (HTFA): Unlimited, must have lived in the area before.
• Legacy Free Agents (LFA): 1 per team, must have history in New England Deaf softball. Requires commissioner approval.
2. League Roles
• Commissioner: Oversees all operations and rules.
• Delegates: Assist with recruiting and issues.
• Captains: Manage rosters and team communication.
3. Player Eligibility
• Must be 18+ and be Deaf, Hard of Hearing, CODA, or SODA
• Proof includes audiogram, ID, or residency documents.
4. Season Timeline
• October–March: Registration
• May–July: Monthly Tournaments (Round-Robin only)
• August: Playoffs (The Gauntlet)
• October: League Review Meeting
5. Conduct & Sportsmanship
• Verbal abuse: 3-game (1st), 6-game (2nd), expulsion (3rd)
• Physical altercation: Indefinite or permanent suspension
• Harassment: Ranges from warning to expulsion
• Sportsmanship bonus: No suspensions = possible bonus or recognition
6. Awards
• MVP (Most Valuable Player)
• Rookie of the Year
• Golden Glove (Best Defender)
• The Gauntlet Survivor (Playoff MVP – most impactful postseason player)
• NEDSO Six (Top 6 players of the regular season)
7. Uniform Policy
• Commissioner provides hats, jerseys, and shorts.
• Jerseys must match in color, show visible numbers, and be league-approved.
• No names allowed on jerseys.
8. Tournament Structure
8.1 Regular Season Format
• 4 tournaments (April–August)
• Round-Robin only; no bracket
• Results tracked to determine standings
8.2 Commissioner’s Challenge
• Each team gets one Challenge game per season.
• Commissioner announces it on game day.
• Winner receives +2 wins.
• Teams may use their Commissioner’s Coin — if both teams agree:
- Win = +4 wins total
- Loss = -1 win
- Coin can only be used during your Challenge Game
- Must be declared before the first pitch
- No reassignment if declined
8.3 Playoffs: The Gauntlet Format
• #5 vs #6 → Danger Round (1 game)
• Winner plays #4 for the final playoff spot
• #1 and #2 seeds get byes
• (Callout Ceremony) #1 seed chooses their semifinal opponent from:
• 3rd place
• or Wildcard Winner
• Semifinal winners face off in the championship
9. Game Forfeits
• Teams need at least 10 players to play
• If unable to play, must give 48 hours' notice
• Opponent is awarded a win
10. Game Rules (NEDSO/USSSA Modified)
• 7 innings or 60-minute limit
• Mercy Rule: 20 after 3, 15 after 4, 10 after 5
• HR limit: 5 per game
• Pitch arc: 6–10 feet
• Legal bats: USSSA thumbprint only
• 1 courtesy runner per inning
• 70 ft base paths, 50 ft pitcher distance
11. Communication
• Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Website, Email/Facebook Group
• Official hashtags: #NEDSO #WeAreNEDSO #DeafSoftball #NEDSO2025Finals
12. Periodic Rules Review
• Rules are reviewed and adjusted after each season in the commissioner meeting.
Final Note:
All decisions are made with fairness and competitive balance in mind. Commissioner has final authority in disputes or rule clarifications.
End of NEDSO Rules and Guidelines