NFHS Electronic Pitch Calling Rules
NFHS Electronic Pitch Calling Rules
What high school softball coaches need to know.
NFHS rules now allow a coach to use an electronic device for one-way communication from the dugout to the catcher while the team is on defense. Here's what that means in practice, and what to confirm before your first game.
What the Rule Allows
The rule (Section 9, Other Equipment, Art. 6 and its exception, as summarized on our rulebook page) permits team personnel to use electronic devices for coaching purposes within the dugout or bench area. The exception adds that a coach may use an electronic device for one-way communication from the dugout to the catcher while the team is on defense.
One-way only
Coach to player. The catcher's device must not be able to send anything back.
From the dugout
The call comes from the dugout, not from a coach's box or the field.
On defense
The exception covers calling the game while your team is in the field.
To the catcher
The rule names the catcher as the receiver. Check your state's guidance before putting receivers on other players.
What It Doesn't Allow
- Two-way devices, or anything a player can use to talk back to the dugout
- Players transmitting or recording audio or video from the playing surface
- Using the device for anything other than its permitted purpose during the game
Checklist Before Game Day
Your state association
Confirm your state has adopted the rule and whether it adds conditions.
The pregame meeting
Tell the umpires you're using a one-way device and who is wearing it.
Practice with it
Use the system in practices and bullpens first so the catcher reads it without thinking.
How Pitch Signal Fits the Rule
The Pitch Signal Watch is a receive-only device. The coach sends the call from the Pitch Signal app in the dugout, and the Pitch Signal Base relays it over truly one-way RF. The watch can't transmit back to the coach.
Pitch Signal also tracks every pitch you call, so your staff builds pitcher stats and batter scouting reports from real games. See what it tracks, or read about coach-to-catcher communication.
Other Organizations
Travel and summer ball follow different rules. USA Softball, USSSA and NSA each allow one-way devices with their own conditions. For example, NSA allows a transmitter on both offense and defense. Compare them on the one-way communication rulebook.
Questions
Can the pitcher wear a receiver in high school?
The NFHS exception describes communication from the dugout to the catcher. Check with your state association before putting a receiver on any other player.
Can we call pitches electronically on offense?
The NFHS exception covers defense. Travel organizations like NSA allow offensive signals too. Check the rules for the level you're playing.
Are earbuds allowed?
Rules on earpieces vary by organization and state. Confirm before using them in a high school game.
Where can I read the official rule?
The official NFHS softball rule book, available from NFHS and your state association. Our rulebook page quotes the relevant section and links to official sources.
Ready for Electronic Pitch Calling
A one-way system built for the rule, with pitch tracking included.