As we start the IHSA season, it’s important to understand the interpretation by the National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS).
The interpretation is different between the NCAA, NFHS, and USSSA. Be sure you are using the correct interpretation for IHSA games.
Things to look for:
(these questions apply to the NFHS interpretation only)
- Is the pitcher landing, or landing and pushing off again?
- Landing and bearing weight on the pivot foot is legal. Pushing off again is not.
- Does the non-pivot foot move closer to home plate than it would have from the initial push off the pitching rubber?
- If the non-pivot foot is closer to home than it would have been, it’s likely the pitch is illegal.
- Does the throwing arm move in a continuous motion?
- A “hiccup” in the motion of the pitching arm is a good indication the pitcher is pushing off a second time.
