3rd base leadoff

Question
QUESTION: 12U ASA softball.  Runner on 3rd leads off over 1/2 the distance between 3rd base and home.  Runner returns to third after the non hit pitch.  Runner is called out for returning to base because of distance of lead.  What is this rule?

ANSWER: Amy,

ASA has no rule about how far a runner may lead off from a base.  Based on your description of the play, there is no support in the rule book for calling the runner out.

Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: This is what they were told by the umpire during the game...

"the reason we were given at the two games that this occurred was that 揑f a runner retreats back across the commitment line toward third base, they will be declared out?  

What is the commitment line?

Answer
Amy,

The only comittment line I know of is at the church and ii crossed that one 25 years ago.  As far as ASA goes, no such thing.  Here is what iwould do in your situation.  Find out who your district ASA commisioner is, contct them, and get arule book.  The next time you hear something that sounds this silly, hand them the rulebook and ask them to show you what they are talking about after the game.

The only thing I can think of that comes close to making sense is the the look back rule.  Even that is a sttetch.  Were did you play college ball?

Tom