Force Play Rules in Softball: Understanding the Double Play Call

Question
Dr. Ambrose,
Runner on first, one out, sharp ground ball to first base man. Runner does not move, first baseman steps on bag first then tags runner on bag. The umpire ruled double play. The coach argued that by touching first the first baseman removed the force and the runner was not obligated to vacate the base. Could you please clarify. The correct call and would it apply to baseball also.the above situation happened in a coed slow pitch game.
Thanks,
Tom

Answer
Hi Tom,

very simple.... as soon as F3 touched 1st it removed the force from R1, R1 cannot now be tagged on the base for an out as they are legally re-occupying it.

The best procedure, tag R1 on the base and THEN step on the bag...2 outs.

sorry this is not a baseball forum

Mark