Side Arm Pitching

Question
I coach a 5th and 6th grade in town team.  we have a child who's parent insists that they pitch side arm, this results in hitting batters as well as wild pitching on occasion. Are there any rules pertaining to side arm pitching vs using underhand/windmill?   I would like to be able to site this to the parent

Answer
Hi Renee

If this is softball and not baseball, they can't do that and it is an illegal pitch.  If you have umpires I'm surprised even at this level the pitch isn't being called or the opposing coaches are not complaining about an illegal pitch.

Not only is the pitch illegal, it is much harder on young wrists, elbows and shoulders than a windmill or slingshot style pitch which is a natural motion.  It's only a matter of time before something is injured.  Plus she is not getting the muscle memory she'll need if she wants to pitch in JH or HS where this IP would be called every time.  They are not doing her any favors with these ridiculous and misinformed ideas.

ASA 6-3e the  delivery must be in an underhand motion with the hand below the hip and the wrist not further from the body than the elbow

a modified-style slingshot pitch is also legal as it meets the requirements of above in fp but very few girls who use it advance into very good pitchers, but occasionally you'll see one.

Mark