Fastpitch

Fastpitch refers to a form of softball in which the pitcher throws underhand with a windmill-like motion, delivering the ball quickly to the batter. It is distinguished from slow-pitch by faster pitches, a smaller strike zone, and a emphasis on athletic pitching and defense. In fastpitch, pitchers use a variety of speeds and trajectories, including fastballs, rise balls, drop balls, curves, and screwballs, depending on the rules of the competition.

Historically, fastpitch emerged in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and grew through the 20th century with organized leagues for women and men. Today it is governed internationally by WBSC Softball and locally by national bodies such as USA Softball and NCAA. Women’s fastpitch has been a prominent form in international competition, including world championships and the Olympic program (with fastpitch softball featured at the Olympics in multiple years and returning in 2020).

Rules and play conventions vary by level but share common elements: a 60-foot basepath is typical in many leagues, and pitching distances are defined by governing bodies, commonly in the 40s of feet depending on age group and gender. The ball used is a 12-inch softball, and equipment includes helmets, gloves, bats, and protective gear as required by the league. The objective is to score runs by advancing around the bases while the defense tries to retire batters and runners.

Fastpitch is widely played at youth, high school, college, and club levels, with strong participation and regional variations in rules and terminology.