Baseball
05/14/20 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Baseball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2020
Despite the unfortunate cancellation of the spring sports season, the Association will still honor the outstanding work and commitment to student-athletes put forth by licensed officials in each spring sport. In recognition of their past efforts and dedication to baseball, the Association has chosen the finalists for the sport’s Official of the Year Award. Of the 798 licensed officials in baseball, Eugene Pikes (Louisville), JD Young (Independence) and Andy Thomasson (Bremen) were chosen as finalists with Pikes selected as the 2020 KHSAA Baseball Official of the Year.
The KHSAA will honor the top licensed officials for the 2019-20 season during the course of the year. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field/court performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport will be named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for his/her sport […]
05/11/20 – Game Forfeiture Process Clarified in 2020-21 High School Basketball Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (May 11, 2020) — Beginning next year, high school basketball rules will further clarify when a contest is to be forfeited, including if a qualified individual is not present to coach.
A proposal for a national rule mandating a shot clock as well as a proposal to allow a shot clock by state adoption were not approved.
“Information was given to the Basketball Rules Committee that shared the votes in individual states on how coaches and officials voted in support of or non-support of the shot clock rule,” said Theresia Wynns, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Basketball Rules Committee. “The conversation among the committee members explored the pros and cons of enacting the proposal as a rule for all states and likewise for state adoption. The committee will continue to explore the shot clock issue.”
These were among the topics discussed by the National Federation of State High School Associations […]
04/29/20- Revised Covid-19 Policies and Guidance Issued, May 1 to May 31
THESE REVISIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THE PERIOD OF MAY 1 to MAY 31.
THESE POLICIES WILL BE REVIEWED REGULARLY FOR EXTENSION AFTER THAT PERIOD OR REVISION DURING THAT PERIOD AS NECESSARY AS STATE, FEDERAL AND CDC POLICIES AND DIRECTIVES CHANGE
RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF THE CAMPUS OF ANY KHSAA MEMBER SCHOOL OR ON PROPERTY OWNED BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ANY MEMBER SCHOOL, OR ITEMS RELATED TO SPORT OR SPORT-ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION DURING THIS PERIOD-
04/21/20- Spring Sports Cancellation, Basketball Events Not To Be Resumed
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 21, 2020
With the announcement yesterday of the recommended closure of all K-12 schools to in-person instruction throughout Kentucky for the remainder of the school year, the KHSAA Board of Control today approved the Commissioner’s recommendation and announcement by unanimous vote that the 2020 state basketball tournaments will not be resumed, while also approving the cancellation of all regular-season practices and contests as well as all postseason tournament championship events for all spring sports and sport-activities for the 2019-20 school year. This means the termination of the Archery, Bass Fishing, Esports, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, and Track & Field seasons. This will also result in the continuance of all provisions of the Coronavirus Dead Period provisions until further notice to the member schools from the Commissioner.
The KHSAA has worked closely and continuously with the Governor of our beloved Commonwealth, representatives of the Department of Public Health, Interim Commissioner Kevin Brown and […]
04/06/20 – Baseball Nominations Sought for Midway Student-Athlete of the Year
While spring sports and sport-activities are currently suspended, Midway University is continuing with its recognition of the outstanding talents of student-athletes who participate in these programs. The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year among baseball participants for 2019-2020 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2019-2020 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but may be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/.
The winner will be announced May 17 and will be recognized at a future function in coordination by Midway University. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2019-2020 Midway University/KHSAA Overall Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the future […]
03/13/20- (revised 04/02/20 and 4/17/20)- Athletic Dead Period Instituted for Athletic Programs in All Sports and Sport-Activities Due to Covid-19
This information is in effect, as stated below, through April 30, 2020. Prior to that time, revised guidance and policy will be issued to be effective May 1 as we all collectively work to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus on our campuses and among our athletes and coaches. Updated 4/2/20 and 4/17/20 based on inquiries from member schools and revised orders from the Governor and CDC Guidance.
This impacts all KHSAA constituents and includes guidance from the Governor, Public Health Officials, the Kentucky Department of Education, and additional guidance from federal authorities. This original directive will continue to be updated regularly. This will be the sole site for information regarding interscholastic athletics in Kentucky involving rostered athletes or those that have participated in practices this year and coaches from KHSAA member schools, as well as the use of interscholastic facilities.
Effective Friday, March 13, all sports and sport-activities, regardless of season, are declared to […]
03/30/20- Status of KHSAA Sponsored Events and Deadlines
Updated: 3/31/20, 8:00 a.m.
This information is solely a summary of KHSAA events. Other specific information concerning options including the required Coronavirus Shutdown Period is listed elsewhere on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/athletic-dead-period-instituted-for-athletic-programs-in-all-sports-and-sport-activities/. This list will be continually updated and potentially revised.
- Tryout Period for Sport-Activities, including Cheer and Dance has been postponed. See the post at https://khsaa.org/03-19-20-spring-sport-activity-tryout-window-postponed-for-now/ for details.
- All opportunities at KHSAA member schools and Kentucky middle schools for spring football practice have been eliminated for 2020. See the post at https://khsaa.org/spring-football-practice-eliminated-for-2020-for-high-and-middle-schools/ for details;
- No final determination has been made regarding annual Title IX and roster reporting for 2019-20. Member schools will be updated if and when this is revised.
- 2020 Mingua Beef Jerky/KHSAA Girls’ Sweet Sixteen (originally March 11-15) remains currently suspended. Will be continually reviewed as more data is available regarding school resumption or cessation, and activities being conducted in alignment with CDC and state and local […]
03/23/20 – NFHS Part 2 Exam Now Online for Baseball & Softball Umpires
The NFHS Part 2 Tests for licensed officials in the sports of Baseball and Softball are now available online. Even during what we hope is a short time, while there are currently no games being played, officials may use this tool to increase their knowledge, brush up on the rules and situations or complete the exam to move to the various levels within the classification of officials.
First-year officials are not required to take the exam, however, if any first-year official has completed licensing requirements, the test may be taken.
The tests will be open until Monday, April 6 at 11:59 p.m. (ET). Login at https://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test.
Thank you for being a licensed official and we appreciate your patience during such unprecedented times.
– KHSAA –
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage […]
03/16/20- Update on KHSAA Office Opening/Closing and Staff Availability
In partnership with our State Department of Education, the Governor’s office, our member schools, the NFHS and similar to many other state associations, KHSAA staff has been directed to work remotely from home until at least April 10 (revised 4/2/20). Administrators will available via email. Our hope is to return to the office for regular hours later in April, however, this is a very fluid situation and could change at any time. Updates will be posted online.
As of now and through at least May 1, all activity by rostered participants, coaches and those who have participated in at least one practice session for a middle or high school remain shut down as do all athletic facilities in control of our membership. As we all work together, everyone is hopeful to contain the spread of this virus. Staff will communicate any changes to future events through social media and the KHSAA website.
Closer to May […]
03/03/20 – SAFETY NOTICE – Bat Decertified and Ruled Non-Compliant for NFHS Rules; NOCSAE Ball Reminder, Middle School Play
Louisville Slugger Meta 33″ Bat Not legal
The KHSAA received notification Monday afternoon from the NFHS that the Washington State University Sports Science Laboratory has advised that the BBCOR decertification review process had been implemented for the 33” model Louisville Slugger Meta Composite bat.
Therefore, effective immediately, this bat (33″ length Louisville Slugger Meta composite bat – 2020 Blue Bat) should be considered a non-compliant bat Pursuant to NFHS Baseball Rules 1-3-2d and 7-4-1a and not legal for play at any level until further notice.
NOCSAE Ball Certification and Middle School Contests
Also, we have received questions from coaches and umpires following the blog post advising of the NFHS rule requiring NOCSAE approved baseballs (Click Here to Read that Original post).
Questions are being received concerning middle school play and the requirement. Please be advised while the NFHS rules address high school play, these are safety-related concerns and administrators and coaches at […]
02/25/20 – Safety Concerns and Baseball Requirements for 2020 season
In 2017, the NFHS adopted a playing rule dealing with safety and ball manufacturing that beginning Jan. 1, 2020, all baseballs used for high school competition shall meet the NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standard and include the certified mark. This information has been included in annual rules clinics since to notify coaches of the pending requirement.
Questions have been asked by umpires and coaches of what to do if there were no such balls provided at the game site, should the game be played?
Rule 1-3-1 in the NFHS Rules Book details the requirement and unless otherwise mutually agreed upon, the home team has the responsibility to provide the balls.
The KHSAA Board of Control has mandated that in games where umpires arrive on-site and no NOCSAE approved baseballs are available to begin a contest, the contest shall not be played and will […]
02/24/20 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The 2020 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available. The clinic is required for ALL coaches at each school, head or assistant, paid or unpaid.
HEAD AND ASSISTANT COACHES
- For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, log in to https://schools.khsaa.org and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link entitled “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- February 24 – April 14 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches at no charge during this period.
- April 15 – May 4 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($100) during this period.
- May 5 – May 18 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will […]
02/19/20 – Board of Control Votes to Keep Field Hockey as a KHSAA-Sanctioned Sport
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 19, 2020
The Board of Control approved a motion during Wednesday’s meeting at the KHSAA Offices for the Association to continue offering Field Hockey as a sanctioned-sport. The vote followed a planned review and evaluation of the feasibility and growth of field hockey and preliminary discussion during the Board’s January meeting.
Included in the rationale for continuing to sanction field hockey were the facts that (1) there is no negative financial impact for the Association, and (2) the sport had been played for nearly 50 years when the KHSAA first adopted it as a sanctioned championship in 2014. In addition to continuing to sanction field hockey, the motion included a visible commitment from the Association to attempt to promote and monitor growth, and regular reporting to the Board, as well as an amendment to the sanctioning policy to be drafted to allow the Board to make an exception to its required […]
09/30/19 – Official KHSAA RPI Rankings Unveiled
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 30, 2019
The first official KHSAA Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) Rankings are now available on the Association’s website (https://khsaa.org/rpi-ratings-percentage-index/) following a thorough development and implementation process. Approved by the Board of Control in January of 2018, the RPI will be incorporated into the football competition rules as a means of seeding Rounds 3, 4, 5. The RPI is simply an informational tool in the other team sports and is provided as a means to increase publicity, interest and promotion.
“It has been an important period the last few weeks experimenting with output formats and screen layouts, while determining what documents were needed to ensure both transparency and replicability. We have continually stressed that as the only official results source, any other data outside of our website should be regarded with skepticism,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “We are very thankful to our friends with the Colorado High School Athletic Association […]
RPI Calculation Steps
RPI calculation example using 2018 Ashland Blazer football regular season, which is subject to revision given revisions approved for any RPI parameter. This long-published example of the calculations on the KHSAA website at https://ly.khsaa.org/uynq.
RPI Background (all sports)
- RPI stands for Ratings Percentage Index.
- RPI is used for district tiebreaking and football third, fourth and fifth-round bracketing, as well as a means to increase publicity, interest and promotion of interscholastic athletics.
- RPI is also used as a tiebreaking/contest-result mechanism to decide seeded district games that are not played by the deadline.
- The KHSAA is uniquely positioned to be the sole and authenticated source of RPI data due to the maintenance of required score reporting and scoreboard data for baseball, basketball, field hockey, football, soccer, softball and volleyball for more than two decades.
- RPI rankings are updated on an hourly basis but are not calculated for teams with missing scores from previous or multiple contests. […]
09/23/19- KHSAA and Midway University Expand Student-Athlete Awards Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 23, 2019
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association and Midway University are expanding their partnership in the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year Awards program to include recognition for males beginning in the fall of 2019. The program originally began in the spring of 2016 as a way for Midway University to honor female student-athletes, and will now include male and female student-athletes for all KHSAA-sanctioned sports and sport-activities.
“We value our partnership with the KHSAA as we expand our on-campus offerings to include male students and male sports and look forward to continuing to get our message out across the Commonwealth to even more student-athletes and potential students,” said Midway University President John P. Marsden, Ph.D.
“It is exciting to expand our relationship with Midway University to coincide with its own expansion of sports offerings,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “This was already a tremendous partnership through its effort to […]
06/27/19 – Expanded Designated Hitter Role Coming to High School Baseball
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 27, 2019) — The role of the designated hitter in high school baseball has been expanded to give coaches an additional option for the 2020 season.
The revision to Rule 3-1-4 was the only change recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee at its June 2-4 meeting in Indianapolis. The change was subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The game is in the best shape it has ever been in the history of high school baseball,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of sports and student services and liaison to the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee. “This has allowed coaches to coach, players to play and umpires to umpire. This change, which was organic and intuitive, expands the role of the designated hitter and meets the desires of the high school baseball community.”
There are now two scenarios in which a designated hitter may be […]
06/06/19 – First Logan Billings Scholarships Awarded
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 6, 2019
The KHSAA is proud to announce the recipients of the first Logan Billings Memorial Scholarships. Hazard’s Bailey Blair and Rowan County’s A.J. Hacker received the scholarships by virtue of their selection as Most Outstanding Player in the Baseball Semi-State games at Morehead State this past weekend. Each individual will receive a $500 scholarship payable to their enrolled institution of higher learning.
Logan Billings, the son of KHSAA Board of Control member Darrell Billings and his wife Jennifer, died unexpectedly in July, 2018. Following his untimely death, the family approved an initiative from the Association to establish a scholarship in Logan’s name, funded by private donations earmarked for that cause.
“Darrell, Jennifer, Logan and the entire Billings’ family have given a lifetime of service to the folks in Eastern Kentucky and the rest of the state. Long before Darrell was a member of our Board of Control, he and his […]
06/04/19 – Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Baseball and KHSAA Softball State Tournaments Set For Lexington
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 4, 2019
The 2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Baseball and 2019 KHSAA Softball State Tournaments will be held this week in Lexington, with the state baseball tournament returning to Whitaker Bank Ballpark while the state softball tournament heads to the University of Kentucky’s John Cropp Stadium for the first time.
Tickets for each event are available for purchase online with links available on the homepage at KHSAA.org. Re-entry is not permitted at either event, however, as is customary with all KHSAA General Admission events, the stands will not be cleared following the conclusion of any single game (with the exception of the reserved seating areas behind the plate) and fans are free to stay within the stadium confines.
The Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament (June 5-8) begins Wednesday evening when Beechwood takes on Breckinridge County at 5:30 p.m., followed by Tates Creek versus Pleasure Ridge Park at 8:30 p.m. Quarterfinal action resumes Thursday […]
05/21/19 – Advance Tickets for Spring Championships Now Available
Advance tickets to the upcoming KHSAA Spring State Championships are now available for purchase at KHSAA.org. Purchasing tickets ahead of time online allows fans to avoid the lines and head straight into the venue to cheer on their team.
Tickets to the State Track & Field, Top Seed Tennis Club/KHSAA State Tennis, State Softball or Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament can be purchased online through the links below:
2019 KHSAA State Track & Field Championships
May 30 – June 1: UK Outdoor Track & Field Complex
https://gofan.co/app/school/KHSAA
2019 Top Seed Tennis Club/KHSAA State Tennis Championships
May 30 – June 1: Top Seed Tennis Club & UK Boone/Downing Tennis Center
https://gofan.co/app/school/KHSAA
2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament
June 5 – 8: Whitaker Bank Ballpark
https://khsaa.org/2019-whitaker-bankkhsaa-ticket-sales-information/
2019 KHSAA State Softball Tournament
June 7 – 9: John Cropp Stadium
https://gofan.co/app/school/KHSAA
-KHSAA-
The KHSAA staff […]
2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Ticket Sales Information
Click on the links below to order your tickets to the Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament!
05/09/19 – Kentucky Proud Park to Host Final Semi-State Games
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 9, 2019
Following yesterday’s Board of Control meeting, the KHSAA has reached an agreement with the University of Kentucky to hold the final two unscheduled Semi-State Baseball games at Kentucky Proud Park on June 1st. The doubleheader will feature Region 9 vs 10 and Region 11 vs 12, with the game times to be determined.
Semi-State 1 & 2 (Regions 2 vs. 1 and 4 vs. 3) – Western Kentucky University
Semi-State 3 & 4 (Regions 6 vs. 5 and 8 vs. 7) – University of Louisville *
Semi-State 5 & 6 (Regions 10 vs. 9 and 12 vs. 11) – University of Kentucky
Semi-State 7 & 8 (Regions 14 vs. 13 and 16 vs. 15) – Morehead State University
*-in the event UofL is selected to host NCAA Baseball, the site would be the newly renovated Eastern High School.
The 2019 KHSAA/Whitaker Bank State Baseball Tournament […]
05/08/19 – Board Approves BA/FP Semi-State Sites, Adopts Spectator Conduct Policy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 8, 2019
The Board of Control conducted its final meeting of the 2018-19 academic year on Tuesday and Wednesday at the KHSAA Offices, approving sites for the upcoming baseball and softball semi-state games while also addressing a number of policy revisions.
Acting on a prior directive from the Board of Control, KHSAA staff has worked throughout the year to secure neutral venues for the baseball and softball semi-state rounds – with a preference given to collegiate sites if possible. The semi-state games will take place Saturday, June 1st, with the Board approving the following sites:
SOFTBALL
Semi-State 1 & 2 (Regions 2 vs. 1 and 4 vs. 3) – Western Kentucky University
Semi-State 3 & 4 (Regions 6 vs. 5 and 8 vs. 7) – University of Louisville
Semi-State 5 (Region 10 vs. 9) – Northern Kentucky University
Semi-State 6 & 7 (Regions 12 vs. 11 and 14 […]
04/22/19 – Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Baseball and KHSAA Softball State Tournament Draws Set for Tuesday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 22, 2019
The draws for the 2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball and KHSAA State Softball Tournaments will take place Tuesday, April 23 at 12 p.m. The draw will be conducted at the KHSAA offices and can be viewed live online at KHSAA.tv.
The Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament will be held June 5-8 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, home of the Lexington Legends, for the ninth-straight year. The tournament begins with quarterfinal action June 5-6, followed by the semifinals on Friday, June 7 and the championship game on Saturday, June 8.
The State Softball Tournament will take place June 7-9 at the University of Kentucky’s John Cropp Stadium, as the event transitions to a single-elimination format in 2019. The tournament begins with quarterfinal action on Friday, June 7th, followed by the semifinals on Saturday, June 8th and the championship game on Sunday, June 9th.
The Draw Show will be streamed live […]
04/18/19 – Spring Sports Championship Media Credentials
The KHSAA’s online media credentialing system for the Spring Sports Championships (Archery, Bass Fishing, Tennis, Track & Field, Baseball and Softball) is now live, and can be accessed by going to credentials.khsaa.org.
Credentials to each KHSAA state championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media that regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior to the established deadline for each sport through the online credentialing system (credentials.khsaa.org).
Credentials should be requested by the sports editor/director for all members of his/her organization needing to attend an event. Credentials for freelance photographers and stringers must be requested by the sports editor/director at the outlet the freelancer will be representing. Media outlets are responsible for the actions of all individuals representing their organization, including compliance with KHSAA policies and procedures. No credentials will be issued outside of the online credentialing system. The KHSAA reserves the right to limit the […]
04/01/19 – KHSAA.org Now Features Enhanced Stat Offerings for Baseball, Softball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 1, 2019
New for the 2019 season, box scores, cumulative team season statistics and state leaders for baseball and softball will be available at KHSAA.org. For the past two seasons, limited statistical information was available at KHSAA.org (only state leaders were offered in 2018) through an outsourced arrangement with a third-party vendor. Internalizing the stat entry process brings the statistical coverage for baseball and softball on par with soccer, football, basketball and field hockey on the KHSAA’s website and the KHSAA/Riherds.com Scoreboard.
Member schools are solely responsible for submitting statistical information. Failure to do so subjects the school to penalties from the Commissioner’s office, including fines and other actions, within the constraints of Bylaw 27. If a school or individual is omitted from the stat leaders report, or information is not current, that means the team in question did not enter its statistics prior to that morning’s […]
2019 State Baseball All Tournament Team and Awards
2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball
All‐Tournament Team
Brett Holladay, Beechwood
Dylan Carnes, Pleasure Ridge Park
Ryan Mullen, Rowan County
Garrett Miller, Hazard
Kaeveon Mitchell, Breckinridge County
Cole Tabor, Breckinridge County
Daylen Lile, Trinity (Lou.)
Davis Crane, Trinity (Lou.)
Grant Davis, McCracken County
Logan Verble, McCracken County
Jacob Ehling, McCracken County
Grant Stone, Tates Creek
Konnor Lewis, Tates Creek
Most Valuable Player – Eli Tencza, Tates Creek
03/19/19 – Pitch Count Submission / Postseason Semi-Site Rotation
A few reminders and updates to Baseball Coaches now that the season has started:
SEMI-STATE ROTATIONS/SITES
The rotation grid for the Semi-State Round of the Baseball Postseason was published on the KHSAA website recently. To view, please use the link below:
https://khsaa.org/baseball-semi-state-region-pairings-and-rotation/
Sites for Semi-State games are being finalized by the KHSAA and will be released once confirmed as the KHSAA Board of Control desires for these contests to be conducted on collegiate facilities.
PITCH COUNT SUBMISSION
Game Change is the required method for submitting your daily pitch counts.
SIGNING UP FOR GAMECHANGER
- Coaches signing up for GameChanger will be required to complete a minimum number of steps to automatically share data between GameChanger and MaxPreps.
- Coaches input schedules & rosters via the MaxPreps website, which will sync to GameChanger upon activation of the MP/GC link when setting up their team on GC.
- Coaches also set up […]
03/18/19 – NFHS Part 2 Exam Online for Baseball and Softball Officials
NFHS Part 2 Tests for licensed officials in the sports of Baseball and Softball are now available online. The Part 2 exams, required for postseason eligibility, will be open until Monday, April 1 at 11:59 p.m. (ET).
The tests will automatically close at that exact time. Login at https://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test. A minimum score of 80 on the exam is required to be considered for assignment to officiate postseason play.
First-year officials are not required to take the exam, however, if any first-year official has completed licensing requirements, the test may be taken.
Any official determined to have been involved in the improper administration of the exam, including taking it for another official or having it taken by another official, will have the score disregarded for the year and be subject to other penalties in compliance with the jurisdiction of the office through the Federal Court Decree.
Please keep in mind that there […]
02/25/19 – KHSAA to Award Fourth Annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships at Boys’ Sweet 16®
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 25, 2019
The KHSAA will present the fourth annual Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships during the 2019 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® to Lance Butler of Paducah Tilghman and Brynne Galloway of Garrard County.
When former Commissioner Louis Stout passed away in 2012, his late widow Anna directed that donations on his behalf go to the Louis Stout Memorial Fund for Students. Mrs. Stout felt this was an opportunity for the KHSAA to honor student-athletes who excel in athletics, academics, school service and community service.
Winners will receive a one-time $2,000 scholarship payable to an institution of higher learning, and were chosen after careful review, with selection criteria based on athletic activities, non-athletic activities, […]
02/11/19 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The 2019 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available. The clinic is required for ALL coaches at each school, head or assistant, paid or unpaid.
HEAD AND ASSISTANT COACHES
- For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, log in to https://schools.khsaa.org and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link entitled “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- February 11 – April 15 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches at no charge during this period.
- April 16 – May 5 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($100) during this period.
- May 6 – May 19 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply. […]
11/14/18 – Board of Control Adjusts 2019 Fall Seasons, Sets State Championship Sites
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 14, 2018
During the course of its meeting at the KHSAA Offices on Wednesday, the Board of Control made adjustments to the 2019 fall sports seasons and finalized sites for this year’s State Baseball and Swimming & Diving Championships.
For the last several years prior to 2018, the soccer, volleyball and cross country seasons all culminated on the same weekend. With volleyball moving a week earlier in 2018 to avoid a conflict in Louisville with the Breeders’ Cup, the Association had the opportunity to reevaluate the structure of its seasons while also looking to alleviate concerns with competitions on ACT test dates.
With those factors in mind, the Board approved a recommendation to set the start of the 2019 Soccer regular season to begin in NFHS Week 6 (8/11-8/17) and end with the final regular season week in NFHS Week 13 (9/29-10/5). […]
09/25/18 – Board of Control Addresses Future Championship Formats and Schedules in Several Sports
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 25, 2018
The Board of Control conducted its first meeting of the 2018-19 academic year on Thursday, September 20 at the Association offices. Much of the day’s agenda involved ongoing discussion of the future format of several KHSAA championships. Among the action taken, the Board gave tentative approval to transitioning the State Softball and Baseball Tournaments to 8-team single elimination events, with the key provision of re-establishing semi-state play, preferably at non-high school sites. This builds upon last year’s decision to move away from the double-elimination format in Softball, in the interest of player safety and gender participation experience equity.
The tentative plan would transition these championships to 8-team events with first round, semi-state games, rotated in geographic pods and played at a neutral site. The Commissioner and staff were directed to develop site criteria for semi-state games for review at October’s Board meeting, with the goal to […]
07/05/18 – 2018-19 Baseball Rules Changes Focus on Pitching Mechanics
NFHS News Release
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 5, 2018) — The elimination of the requirement for the entire pivot foot to be in contact with the pitcher’s plate is among the changes approved for the 2018-19 high school baseball season.
This revision in Rule 6-1-3 was one of three changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee at its June 3-5 meeting in Indianapolis. All changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“We are very fortunate that the state of high school baseball is in an excellent position, which is indicative of the few rules changes that were passed,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of sports and student services and staff liaison for baseball. “We appreciate the hard work of dedicated coaches who, in addition to minimizing risk associated with the sport, teach the game in a way that makes our young people enjoy playing for […]
04/19/18 – Baseball Statistical Reporting
REQUIRED STATISTICS ENTRY
Now that the season is in full swing following spring break, the KHSAA will again be using MaxPreps to compile statistical leaders in baseball.
Teams will be required to input their roster into MaxPreps.Rosters entered for statistical purposes are separate and apart from the required roster entry through the KHSAA website for eligibility purposes. Entering for statistics does not relieve the school of required entry on the KHSAA website and students not on the KHSAA online roster are not eligible to participate (freshman, JV or varsity).
This roster entry can be done by syncing your Game Changer account with your MaxPreps account. Remember, Game Changer is the required mechanism for tracking/reporting your daily pitch counts at all levels (Freshmen, JV, Varsity). Since Game Changer syncs with MaxPreps, schools won’t have any additional data entry if this sync is turned on.
SIGNING UP FOR MAXPREPS
Coaches can go to www.maxpreps.com/join if they haven’t already signed […]
01/19/18 – Baseball Umpire Advanced Camp Registration Now Open
Registration for the 2018 KHSAA Baseball Umpires Advance Camp is now open. This camp must be attended once ever four years to be eligible for assignment to umpire in the postseason. Attendance at this camp will qualify through 2021. Attendance at Officiate Kentucky met the Advance Camp requirement.
Camp Date
Saturday, February 10 – Johnson Central High School
Camp Fee
$50 registration before Feb. 7.
Camp Staff
Clarence Coleman – KHSAA Assigning Secretary, Kentuckiana Baseball Umpires Association
Keith Morgan – KHSAA Assigning Secretary Central Kentucky Umpires Association
Keith Shartzer – Kentuckiana Umpires Association
Andy Strain – Tri-State Officials Association
Joe Lubarsky – Kentuckiana Umpires Association
Tentative Topics & Agenda (Times are ET)
8-8:30 a.m. – Registration
8:30-8:45 a.m. – Welcome, Introductions, Review Agenda KHSAA Associate Commissioner Butch Cope
8:45-9:45 a.m. – Malicious Contact / Force Play Rule
9:45-10 a.m. – Break
10 a.m.-Noon – Group Sessions (G1-1-6 […]
06/15/17 – Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Championship Game Moved to 11 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 15, 2017
The start time for Saturday’s championship game of the 2017 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament has been moved to 11 a.m. With the potential for heat index delays on Saturday, the schedule adjustment was discussed during a conference call this afternoon between the KHSAA and the semifinal teams, and was approved by each head coach.
Friday’s semifinal games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark will remain as scheduled, with Simon Kenton taking on Marion County at 11 a.m., followed by McCracken County vs. Pleasure Ridge Park at 1:30 p.m.
The semifinals and championship game will be webcast live at KHSAA.tv through the NFHS Network, which is a subscription based service. Subscription plans for the NFHS Network are available for $9.95 a month. A monthly subscription, priced less than the cost of admission to a state championship event, entitles users to every broadcast by the KHSAA and the more than 40 participating […]
05/05/17 – State Softball and Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament Draws to be Held Monday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2017
The draws for the 2017 Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament and the 2017 KHSAA State Softball Tournament will take place Monday, May 8 at 11:30 a.m. The draw will be conducted at the KHSAA offices and can be viewed live online at KHSAA.tv.
In its first year under new title sponsor Whitaker Bank, the State Baseball Tournament begins June 8-10 with first round and quarterfinal action at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, home of the Lexington Legends. The Whitaker Bank/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament resumes the following weekend with the semifinals and championship game, June 16th and 17th. The semifinals and finals will be played in the afternoon, followed by home games for the Legends both evenings.
The State Softball Tournament returns to Jack C. Fisher Park in Owensboro for […]
03/30/17 – KHSAA Revising Office Hours Effective April 3, 2017
Effective April 3, 2017, the KHSAA will have new office hours. The office will open each day at 7:30 a.m. and close at 4:00 p.m. ET.
Logistical and traffic issues (both current and anticipated) in the surrounding area near the office, in particular, the opening of the new Frederick Douglass High School have created this necessity.
We appreciate the understanding of our membership and various constituencies.
03/20/17 – Baseball Part 2 Test Now Available
The Baseball NFHS Part 2 Test will be available online from March 20 until 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Monday, April 3. The test will automatically close at that exact time. Login at http://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test. A minimum score of 80 on the exam is required to be considered for assignment to officiate postseason play.
Any official determined to have been involved in the improper administration of the exam, including taking it for another official or having it taken by another official, will have the score disregarded for the year and be subject to other penalties in compliance with the jurisdiction of the office through the Federal Court Decree.
Please keep in mind that there are no extensions or late fees to be able to take the exam outside of the window listed above.
Please also be mindful that the rules clinic remains free online through April 10. You will […]
03/08/2017 – New Procedure Adopted for Monitoring Pitch Count and Maintaining Baseball Stats for Kentucky Schools
The KHSAA has partnered with MaxPreps to manage and post pitch counts for the 2017 playing season. MaxPreps works in combination with GameChanger, among other stat entry options to allow for member schools to maintain accurate pitch count data and eliminate the paper forms that were used as part of the 2016 season. GameChanger is the most popular on-site mechanism for stats collection used by more than half of the KHSAA member schools and is available at no charge. In addition to GameChanger, KHSAA member schools can utilize MaxPreps own stat entry options or seven other stat partners to maintain accurate pitch count data.
Schools are required to enter pitch counts following a contest. Each school is required to keep its own pitch count. It is still required to confirm counts between innings including confirming in all postseason contests with the DPCR (Designated Pitch Count Recorder) for the tournament.
Beginning with the 2017 season, the […]
01/30/17 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The 2017 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available.
COACHES DEADLINE
- January 30 – April 10 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches at no charge during this period.
- April 11 – May 7 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($100) during this period.
- May 8 – May 21 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
OFFICIALS DEADLINE
- January 30 – April 10 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials at no charge during this period.
- April 11 – May 7 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials for the late fee ($30) during this period.
- May 8 – May 14 – the Clinic may […]
01/12/17 – Board of Control Addresses Alignment Issues, Archery Championship
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 12, 2017
During the course of its regularly scheduled meeting at the KHSAA Offices on Thursday, the Board of Control addressed alignment issues and championship details in several sports, while also approving a requested new trial pilot program for the 15th Region Tournament.
Following the consolidation of South Floyd and Allen Central High Schools, changes were needed in the basketball alignment (and subsequently the alignments in baseball, softball and volleyball) for the 15th Region. KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett attended a meeting of the Superintendents in the impacted districts on January 9 to review options related to the region. Facing challenges like an imperfect geographically aligned region and a pattern of reduced sport offerings by some schools in the region, there were few obvious non-impactful options available. With that in mind, the Superintendents expressed an interest in a multi-year pilot program where their teams would play one less […]
12/12/16- Officiate Kentucky Day Information
OFFICIATE KENTUCKY DAY
Saturday, July 29
Marriott Downtown – Louisville
You are invited to the first-ever, Officiate Kentucky Day!
What is Officiate Kentucky Day?
Officiate Kentucky Day (OKD) is a one-day gathering of sports and sport activity officials from throughout the Commonwealth to celebrate the officiating industry. This event allows the KHSAA to partner with the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) as part of their “state day” program and will showcase nationally known collegiate and professional officials as well as high schools officials to share their knowledge, skills and expertise in officiating.
OKD will be a lead-in to the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) Summit that will follow July 30-Aug. 1, also at Marriott Downtown in Louisville.
Legendary sports officials and industry leaders including Jerry Markbriet, Billy Kennedy, Steve Shaw, Joe Crawford, Dean Blandino, Bill Carollo, Scott Green, Marcy Weston, Sandra Serafini, Steve Javie, Tom Lopes, […]
12/14/16 – 2017 Baseball Advanced Umpires Camp with Officiate Kentucky Day
Baseball Umpires planning their spring and advanced camp requirement are advised that for the 2017 season, advanced camp credit will be awarded for those in attendance at the KHSAA’s Officiate Kentucky Day on July 29 in Louisville.
There will not be any other advanced camp offered for 2017. Those that need camp attendance to be eligible for Region/State assignments in 2017 are required to attend Officiate Kentucky Day or to attend camp in the winter/spring of 2018.
Additional information on Officiate Kentucky Day (July 29, 2017) will be posted online at www.officiatekyday.org as finalized. Information on the National Association of Sports Officials Summit (July 30-August 1, 2017) will be posted online at www.naso.org.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its various constituencies and the public. For a list of those blogs, go to http://khsaa.org/news-stats-pubs/sports-blogs/
09/22/16 – Board of Control Approves Unified/Adapted Opportunities in Bowling; Alters State Tennis Format
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2016
During its regularly scheduled meeting at the KHSAA Offices on Wednesday, the Board of Control approved a proposal to add Unified and Adapted opportunities in the sport-activity of Bowling, beginning with the 2017 state championship. Bowling will be the second KHSAA offering to include Unified and Adapted opportunities, joining Track & Field which began including Unified events in 2015 following a joint partnership between KHSAA and Special Olympics Kentucky. The Unified Bowling events will be added to the singles competition on Feb. 9, with a final schedule to be announced at a later date. Unified sport allows for combined competition involving intellectually disabled students and non-intellectually disabled counterparts, while adapted sport allows for participation by those with physical disability.
“One of the most gratifying things we have been able to do in the past few years is the addition of adapted and unified track and field events,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian […]
09/22/16 – Board Approves 2017 State Baseball Dates/Times
The KHSAA Board of Control, at its September meeting, approved the dates and times for the 2017 KHSAA State Baseball Tournament. The event will be held June 8-10 and 16-17 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington.
First round games (all times are Eastern) will be held Thursday, June 8 and Friday, June 9 at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The quarterfinals will be played on Saturday, June 10 at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
The semifinals will be played at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 16, with the championship slated for 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 17. The semifinals and finals times were adjusted to the afternoon to accommodate the Lexington Legends’ home schedule, as the team hosts South Atlantic League games both evenings.
“This is not anyone’s ideal schedule for the semifinals and finals, including our office or the Lexington Legends. But we have had […]
KHSAA Sports Contacts, 2016-2017 and beyond
Primary Event Contact Secondary Event Contact Primary Playing Rules Interpreter Secondary Playing Rules Interpreter Golf DB SB DB SB Field Hockey SB DB SB DB Volleyball BC DB BC DB Soccer MB CC CC MB Cross Country SB MB SB MB Football JT BC JT BC Competitive Cheer BC SB BC SB Bowling SB MB SB MB Swimming and Diving DB BC DB BC Wrestling MB SB MB SB Basketball JT BC JT BC Archery MB DB MB DB Bass Fishing DB SB DB SB Tennis MB BC MB BC Track and Field SB DB SB DB Softball DB MB DB MB Baseball BC SB BC SB Lacrosse MB DB N/A N/A Rifle Marksmanship DB MB N/A N/A Trap Shooting Study MB DB N/A N/A Dance BC SB BC SB06/10/16 – KHSAA To Award Inaugural Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships Saturday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 10, 2016
The KHSAA will present the first Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships to Buckhorn’s Abigail Abner and Henry County’s Jakob Beckley on Saturday during the quarterfinals of the Rawlings/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament. Each student-athlete will receive a one-time scholarship of $2,000 payable to an institution of higher learning, which will be presented by representatives of the KHSAA and Commissioner Stout’s son, Juan.
Winners were chosen after careful review with high school and college administrators, with selection criteria based on athletic activities, non-athletic activities, non-school activities and an essay on the role a student-athlete should play in the community.
A four-year letterman on the Buckhorn volleyball team with a 4.0 grade point average, Abner was highly involved in her school community during her high school career. In addition to tutoring fellow students, Abner was a member of Buckhorn Against Drugs (BAD), Future Business Leaders of America […]
06/08/16 – Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball and Worth/KHSAA Softball State Tournaments Begin Thursday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 8, 2016
The 2016 Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball and Worth/KHSAA Softball State Tournaments get underway Thursday at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington and Jack C. Fisher Park in Owensboro, respectively. The Rawlings/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament (June 9-11, 17-18) begins Thursday morning when Johnson Central takes on Highlands at 11 a.m. in the first of the day’s four opening round games. First round action continues with four games on Friday, followed by four quarterfinal games on Saturday. The state baseball tournament resumes the following weekend with semifinal action on Friday, June 17th and the championship game on Saturday, June 18th.
The Worth/KHSAA State Softball Tournament (June 9-11) opens at 5 p.m. (CT) tomorrow night in Owensboro, as the first four opening round games are played simultaneously at Jack C. Fisher Park. Thursday’s competition concludes with four more opening round games at 7 p.m., before the teams return to the park Friday morning at 9 a.m. to […]
2016-2017 Official Ball Adoptions
Reminder to school administrators about the primary points of the KHSAA and its ball adoption agreements.
In an effort to offset the services and events provided by the KHSAA and eliminate passing on a great deal of additional cost to the membership, the association has long entered into official ball adoption agreements. The provisions of these agreements are similar and official ball numbers are listed in the table below.
The following provisions are in place in each of the listed sports:
- A brand specific requirement is in place. For example, the Select Sport soccer ball is required for all use in postseason play (all levels). However, the ball does NOT have to be the Royale model. Specific models are the choice of the member school, however, the administrators should be mindful that dealer price points will likely be in place to encourage the use of the specific model.
- For all levels of postseason play, the brand specific requirement is in place.
- **Exception […]
04/25/16 – Draw Show For Baseball, Softball and Tennis Set For 12 PM Wednesday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 25, 2016
The draws for the 2016 Republic Bank/KHSAA Tennis Team Championship, the Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball State Tournament and the Worth/KHSAA Softball State Tournament will be determined Wednesday, April 27th at 12 p.m. when the Draw Show is conducted at the Association’s headquarters and webcast at KHSAA.tv.
This year will mark the first time Tennis is included in the spring Draw Show, as recommended changes from the Kentucky Medical Association’s Sports Medicine Committee led to the Board of Control approving a format change to the state Tennis tournament. The changes separated the team championship event from the singles/doubles competition, which were traditionally played together, in order to limit the number of matches a student-athlete could compete in each day. For more information on the recommendations that led to changes in the state Tennis tournament, visit http://khsaa.org/111915-tennis-tournament-format-changes/
The Draw Show will be streamed live online at KHSAA.tv, with complete brackets available on the KHSAA […]
Baseball Pitch Count Regulation
KHSAA Pitching Limitation Rule (For all interscholastic play including scrimmages, regular season and all rounds of postseason) is based on the number of pitches thrown in a game with the following provisions:
03/24/16 – Baseball Game Length Clarification/NFHS Pitch Smart Course
Now that the season is a couple of weeks old, we wanted to update everyone with a clarification with regard to the length of a contest. Games may not be shortened in an attempt to avoid pitching limitations (pitch count). By NFHS rule, games are seven (7) complete innings (with shortened format permitted by rule due to weather/darkness). Coaches may not agree to shorten contests.
In a continuing effort to help educate administrators, coaches, players, parents and fans, the NFHS has published a free online course – Introduction to Pitch Smart. Hosted by Hall of Famer, John Smoltz, the Introduction to Pitch Smart course aims to explain the principles behind Pitch Smart, a joint arm care initiative between Major League Baseball and USA Baseball. This course includes topics such as risks of arm injuries, common misconceptions, and the Pitch Smart guidelines.
To view the free course, go to nfhslearn.com.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely […]
02/17/16 – FAQs Baseball Pitch Count Limitations
Through meetings of the Kentucky Baseball Coaches Association Annual Conference and the Baseball Advisory Committee, along email requests sent since the announcement of the pitch count limitation, staff has been asked to compile a list of frequently asked questions for clarification to guide administrators, coaches and officials throughout the season with the implementation of the new pitch count restrictions. Check back throughout the year as we will revise this post with any additional information.
Can there be a form developed as a daily game log to assist in the tracking of pitch counts?
Yes. Member schools are required to use GameChanger for tracking and submission of pitch counts at all levels (Freshman, JV, Varsity)
Can a region or district vote to have a game official (umpire) be the Designated Pitch Count Recorder?
No. The pitch count limitation is not under the jurisdiction of the contest officials. Officials are not involved […]
02/01/16 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The 2016 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available.
Coaches Deadline
February 1 – March 7 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches at no charge during this period.
March 8 – April 4 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($100) during this period.
April 5 – May 22 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
Officials Deadline
February 1 – March 21 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials at no charge during this period.
March 22 – April 25 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials for the late fee ($30) during this period.
April 26 – May 7 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials for the late fee ($60) during this period. […]
01/29/16 – KHSAA Board Adopts Baseball Pitch Count Restrictions with Mandated Rest
At its January meeting, the KHSAA Board of Control had a second and final reading and adopted a pitch count limitation beginning with the 2016 baseball playing season. The Board adopted the proposal in response to concerns regarding student safety expressed both locally and nationally concerning arm injuries and overuse, and upon the receipt of a great deal of recent data.
Previously, the pitching limitation (and subsequent required rest) was based upon innings pitched. The new rules will mandate rest based on pitches thrown as detailed below.
KHSAA Pitching Limitation Rule (For all interscholastic play including scrimmages, regular season and all rounds of postseason) is based on the number of pitches thrown in a game with the following provisions:
01/28/16 – Board of Control Addresses Football Alignment, Bracketing; Baseball Pitch Count; Swimming and Diving State Qualifiers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 28, 2016
The Board of Control addressed a lengthy agenda during its regularly scheduled meeting at the KHSAA Offices on Thursday, approving a slight “midcourse” adjustment to the football alignment as required by the competition rules and future football playoff bracket formats, finalizing a baseball pitch count, and settling on the number of regional qualifiers for the state swimming and diving meet for 2016.
Per the football competition rules, a “midcourse” adjustment is to be made in the second year of a four-year alignment. In order to be considered for adjustment, the four-year average enrollment (including 2015-16 data) would have to be within the boundaries of another class, and the school shall have had at least a 10 percent change in four-year average enrollment during the two-year period.
Upon review of the data, only two schools fit the criteria to be placed into a different class, and the Board unanimously approved the movement of […]
01/04/16 – Baseball Umpire Advanced Camp Registration Now Open
Registration for the 2016 KHSAA Baseball Umpires Advance Camp is now open. This camp must be attended once every four years to be eligible for assignment to umpire region or state tournaments.
Camp Date
Saturday, February 13 – Hopkins Co. Central High School
Camp Fee
$50 early registration before Feb. 1.
$75 late registration after Feb. 2 until Feb. 11.
Camp Staff
Clarence Coleman – 37-year veteran; KHSAA Assigning Secretary, Kentuckiana Baseball Umpires Association
Keith Morgan – 38-year veteran; Umpire, Central Kentucky Umpires Association
Keith Shartzer – 41-year veteran; Umpire, Kentuckiana Umpires Association
Andy Strain – 38-year veteran; Umpire, Tri-State Officials Association
Kyle McNeely – Former Chair NFHS Baseball Rules Committee and OHSAA Director of Officials’ Development for baseball.
Tentative Topics & Agenda (Times are CT)
8-8:30 a.m. – Registration
8:30-9 a.m. – Welcome, Introductions, Review Agenda
9-9:15 a.m. – KHSAA Associate Commissioner Butch Cope
9:15-11:30 a.m. – Split into groups
11:30-12:30 p.m. – Lunch
12:30-2 p.m. – Rotate Groups
2-3 […]
11/19/15 – Board Approves Revised Schedule For State Baseball, Tennis Tournaments
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 19, 2015
On Wednesday, the Board of Control approved a proposal from KHSAA staff to revise the schedule for the state baseball tournament during its regularly scheduled meeting at the Association’s headquarters. In an effort to alleviate competitive issues under the current format resulting from pitching limitations and roster depth, as outlined in the extensive research conducted by Lawrence County Athletic Director Travis Feltner and validated through staff review of the current format, the new format will provide a minimum of three days of rest between the quarterfinals and the semifinals. Beginning with this year’s state tournament, the revised format will allow teams the opportunity to use their pitchers at the top of the rotation in both the early rounds (first round/quarterfinals) and the later rounds (semifinals/championship).
“Pitching limitations are in place for the health and safety of our student-athletes,” KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett said. “In keeping with the overall desire of the […]
11/19/15 – KHSAA Board Reviewing Pitch Count Limits for Baseball
At its November meeting, the KHSAA Board of Control continued review of a pitch count limit for baseball. The review comes through working with USA Baseball, the National Federation of High School Associations, Major League Baseball and other youth organizations and medical groups.
“Again, the safety of our student athletes is requiring us to review our pitching limitations”, said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “There is sports medicine based research, as well as play at other levels, that clearly illustrates that a pitch count limitation is likely a much better injury minimization strategy than the long-existent innings limitations for pitching.”
Colorado and Alabama are two other state associations to recently adopt limitations based upon pitch counts. The Board will discuss the matter further at its January meeting and likely make a final decision at that time, with implementation to begin for the 2016 playing season.
“We’ve mentioned a potential pitch count was on the […]
11/19/15 – Board Adopts Schedule Change for State Baseball Tournament
At its November meeting, the KHSAA Board of Control adopted a schedule change, beginning in 2016, for the Rawlings/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament.
In an effort to alleviate competitive issues under the current format resulting from pitching limitations and roster depth, as outlined in the extensive research conducted by Lawrence County Athletic Director Travis Feltner and validated through staff review of the current format, the new format will provide a minimum of three days of rest between the quarterfinals and the semifinals. The new format will allow teams the opportunity to use their pitchers at the top of the rotation in both the early rounds (first round/quarterfinals) and the later rounds (semifinals/championship).
“Pitching limitations are in place for the health and safety of our student-athletes,” KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett said. “In keeping with the overall desire of the membership to maintain a 16-team format, and yet alleviate identified problems with pitching restrictions, a change in schedule was […]
10/01/15 – Riherds.com to Sponsor Above and Beyond Awards at All State Championship Events
Riherds.com, a Kentucky-based company headquartered in Smiths Grove specializing in trophies, awards, name tags and signs, will provide the “Above and Beyond” award at each KHSAA state championship event for 2015-16. Riherds.com is proud to be the Official Supplier of Trophies and Awards to the Kentucky High School Athletic Association.
The award is given to a participant at each KHSAA championship event and will be awarded from the pool of candidates nominated by participating school representatives. The award is based on five attributes: Citizenship, Leadership, Athletics, Sportsmanship and Scholarship.
Nominated students should exemplify these five attributes by:
- Playing the game/competition by the rules.
- Treating game officials, coaches and competitors with due respect as fellow human beings.
- Taking victory and defeat without undue emotionalism.
- Controlling of tempers at all times on and off the playing field.
- Being positive with officials, coaches and competitors, without criticism for things that occur during the contest.
- Cooperating with the coaches, officials and fellow players in trying to promote good sportsmanship.
- Being […]
08/26/15 – Board of Control Reviews Classification and Triennial Survey Results; Approves Several Championship Sites
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 26, 2015
The KHSAA Board of Control conducted its first meeting of the 2015-16 school year on Monday at the Owensboro Convention Center. Among the many agenda items discussed, the Board executed a lengthy review of its current classification and alignment system for postseason play, and the ramifications of possible expansion of classification to other team sports. This review was requested by the Board after receiving a proposal concerning the classification of baseball and the format of all rounds of the postseason baseball tournament from Lawrence County High School during the 2014-15 school year. Following the receipt of the requested changes from Lawrence County, the Board requested information for a broader review of the issues in classification in the other team sports, not simply a review of baseball.
During the discussion and review, six major points were concluded when reviewing the situations from other states when compared to the current setup of championships: […]
05/08/15 – KHSAA Sanctions Lawrence County, Pike County Central For Bylaw 15 Violations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 8, 2015
Following an incident in a varsity baseball game between Lawrence County and Pike County Central on May 5, which led to the termination of the game by the officiating crew in the 6th inning, the KHSAA conducted an investigation to determine any appropriate penalties.
Per the umpire’s incident report, the altercation began when a Pike County Central student-athlete charged into the Lawrence County base runner at second base. Per the officials’ report, and confirmed later through discussion with school representatives, both teams had players leave their positions during the altercation, which was a violation of the NFHS Baseball Playing Rule 3-3-1g. In addition, Pike County Central had additional players leave the dugout as well, which is a violation of the KHSAA conduct policies. It was stressed through the findings that neither team had additional players become involved in the altercation or in separate altercations.
The task of identifying each […]
04/29/15 – Baseball/Softball Game Ending Clarification
GAME COMPLETION
This is a reminder to Coaches, Officials and Administrators with regard to interrupted games. During the regular season, including district seeded games, for games that are interrupted due to weather or darkness and called (ended) by the umpire, the game is final if it meets NFHS rules requirements for a shortened game — at least 4 1/2 innings with the home team ahead or five full innings. (Baseball Rule 4-2-2, 4-2-3; Softball Rule 4-2-2, 4-2-3).
For postseason (District, Region and State), all games must be played to completion by rule.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its various constituencies and the public. For a list of those blogs, go to http://khsaa.org/news-stats-pubs/sports-blogs/
04/28/15 – Baseball/Softball Draw Show Tomorrow at 2 PM; Spring Championship Media Credentials
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 28, 2015
The annual Draw Show for the 2015 Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball State Tournament and the Worth/KHSAA Softball State Tournament will be conducted at the Association’s headquarters on Wednesday, April 29 at 2 p.m. The Draw Show will be streamed live online at KHSAA.tv, with complete brackets available on the KHSAA website and the KHSAA/Riherds.com Scoreboard following the draw.
The 2015 Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball State Tournament will take place June 1-6 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark in Lexington, while the Worth/KHSAA Softball State Tournament will be held June 4-6 at Jack C. Fisher Park in Owensboro.
Spring Championship Media Credential Applications
Media members interested in applying for credentials to any of the KHSAA’s Spring Championship events can visit credentials.khsaa.org to submit an online application.
Credentials to each KHSAA state championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media that regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior […]
02/04/15 – Reminder Baseball Online Rules Clinic Available
The 2015 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available.
Coaches Deadline
February 2 – March 8 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches at no charge during this period.
March 9 – April 5 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($100) during this period.
April 6 – May 17 – the Clinic may be viewed by coaches for the late fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
Officials Deadline
February 2 – March 1 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials at no charge during this period.
March 2 – March 29 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials for the late fee ($100) during this period.
March 30 – May 17 – the Clinic may be viewed by officials for the late fee ($200) during this period. […]
11/24/14 – Baseball Umpires Advanced Camp Registration Now Open
Registration for the 2015 KHSAA Baseball Umpires Advance Camp is now open. This camp must be attended once every four years to be eligible for assignment to umpire region or state tournaments.
Camp Date
Saturday, February 14 – West Jessamine High School, Nicholasville
Camp Fee
$50 early registration before Feb. 2.
$75 late registration after Feb. 2 until Feb. 12.
Camp Staff
Clarence Coleman – 36 year veteran; KHSAA Assigning Secretary, Kentuckiana Baseball Umpires Association
Keith Morgan – 37 year veteran; Umpire, Central Kentucky Umpires Association
Keith Shartzer – 40 year veteran; Umpire, Kentuckiana Umpires Association
Andy Strain – 37 year veteran; Umpire, Tri-State Officials Association
Kyle McNeely – Former Chair NFHS Baseball Rules Committee and OHSAA Director of Officials’ Development for baseball.
Tentative Topics & Agenda (Times are ET)
8-8:30 a.m. – Registration
8:30-9 a.m. – Welcome, Introductions, Review Agenda
9-9:15 a.m. – KHSAA Associate Commissioner Butch Cope
9:15-11:30 a.m. – Split into groups for plate work, base work, […]
08/16/14 – Reminder about Carryover Ejections from 2013-2014
In several unfortunate situations each year, coaches or athletes with eligibility remaining are ejected near the end of the season, or near the end of the season for violations of Bylaw 15, Sportsmanships. Please note that when that happens, the penalty carries to the next year if the student-athlete remains enrolled, and to the new school if the coach changes jobs/schools.
Please note all rules related to player/coach ejections, including the provisions for varsity and non-varsity ejections, are listed at http://khsaa.org/dq-policy-on-reinstatement-of-disqualified-apolicy-on-reinstatement-of-disqualified-athletes-coaches/, and a complete list from 2013-2014 is listed on the KHSAA website at http://khsaa.org/dq_list_public/. You will need to review this listing to ensure that you properly require athletes and coaches to miss the required contests if in fact they were ejected.
Also note that being ineligible for scrimmages (sitting out) does NOT satisfy any penalty, such must be served at the varsity contest level.
If you have specific questions, please contact Michael Barren (mbarren@khsaa.org) […]
08/11/14 – Reminder on “Fall Ball” and Facilities
With the start of a new school year, it’s a good time to remind schools about recent changes in KHSAA Bylaws, and we wanted to remind Administrators and Baseball/Softball Coaches about issues around offseason play (“Fall Ball”) and school facilities.
Bylaw 23, which defines the season and allowable play, was amended at the Annual Meeting in 2012 (approved by member school administrators by a vote of 194-12-1) and changes were approved through the regulatory process and published in the 2013-14 KHSAA Handbook. The primary element of this change was a restriction in the use of school facilities by enrolled student-athletes outside of the season.
This restriction is during the school year, but outside the defined limitation of season where coaches (head/assistant) may not coach players in organized competition on the campus of a member school if such competition involves at least fifty (50) percent of the normal playing squad (5 or more for baseball and […]
07/21/14 – NFHS Baseball Rules Changes for 2014-15
The National Federation of State High School Associations has released baseball rules changes for the 2014-15 season. Among those topics addressed were video monitoring equipment, non-glare batting helmets and expanded definitions for interference and foul balls.
To view the NFHS rules changes (CLICK HERE).
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its various constituencies and the public. For a list of those blogs, go to http://khsaa.org/news-stats-pubs/sports-blogs/
Current Alignment – Baseball
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association shall sponsor postseason competition in baseball for boys, provided that there is sufficient interest of the membership and such is approved by the Board of Control. The Commissioner shall divide the state into geographic sections with the approval of the Board of Control. The entire alignment shall be reviewed when the Board of Control conducts a realignment related to basketball. In the interim, newly added or deleted programs will be handled on a case by case basis by the Commissioner’s office.
As of July 17, 2014, the alignment in baseball is as follows —
REGION 1
District 1 – Carlisle County, Fulton City, Fulton County, Hickman County
District 2 – Community Christian, McCracken County, Paducah Tilghman, St. Mary
District 3 – Ballard Memorial, Graves County, Mayfield
District 4 – Calloway County, Christian Fellowship, Marshall County, Murray
REGION 2
District 5 – Crittenden County, Livingston Central, Lyon County, […]
06/03/14 – Baseball Title Sponsor Reminder
TITLE PARTNERSHIP WITH RAWLINGS
When referring to the baseball state tournament, the tournament’s full name, the Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball State Tournament should be used in all first references, without exception. In subsequent references, it is acceptable to refer to the tournament as the baseball state tournament. KHSAA should not be used when referencing the event unless it is accompanied by Rawlings. Sponsorship of KHSAA state championship events is vital to the livelihood of the Association. Please help us thank our corporate sponsors by recognizing their commitment to the KHSAA with proper identification of our events in printed materials, broadcasts, etc.
The Rawlings/KHSAA Baseball State Tournament has an event-specific tournament logo which should be used with any accompanying articles, graphics, newscasts, etc. The KHSAA will provide a logo for authorized uses on request.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School […]
04/30/14 – Spring Sports Championship Media Credentials
The KHSAA’s online media credentialing system for the Spring Sports Championships is now live. Media members can visit credentials.khsaa.org to apply for credentials online.
Credentials to each KHSAA state championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media that regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior to the established deadline for each sport through the online credentialing system (credentials.khsaa.org).
Credentials should be requested by the sports editor/director for all members of his/her organization needing to attend an event. Credentials for freelance photographers and stringers must be requested by the sports editor/director at the outlet the freelancer will be representing. No credentials will be issued outside of the online credentialing system. The KHSAA reserves the right to limit the quantity of credentials issued to media outlets when space is at a premium.
Failure to adhere to the KHSAA policies and guidelines, […]
04/28/14 – Forcht Bank/KHSAA CLASS Regional Winners Announced; BA/FP Draw Show This Thursday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 28, 2014
Regional Winners Announced For 2014 Forcht Bank/KHSAA CLASS Awards Recognition Program
Thirty-two regional winners have been selected as part of the 2014 Forcht Bank/KHSAA CLASS Awards Recognition Program. The 32 regional winners will each receive a $350 scholarship, an award from Forcht Bank and the KHSAA, and an invitation to the Awards Banquet on Sunday, May 4. One male and one female from the pool of regional honorees will be selected as the statewide winner at the Awards Banquet, with each individual receiving a $3,000 scholarship.
The Forcht Bank/KHSAA CLASS Awards Recognition Program (Citizenship, Leadership, Athletics, Sportsmanship, Scholarship) honors deserving senior student-athletes across the state. This is the 18th year the KHSAA has recognized student-athletes through a scholarship program, which is open to all seniors that have participated in athletics and/or sport-activities (competitive cheerleading, bowling, archery and bass fishing). One male and […]
04/28/14 – State BA Draw & Reminders
Here are some updates and reminders for Baseball Coaches and Umpires:
State Draw
The draw for the 2014 Rawlings/KHSAA State Baseball Tournament will be streamed live Thursday, May 1 at 2 p.m. (ET) at www.khsaa.org.
Deadline for Seeded Games
The deadline for seeded district games to be played is Wednesday, May 14. Any games not able to be played by that date will count as a win and a loss for both teams.
Batters Box
Games should be played with the batter’s box chalked.
Dugouts
An ongoing point of emphasis with regard to safety is that all players and coaches are to be in the dugout. Only the on-deck batter is permitted outside the dugout during a particular team’s at bat. We continue to get reports and observe photos where this is not being followed.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its […]
04/18/14 – Deadline for Free Baseball Clinic Tonight
This is a reminder for Athletic Directors, all baseball coaches and baseball umpires that the deadline to complete the 2014 KHSAA/NFHS online Rules Clinic at no cost is midnight tonight. If you have already completed the clinic, please disregard this reminder.
Below is the information on the clinic that we published in February to assist you in tracking and the remaining schedule.
Athletic Directors – see the information below to assist you in checking on your coaches to make sure they have met the requirement. As a reminder, all coaches (head and assistant) are required to complete the clinic.
The window for the free online clinic is Feb. 3 – April 18.
Rules Clinics
2/1 to 4/18, for 2014, the Baseball Clinic will be online only and may be viewed by coaches and officials at no charge during this period.
4/19 to 5/10 for 2014, the Baseball Clinic will be online only and may be […]
04/07/14 – Reminder on Interrupted Baseball Games
This is a reminder to Athletic Directors and Baseball Coaches regarding interrupted games.
1) If a game is interrupted in tournament play or regular season play, and is subsequently to be completed, it will be reset at the same point once play resumes (same inning, same number of outs, same balls and strikes, same batter or number of batter in the batting order).
2) If a game is interrupted and unable to be completed, it shall be counted against all applicable game limits, including total number of games and all pitching limitations.
This information is published in the Baseball Competition Rules, was shared at the Baseball Coaches Conference and included in the Baseball Online Rules Clinic.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its various constituencies and the public. For a list of those blogs, go to http://khsaa.org/news-stats-pubs/sports-blogs/
03-27-14 Cold Weather Statement for Baseball, Softball and Track
Due to the ongoing cold temperatures, we have received several inquiries regarding postponing/canceling contests due to cold weather.
Prior to the officials assuming authority (jurisdiction) per the playing rules, it is the decision of home game management to determine whether or not a contest should be canceled or postponed due to cold temperatures. This decision should be made in consultation with all involved schools, but is ultimately the decision of the home team administration.
After a contest has started, or the officials have otherwise assumed authority per the playing rules, contest officials after consulting with coaches and home game management, shall determine whether play should be postponed or canceled.There are rules contained in the Board of Control adopted policies in Section 32 (on page 34), relative to the payment of umpires/officials should the contest be postponed http://khsaa.org/handbook/20132014/policies.pdf.
Please feel free to contact our office if you have any additional questions. […]02/03/14 – Baseball Rules Clinic now available for Coaches/Umpires
The 2014 KHSAA/NFHS Baseball Rules Clinic for all coaches and umpires is now online.
Athletic Directors – see the information below in bold type to assist you in checking on your coaches to make sure they have met the requirement. As a reminder, all coaches (head and assistant) are required to complete the clinic.
The window for the free online clinic is Feb. 3 – April 18.
Rules Clinics
2/1 to 4/18, for 2014, the Baseball Clinic will be online only and may be viewed by coaches and officials at no charge during this period.
4/19 to 5/10 for 2014, the Baseball Clinic will be online only and may be viewed by coaches and officials for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
5/11 to 5/18 for 2014, the Baseball Clinic will be online only and may be viewed by coaches and officials for the makeup fee ($300) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this […]
12/23/13 – 2014 Baseball Umpire Camp Information
Registration information for the 2014 KHSAA Baseball Umpire Camp has been posted on the KHSAA website. The camp will be Saturday, Feb. 22 at Elizabethtown High School. Go to this link for more information.
12/03/13 – KHSAA Partners With First String Media, PrepSpin.com For Enhanced Web Streaming Network
KHSAA Partners With First String Media, PrepSpin.com For Enhanced Web Streaming Network
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DECEMBER 3, 2013
Through a new venture launched prior to the start of the 2013-14 season, the KHSAA has transitioned its online video broadcast network (KHSAA.tv) to an internal operation through a new partnership with First String Media and PrepSpin.com. After outsourcing its championship webcasts in previous seasons, this year’s championship events will feature live video streaming and highlight packages produced internally through the new partnership. Live video streaming, archived broadcasts and highlight packages will remain free of charge through the Association’s website.
KHSAA.org will remain the exclusive home for live video streaming of KHSAA Championship events, with live championship coverage of 11 events, and post-event highlight packages provided for six other sports and sport-activities. Live video streaming will be available for a total of 41 games during the 2013-14 season through […]
11/22/13 – On-Demand Printing For KHSAA Championship Programs
Updated commemorative copies of each completed KHSAA fall championship event are now available for on-demand printing through TheBookPatch.com. Full color and black-and-white versions of this year’s championship programs (Golf, Cross Country, Soccer and Volleyball) are all available for purchase.
Commemorative editions of each championship program from the 2012-13 season are also available through TheBookPatch.com, along with the 2013-14 KHSAA Events Calendar and 2013-14 Handbook.
A complete list of KHSAA programs available for sale can be found at:
http://www.thebookpatch.com/BookStoreResults.aspx?search=KHSAA&ddl=authors
10/09/13 – Commissioner Issues Clarification about Postgame Activity, Corrections to Erroneous Media and Social Media Reports
First, for those who may choose to read no further, there has never been a ban or prohibition on postgame handshakes or other types of good sporting behavior by the KHSAA, its Commissioner or its Board of Control. Nor has such a ban been proposed. There is no ban or prohibition on such activity today or contemplated for the future.
This message has been composed entirely by the Commissioner of the KHSAA. I do not want any room for misinterpretation or anyone else being accused of being involved. As the Commissioner, I take very seriously my role to ensure clear, concise and accurate communication regarding the expectations for our membership, participants, coaches, officials and all involved.
However, yesterday (10/8), at best a poorly worded and at worst, an incomplete, notice was sent from me to the member schools regarding postgame activity. Regardless of the number of people who had written […]
10/08/13 – Commissioner’s Directive on Postgame Activity
For those that may choose to read only the first few lines, it is worth reiteration. THERE IS NO BAN OR PROHIBITION ON POSTGAME HANDSHAKES. Has not been considered, contemplated or reviewed as an option.
Several sports have “traditions” regarding postgame handshakes, etc. by team members (both en masse and as individuals), but none of them have such action dictated by playing rules. While it is an obvious sign of sportsmanship and civility, many incidents have occurred both in Kentucky (more than two dozen in the last three years in Kentucky alone) and throughout the country, where fights and physical conflicts have broken out during these postgame handshakes. And this is not restricted to specific sports. In our state alone, incidents in soccer, football and volleyball have occurred this fall.
Unfortunately, the adrenaline and effort required to participate in the sport sometimes seems to deplete the supply of judgement available to participants. And this can […]
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