New England Deaf Softball Organization (NEDSO)
Governance, Rules, and Operating Guidelines
2026 Edition
Identity & Governance
Eligibility & Teams
Competition Rules
Season Operations
Divisions
Standards & Culture
Preamble
The New England Deaf Softball Organization (“NEDSO”) is an independent, Deaf-led amateur slow-pitch softball league operated by the Commissioner in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
NEDSO exists to preserve and elevate the legacy of Deaf softball by providing a structured, competitive, and culturally affirming environment grounded in Deaf identity, regional pride, and mutual respect.
Participation is open to Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, Children of Deaf Adults (CODA), Siblings of Deaf Adults (SODA), spouses thereof, and approved allied participants, subject to league eligibility standards.
These Governance, Rules, and Operating Guidelines establish the operational framework for NEDSO and are intended to promote competitive integrity, participant safety, and the long-term sustainability of Deaf softball across New England.
Mission Statement
NEDSO unites Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, Children of Deaf Adults (CODA), Siblings of Deaf Adults (SODA), and spouses thereof in a competitive yet inclusive athletic environment that honors Deaf identity, promotes mutual respect, and secures a sustainable future for Deaf softball across New England.
Core Organizational Values
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Respect — Demonstrated toward players, opponents, officials, and the cultural norms of the Deaf community.
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Unity — Prioritizing collective success and shared responsibility over individual interests.
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Pride — Representing regional identity with passion, discipline, and sportsmanship.
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Growth — Encouraging continuous athletic, personal, and community development.
Article I – Governance and Administration
New England Deaf Softball Organization (NEDSO) is an independent, Deaf-led amateur sports league operated by the Commissioner in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
NEDSO is not a membership corporation and is not subject to election by participants.
Section 0. Appointment of the Commissioner
The Founder of the New England Deaf Softball Organization (“NEDSO”) retains ultimate authority over the organization and its governance structure.
The Commissioner shall be appointed by the Founder and shall serve at the pleasure of the Founder. The position of Commissioner is not subject to election, nomination, or member vote.
The Founder may serve as Commissioner or may appoint a Commissioner at any time. The Founder may remove the Commissioner, appoint a successor, and determine any transition process in the sole discretion of the Founder.
All organizational, structural, and constitutional authority remains vested in the Founder and the appointed Commissioner.
Section 1. Authority of the Commissioner
The Commissioner shall have full and final authority over all league matters, including but not limited to:
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Interpretation and enforcement of league rules
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Participant eligibility determinations
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Roster approval and regional assignment
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Discipline and conduct enforcement
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Branding and intellectual property control
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Scheduling and competitive structure
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Financial administration and operational decisions
All decisions shall be made in good faith and guided by fairness, participant safety, competitive balance, and preservation of NEDSO’s Deaf-centered mission.
The Commissioner is authorized to protect and enforce NEDSO’s intellectual property rights, including the issuance of cease-and-desist demands, takedown notices, and the pursuit of available legal remedies where appropriate.
The Commissioner may issue binding directives, clarifications, and interpretations necessary for the orderly operation of the league. Such determinations shall be final and binding unless otherwise expressly provided in these Guidelines.
Actions taken by the Commissioner or appointed delegates in good faith within the scope of their responsibilities shall be afforded protection to the fullest extent permitted under applicable Massachusetts law.
Section 2. Administrative Roles
a. Commissioner
The Commissioner is responsible for overall governance and administration of NEDSO, including but not limited to:
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League structure and strategic planning
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Scheduling and competitive oversight
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Enforcement and interpretation of rules
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Participant eligibility and roster approval
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Branding and intellectual property control
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Financial stewardship and operational management
All league authority ultimately resides with the Commissioner.
b. Delegates
Delegates are appointed by the Commissioner and serve at the Commissioner's pleasure. Appointment as a Delegate does not create any independent governance authority.
Delegates function as Division Operations Leaders and Regional Representatives. They assist in the orderly administration of league activities within their assigned division or region and support the Commissioner in maintaining competitive integrity and organizational standards.
Division Game Oversight
During regular-season play, including intra-division and cross-division games hosted within their assigned region.
Delegates shall oversee local operations to promote:
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Compliance with league rules
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Timely and orderly conduct of games
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Maintenance of sportsmanship standards
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Protection of participant safety
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Proper documentation of incidents, disputes, or rule questions
Delegates may issue temporary on-site rulings necessary to preserve game continuity and competitive integrity. Such rulings apply to the game in progress and remain subject to post-event review and final determination by the Commissioner.
Advisory Function
Delegates may provide recommendations to the Commissioner regarding operational concerns, rule application, division-level matters, and league development. Delegates serve only in an advisory and administrative capacity.
Limitations of Authority
Delegates do not possess independent governing authority and may not:
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Amend, suspend, or reinterpret league rules beyond immediate on-site enforcement
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Determine final participant eligibility
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Impose long-term discipline or suspensions
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Alter standings, seeding, scheduling, or competitive structure
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Bind NEDSO contractually or financially
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Represent NEDSO in any legal, financial, or regulatory capacity
unless expressly authorized in writing by the Commissioner.
All structural, disciplinary, financial, and constitutional authority remains vested exclusively in the Commissioner.
c. Team Captains / Coaches
Each team may designate up to two (2) Captains per season (e.g., Captain and Co-Captain or Captain and Assistant Captain).
Teams may determine their internal method for selecting Captains, including an election, appointment, or another team-based process. NEDSO does not regulate the internal selection procedure.
Once designated, Captains must be formally announced to the Commissioner prior to roster approval.
Eligibility to Serve as Captain
A Captain must:
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Maintain primary residence within one of the six (6) New England states
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Qualify under Article II as Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, CODA, or SODA
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Be in good standing with the league.
Hometown Free Agents, Spouses, Non-exempt hearing participants, and Legacy Free Agents may not serve as Captain.
Captain Authority and Responsibilities
Upon official recognition by the Commissioner, Captains serve as the General Manager of their respective team and are responsible for:
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Roster construction and submission
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Player recruitment and release decisions
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Endorsement of Legacy Free Agents
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Endorsement of non-exempt hearing participants (subject to Article II)
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Selection, approval, and oversight of team Coaches
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Ensuring compliance with all eligibility and registration requirements
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Securing and coordinating the team’s assigned Local Division hosting field pursuant to Article XIV
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Serving as the official communication liaison between the team and the Commissioner.
Captains shall receive official instructions, operational checklists, and compliance requirements from the Commissioner each season.
Limitations of Captain Authority
Captains do not hold league governance authority.
Captains may not:
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Amend or reinterpret league rules
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Override eligibility determinations
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Approve players independently of Commissioner review
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Bind NEDSO contractually or financially
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Alter competitive structure, standings, or scheduling
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Waive league requirements.
All roster approvals, Free Agent designations, hearing participation approvals, and final eligibility determinations remain subject to the Commissioner's written approval.
Section 3. Commissioner Participation
The Commissioner may participate as a player in NEDSO, subject to the following safeguards designed to preserve competitive integrity, prevent conflicts of interest, and maintain public confidence in league governance.
a. Equal Application of Rules
The Commissioner may manage or participate on a team in the same manner as any other Captain or player, provided that all roster limits, eligibility standards, deadlines, financial obligations, and league procedures apply equally and without exception.
No procedural advantage shall be created by virtue of office.
b. Independent Initial Review
Any protest, disciplinary matter, rule interpretation, eligibility dispute, or competitive challenge directly involving the Commissioner or the Commissioner’s team shall be reviewed in the first instance by:
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A designated neutral Delegate; or
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A review panel appointed by the Commissioner, consisting of individuals not affiliated with the Commissioner’s team.
The Commissioner shall not conduct the initial review of such matter.
c. Final Determination Standard
Following the independent review, the Commissioner may issue a final league determination, provided that:
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The determination is consistent with the written league rules
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The determination is supported by documented findings
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The determination does not materially contradict the neutral review, absent clear rule misapplication.
d. No Preferential Treatment
The Commissioner’s participation shall not entitle the Commissioner to:
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Preferential scheduling
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Roster exceptions
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Fee waivers
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Deadline extensions
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Procedural advantages
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Protection from discipline.
e. Equal Financial & Legal Obligations
The Commissioner shall execute all required waivers, pay all applicable fees, and comply with all player-level eligibility, conduct, and administrative requirements without exception.
f. Transparency Safeguard
Records of any neutral review conducted under this Section shall be retained by the league for documentation and governance purposes.
Governance Statement
These safeguards exist to preserve fairness, transparency, and structural integrity while allowing the Commissioner to participate in the league as a player under equal standards.
Article II – Participant Eligibility
Section 1. Age Requirement
a. All participants must have attained eighteen (18) years of age on or before the first scheduled regular-season game. No individual under eighteen (18) shall participate in any adult league activity.
b. An individual who attains eighteen (18) years of age after the start of the season may become eligible only on or after the date of their eighteenth birthday, subject to:
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Available roster capacity;
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Compliance with all registration and eligibility requirements; and
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Written approval of the Commissioner.
No participation, practice, or bench presence shall be permitted prior to attaining eighteen (18).
Section 2. Primary Eligibility Categories
The following individuals shall be eligible to participate:
a. Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing persons;
b. Children of Deaf Adults (CODA);
c. Siblings of Deaf Adults (SODA);
d. Spouses of Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing individuals, CODA, or SODA.
Section 3. Deaf Priority Registration Period
For purposes of these Guidelines, the “Deaf Priority Registration Period” shall mean the registration window reserved exclusively for:
• Deaf participants
• Hard-of-Hearing participants
• Children of Deaf Adults (CODA)
• Siblings of Deaf Adults (SODA)
• Qualifying spouses of the foregoing
For clarity, CODA, SODA, and qualifying spouses are considered primary-eligible participants for purposes of roster assignment and priority registration.
During the Deaf Priority Registration Period:
• Registration shall not be open to non-exempt hearing participants;
• Legacy Free Agent (LFA) registration shall not be processed;
• Coach-only registrations shall not be processed.
The Deaf Priority Registration Period shall remain open through April 10 of each season, or such alternative deadline as established and published annually by the Commissioner.
The Commissioner retains authority to extend, shorten, or modify the registration timeline as necessary to preserve roster balance and operational integrity.
Section 4. Limited Hearing Participation
CODA, SODA, and qualifying spouses are exempt from hearing participant limitations and shall be treated as primary-eligible participants under this Article.
Non-exempt hearing participants may be considered only under the following structured process designed to preserve NEDSO’s Deaf-centered mission and regional integrity.
a. Deaf Priority Registration Period
The Initial Deaf Priority Registration Period shall remain open through April 10 of each season (or such date as announced by the Commissioner).
This period shall conclude only after:
• The April 10 registration deadline has passed
• All registered Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, CODA, and SODA participants have been regionally assigned
• Rosters have been provisionally balanced by the Commissioner.
No hearing participant registration shall be accepted, processed, conditionally approved, or held prior to completion of the Deaf Priority Registration Period.
Any attempted early submission shall be void and shall not reserve roster placement.
Hearing registration, if permitted, shall open only upon the Commissioner's official notice.
The Commissioner may elect not to open hearing registration in any given season.
b. Recruitment Requirement
Non-exempt hearing participants must be actively recruited by a team captain.
A hearing participant shall not independently register without prior captain endorsement.
The recruiting team captain(s) must:
• Confirm that the player resides within the team’s designated regional territory
• Submit a written approval letter signed by the captain(s)
• Certify that the recruitment does not circumvent roster integrity or Deaf priority principles.
The written approval must be submitted to the Commissioner prior to registration approval.
No hearing participant shall be deemed eligible unless recruitment documentation is received and approved.
c. Numerical Limitation
The total number of approved non-exempt hearing participants per team shall not exceed five (5).
The Commissioner may:
• Approve fewer than five (5)
• Impose a lower cap league-wide
• Suspend hearing approvals entirely in any season; or
• Reduce previously approved numbers if necessary to preserve competitive balance.
Hearing participation is a revocable privilege, not a right.
d. Non-Circumvention
No team may:
• Reserve roster spots for hearing participants prior to the close of the Deaf Priority Registration Period
• Delay Deaf-eligible registrations to manipulate approval timing
• Release Deaf-eligible participants to create hearing openings
• Pre-sign, conditionally promise, or publicly announce hearing placements before Commissioner approval.
Any such conduct may result in roster reversal, forfeiture, suspension, or additional disciplinary action.
e. Conditions of Approval
Approval of a hearing participant may require:
• Verified regional residency
• Signed captain endorsement
• Demonstrated respect for Deaf culture
• Compliance with all league eligibility and conduct requirements
• Any additional conditions deemed appropriate by the Commissioner.
Approval is valid only for the specific season granted and shall not automatically renew.
f. Revocation Authority
The Commissioner may revoke approval at any time if:
• Cultural integrity is compromised
• Conduct standards are violated
• Competitive imbalance occurs
• Recruitment procedures were bypassed; or
• Information provided was inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading.
g. Final Authority
All determinations under this Section shall be made in good faith by the Commissioner and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 5. Verification and Documentation
The Commissioner may require documentation sufficient to verify participant eligibility, identity, and primary residence.
Acceptable documentation may include government-issued identification, proof of residency (such as lease agreements, utility bills dated within sixty (60) days, official mail, or comparable records), or other documentation deemed reliable by the Commissioner.
Submission of documentation does not guarantee approval. The Commissioner may request additional documentation, as necessary, to preserve competitive integrity and regional accuracy.
Failure to provide requested documentation within forty-eight (48) hours of notice may result in temporary suspension pending compliance.
Denials of eligibility shall be final, subject only to a written appeal submitted within seven (7) days. The Commissioner’s decision shall be binding.
Team assignment shall be determined based upon the participant’s verified primary residence as of the roster lock date for the applicable season, as announced annually by the Commissioner.
a. Definition of Primary Residence
“Primary residence” shall mean the participant’s principal place of living — the location where the participant actually resides on a full-time basis and maintains substantial personal, legal, and financial ties.
Temporary addresses, mailing addresses, seasonal stays, short-term rentals, or arrangements established for the purpose of influencing team assignment shall not qualify as primary residence.
The Commissioner may require documentation sufficient to establish genuine and continuous residency.
b. Anticipated or Pending Relocation
Planned, anticipated, or proposed relocation shall not qualify for regional reassignment unless:
• The participant provides executed lease documentation, mortgage documentation, or comparable legally binding proof of relocation; and
• The relocation has physically occurred prior to the first scheduled regular-season game.
Mere intent to relocate, future plans, or unsigned agreements shall not be sufficient.
c. Relocation After Roster Lock
If relocation occurs after roster lock or after the first scheduled regular-season game, reassignment eligibility shall be governed exclusively by Article III (Mid-Season Transfers and Relocation).
No automatic right to reassignment shall exist.
d. Regional Territory Determination
NEDSO operates under defined regional territories established annually by the Commissioner.
Assignment shall be based solely on verified primary residence within those territories.
The Commissioner retains sole authority to interpret territorial boundaries and determine appropriate regional placement in order to preserve competitive balance and league integrity.
e. Good Faith Standard
All residency determinations shall be made in good faith by the Commissioner.
Submission of false, misleading, incomplete, or strategically manipulated residency documentation may result in:
• Immediate suspension
• Forfeiture of games
• Removal from roster
• Further disciplinary action
All determinations shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Article III – Team Composition and Formation
Section 1. Roster Limits
a. Active Roster Requirement
Each team shall maintain an active roster of no fewer than twelve (12) and no more than fifteen (15) eligible players.
b. Maximum Total Roster
The total number of rostered players, including active players and designated reserves, shall not exceed eighteen (18) players at any time during the season, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Commissioner.
c. Designated Reserves
A team may designate up to three (3) reserve players, provided that:
• The total roster does not exceed eighteen (18)
• Reserve designation is declared at roster lock
• Reserve status may not be rotated, reassigned, or manipulated for competitive advantage without Commissioner approval.
Designated reserves are fully rostered players and are subject to all eligibility, conduct, and financial requirements.
d. Financial Obligation
All rostered players, including designated reserves, shall pay the full applicable player registration fee. No discounted, partial, or reserve-only fee structure shall apply unless expressly authorized in writing by the Commissioner.
e. Roster Compliance
No team shall permit participation by any individual not properly registered, approved, and listed on the official league roster.
Use of ineligible players, exceeding roster limits, or intentional misclassification of players may result in:
• Game forfeiture
• Monetary fines
• Suspension
• Roster reversal
• Additional disciplinary measures at the Commissioner’s discretion.
f. Roster Integrity & Competitive Balance
The Commissioner retains authority to review, approve, deny, or adjust rosters as necessary to:
• Enforce eligibility requirements
• Prevent circumvention of roster rules
• Preserve competitive balance
• Protect league integrity
All roster determinations shall be final and binding.
Section 2. Coaches
Each team may designate up to three (3) coaches per season. Coaching titles (e.g., Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Bench Coach, Scorekeeper-Coach) may be determined by the team; however, no more than three (3) individuals shall be recognized as official team coaches at any time.
a. Non-Playing Status
All coaches are strictly non-playing personnel.
• Coaches shall not be eligible to participate as players under any circumstance.
• Coaches shall not warm up as players, substitute into games, pinch run, or enter the field of play except in a coaching capacity.
• A coach who wishes to become a player must complete full player registration and be approved as a rostered participant prior to participation.
b. Residency Requirement
Coaches must reside within the team's geographic region, consistent with NEDSO regional assignment standards.
Residency shall be verified in accordance with Article II (Verification & Documentation).
c. Recruitment & Approval
Coaches must:
• Be recruited or volunteer with the team;
• Be formally approved in writing and signed by the Team Captain(s);
• Be submitted to the Commissioner for written approval prior to participation;
• Execute the official NEDSO Waiver & Release Agreement before participating in any league activity.
Approval of a coach is discretionary and may be denied by the Commissioner to preserve league integrity.
d. Authority of Team Captain(s)
Team Captain(s) retain authority over:
• Appointment of coaches;
• Removal of coaches;
• Reassignment of coaching roles;
• Determination of coaching responsibilities.
Removal or replacement of a coach must be reported to the Commissioner.
e. Dual Role – Scorekeeping
A designated coach may also serve as the team’s scorekeeper, provided all conduct standards are upheld.
Scorekeeping duties do not alter non-playing status.
f. Conduct & Discipline
Coaches are subject to all league conduct standards and the disciplinary authority of the Commissioner.
Coaches may be disciplined, suspended, or removed for violations of conduct.
Section 3. Team Names and Regional Identity
a. Approval Requirement
Team names, logos, marks, color schemes, slogans, and related branding elements shall reflect the history, culture, geography, or identity of the represented region and are subject to prior written approval by the Commissioner.
b. Ownership
All NEDSO names, logos, marks, branding elements, uniform designs, visual assets, and associated intellectual property are owned and controlled by the New England Deaf Softball Organization (“NEDSO”) and the Commissioner as permitted by law. No team, captain, participant, sponsor, or third party acquires any ownership interest by use.
c. Limited License
Teams are granted a limited, revocable, non-transferable, non-exclusive license to use approved NEDSO intellectual property solely for official league purposes during the applicable season and in accordance with league standards.
This license automatically terminates at the conclusion of the season or upon revocation by the Commissioner.
d. No Ownership Rights
No team, captain, participant, sponsor, or third party shall acquire any trademark rights, goodwill rights, derivative rights, commercial rights, or continuing usage rights in any NEDSO name, logo, or branding element.
Use of NEDSO intellectual property constitutes acknowledgment of NEDSO’s ownership and agreement to these limitations.
e. Prohibited Use
Unauthorized use, reproduction, modification, commercial exploitation, sublicensing, resale, independent merchandise production, or continued use following termination of the license shall constitute infringement and may result in:
• Immediate revocation of usage rights
• Disciplinary action
• Monetary penalties
• Removal from league participation
• Pursuit of legal and equitable remedies
f. Rebranding Authority
The Commissioner reserves the right to modify, suspend, withdraw, or require rebranding of any team identity at any time to preserve league integrity, branding consistency, legal compliance, intellectual property protection, or sponsorship obligations.
Section 4. Free Agents
a. Hometown Free Agent (HFA)
Definition
HFA designation applies exclusively to former residents of a New England state within the NEDSO geographic footprint (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont) who no longer maintain primary residence within New England at the time of registration.
HFA eligibility is limited to:
• Deaf individuals
• Hard-of-Hearing individuals
• Children of Deaf Adults (CODA)
• Siblings of Deaf Adults (SODA)
• Spouse
i. Eligibility Standard
To qualify as a Hometown Free Agent, a participant must:
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Currently reside outside of the six (6) New England states; and
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Demonstrate prior primary residence within the specific NEDSO region they seek to represent for a meaningful and sustained period of time.
Primary residence must reflect the actual prior living address, not temporary presence.
ii. Insufficient Basis
The following alone shall NOT qualify for HFA status:
• Birth certificate showing birthplace only
• Short-term or temporary residence
• Seasonal or vacation residence
• Sentimental affiliation
• Family heritage without prior residence
• Mere alumni status without proof of address
Documents must demonstrate prior address/residence, not merely birthplace.
iii. Documentation Requirement
Approval requires submission of:
• Proof of current out-of-region primary residence; and
• Documentation establishing prior primary residence within the requested NEDSO region (e.g., lease, tax document, school record with address, government mail showing address).
A birth certificate alone is insufficient.
iv. Numerical Limit
There is no numerical cap on HFA per team; however, approval remains subject to Commissioner review to preserve regional integrity and competitive balance.
v. Final Authority
All HFA determinations are made by the Commissioner in good faith and are final and binding.
b. Legacy Free Agents (LFA)
i. Eligibility
A Legacy Free Agent shall be:
• Deaf; or
• Hard-of-Hearing
Legacy Free Agent status is NOT available to:
• Hearing individuals
• CODA
• SODA
• Spouses
Legacy Free Agents must:
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Not reside within any NEDSO regional territory;
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Not qualify as a Hometown Free Agent; and
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Not maintain a current primary residence within the six (6) New England states.
Legacy Free Agent designation shall not be used to circumvent regional assignment rules or roster priority structure.
ii. Recruitment & Captain Endorsement Requirement
A Legacy Free Agent must:
• Be actively recruited by a specific team;
• Receive written endorsement from the team’s officially designated captain(s);
• Provide a signed approval letter from the captain(s) confirming recruitment and roster intent;
• Be reported to the Commissioner prior to any registration submission.
The captain(s) endorsement letter must:
• Identify the specific team
• Confirm the team’s intent to roster the participant
• Be signed and dated by the authorized captain(s)
No LFA may self-register without captain endorsement.
iii. Special Registration Process
Upon receipt of captain's endorsement, the Commissioner shall:
• Review eligibility;
• Determine compliance with all LFA requirements; and
• Issue a special Legacy Free Agent registration form if approved for conditional processing.
No Legacy Free Agent shall be considered:
• Registered
• Rostered
• Approved
• Eligible
unless the official LFA registration form is completed and approved in writing by the Commissioner.
iv. Numerical Limit
Each team may roster a maximum of one (1) Legacy Free Agent per season unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Commissioner for extraordinary structural reasons.
v. Competitive Integrity
The Commissioner may deny or revoke LFA approval if:
• Competitive balance is materially disrupted;
• Regional integrity is compromised;
• Roster stacking is evident;
• Information was inaccurate or incomplete.
vi. Season Limitation
Approval is valid only for the specific season granted and does not renew automatically.
LFA status must be reviewed annually.
Section 5. Roster Finalization and Lock
All team rosters shall be subject to final review and written approval by the Commissioner to preserve geographic integrity, competitive balance, and compliance with league eligibility standards.
Rosters shall officially lock seven (7) calendar days prior to the first scheduled regular-season game.
After roster lock, no additions, substitutions, or transfers shall be permitted except as expressly authorized below.
Post-Lock Additions
Post-lock roster additions may be permitted only upon written approval of the Commissioner and only under the following limited circumstances:
a. The team’s active roster falls below twelve (12) eligible players due to injury, relocation, or verified hardship;
b. A documented season-ending injury is confirmed and supported by reasonable verification, if requested;
c. A verified permanent relocation materially affects roster viability pursuant to Article II and Article III residence provisions;
d. The Commissioner determines, in good faith, that a narrowly tailored adjustment is necessary to preserve competitive balance, roster equity, or operational continuity.
Restrictions
Post-lock changes shall not be permitted for:
• Competitive upgrading
• Strategic replacement
• Performance-based substitution
• Dissatisfaction with player performance
• Roster manipulation or stacking
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A team may not voluntarily remove a healthy, eligible player for the purpose of creating a post-lock opening.
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Any player added after the lock must meet all eligibility requirements, including registration, waiver execution, and fee payment.
Administrative Fee
Any approved post-lock addition may be subject to an administrative fee as established for that season. The Commissioner retains discretion to waive or reduce such fee where appropriate.
Final Authority
All post-lock determinations shall be made by the Commissioner in good faith and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 6. Mid-Season Transfers and Relocation
Mid-season transfers are strongly discouraged and shall be granted only in extraordinary circumstances at the sole discretion of the Commissioner.
a. Teams are formed based on verified primary residence at the time of official roster formation.
b. No participant shall have an automatic right to change teams during the season.
c. Transfers may be considered only in cases of:
• Verified permanent relocation supported by documentation consistent with Article II (Verification and Documentation);
• Documented hardship deemed substantial by the Commissioner; or
• Administrative correction of clerical or eligibility error.
Temporary relocation, commuting changes, seasonal housing, or travel arrangements shall not qualify for mid-season reassignment.
d. Any relocation request must be submitted in writing within seven (7) days of the change in residence and must include supporting documentation.
e. Competitive balance, regional integrity, and roster equity shall be preserved in all cases.
f. No refund, credit, or fee adjustment shall be issued in connection with any transfer or relocation.
g. The Commissioner’s determination shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 7. Out-of-Region and Out-of-State Relocation
NEDSO is a regionally structured league designed to preserve geographic identity, roster stability, and competitive balance. Team assignment is based on verified primary residence at the time of roster formation and shall not be altered for strategic or preference-based reasons.
a. Relocation Within New England
A participant who permanently relocates to a different NEDSO region within the six (6) New England states may submit a written request to the team representing the participant’s new region for reassignment.
Reassignment is not automatic and shall be granted only upon:
i. Verification of permanent change in primary residence in accordance with Article II (Verification and Documentation);
ii. Availability of a roster position on the receiving team;
iii. Preservation of competitive balance, regional integrity, and roster equity; and
iv. Written approval of the Commissioner.
b. Relocation Outside of New England
A participant who permanently relocates outside of the NEDSO geographic area (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont) may, at the sole discretion of the Commissioner, remain with their originally assigned team for the remainder of that season under Hometown Free Agent (HFA) classification.
Such continuation:
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Does not create a right to transfer to a different team;
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Does not permit team selection based on prior upbringing, birthplace, or multi-regional history; and
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Shall not be used to circumvent regional assignment rules.
c. No Team Selection Upon Relocation
Relocation outside of New England does not grant a participant the right to:
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Select a new team;
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Transfer to a preferred region;
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Reclassify eligibility for competitive advantage; or
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Invoke prior residency history to alter team assignment during the same season.
Regional integrity shall prevail over personal preference.
d. Documentation Requirement
Any relocation request must be submitted in writing to the Commissioner within seven (7) days of the permanent change in primary residence and must include supporting documentation consistent with Article II (Verification and Documentation).
Failure to submit documentation in a timely manner may result in the denial of the request.
e. Financial Policy
No refund, credit, proration, or fee adjustment shall be issued in connection with any relocation, transfer, reassignment, or season conclusion resulting from relocation.
f. Denial of Reassignment
If reassignment is not approved, the participant’s season shall be deemed concluded as of the verified relocation date.
g. Final Authority
All determinations under this Section shall be made by the Commissioner in good faith and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 8. Registration Priority & Roster Assignment
To preserve regional identity, competitive balance, and equitable roster distribution, participant registration priority shall be administered in the following order after the conclusion of the Deaf Priority Registration Period (April 10 or such date as announced by the Commissioner):
a. Verified Local Participants
Participants whose verified primary residence is within the assigned regional territory at the time of roster formation.
b. Hometown Free Agents (HFA)
Eligible Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, CODA, or SODA participants who currently reside outside New England and have documented prior primary residence within the requested region.
c. Non-Exempt Hearing Participants (Allied Participants)
Hearing participants may register only after the Deaf Priority Registration Period has concluded and must:
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Be actively recruited by team captain(s) of their region of residence;
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Submit a written approval letter signed by the team captain(s);
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Receive written approval from the Commissioner pursuant to Article II.
Approval is discretionary and subject to numerical caps and competitive balance review.
d. Legacy Free Agents (LFA) and Late Registrants
Legacy Free Agents shall be limited to Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing participants who:
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Reside outside New England;
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Do not qualify as Hometown Free Agents; and
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Have been actively recruited and endorsed in writing by team captain(s).
No Legacy Free Agent shall be eligible to participate unless the official LFA registration form has been issued and approved in writing by the Commissioner.
All roster placements remain subject to Commissioner review and final approval. No applicant has an automatic right to team assignment.
Article IV – Uniform Standards and League-Controlled Branding
Section 1. League-Issued Uniforms
Each registered participant shall receive one (1) official NEDSO game jersey per season, designed, produced, and distributed exclusively by NEDSO.
The Commissioner shall develop the uniform design in consultation with the respective team captain for regional identity, branding consistency, and sponsor placement. Final design authority remains solely with the Commissioner.
Upon full payment of the required registration fee, the jersey is the participant's personal property. However, ownership of the physical garment does not grant any intellectual property or trademark rights in NEDSO branding.
No team, captain, or participant may independently design, manufacture, modify, substitute, reproduce, or commercially exploit official game jerseys without prior written approval of the Commissioner.
Section 2. Uniform Requirements
The official NEDSO game jersey must be worn during all regular-season and postseason games.
The jersey shall:
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Display a clearly visible uniform number
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Display the approved player surname (nicknames prohibited unless expressly authorized)
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Include required league logos, sponsor marks, or championship insignia
Failure to wear the official jersey without prior approval may result in ineligibility for that game or administrative penalties.
Section 3. Uniform Modifications and Additions
Participants may wear league-compliant athletic shorts or pants in the designated team color communicated prior to the season. No unauthorized alterations to the official jersey are permitted.
The Commissioner may, at his discretion, authorize alternate or special-edition jerseys for specific events, championships, or promotional purposes.
Section 4. Sponsorship & Branding Control
All NEDSO names, logos, marks, uniform designs, and branding elements are owned and controlled by NEDSO and/or the Commissioner as permitted by law.
Teams are granted a limited, revocable license to use approved branding solely for official league purposes during the applicable season.
Unauthorized commercial use, reproduction, sublicensing, or exploitation of NEDSO intellectual property is prohibited and subject to enforcement consistent with the NEDSO Waiver & Release Agreement.
Section 5. League-Controlled Uniform Distinction
All team uniform designs, including color schemes, typography, and layout, shall be created and approved exclusively by the Commissioner.
The Commissioner shall ensure that each team’s uniform design is visually distinct from all other teams in the league.
Because uniform production is controlled by NEDSO, teams shall not independently alter, reproduce, or substitute any uniform element.
Section 6. Sponsorships
All sponsorship placement on uniforms, apparel, and official league materials shall be controlled and approved exclusively by the Commissioner.
No team, captain, participant, or third party may secure, display, or promote any sponsor on official uniforms or league materials without prior written approval of the Commissioner.
Team-level sponsorships require:
• Prior written approval of the Commissioner
• Execution of a league-approved sponsorship agreement
• Compliance with league content and brand standards
League-wide sponsors shall take priority over team-level sponsors.
All sponsorship revenue generated in connection with official NEDSO uniforms or events shall be administered in accordance with league policy.
Section 7. Brand Protection
All NEDSO names, logos, marks, uniform designs, branding elements, and associated goodwill are owned and controlled by the Commissioner as operator of NEDSO, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Teams receive a limited, revocable, non-transferable license to use approved branding solely for official league participation during the applicable season.
Ownership of a physical uniform does not grant any ownership interest in NEDSO trademarks, branding, or intellectual property rights.
Unauthorized commercial use, reproduction, modification, resale, or exploitation of any NEDSO intellectual property is strictly prohibited.
Article V – Season Structure and Schedule
Section 1. Season Timeline
Registration and team formation: February – May
Regular season: June – September
Postseason competition: October
The Commissioner may adjust seasonal timelines due to registration levels, facility availability, safety considerations, or operational necessity.
Section 2. Points System
Win: 1 point
Loss: 0 points
Commissioner’s Challenge win: +2 bonus points
A forfeit win shall count as one (1) point.
A forfeit loss shall count as zero (0) points and may subject the forfeiting team to additional disciplinary action pursuant to Article IX.
Standings shall be determined by total points accumulated during the regular season.
Section 3. Tie-Breakers (Regular Season Standings)
For Two Teams:
-
Head-to-head record
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Run differential (capped as determined by the Commissioner prior to the season)
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Fewest runs allowed
-
Commissioner determination
For Three or More Teams:
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Head-to-head mini-table among tied teams
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Run differential among tied teams
-
Fewest runs allowed among tied teams
-
Commissioner determination
Teams with forfeits may be placed below tied opponents with no forfeits at the Commissioner’s discretion to preserve competitive integrity.
All tie-break determinations are final and binding.
Section 4. Game Length, Mercy Rule, Time Limit, and Official Games
All regular-season games shall consist of seven (7) innings unless shortened due to:
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Weather
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Darkness
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Field conditions
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Facility restrictions
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Safety concerns
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The mercy rule
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Time limit
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Commissioner or authorized Delegate decision
The Commissioner retains authority to modify inning length or game structure where necessary to preserve safety, scheduling integrity, or operational continuity.
Section 4.1 Mercy Rule
A progressive mercy rule shall apply:
a. After three (3) full innings (or 2.5 innings if the home team is ahead), if one team leads by twenty (20) runs or more, the game shall be terminated and deemed complete.
b. After five (5) full innings (or 4.5 innings if the home team is ahead), if one team leads by fifteen (15) runs or more, the game shall be terminated and deemed complete.
c. The score at termination shall stand as final.
d. No additional innings shall be played once a mercy threshold is reached.
e. The Commissioner may adjust mercy thresholds prior to the season or in extraordinary circumstances for safety or scheduling reasons.
Section 4.2 Time Limit
No new inning shall begin after sixty (60) minutes from the scheduled start time.
a. If the time limit is reached during an inning, that inning shall be completed.
b. If the game is tied at the conclusion of the final completed inning and the time limit has expired, the game shall proceed into extra innings without application of the time limit until a winner is determined.
c. Extra innings shall follow the league’s adopted tie-break procedure as established prior to the season.
d. Regular-season games shall not end in a tie unless suspended due to weather, safety concerns, or force majeure before completion of an extra inning.
e. The Commissioner or authorized Delegate may extend or modify the time limit for specific games due to delays, weather recovery, field availability, or extraordinary circumstances.
Section 4.3 Official Game
A regular-season game shall be deemed official upon completion of:
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Five (5) full innings; or
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Four and one-half (4.5) innings if the home team is ahead.
If a game is stopped before becoming official:
a. The game shall be replayed from the beginning unless the Commissioner authorizes resumption from the exact point of stoppage (score, inning, outs, runners, etc.).
b. The Commissioner’s determination regarding replay or resumption shall be final and binding.
Section 4.4 Postseason Games
Postseason games (except where otherwise specified, such as the Colosseum phase) shall be played to completion (seven innings or extra innings as necessary) unless suspended for safety reasons.
Suspended postseason games shall resume from the exact point of stoppage unless otherwise directed by the Commissioner.
The mercy rule and regular-season time limit shall not apply in postseason play unless explicitly adopted by the Commissioner for a specific game or series.
Article VI – Special Competitive Features
Section 1. Commissioner’s Challenge
Each team shall be assigned one (1) Commissioner’s Challenge Game per regular season.
The Commissioner’s Challenge is a designated cross-division regular-season game selected solely at the discretion of the Commissioner to increase competitive intensity during round-robin play.
Section 1.1 Designation & Announcement
a. Each team shall participate in no more than one (1) Commissioner’s Challenge Game per season.
b. The designated game shall be selected at the sole discretion of the Commissioner.
c. The designation shall be announced immediately prior to first pitch.
d. Activation occurs when the Commissioner formally declares the game a Commissioner’s Challenge Game (symbolized by the red flag presentation).
e. Once activated, the designation is final and binding and may not be withdrawn.
Section 1.2 Competitive Impact
Win: +2 bonus points added to regular-season standings
Loss: No additional penalty
Commissioner’s Challenge Games may occur only during cross-division regular-season play.
Bonus points are added to total season points and shall count toward playoff seeding.
Section 1.3 Limitations
a. A team may not decline its assigned Commissioner’s Challenge Game.
b. A Commissioner’s Challenge designation may not be used as a disciplinary measure.
c. The Commissioner retains authority to modify, suspend, or cancel the Challenge format in extraordinary circumstances for safety, scheduling, or operational reasons.
Section 1.4 Purpose
The Commissioner’s Challenge exists to:
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Introduce elevated stakes during regular-season competition
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Promote rivalry, identity, and regional pride
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Evaluate performance under playoff-level pressure
It is a competitive enhancement mechanism and not a punitive device.
Section 2. Coin of Fate
The Coin of Fate is an optional competitive modifier available only in conjunction with a Commissioner’s Challenge Game.
Section 2.1 Eligibility & Activation
a. The Coin of Fate may be activated only prior to the first pitch of a Commissioner’s Challenge Game.
b. Activation requires explicit agreement from both teams.
c. Activation requires Commissioner approval and confirmation.
d. Each team may activate the Coin of Fate no more than once (1) per season.
e. Once activated, participation is irrevocable and binding.
Section 2.2 Coin Flip Procedure
a. The Commissioner shall conduct one public coin flip prior to the start of the game.
b. The result determines the applicable point consequence structure.
c. The coin flip does not determine game outcome or field advantage.
Section 2.3 Point Consequence Structures
If the result is Heads:
Winner: +5 points
Loser: −4 points
If the result is Tails:
Winner: +3 points
Loser: −2 points
Negative point values shall be applied to total regular-season standings and may reduce a team’s overall point total below previously accumulated totals.
Section 2.4 Finality
By registering for the season, all participants acknowledge and accept the Commissioner’s Challenge and Coin of Fate mechanisms and their potential point consequences.
All outcomes, point applications, and standings adjustments under this Article are final and not subject to appeal.
Section 2.5 Recordkeeping
All Commissioner’s Challenge Games and Coin of Fate activations shall be recorded in official league records and reflected in published standings.
Article VII – Playoff Structure – The Gauntlet
Section 1. General Applicability
All teams participating in the NEDSO men’s division regular season shall qualify for postseason play, provided the team and its participants remain in compliance with all eligibility, roster, financial, and conduct requirements.
Team qualification does not guarantee individual player eligibility. Individual participation in postseason competition remains subject to compliance with all league rules, waivers, disciplinary determinations, and financial obligations.
The Gauntlet playoff structure shall apply unless modified by the Commissioner due to safety considerations, participation levels, facility limitations, or operational necessity.
Section 2. Seeding Process
Overall playoff seeding shall consist of Seeds #1 through #8.
Teams shall be ranked as follows:
a. Divisional placement (first through fourth);
b. Total regular-season points within that placement.
Seeding assignments shall be:
• Division leaders: Seeds #1 and #2 (higher total points = #1)
• Division runners-up: Seeds #3 and #4 (higher total points = #3)
• Third place teams: Seeds #5 and #6 (higher total points = #5)
• Fourth place teams: Seeds #7 and #8 (higher total points = #7)
Seeding disputes must be submitted in writing within twenty-four (24) hours of the conclusion of the regular season. The Commissioner’s determination shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 3. Colosseum Phase (Single Elimination)
Purpose
The Colosseum Phase serves as the initial elimination stage for lower-seeded teams.
Eligibility
Seeds #5 through #8.
Format
• Single elimination
• Five (5) innings
• No time limit
• Higher seed hosts, subject to facility approval
Matchups
a. #7 hosts #8
b. Winner faces #6 (hosted by #6)
c. Winner faces #5 (hosted by #5)
The final surviving team advances to the Danger Round.
Section 4. Danger Round
Participants
Colosseum survivor vs. #4 seed.
Format
• Seven (7) innings
• No time limit
• The #4 seed shall be designated as the home team
Home designation includes batting order selection and any administrative home-team privileges recognized by league rules.
Advancement
• The winner advances to the Semifinals.
• The loser is eliminated from championship contention.
Colosseum Bonus
If the Colosseum survivor defeats the #4 seed, that team shall receive seven (7) carryover bonus points applied to the immediately following regular season’s divisional standings.
Carryover bonus points:
• Apply only to the immediately subsequent season
• Have no monetary value
• Are non-transferable
• Do not survive team dissolution, relocation, rebranding, or structural league changes unless expressly approved by the Commissioner
Section 5. Fire & Forge Bracket (Non-Championship Competition)
Eligibility
Teams eliminated during the Colosseum Phase or Danger Round.
Format
• Double elimination
• Conducted concurrently as scheduling permits
• For all Fire & Forge matchups, the higher-seeded team (based on original overall playoff seeding) shall be designated as the home team.
Carryover Bonus Points
1st Place: +6
2nd Place: +4
3rd Place: +2
4th Place: +1
Carryover bonus points:
• Apply only to the immediately subsequent season
• Have no monetary value
• Are non-transferable
• May be modified or suspended by the Commissioner prior to the next season
Section 6. Semifinals
Participants
Seed #1, Seed #2, Seed #3, and the Danger Round winner.
Format
• Best-of-three series
• Seven (7) innings per game
• The higher seed hosts Game 1 and Game 3 (if necessary)
#1 Seed Privilege
The #1 seed shall select its semifinal opponent (either Seed #3 or the Danger Round winner).
The remaining team shall face Seed #2.
Section 7. Championship Series — The Crown Series
Format
• Best-of-three series
• Seven (7) innings per game
• No time limit
• The higher seed hosts Game 1 and Game 3 (if necessary)
The winner shall be recognized as the Official NEDSO Champion and recorded permanently in league history.
Section 8. Structural Authority
The Commissioner retains full authority to adjust playoff format, inning length, hosting assignments, carryover point structures, or scheduling details as necessary to preserve safety, competitive integrity, and operational feasibility.
All determinations under this Article shall be made in good faith and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Article VIII – Women’s League Governance & Structure
Section 1. Establishment
NEDSO may operate a women’s softball league, subject to participation levels and administrative feasibility. The women’s league shall be governed by these Guidelines except where expressly modified in this Article.
Section 2. Format Flexibility
Team minimums, scheduling, divisional alignment, postseason qualification, playoff structures, and roster composition parameters shall be determined annually by the Commissioner based on:
• Registration volume
• Competitive balance
• Geographic distribution
• League growth objectives
No minimum team count shall be required.
Section 3. Modified Eligibility Structure
For the women’s league only, the Commissioner may modify:
• Non-exempt hearing participation limits
• Roster composition standards
• Competitive feature application
Any modified eligibility limits shall be announced prior to the start of the season and shall apply only to that season unless renewed.
Nothing in this Section shall create an entitlement to roster placement.
Section 4. Competitive Features
The Commissioner’s Challenge, Coin of Fate, or other competitive mechanisms may be applied at the Commissioner’s discretion and are not automatic.
Section 5. Authority to Modify or Suspend
The Commissioner retains authority to modify, consolidate, delay, restructure, or suspend women’s league formats as necessary to preserve participant experience, safety, administrative stability, and competitive integrity.
Article IX – On-Field Rules and Game Operations
Standard slow-pitch softball rules shall apply unless expressly modified by these Guidelines or written directives issued by the Commissioner.
A minimum of ten (10) eligible and properly rostered players is required to start a game.
Teams must notify the Commissioner no fewer than forty-eight (48) hours in advance if they anticipate being unable to field the required minimum.
Failure to field ten (10) eligible players within fifteen (15) minutes of the scheduled start time shall result in a forfeit.
A no-show forfeit may result in:
• A $200 administrative fine
• Loss of standings points
• Additional disciplinary action as determined by the Commissioner
Use of ineligible players, failure to comply with roster rules, or use of illegal equipment (including bats not permitted under league standards) may result in:
• Immediate removal
• Game forfeiture
• Suspension
• Additional discipline
Alcohol and illegal drugs are prohibited on all playing fields and surrounding competition areas during official league activities.
Host teams and participants are responsible for ensuring that dugouts and competition areas are cleaned up in a reasonable manner following each game.
All enforcement decisions under this Article shall be made by the Commissioner and shall be final and binding.
Article X – Accessibility & Innovation
The Commissioner may approve temporary or experimental adaptations to league rules, procedures, or game operations for the purpose of improving:
• Participant safety
• Competitive fairness
• Accessibility for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing athletes
• Overall participant experience
Such adaptations may be implemented on a pilot basis for a specified period or event.
All experimental measures shall:
• Remain consistent with the league’s Deaf-centered mission
• Comply with applicable law and insurance requirements
• Preserve competitive integrity
Experimental adaptations do not create precedent, vested rights, or entitlement to permanent rule changes.
The Commissioner retains sole discretion to modify, suspend, adopt, or discontinue any such adaptation at any time.
All determinations under this Article shall be final and binding.
Article XI – Conduct & Discipline
All participants, coaches, captains, delegates, and affiliated personnel shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with sportsmanship, respect, and the values of NEDSO.
Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
• Unsportsmanlike behavior
• Abuse of officials, opponents, or spectators
• Fighting or threats of violence
• Harassment or discriminatory conduct
• Destruction of property
• Facility rule violations
• Conduct detrimental to the reputation or integrity of NEDSO
Progressive Discipline
Violations may result in disciplinary action, including:
• Warning
• Ejection
• Suspension
• Monetary fines
• Forfeiture of games
• Removal from team
• Permanent exclusion from the league
Progressive discipline is not mandatory. The Commissioner may impose immediate suspension or permanent exclusion where the severity of conduct warrants such action.
Incidents involving law enforcement, facility management, or safety concerns may result in immediate suspension pending review.
Appeals
Any appeal must be submitted in writing to the Commissioner within forty-eight (48) hours of notification of discipline.
Filing an appeal does not automatically stay or suspend the disciplinary action unless expressly granted in writing by the Commissioner.
The Commissioner’s determination on appeal shall be final, binding, and not subject to further review.
Article XII – Official Communication
Official notices, announcements, directives, and league communications may be disseminated through one or more of the following channels:
• Website: www.nedso.org
• Instagram: @NEDSOofficial
• Facebook Page: New England Deaf Softball Organization
• NEDSOTV
• Official league email communications
The Commissioner retains discretion to designate any of the above channels as the official method of communication for a specific notice or announcement.
Participants are responsible for regularly monitoring official league communication channels. Failure to review or acknowledge posted communications shall not excuse non-compliance with league rules, deadlines, or directives.
Direct messages, informal text messages, verbal conversations, or third-party communications shall not constitute official league notice unless expressly confirmed in writing through an official league channel.
NEDSO complies with applicable data privacy laws. Participant information shall be used solely for league administration, operational communication, and related lawful purposes.
Article XIII – Fees and Payment
Section 1. Fee Structure
a. Player Registration Fee
Each participant shall pay a non-refundable registration fee of One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($150.00) per season.
All fees are assessed on a per-season basis and apply regardless of the number of games played, innings participated in, team standing, elimination status, or individual playing time.
The Commissioner shall establish acceptable payment methods and deadlines for each season.
Section 2. Payment Deadline & Eligibility
All registration fees must be paid in full prior to roster lock and prior to participation in any official league game.
Failure to satisfy financial obligations shall result in ineligibility to participate until payment is received and verified.
The Commissioner retains authority to:
-
Establish payment deadlines
-
Designate acceptable payment methods
-
Impose administrative processing requirements
Section 3. Late/Post-Lock Fees
Following roster lock, team rosters are considered final.
Roster modifications shall be permitted only under the following circumstances:
a. Verified injury replacement;
b. A participant attaining eligibility (e.g., reaching eighteen (18) years of age);
c. Administrative correction of clerical error;
d. Permanent relocation consistent with Article III (Residence & Relocation provisions);
e. Extraordinary circumstances as determined by the Commissioner.
Administrative fees may be assessed only if a modification creates a material operational burden. The Commissioner retains discretion to waive any such fee.
All post-lock decisions are final and binding.
3.1 Mid-Season Player Entry.
Any participant who becomes eligible after the start of the season — including individuals attaining eighteen (18) years of age — shall be required to pay the full seasonal registration fee of $150.00.
No prorated fees, credits, discounts, or reductions shall apply regardless of the number of games remaining.
Section 4. Refunds, Injuries, and Extraordinary Circumstances
All registration fees are non-refundable except in cases of full league cancellation as determined by the Commissioner.
Participation in organized softball involves inherent risk. No refunds, credits, or fee adjustments shall be issued due to:
-
Injury
-
Illness
-
Suspension
-
Relocation
-
Reduced playing time
-
Voluntary withdrawal
-
Team elimination
Registration constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of NEDSO’s Registration Terms & Conditions and Waiver & Release Agreement.
Force majeure events (including but not limited to acts of God, government orders, public health emergencies, or field closures) shall not create an automatic right to refund. The Commissioner may, at his discretion, issue prorated credits or no refund.
Section 5. Transfer and Reassignment
Mid-season transfers are discouraged and shall be approved only in limited circumstances consistent with league residence policies under Article III.
No participant shall have an automatic right to change teams during the season.
If relocation qualifies for reassignment under Article III, no refund, credit, or fee adjustment shall be issued.
The Commissioner’s determination regarding reassignment shall be final and binding.
Section 6. Non-payment
Failure to satisfy financial obligations may result in:
• Ineligibility
• Forfeiture
• Suspension
• Removal from roster
• Additional administrative remedies as deemed appropriate
The Commissioner retains authority to enforce financial compliance in a manner consistent with league governance and operational integrity.
Article XIV – Local Division Hosting Framework
Section 1. Annual Hosting Obligation
Each team shall host one (1) official Local Division Competition Day during the regular season.
Hosting shall occur within the first two (2) calendar weeks of the assigned month between June and September.
Each event shall require only one (1) approved field and shall accommodate four (4) teams in a rotating schedule format as determined by the Commissioner.
Section 2. Month Selection & Scheduling Process
a. Prior to the start of the regular season, each team shall submit its preferred hosting month (June, July, August, or September) to the Commissioner.
b. If multiple teams request the same month, the Commissioner shall determine final assignments based on:
-
Competitive balance
-
Travel considerations
-
Prior-year hosting rotation (if applicable)
-
Operational feasibility
c. Final hosting months shall be approved and published before Opening Day.
No hosting changes shall be permitted after the schedule is published without the Commissioner's written approval.
Section 3. Field Approval & Cost Verification
a. The hosting team must identify a proposed field within its designated regional territory.
b. The hosting team shall submit the following for Commissioner review before securing the field:
-
Estimated rental cost
-
Field address and municipality
-
Any known permit or insurance requirements
c. The Commissioner must provide written cost approval before any deposit is paid or permit executed.
d. No facility may be reserved in the name of NEDSO without prior written authorization from the Commissioner.
The hosting team must secure the facility under the legal name of the individual authorized by the municipality. Misrepresentation of residency or facility eligibility shall result in loss of hosting privileges and possible disciplinary action.
Section 4. Pre-Season Hosting Confirmation
All hosting details must be finalized and approved prior to the start of the regular season.
Failure to secure an approved venue before Opening Day may result in:
-
Loss of hosting privilege for that season
-
Reassignment of the hosting month
-
Administrative penalties as determined by the Commissioner
Section 5. Event Cancellation & Contingency
a. If a Local Division Competition Day is canceled due to weather, field conditions, municipal restrictions, force majeure, or other unforeseen circumstances, the Commissioner shall determine whether:
-
The event will be rescheduled within the same month;
-
The event will be reassigned to another available date; or
-
The event will be canceled without rescheduling.
b. Cancellation decisions shall prioritize:
-
Player safety
-
Competitive fairness
-
Facility availability
-
Schedule integrity
c. The Commissioner’s determination shall be final and binding.
d. NEDSO is not responsible for non-refundable deposits secured without prior written approval.
Section 6. Revenue Restriction and Prohibited Activities
Local Division Competition Days are official NEDSO competition events and shall not be used for:
-
Independent fundraising
-
Charity events
-
Admission charges
-
Parking fees
-
Vendor fees
-
Merchandise sales for personal or team profit
-
Donation solicitation
No team, captain, participant, or third party may commercially exploit a Local Division Competition Day without prior written authorization from the Commissioner.
All revenue rights are reserved exclusively to NEDSO.
Violation of this Section may result in:
-
Immediate termination of hosting privileges
-
Monetary fines
-
Forfeiture of reimbursement
-
Disciplinary action
Section 7. Reimbursement Policy
Approved field rental costs may be reimbursed at the Commissioner’s discretion within thirty (30) days following successful completion of the Local Division Competition Day, subject to the conditions below:
a. The field cost must have received prior written approval from the Commissioner before any deposit or payment was made.
b. The event must have been conducted in full compliance with league standards, scheduling requirements, and operational guidelines.
c. The hosting team must submit valid receipts and proof of payment within fourteen (14) days following the event.
d. Reimbursement shall apply only to approved field rental costs. No additional expenses (including concessions, equipment, decorations, optional services, or unapproved fees) shall be eligible.
e. NEDSO shall not reimburse deposits or payments made without prior written approval.
f. Failure to comply with hosting requirements or documentation deadlines may result in denial of reimbursement.
The Commissioner’s determination regarding reimbursement eligibility shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Section 8. Authority & Enforcement
All hosting approvals, cost determinations, cancellations, scheduling decisions, and enforcement actions under this Article shall be made by the Commissioner in good faith and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Article XV – Cross-Division & Postseason Hosting (Commissioner-Controlled Events)
Section 1. Centralized Hosting Authority
All cross-division regular-season dates and all postseason competitions, including The Gauntlet, shall be secured, organized, and administered exclusively by the Commissioner.
Teams shall not independently host cross-division or postseason events.
Section 2. Venue Selection
Venues shall be selected by the Commissioner based on:
• Geographic neutrality and travel balance
• Field quality and safety standards
• Accessibility
• Scheduling availability
• Operational feasibility
Final venue selection rests solely with the Commissioner.
Section 3. Contracting & Adminstration
All facility reservations, contracts, permits, and municipal agreements shall be executed under the authority of the Commissioner.
No team, captain, or participant may enter into agreements on behalf of NEDSO without written authorization.
Section 4. Costs & Insurance
NEDSO shall be responsible for approved venue rental expenses associated with cross-division and postseason events.
NEDSO may maintain general liability insurance coverage for league protection, subject to policy limits, exclusions, deductibles, and conditions.
No specific insurance coverage is guaranteed to any participant, team, or third party.
Section 5. The Gauntlet & Championship Events
The Gauntlet Playoffs, including the Colosseum Phase, Danger Round, Semifinals, and Crown Series, shall be administered under the direct authority of the Commissioner.
Venue selection, scheduling, hosting designation, and event operations for postseason play shall be determined solely by the Commissioner.
Higher-seeded teams may receive “home designation” status for competitive purposes; however, postseason events remain Commissioner-controlled league events.
Section 6. Revenue & Commercial Rights
All revenue rights related to cross-division and postseason events are reserved exclusively to NEDSO.
This includes, but is not limited to:
• Sponsorship activation
• Vendor agreements
• Streaming and media rights
• Merchandise sales
• Event branding
Net revenue shall support league operations.
Section 7. Communication
Schedules, venue announcements, changes, and event updates shall be disseminated through official league communication channels as defined in Article XII.
Section 8. Final Authority
All decisions regarding venue selection, scheduling, costs, event structure, cancellation, or modification under this Article shall be made by the Commissioner in good faith and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Article XVI – Review, Interpretation, and Amendment
These Governance, Rules, and Operating Guidelines shall be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with league operations, safety standards, legal requirements, and NEDSO's long-term mission.
The Commissioner retains sole and exclusive authority to amend, modify, suspend, interpret, clarify, or repeal any provision of these Guidelines at any time.
Amendments of a non-emergency nature shall be communicated to team captains through official league communication channels no fewer than thirty (30) days prior to taking effect.
However, the Commissioner may implement immediate amendments without advance notice when necessary to address:
• Participant safety
• Legal compliance
• Insurance requirements
• Facility mandates
• Operational continuity
• Unforeseen competitive or structural issues
Notice of amendment does not create approval rights, voting authority, or consent power for any team, captain, participant, or delegate.
All amendments shall become effective on the date specified by the Commissioner.
In the event of any conflict between these Guidelines and the NEDSO Waiver & Release Agreement, the Waiver shall control with respect to liability, risk allocation, dispute resolution, and legal enforceability.
All interpretations under this Article shall be made in good faith by the Commissioner and shall be final, binding, and not subject to appeal.
Closing Authority Statement
These Governance, Rules, and Operating Guidelines are enacted to protect participant safety, preserve competitive integrity, uphold Deaf cultural values, and secure the long-term sustainability of Deaf softball throughout New England.
These Guidelines are binding upon all participants, teams, captains, coaches, delegates, and affiliated persons upon registration and execution of the NEDSO Waiver & Release Agreement.
In the event of any conflict between these Guidelines and the NEDSO Waiver & Release Agreement, the Waiver shall govern with respect to liability, dispute resolution, and legal enforcement.
Approved and Adopted by the Commissioner
New England Deaf Softball Organization (NEDSO)
Effective January 2026