rules for pitching

Question
QUESTION: does the pitcher's both feet have to be on the rubber when they start pitching or just one?  does the pitcher have to go in a forward position first?

ANSWER: Depends, High School, Little League, USSSA: no, no.  All others Yes, Yes

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: this is girls softball 10 & under.  when back foot comes off rubber does it have to drag or can it be in the air?

Answer
The toe of the pivot foot is to always remain in contact with the ground, this is for all organizations.  Some leeway is given here by most umpires to allow for a hole in front of the pitching plate.  The pitcher is not expected to stay in contact with the ground in a hole, just level with the plane of the field.

Tom