softball delivery

Question
QUESTION: I have a 10 and under girls team. We have a pitcher in our league who after becoming set takes two big circles with her glove and the ball before delivering to home. Is this legal?

ANSWER: No Jerry, this is not legal.  The throwing arm can only make one full revolution and it can only be in one direction.  For clarification, one revolution is defined as "not two revolutions"  the rule is worded like this to allow the pitcher to begin her windmill with the throwing hand containing the ball back behind the body.  This would result in the hand passing the hip twice before release.  If this is what your calling "two big circles" then this would be legal.

Coach Mike

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

QUESTION: Mike,
Thanks for your answer, I am not certain I explained myself correctly.   The pitcher will start off with both hands in front of her body (glove and other hand in glove with ball) and take two circles (like she is cranking) this is in front of her chest, the take the revolution around and deliver the ball.

Answer
Sorry, Jerry, I didn't understand you the first time.  I can't say that I have ever seen that before.  I don't see that it would gain her any advantage other than being a distraction to the hitter.  When the hands are brought together, the hands may be motionless or moving.  By rule, although unusual, this is not illegal.

Coach Mike