the batter at deck

Question
  While i was playing catcher the pitcher pitched the ball and i missed it, well the batter at third base stole the base while she was stealing the batter on deck was right beside the home plate. Instead of me tossing the ball to the pitcher i tossed it to the on deck batter.  Would that be cald  interfeirence?  would the batter be out?  what is the age limit to be an umpire, ours had to be at least 60 to 70 years old?  

Answer
Amanda, thanks for the question!

First of all, there is no age limit for umpires, young or old.  As long as the organization providing umpires feels they are qualified to umpire, you can bet you'll see them Saturdays and Sundays.  I know two umpires personally that started out as umpires at age 13.  For a few years they routinely umpired teams with players that were older than they were and now are two of the youngest umpires working Division I NCAA College Softball.  Umpires are usually in short supply and almost every weekend are in great demand to help cover games.  Many places are using only 1 umpire (even in high school fast pitch games).  If you are lucky enough to have at least two umpires on your field, be happy that there are two people dedicated to giving you the best quality softball experience they can provide.  

Ok, let's get to the meat!  So you feel that the batter interfered with your play?  What is interference?  I'll use the 2006 ASA Official Rules Of Softball.  (TCS also uses ASA rules with some minor modifications.)

Interference - Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member, umpire or spectator that impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play. Contact is not necessary.

One other thing to note on this play is that the batter's box, like the coach's box, is not a sanctuary (or safe place) for a batter to remain no matter what play occurs on the field.  The batter, regardless where they stand, can not at ANY time impede, hinder, or confuse a defensive player, intentionally or not.

Now according to your question, it sounds like you may have had some interference occur on this play.  It's still one of those "I had to be there to see it" plays, but as you describe the events, you may have a case for interference.

I hope this answers your question, any additional comments or questions please ask!