Slide or Surrender

Question
We need some help interpreting the slide or surrender rule as it
pertains to a runner approaching a base (going home in this
instance). The runner reaches home BEFORE the ball arrives (well
before in this case, he was past he base by a good 2 strides). If
the person waiting for the ball is not interfered by the  runner
does the runner still have to slide? I understand judgement is
required, but is it just to protect from a collision or is there
some other purpose for the rule? Clearly a runner going to 2nd
may want to go to 3rd and remain standing while he is running,
since a fielder could deke him in to sliding pretending he was
about to receive the ball. Any guidance would be great.

Answer
Good morning EL,
I'm afraid I can't help you here. ASA does not have such a rule.  In tournament play you cannot force someone to slide. In the thousands of game I've umpired I have never had to use such a rule although I have heard of it in local play. This must be a local rule, so i would ask for clarification from your local officals.
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