Building a real home for Tampa Bay wiffle ball Official Playing Rules v1.0 now published Founding team spots opening soon. Get on the list Follow the build on Instagram Building a real home for Tampa Bay wiffle ball Official Playing Rules v1.0 now published Founding team spots opening soon. Get on the list Follow the build on Instagram
Tampa Bay, Florida

Bring your team.
Play to win.

TBWT is building a real home for Tampa Bay wiffle ball, with a real rulebook, friendly staff, and cash prizes at select events. Our first tournament is set for September 12th.

First tournament, September 12th 10:00 AM
TBWT Inaugural Classic tournament flyer: Saturday September 12, 2026, 10:00 AM, 1320 5th St N, St. Petersburg FL 33701. $200 per team, 4 game guarantee, 8 team max. Click to register.
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Official rulebook

One rulebook. Every sanctioned event.

Before a single pitch is thrown, TBWT published a complete Official Playing Rules document, covering equipment, pitching, scoring, and code of conduct, so every event runs under the same standard from day one.

Read the rulebook
Player resources

Know the game before you take the field.

Review the TBWT Players Guide for team format, field dimensions, Pitcher’s Poison, the 30 MPH pitching limit, and the rules every player should know.

30 MPH
Max pitch speed
4 DEFENDERS
1 pitcher, 3 fielders
3–4
Pool play innings
5
Bracket innings
View players guide Read full rulebook
Download the one-page players guide
Why TBWT

Backyard game. Tournament standards.

TBWT exists to give wiffle ball the structure it's always deserved, without losing what makes it fun.

01

Sanctioned rules

A published rulebook governs every event. No house rules, no guesswork.

02

Helpful, not strict

Most calls are made by the players themselves. We'll have staff on hand to help settle the close ones, not to police every play.

03

Prizes on the line

Cash prizes at select events, with more added as sponsorships grow. This isn't a participation-trophy series.

04

Built for community

Individual and team stats you can point to, and a community that plays together.

Bring your crew

Refer a team, save on your own entry.

Every team you bring into TBWT knocks money off your own registration. The more teams you refer, the more you save. Details and referral codes go out once founding-team registration opens.

Get on the list
Game day

The TBWT experience

Here's what we're building toward for every sanctioned event.

TBWT regulation field dimensions diagram
The person behind it

Meet the founder

Anthony Capri, founder of TBWT

TBWT started with a simple idea: Tampa Bay's backyard wiffle ball players deserved real tournaments, with real rules, friendly staff, and real trophies, without losing the pickup-game spirit that made everyone fall in love with it in the first place.

“We're starting with one-day tournaments, but the vision is a full league Tampa Bay can be proud of.”
Anthony Capri
Founder, TBWT
Join the list

Be first to know

Get the founding tournament's date, division details, and registration info the moment they're announced.

Coming soon

Hall of champions

Every division champion will be enshrined here after TBWT's first tournament. The first names go up soon.

Coming soon

Sponsors

TBWT is looking for founding partners who want in on Tampa Bay's newest wiffle ball tournaments, and to help fund cash prizes at more events.

Become a founding sponsor
Follow along

Follow us on Instagram

Follow @TampaBayWiffle_Ball

Founding teams start here.

Spots are limited for TBWT's first tournament. Get on the list before registration opens.

Get notified
Official playing rules

TBWT rulebook

Version 1.0 Effective July 19, 2026 Authority TBWT Tournament Director

These Official Playing Rules govern every TBWT sanctioned event. Tap a rule to expand it, or jump straight to a section below.

Download full PDF
Rule 1: Spirit of the game +

1.1 League authority

These Official Playing Rules govern all TBWT sanctioned events unless modified by the Tournament Director before competition.

1.2 Purpose

These rules promote fair play, sportsmanship, player safety, consistency, and professional tournament operations.

1.3 Spirit of the game

Players are expected to compete honestly, fairly, and in accordance with both the written rules and their intent.

1.4 Sportsmanship

Participants shall respect opponents, teammates, officials, volunteers, spectators, and facilities.

1.5 Tournament Director authority

The Tournament Director has final authority over rule interpretations, scheduling, safety, eligibility, discipline, and tournament operations.

1.6 Player responsibility

Players are responsible for knowing these rules, competing honestly, and displaying good sportsmanship.

1.7 Rule interpretation

Uncovered situations shall be resolved using player safety, fairness, common sense, and the Spirit of the Game.

Rule 2: Field & equipment +

2.1 Official field dimensions

  • Left / right field: 85 ft
  • Center field: 95 ft
  • Bases: 50 ft apart
  • Pitching rubber: 33 ft
TBWT field diagram showing dimensions, foul territory, Pitcher's Circle, and the Pitcher's Poison Collection Zone

2.2 Field markings

Each field includes home plate, bases, pitching rubber, Pitcher's Circle, Collection Zone, foul lines, home run fence, and designated dead-ball areas.

2.3 Home plate

Runners must legally touch home plate to score. Running through home plate is permitted.

2.4 Bases

Bases shall be 50 feet apart and securely anchored whenever practical.

2.5 Pitcher's Circle

Used for pitching and Pitcher's Poison.

2.6 Collection Zone

A batter-runner is automatically out if the pitcher fields a batted ball cleanly while both feet are within or touching the Collection Zone.

2.7 Official strike zone

The approved standing strike zone is used. A legal pitch contacting the front face before bouncing is a strike.

Rule 3: Teams & rosters +

3.1 Team composition

Minimum roster: 4. Maximum roster: 7.

3.2 Minimum players

4 eligible players are required to start and continue a game.

3.3 Maximum players

Maximum roster is 7 players unless approved by the Tournament Director.

3.4 Batting order

Teams may bat their entire roster.

3.5 Defensive alignment

1 pitcher and 3 fielders.

3.6 Defensive substitutions

Unlimited.

3.7 Injuries

Eligible substitutes may replace injured players.

3.8 Illegal players

May result in removal, forfeiture, or disqualification.

3.9 Eligibility

Players must satisfy all TBWT eligibility requirements.

3.10 Team responsibility

Teams are responsible for roster accuracy and eligibility.

Rule 4: Game procedures +

4.1 Pre-game meeting

Ground rules and announcements may be reviewed.

4.2 Home team

Determined by schedule or Tournament Director.

4.3 Lineups

Official after the first legal pitch.

4.4 Beginning the game

Visitors bat first unless otherwise announced.

4.5 Live / dead ball

Governed by these rules.

4.6 Delays

Weather, injury, or safety may suspend play.

4.7 Suspended games

Resume when practical.

Rule 5: Batting +

5.1 Batter's position

Remain in the batter's box before the pitch.

5.2 Legal bat

Only approved Official Wiffle Ball bats may be used.

5.3 Bunting

Not permitted.

5.4 Hit by pitch

Counts as a ball.

Rule 6: Scoring +

6.1 Objective

Score more runs than the opponent.

6.2 Scoring

Touch home plate legally.

6.3 Home runs

Fair balls clearing the fence in flight score all runners.

6.4 Regulation games

Pool play: 3–4 innings. Bracket play: 5 innings.

6.5 End of inning

Three outs end the inning.

6.6 Tied games

Swing-Off in Pool Play; extra innings in Bracket Play.

6.7 Mercy rule

None unless announced.

Rule 7: Outs +

7.1 Three-out rule

Each offensive team shall continue batting until three (3) outs have been recorded. Upon the third out, teams shall immediately switch between offense and defense.

7.2 Force outs

A runner is out when a defensive player, while in possession of the live ball, touches the required base before the runner reaches that base. Force plays may occur at any base where a runner is required to advance.

7.3 Tag outs

When a force play is not in effect, a runner may be retired by being legally tagged with the live ball while not in contact with a base.

7.4 Pitcher's Poison

The batter-runner may be retired by Pitcher's Poison. To record it:

  • The pitcher must gain secure possession of the live ball.
  • The pitcher must have at least one foot in contact with the Pitcher's Circle.
  • This must occur before the batter-runner reaches first base.

No throw to first base is required. Pitcher's Poison applies only to the batter-runner and does not retire advancing runners already on base.

7.5 Collection Zone

If the pitcher fields a batted ball cleanly while both feet are within or in contact with the Collection Zone, the batter-runner is automatically declared out. No throw is required. The ball remains live, and all other runners may continue to advance at their own risk. This out applies only to the batter-runner.

Diagram of Pitcher's Poison and the Collection Zone relative to the Pitcher's Circle and home plate

7.6 Fly ball outs

Any fair or foul batted ball legally caught before touching the ground results in the batter being declared out. Runners may advance after legally tagging up when required.

7.7 Foul fly outs

A defensive player may record an out by legally catching a foul ball while having at least one foot in playable territory.

7.8 Double plays

The defense may record multiple outs during the same continuous play, using any legal combination of force outs, tag outs, and Pitcher's Poison. For example, a force out at second followed by Pitcher's Poison before the batter-runner reaches first.

7.9 Runner hit by fair batted ball

A runner struck by a fair batted ball before it passes an infielder who has a reasonable opportunity to make a play shall be declared out. The batter is awarded first base unless another rule applies.

7.10 Offensive interference

Any offensive player who intentionally interferes with a defensive player attempting to field or throw a live ball may be declared out. Additional runners may also be declared out if warranted.

7.11 Appeals

The defense may appeal missed bases, failure to tag up, or batting out of order. Appeals must be made before the next legal pitch, or before all defensive players have left fair territory at the end of the inning.

7.12 Infield fly rule

Not used in TBWT competition. All fair fly balls remain live until caught or until they touch the ground.

Rule 8: Pitching +

8.1 Legal pitcher

Any defensive player may pitch. The pitcher must begin each pitch from the rubber with at least one foot in contact with it.

8.2 Pitching distance

The pitching rubber is located 33 feet from the rear point of home plate.

8.3 Delivery

A pitch must be delivered in one continuous motion toward home plate. Any arm angle or release point is allowed, provided it isn't intentionally deceptive or dangerous.

8.4 Pitch speed

Maximum legal pitch speed is 30 MPH, which staff may verify with an approved radar device. A pitch exceeding the max is an illegal pitch; repeated violations may bring warnings, awarded balls, or further penalties.

8.5 Pitching motion

The pitcher may not intentionally stop, restart, or otherwise alter the pitching motion to deceive the batter once delivery has begun. A violation is an illegal pitch.

8.6 Quick pitch

The pitcher may not deliver a pitch before the batter has a reasonable chance to get set. A quick pitch is an illegal pitch.

8.7 Illegal pitch

Includes exceeding max speed, a quick pitch, improper rubber contact, stopping/restarting the motion, or any delivery judged illegal by tournament officials. Penalty: one ball awarded to the batter, unless another penalty is specified.

8.8 Pitching position

The pitcher may field their position immediately after releasing the ball and move freely within the field of play.

8.9 Defensive plays by the pitcher

The pitcher may catch batted balls, field ground balls, and record force outs, tag outs, Peg Outs, Pitcher's Poison, and Collection Zone outs. The pitcher is a defensive fielder once the ball is released.

8.10 Warm-up pitches

Allowed before the first inning and at the start of any inning where a new pitcher enters, subject to reasonable limits set by officials.

8.11 Pitching changes

Teams may change pitchers between innings or during an inning, with appropriate warm-up throws for the new pitcher. No limit on changes unless announced beforehand.

8.12 Injured pitchers

If a pitcher can't continue due to injury, another eligible defensive player may immediately take over pitching duties.

8.13 Unsportsmanlike pitching

A pitcher who intentionally throws at a batter or delivers a dangerous pitch may be warned, removed from pitching, ejected, or further disciplined.

8.14 Pace of play

Pitchers shall make a reasonable effort to deliver pitches without unnecessary delay; repeated intentional delays may bring warnings or penalties.

Rule 9: Balls, strikes & at-bats +

9.1 Beginning the at-bat

Each batter begins at 0 balls and 0 strikes. The at-bat continues until the batter reaches base safely, is put out, records a hit, walks, strikes out, or is otherwise retired.

9.2 Strike zone

A pitch is a strike when it legally contacts the front face of the strike zone before touching the ground, is swung at and missed, or is fouled (except where otherwise provided).

9.3 Ball

A pitch is a ball when it doesn't legally contact the strike zone, isn't swung at, isn't otherwise ruled a strike, or is awarded due to an illegal pitch.

9.4 Strike count

A batter receives a strike on a swing and miss, a legal pitch striking the strike zone, or a foul ball with fewer than two strikes.

9.5 Foul balls with two strikes

A foul ball with two strikes does not result in a strikeout. The at-bat continues, unless the batter intentionally bunts (Rule 5).

9.6 Strikeout

A batter is out on the third strike; the ball is immediately dead unless otherwise provided. There is no dropped third strike rule in TBWT.

9.7 Walk

A batter is awarded first base on four balls, subject to the consecutive walk limitation below. All forced runners advance one base.

9.8 Consecutive walk limitation

A pitcher may issue only one consecutive walk. If the same pitcher issues a second consecutive walk, the batter is awarded first base as normal and the consecutive-walk count resets to zero. The same pitcher may keep pitching.

9.9 Intentional walks

Not permitted. A pitcher trying to intentionally avoid the strike zone is still subject to the consecutive walk limitation.

9.10 No pitch

Declared when play is properly suspended before the pitch reaches the batter (time called, unsafe conditions, outside interference, equipment failure). No balls or strikes are charged.

9.11 Illegal pitch penalty

One ball is added to the count, unless another penalty is specified elsewhere.

9.12 Pace of play

Both pitchers and batters shall avoid unnecessary delays between pitches; repeated violations may bring warnings or penalties.

Rule 10: Base running +

10.1 Becoming a runner

A batter becomes a runner immediately upon hitting a fair ball or being awarded first base by rule.

10.2 Running the bases

Runners advance first, second, third, home. Bases must be touched in sequence unless otherwise awarded.

10.3 No leading

Runners must stay in contact with their base until the pitched ball reaches home plate. Leaving early is an out.

10.4 No stealing

Prohibited. A runner may only advance on a fair batted ball, a forced advance, an awarded base, or a live-ball advance permitted under these rules.

10.5 Overrunning first base

A batter-runner may overrun first without liability to be put out, provided they immediately return toward first and don't attempt to advance to second.

10.6 Tagging up

On a legally caught fly ball, runners may advance once the ball is first touched by a defensive player. Leaving early can be appealed.

10.7 Forced advancement

When a batter is awarded first base or becomes a runner, existing runners advance only if forced.

10.8 Overthrows

A live overthrow remains in play; runners may advance at their own risk until play is declared dead. No automatic base awards for overthrows that stay in the field of play. If an overthrow leaves the field, runners are awarded bases per Rule 11.

10.9 Peg Outs

A runner not in contact with a base may be retired by a legal Peg Out (Rule 7).

10.10 Sliding

Permitted but not required, headfirst or feet first, provided it isn't malicious or intended to create unnecessary contact.

10.11 Avoiding contact

Runners must make every reasonable effort to avoid unnecessary collisions; defenders without the ball may not intentionally obstruct a runner's path.

10.12 Missed bases

A runner who fails to touch a required base may be declared out on a proper defensive appeal.

10.13 Base awards

When bases are awarded by rule, runners advance only the number of bases specified.

10.14 Dead ball

Runners return to the last legally obtained base unless awarded additional bases by rule; no advancing while the ball is dead except by rule.

Rule 11: Fair & foul balls +

11.1 Fair ball

Comes to rest in fair territory before first/third, first touches the ground in fair territory, passes over first or third over fair territory, first contacts a player/umpire/object in fair territory, or leaves the field in flight over fair territory. A fair ball remains live unless otherwise declared dead.

11.2 Foul ball

Comes to rest in foul territory before first/third, first touches the ground in foul territory, first contacts a player/umpire/object in foul territory, or leaves the field over foul territory. Dead immediately unless legally caught for an out.

11.3 Foul territory

All areas outside the foul lines; Tournament Directors may set additional dead-ball areas for safety.

11.4 Dead-ball areas

If a live ball enters a designated dead-ball area, play stops immediately and runners are awarded bases per 11.6 or returned to their last legally obtained base.

11.5 Home runs

A fair ball that completely clears the home run boundary in flight scores the batter and all runners; no defensive play may follow.

11.6 Ball leaving the field of play

On a live ball leaving the field other than a home run (overthrows, deflections, or otherwise), each runner is awarded one base from the last legally obtained base, unless the Tournament Director announces otherwise beforehand.

11.7 Ball lodged in equipment or fence

The ball becomes dead immediately; the Tournament Director awards bases based on judgment of what would have been achieved had the ball stayed playable.

11.8 Catch near boundaries

A fielder may legally catch a fair or foul fly ball provided possession is secured before the ball touches the ground and at least one foot remains in live playable territory at the time of the catch. Carrying momentum into dead-ball territory after securing the catch still counts as an out.

11.9 Fence contact

A live ball that rebounds off an outfield or temporary fence and stays in the field of play remains live; fielders may keep making plays and runners may advance at their own risk.

11.10 Ground rules

Because TBWT tournaments are played at different facilities, the Tournament Director may announce field-specific ground rules covering temporary fences, uneven surfaces, obstacles, dugouts, or spectator areas. Ground rules never override the Official Playing Rules except where specifically authorized for safety or facility limitations.

11.11 Director discretion

Any boundary situation not specifically covered shall be resolved by the Tournament Director using safety, fairness, and the intent and spirit of these rules. All decisions are final.

Rule 12: Game administration +

12.1 Tournament officials

Games are administered by the Tournament Director, designated officials, or authorized staff, who enforce these rules and maintain a fair, safe, orderly environment.

12.2 Authority of officials

Officials may enforce the rules, interpret uncovered situations, issue warnings, eject participants, suspend or terminate play for safety, and resolve scoring/procedural disputes. All rulings are final.

12.3 Protests

Judgment calls aren't subject to protest. Only the interpretation or application of a rule may be. A protest must be made before the next legal pitch, or before both teams leave the field if the play ends the game. The Tournament Director issues the final ruling.

12.4 Injuries

Play is suspended when appropriate; staff may assist; the player may continue if medically able, or a substitute may enter per Rule 3. Safety always comes first.

12.5 Weather delays

The Tournament Director may suspend, postpone, shorten, relocate, or cancel games for lightning, heavy rain, unsafe conditions, or other concerns. Every reasonable effort is made to complete scheduled games.

12.6 Equipment failure

Play may be suspended until essential equipment is repaired or replaced.

12.7 Pace of play

Teams take the field promptly, keep warm-ups reasonable, start innings without delay, and follow staff instructions. Repeated delays may bring warnings or penalties.

12.8 Scorekeeping

The official scorekeeper maintains the official score; errors should be reported immediately, and the Tournament Director resolves disputes.

12.9 Communication

Only a team's designated captain may request rule interpretations or discuss official rulings with tournament officials during a game.

12.10 Ejections

Any player, coach, or spectator may be ejected for unsportsmanlike behavior, profanity, threats, fighting, property damage, or refusing tournament instructions. An ejected participant must leave the playing area immediately.

12.11 Video review

Video or spectator footage may not be used to overturn judgment calls unless the Tournament Director announces the use of video review before the tournament.

12.12 Tournament Director discretion

Uncovered situations are resolved using fairness, safety, competitive integrity, and the Spirit of the Game. The Tournament Director's decision is final.

Rule 13: Tournament format +

13.1 Tournament structure

Events may include Pool Play, Single Elimination, Double Elimination, Modified Elimination, Round Robin, or other formats announced beforehand. The format is published prior to competition whenever practical.

13.2 Pool play

Determines standings and advancement into bracket play. Unless otherwise announced, pool games run 3–4 innings depending on team count, field availability, and schedule.

13.3 Bracket play

Determines the champion. Unless otherwise announced, bracket games run 5 innings, continue until a winner is decided, and go to extra innings if tied after regulation.

13.4 Seeding

Tiebreakers in order: winning percentage, run differential, runs allowed, runs scored, head-to-head result, then coin flip or random draw.

13.5 Forfeits

Recorded as a loss for the forfeiting team and a win for the opponent; repeated or intentional forfeits may result in removal from the tournament.

13.6 Team withdrawal

Previously played games remain official; the Tournament Director determines how remaining games affect standings.

13.7 Tournament adjustments

The Tournament Director may adjust innings, game times, pool games, brackets, fields, or schedules due to weather, field availability, safety, withdrawals, facility limits, or time constraints, always aiming to preserve competitive integrity.

13.8 Official standings

Maintained by the Tournament Director or staff; considered final once bracket play begins, barring a mathematical or administrative error.

13.9 Championship game

Determines the tournament champion; additional awards or procedures may be announced beforehand.

13.10 Tournament awards

May include Champions, Runner-Up, individual achievements, sportsmanship, and other categories that vary by event.

13.11 Director discretion

The Tournament Director may make reasonable operational adjustments that don't fundamentally alter the rules or unfairly disadvantage any team, communicated in advance whenever practical.

13.12 Minimum game guarantee

Unless otherwise advertised, the minimum guaranteed games are set by the published format. If severe weather, facility closures, or other events beyond TBWT's control prevent completion, the Tournament Director may modify the schedule or format as needed.

Rule 14: Official equipment +

14.1 Official game ball

The Official Wiffle® Ball or another ball approved by the Tournament Director; only tournament-issued game balls may be used.

14.2 Official bat

The yellow Wiffle® Bat or another approved bat; no unapproved bat may be used.

14.3 Bat modifications

Grip tape, athletic tape, and approved grip sleeves are allowed. Altering the barrel, adding weight, shaving, or any performance-boosting modification is prohibited and any altered bat is removed from play.

14.4 Strike zone

The official TBWT-approved freestanding strike zone, which must stay securely positioned before each pitch and be reset if displaced.

14.5 Bases

Placed 50 feet apart per Rule 2, securely anchored whenever practical while maintaining safety.

14.6 Home run boundary

Established before each game using temporary fencing, rope, netting, or painted lines; field-specific modifications are announced pre-game.

14.7 Pitching rubber

Positioned 33 feet from home plate; only the official pitching location may be used.

14.8 Uniforms

Matching uniforms encouraged but not required unless announced. Shirts and appropriate athletic footwear are required.

14.9 Jewelry & personal equipment

Personal items are allowed if they present no safety hazard; officials may require removal of anything deemed dangerous.

14.10 Equipment inspection

Officials may inspect any equipment; unsafe, altered, or non-compliant equipment is removed from play immediately.

14.11 Damaged equipment

Any damaged bat, ball, strike zone, or base is replaced as soon as practical; play may briefly pause for safety.

14.12 Tournament Director approval

The Tournament Director may approve equivalent equipment when official gear is unavailable, preserving the intent and integrity of these rules.

Rule 15: Code of conduct +

15.1 Purpose

Promotes a safe, respectful, enjoyable environment for all participants, officials, volunteers, and spectators.

15.2 Sportsmanship

Players compete honestly and fairly, respect everyone involved, accept official decisions respectfully, and show good sportsmanship in victory and defeat.

15.3 Respect for officials

Officials are treated with respect at all times; judgment calls are final. Rule interpretations may be requested only through a team captain (Rule 12). No arguing, intimidating, or verbally abusing staff.

15.4 Respect for opponents

No taunting, abusive or discriminatory language, provoking confrontations, or embarrassing celebrations. Competitive enthusiasm is encouraged provided it stays respectful.

15.5 Fighting & physical contact

Strictly prohibited; any participant involved may be immediately ejected and may face suspension or permanent removal from future events.

15.6 Dangerous play

No throwing at another player's head or neck, malicious collisions, unsportsmanlike contact, or creating unsafe conditions. Safety always comes before competitive advantage.

15.7 Alcohol & drugs

Participants may not compete while impaired; the Tournament Director may remove anyone whose condition presents a safety concern.

15.8 Damage to property

Participants must respect facilities and equipment; intentional damage may bring ejection, financial responsibility, suspension, or further discipline.

15.9 Spectator conduct

Spectators are expected to behave respectfully; officials may remove anyone whose behavior interferes with the event or creates an unsafe environment.

15.10 Social media

Sharing tournament experiences is encouraged. Using social media to harass participants, threaten officials, spread knowingly false information, or damage TBWT's reputation is not allowed. Constructive feedback is always welcome.

15.11 Penalties

Violations may bring a verbal or official warning, removal from the game, game forfeiture, tournament ejection, suspension from future events, or a permanent ban. Severity is determined by the Tournament Director.

15.12 Tournament Director authority

The Tournament Director may investigate conduct before, during, or after a tournament when it materially affects the safety, integrity, or reputation of TBWT events.

15.13 Spirit of the game

Not every situation is covered by a written rule. Participants are expected to compete with honesty, integrity, respect, and good judgment; uncovered situations are resolved using fairness, safety, and sportsmanship.

Appendix A: Swing-off procedure +

A.1 Purpose

Used to determine tied Pool Play games.

A.2 Initial round

Three batters receive three swings each.

A.3 Second round

If still tied, two additional batters receive three swings each.

A.4 Sudden death

One batter per team alternates until a winner is determined.

A.5 Eligible batters

All lineup players are eligible before repeats.

A.6 Pitching

The offensive team's own pitcher throws during the Swing-Off.

A.7 Official swings

Only swings count toward the three allotted attempts.

A.8 Home runs

Only fair home runs count.

A.9 Final authority

All Swing-Off rulings are final.

Required for all participants

Waiver & media consent

Version 1.0 Applies to Every participant, every event

Every player signs this before stepping on the field, covering assumption of risk, release of liability, and media consent. Sign electronically below, or download a printable copy if you'd rather sign on paper.

Download printable PDF instead
How signing works

Sign electronically using the form above, no separate paperwork needed. Anyone under 18 needs a parent or legal guardian to complete the signature section as well. Prefer paper? Download the PDF, print it, and bring your signed copy to check-in instead.

NOTICE TO THE MINOR CHILD'S
NATURAL GUARDIAN

READ THIS FORM COMPLETELY AND CAREFULLY. YOU ARE AGREEING TO LET YOUR MINOR CHILD ENGAGE IN A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ACTIVITY. YOU ARE AGREEING THAT, EVEN IF TAMPA BAY WIFFLEBALL TOURNAMENTS (TBWT) USES REASONABLE CARE IN PROVIDING THIS ACTIVITY, THERE IS A CHANCE YOUR CHILD MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS ACTIVITY BECAUSE THERE ARE CERTAIN DANGERS INHERENT IN THE ACTIVITY WHICH CANNOT BE AVOIDED OR ELIMINATED. BY SIGNING THIS FORM YOU ARE GIVING UP YOUR CHILD'S RIGHT AND YOUR RIGHT TO RECOVER FROM TAMPA BAY WIFFLEBALL TOURNAMENTS (TBWT) IN A LAWSUIT FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, TO YOUR CHILD OR ANY PROPERTY DAMAGE THAT RESULTS FROM THE RISKS THAT ARE A NATURAL PART OF THE ACTIVITY. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO SIGN THIS FORM, AND TAMPA BAY WIFFLEBALL TOURNAMENTS (TBWT) HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO LET YOUR CHILD PARTICIPATE IF YOU DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM.

Participant eligibility +

Participants certify they are at least 18 years of age. Anyone under 18 may participate only with the written consent of a parent or legal guardian and approval from TBWT, which reserves the right to deny participation to any minor at its sole discretion.

Assumption of risk +

Participants acknowledge that wiffle ball involves inherent risks that can't be eliminated, including:

  • Being struck by a ball, bat, or other equipment.
  • Slipping, tripping, falling, diving, or colliding with players or objects.
  • Muscle strains, sprains, fractures, concussions, cuts, bruises, or other injuries.
  • Heat exhaustion, dehydration, sun exposure, lightning, and other weather-related conditions.
  • Uneven playing surfaces or other field hazards.
  • Injuries resulting from the actions or negligence of other participants or spectators.

Participants voluntarily assume all of these risks by signing.

Medical fitness +

Participants certify they're physically able to play and have no medical condition that would make participation unsafe, and that it's their responsibility to consult a physician with any concerns beforehand.

Release of liability +

In exchange for being allowed to participate, participants release, waive, discharge, and agree not to sue TBWT, its owners, directors, officials, volunteers, employees, sponsors, facility owners, municipalities, and affiliates, from claims arising from participation, including ordinary negligence, to the fullest extent permitted by Florida law. This covers personal injury, illness, death, property damage, or any other loss from tournament activities.

Indemnification and hold harmless +

Participants agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless TBWT, its owners, officials, volunteers, and employees from any and all claims, actions, suits, procedures, costs, expenses, damages, and liabilities, including attorney's fees, brought as a result of their involvement in tournament activities, and to reimburse them for any such expenses incurred.

Medical treatment authorization +

If a participant is injured or has a medical emergency during an event, TBWT staff are authorized to obtain reasonably necessary emergency medical treatment. The participant is solely responsible for any resulting medical expenses.

Equipment responsibility +

Participants are responsible for making sure any equipment they bring is safe and in proper condition, and agree to use tournament-provided equipment responsibly and return it in substantially the same condition, excluding normal wear.

Photography, video & media release +

Participants grant TBWT the unrestricted right to photograph, film, livestream, and record their participation, and authorize use of their name, image, likeness, voice, and results in promotional materials, the website, social media, livestreams, print, and future marketing, without additional notice or compensation.

Code of conduct & substance policy +

Participants agree to conduct themselves respectfully before, during, and after events. The following may result in penalties, ejection, or removal without refund:

  • Unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • Fighting or threatening behavior.
  • Harassment or discrimination.
  • Abuse toward officials, volunteers, opponents, or spectators.
  • Intentional damage to tournament or facility property.
  • Any conduct deemed unsafe or detrimental to the event.

Participants also agree not to play while impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, or any substance that creates an unsafe playing environment. Officials may remove anyone believed to be impaired. Tournament officials have final say on conduct matters.

Weather, rules & legal terms +

Participants understand games may be delayed, shortened, rescheduled, or canceled due to weather or other circumstances beyond TBWT's control, and agree to abide by published refund and cancellation policies.

Participants acknowledge they've had the opportunity to read the Official Playing Rules and agree tournament officials have final authority on rule interpretation and administration.

An electronic signature at registration carries the same legal force as a handwritten one.

Governing law and jurisdiction: This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida. Any legal action, suit, or proceeding arising out of or relating to this waiver or participation in TBWT events must be filed exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Pinellas County, Florida, and all parties consent to the personal jurisdiction of such courts. If any provision of this agreement is determined to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Download the full waiver (PDF)
Our story

Why TBWT exists

TBWT exists to give Tampa Bay's wiffle ball players a real home: consistent tournaments, real rules, and a place to build something together.

Meet the founder
Anthony Capri, founder of TBWT

TBWT started with a simple idea: Tampa Bay's backyard wiffle ball players deserved real tournaments, with real rules, friendly staff, and real trophies, without losing the pickup-game spirit that made everyone fall in love with it in the first place. What began as a rulebook draft is turning into a full-fledged tournament organization.

“We're starting with one-day tournaments, but the vision is a full league Tampa Bay can be proud of.”
Anthony Capri
Founder, TBWT
Founding teams

Get on the list

TBWT's first tournament, divisions, and entry fees haven't been announced yet. Sign up below and you'll be first to hear when founding-team registration opens. No payment, no commitment, just first access.

No payment required. This just puts you on the founding-teams list. Division structure, tournament dates, and entry fees will be announced before registration opens. Every player will sign our waiver & media consent as part of registration.
Get in touch

Contact TBWT

Questions about our first tournament, interested in sponsoring, or just want to say hello? Send us a note.

Reach us

Tampa Bay, FL

Email: info@tampabaywiffleball.com

Follow along
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Legal

Privacy policy

Version 1.1 Last updated July 2026

This page explains what information Tampa Bay Wiffleball Tournaments (TBWT) collects through this website, why we collect it, and how it's handled. We keep this simple and honest: we're a small tournament operator, not a data company, and we only collect what we actually need to run events and keep in touch with players.

What information we collect +

Depending on how you interact with the site, we may collect:

  • Name, email address, and phone number, when you fill out our contact form, founding-teams interest form, or newsletter sign-up.
  • Full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, team name, and emergency contact information, when you complete the participant waiver.
  • Signature and a submission timestamp, captured automatically when you sign the waiver electronically through our form provider.
  • Payment information, when you register for a tournament. This is collected and processed directly by Stripe. TBWT does not see, receive, or store your card number or full payment details.
  • General site usage data (pages visited, approximate location, device and browser type), collected automatically through Google Analytics.
How we use this information +

We use the information above to:

  • Register players and teams for tournaments and confirm entry.
  • Contact participants and emergency contacts if needed before or during an event.
  • Maintain a valid, signed waiver on file for every participant, as required for insurance and liability purposes.
  • Send tournament announcements and updates to people who've asked to be notified.
  • Understand how people use this site so we can improve it.

We do not sell personal information, and we do not use it for anything beyond running TBWT events and communicating with our community.

Third-party services we use +

This site relies on a few outside services to function. When you use these features, information is shared with:

  • Stripe — handles all tournament payment processing. Stripe's own privacy policy governs how they handle your payment data.
  • Google Forms — powers our contact, founding-teams interest, and newsletter sign-up forms. Governed by Google's privacy policy.
  • Google Analytics — tracks general site usage so we can see which pages are useful and which aren't. Also governed by Google's privacy policy.
  • Jotform — handles electronic signature collection for the participant waiver, and records a timestamp for every submission. Governed by Jotform's privacy policy, which has full details on what technical data they capture.

Each of these companies has its own privacy policy governing how they handle data on their platforms, separate from this one.

Cookies and tracking +

This site uses cookies through Google Analytics to understand general site usage, such as which pages get visited and how people found the site. These cookies don't identify you personally by name.

You can block or delete cookies at any time through your browser's settings, though some site features may not work as smoothly without them. This site does not currently respond to browser "Do Not Track" signals, since there's no industry-standard way to honor them consistently across browsers yet.

Information about minors +

Some TBWT participants are under 18. For any participant under 18, we require a parent or legal guardian to review and sign the waiver on the minor's behalf, which includes providing the guardian's own contact information. We do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children without a parent or guardian's involvement in the registration and waiver process, consistent with the intent of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

How we protect your information +

We take reasonable steps to keep your information secure, including relying on established, reputable providers (Stripe, Google, Jotform) that maintain their own security standards for the data they process on our behalf. That said, no method of storage or transmission over the internet is ever 100% secure, and we can't guarantee absolute security.

How long we keep information +

We keep signed waivers and participant records for as long as reasonably necessary for insurance, liability, and record-keeping purposes related to the events you participated in. Contact form submissions and newsletter sign-ups are kept until you ask us to remove them.

Your rights and choices +

You can ask us at any time to:

  • Tell you what personal information we have on file for you.
  • Correct inaccurate information.
  • Delete your information, subject to what we're required to retain for waiver, insurance, or legal purposes.
  • Unsubscribe from tournament announcements or newsletter emails at any time.

To make any of these requests, email us at info@tampabaywiffleball.com.

Changes to this policy +

As TBWT grows and we add or change the tools we use, we'll update this page to reflect that. The "last updated" date at the top will always reflect the most recent version.

Questions about this policy or how your information is handled? Reach out any time at info@tampabaywiffleball.com.
Player resources

TBWT players guide

Everything you need to know before taking the field. This guide highlights the tournament format, field setup, equipment, and most important playing rules. The complete Official Playing Rules remain the final authority for all TBWT events.

Read full rulebook Join the interest list
Team formatGame format30 MPH rule Pitcher’s PoisonField diagramEquipment Full rulebook

Team format

  • Minimum roster: 4 players
  • Maximum roster: 7 players
  • Four defensive players: 1 pitcher and 3 fielders
  • Teams may bat their entire roster
  • Defensive substitutions are unlimited
  • Players may freely re-enter the game

Game format

  • Pool play games are 3 to 4 innings
  • Tournament Director announces pool-play length before the event
  • Bracket and playoff games are always 5 innings
  • Four-game guarantee unless announced otherwise
  • Playoffs use a single-elimination bracket
  • Eight-run maximum per inning, final inning unlimited
30 MPH

Pitching limit

TBWT uses slow-pitch wiffle ball rules. A pitch may not exceed 30 MPH.

  • A pitch above 30 MPH is ruled a no-pitch
  • If the batter does not swing, the pitch does not count
  • If the batter swings and misses, the pitch does not count
  • If the batter swings and puts the ball in play, the result stands
  • Knuckleballs and eephus-style pitches are allowed
  • There is no required pitching arc
  • A hit batter is ruled a ball
Radar readings and pitch-speed enforcement will be handled according to the Official Playing Rules and event procedures.

Why this matters: the speed limit keeps pitching competitive while preserving the slow-pitch format and making the game accessible to a wider range of players.

Pitcher’s Poison

When the bases are empty, the pitcher may record a force out at first base through Pitcher’s Poison.

TBWT field diagram: 33 feet pitcher to home plate, 50 foot base paths, 95 foot center field, 85 foot foul lines, yellow line marks the Pitcher's Poison collection zone in front of home plate
  • The pitcher must cleanly field a fair batted ball inside the collection zone
  • The pitcher must secure possession before the batter-runner reaches first base
  • If both conditions are satisfied, the batter-runner is automatically out
  • The yellow line marks the collection zone
  • If the ball is not cleanly controlled, play remains live
View complete Pitcher’s Poison rule →
1
Field the ball inside the yellow zone
2
Secure possession before the runner reaches first
3
Record the automatic out

Official equipment

✓ Ball provided
✓ Bat provided
✓ Cleats recommended
✕ No metal cleats
✓ Batting gloves optional
✓ Water recommended
1

Maximum pitch speed is 30 MPH

2

Pool play is 3 to 4 innings

3

Bracket games are 5 innings

4

No bunting

5

No leading off

6

No stealing

7

Unlimited foul balls

8

Two consecutive walks award first base

9

Pitcher’s Poison applies when bases are empty

10

Pegging is allowed, but throws at the face are prohibited

The Players Guide is a simplified reference. It does not replace the Official Playing Rules, Tournament Policies, event-specific instructions, or Tournament Director decisions.

Need the full ruling?

The Players Guide is a quick reference. The current version of the TBWT Official Playing Rules controls if there is any conflict, omission, or unusual game situation.

Read the official rulebook Download players guide PDF QR code linking to the TBWT Official Playing Rules
Scan for the full rulebook
Full rulebook
TBWT field diagram, enlarged