Scrimmage rules

[PDad]

Softball teams are only allowed 1 scrimmage each year and it must be held prior to their first game.

<>2503. SCRIMMAGES
An interscholastic scrimmage is a training session between a minimum of two and a maximum of three schools where no score is kept, free substitution and time outs are permitted, spectators are not urged to attend, and officials are not paid. (See Q & A following Bylaw 221.8 for definition.)
<>2503.1 Schools are permitted one interscholastic scrimmage which may not be held prior to February 26 and must be held prior to team’s first interscholastic contest (non-league, tournament, or league).

[PDad]

Ok thanks for the rule link. Actually I have looked that up and the part that stumps me, and I know I'm splitting hairs but in the rule it says "and umpires are not paid" that clearly implies that when umpires are present. If you hook up with another school, let's say you are friends with the head coach in another town, you decide to get you teams together without umps, is it considered a "scrimmage"?

The definition of a scrimmage referenced by 2503 (see below) is pretty broad and doesn't mention officials/umpires. CIF bylaws seem to regulate all athletic activities between schools.

QUESTION: What is defined as an interscholastic scrimmage?

ANSWER: An interscholastic scrimmage is defined as a training session in which students from more than one school participate, any aspect of play is exercised and no score is kept. Only students regularly enrolled in public and private CIF member schools, grades 9-12, shall be permitted to participate in a scrimmage. Alumni shall not be permitted to take part other than the one allowable contest where noted in specific sports. It should also be noted that only students enrolled in grades 9-12 at each specific school may take part in regular practice sessions.