This is the easiest question ever on this forum. Above all, I want my daughter to follow her heart and live a life that make her happy. If that's softball, great. If it isn't, then it isn't. She has my support no matter what she chooses. I haven't spent a dime that I regret if she quit right now, and the fun we've had playing softball can't ever be taken away.
I'd bet your dad will feel the same. It's a dad rule.
Unfortunately, it's a dad rule that many dads don't follow.
Even some that say they will.
I love softball, sometimes I think more than my DD. I tell her several times I year that softball is for her, not for me. If she wants to stop softball and start art, I'll get passionate about art along with her. Because I'm passionate about her, not the hobby/sport.
So SoftballGirl40, does your dad say that to you? Has he ever told you he's fine with you stopping softball if it's no longer fun?
Would a pause be a good idea? Just a few months off?