Kickball is a popular game that offers elements of soccer, softball, and baseball, making it a unique and enjoyable experience for players of all ages. Originally introduced as a way to familiarize school children with baseball in US public schools, kickball has gained immense popularity, particularly in the USA, South Korea, Japan, and Canada.
Object of the Game
The objective of kickball is for one team to score more runs than the opposing team. Each player strives to achieve this by kicking the ball, running all the bases, and scoring points. The opposing team’s goal is to prevent runs by catching the ball or forcing players out at a base. Additionally, kickball serves as a simplified and effective introduction to the more complex game of baseball for youngsters.
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Players & Equipment
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Kickball can be played with any number of participants, but it is commonly played with teams ranging from 5 to 15 players. The World Adult Kickball Association (WAKA) recommends team sizes between 8 and 11 players. While a softball field is ideal, kickball can be played on any surface with four bases arranged in a diamond shape, 20 feet apart according to WAKA rules or adjusted as necessary.
The pitching strip should be positioned directly in front of the home plate, aligned with the first and third bases, and a boundary should be clearly marked. The only essential equipment required is a ball, typically made of inflated rubber and measuring between 8 and 16 inches in circumference. However, teams can also use a soccer ball as a suitable alternative.
Scoring and Winning the Game
Scoring in kickball is straightforward. A run is scored when a runner safely reaches the home plate before the completion of an inning. If the ball is kicked and clears the outfield boundary, the runner who kicked the ball, along with any other runners on bases, can run unopposed to the home plate, each scoring a run.
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The team with the higher number of runs at the end of their allotted innings is declared the winner. In the case of a tied game, WAKA suggests using an “accuracy kick” competition. In this scenario, one designated kicker from each team kicks towards 2nd base from the home plate. The kicker whose ball comes closest to the base secures the victory for their team.
Rules of Kickball
- Kickball can be played on various pitches or surfaces, though it is commonly played on a softball diamond.
- Games generally consist of 6 innings, but the number can be flexible when not adhering to WAKA rules, as long as both teams agree.
- Kickballs are typically made of inflated rubber and vary in size, usually measuring between 8 and 16 inches in diameter.
- Team sizes in kickball can vary, especially in school sports sessions, although WAKA recommends teams with 8 to 11 players.
- The order of kickers is not specified, but it is common practice to alternate between genders.
- Unlike baseball, there are no strikeouts, leading off, or stealing bases in kickball.
- The play ends once the ball returns to the pitcher.
- A player can be declared out in kickball if the ball is caught by an opponent, if they are tagged out, or if they are forced out at a base by an opposing player.
- To score a run, a runner simply needs to safely reach the home plate before the end of the inning.
- Fair play is highly valued in kickball, with players expected to self-monitor and “walk” off the field if they believe they are out, rather than waiting for the referee’s decision. Any form of cheating or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in immediate expulsion from the game.
FAQs
Q: How did kickball originate?
A: Kickball was invented in the United States in the early 20th century as a way to introduce school children to baseball in public schools.
Q: Is kickball only played by children?
A: While kickball is primarily played by children and young people, there are also adult players and teams around the world, governed by the World Adult Kickball Association (WAKA).
Q: What equipment is needed to play kickball?
A: Kickball only requires a ball, typically made of inflated rubber, and a playing field with four bases arranged in a diamond shape.
Summary
Kickball is a thrilling and inclusive game that combines elements from soccer, softball, and baseball. Whether played by children or adults, kickball offers an exciting opportunity to have fun and engage in friendly competition. With simple rules, minimal equipment requirements, and the ability to accommodate varying team sizes, kickball is a versatile game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So gather your friends, head to the field, and experience the joy of kickball for yourself!
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