Kickball is a simplified version of baseball and has long been a staple game on playgrounds around America. It has in recent years gained popularity among an older demographic. Most social kickball leagues are open to anyone and the rules are easy to learn. While kickball can be played competitively, player skills vary significantly. Even though you should be able to kick, throw and catch a ball, the primary objective of kickball is to have fun in a friendly social atmosphere.
Kicking
As the name of the game suggest, kicking is the main skill that players must posses. The pitcher rolls the ball on the ground toward home plate, where the batter kicks the ball. Ideally, the ball is kicked into fair play, namely between the first base and third base foul lines. If you are familiar with soccer and know how to kick a soccer ball, you have an advantage. It is best to kick the ball with the top of your foot where the laces are, rather than with your toes. Kicking the ball with the top of your foot encourages the ball to fly and it generally travels farther than if you kick it with your toes.
Catching
As a defender on the field, you are allowed to touch the ball with your hands. Much like in baseball, if a batted ball is caught in the air, the batter is out. Kickballs typically are made of rubber and relatively soft, so the ball doesn't hurt when you catch it. If you are trying to catch a fly ball, it is best to extend your arms forward to cup the ball when it comes down. Kicked balls often have lots of spin on them, which can make them tricky to catch. Use your chest to secure the ball against your body. When fielding a slow ground ball, use your hands to pick up the ball. The speed of the kicked ball should determine if you need to use your chest to secure it.
Throwing
There are several ways your team can record outs when defending. One is to catch a fly ball. Another is to handle a ground ball and throw the ball to a teammate who is covering the base that the opponent is running toward. If the ball is caught by the teammate covering the base before the opponent reaches the base, that batter is out. A third way to record an out is to throw the ball and hit an opponent while he is running to a base. The ball should never be thrown at someone's head or neck. Typically, throwing at the torso, arms and legs is allowed. The opponent also can be tagged with the ball if he is off a base.
Running
While running is something that both fielders and batters must do, it applies more to batters. Once the ball is kicked, you must run to first base and beyond if the play allows it. Obviously, the faster of a runner you are, the harder it will be for the opposing team to get you out. Some leagues allow sliding into bases, but check with the umpire before you play.
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