Kickball is just like baseball and softball in that there are certain player positions for fielders that are recommended, but not enforced. The only required positions in kickball are the pitcher, catcher, and basemen. It is up to the coach or manager of the team to define how to structure the positions and alignment on the field.
Kickball teams consist of nine players on the field during an inning. Some leagues allow up to 12 players on the field at one time during an inning. We will assume your league is playing with nine fielders in the lineup.
There are nine basic field positions in kickball:
If your kickball league allows for more than nine players on the field, we recommend having those players fill in extra gaps in the outfield or between the bases.
Most kickball leagues have a rule that states fielders must stand a minimum distance away from the kicker while he is at-bat. This is called proper field position, and requires all players to be behind a diagonal line created by first base and third base. This line is called the 1st to 3rd diagonal.
In a kickball game, you'll always have a pitcher. Pitcher is one of the most important positions, since he pitches the ball to the kicker every play. If you're playing pitcher, make sure you understand the strike zone and how to throw various types of pitches. In some situations, you may need to cover first base to get an out.
If you're playing catcher, you will squat behind home plate and catch pitches thrown by the pitcher. Make sure you don't interfere with the batter, but be ready to grab the ball and throw it to a baseman if a base runner is stealing base!
As a baseman, you should be prepared to apply a force out, by tagging the base. You should also be ready to tag out a base runner if he comes your way. There are three basemen positions you can play:
As an outfielder, you'll stand in the outfield either in center field, right field, or left field. Your job is just as important as an infielder. You are the last line of defense for a hard kicked ball near the fence. You can play center fielder, right fielder, or left fielder.
If you are playing with eleven fielders, you will also have left center and short field. Left center stands in between the center fielder and left fielder. The short field position is located directly behind second base, in the outfield.
Lastly, the shortstop will cover ground balls and line drives that fly between 2nd base and 3rd base. As a shortstop, you should be ready to throw to the 1st baseman and 2nd baseman for an out.
Most kickball teams should have at least nine players so that every position in the field is covered. But for some leagues, you may have twelve or more players.
The number of players in the field during kickball varies. Most frequently, teams will either have 9 or 11 players on the field at once. With 11 players, an extra 2 positions in the outfield are created.
Every kickball position can be difficult! The hardest position varies based on a player's skills. Someone who can catch the ball very easily would say that playing in the outfield is very easy, but it could be extremely difficult for another player. Try out every position and see which works best for you!
