Spring Kickball is officially underway and teams are getting back in to the swing of things! In our last article, we gave some tips on how to kick the ball differently depending on the result wanted. In this instalment, we will be looking at fielding and different plays you can make or look for to maximize your defensive results.
The Block
Purpose:
Kickballs can tend to be a bit bouncy, especially when they skip off the infield and get an unpredictable bounce. In these cases, sometimes it is best to use a block to calm down the ball when you can then pick it up and make your play.
Technique:
As the ball is coming towards you, get your body in front of its path and make yourself as big as possible. On unpredictable bounces, you want to get as much surface area as possible to block and trap the ball. If you try to reach out and grab it, the ball may just shoot right through. Once you have blocked / trapped the ball, you can then easily pick it up and throw to the base / pitcher to complete the play.
The Granny Grab
Purpose:
This catch is used to combat those high lobs that players may use to help advance players on base. These can be tricky to catch as you may be combatting the sun or high shots that don’t seem to come down. Use this to ensure you make the catch and able to stop the tag-up and runners.
Technique:
Once you recognize the lob, follow the ball in the air and line yourself up underneath it. You usually have a bit of time with these shots to get in to position. Once you are underneath the ball, get a soft bend in your knee (as if you were to start a squat) and cup your arms out in front of you. You want your legs bent below your arms as added support so the ball doesn’t squeeze through. As the ball comes down in to your cupped arms, wrap your body around the ball to prevent it bouncing out and complete the out. Then you can quickly throw to any bases that may have a tag-up runner.
The Throw Out
Purpose:
This can be used to prevent the other team from getting extra bases on a play. Be careful with this one as it can be a game changer in favour of either team. With fast and accurate throws, base runners will be stopped in their tracks but if you miss and overthrow, it could lead to extra bases. You also need to be extra cautious of headshots as they also move the runner up another base.
Technique:
Once you have securely caught / trapped / picked up the ball from a kick, locate the base runner and assess if there is a play for a throw out. Base runners can be tagged with the ball thrown at them on their way to 1st base or between the other bases. If you have a shot, securely grab the ball and give it a low, hard throw towards the runner and hope to tag them below the shoulders. Use this play wisely as overthrows can be detrimental to your game!
Now that you are equipped with these fielding tips, you will be a well-rounded team! Use these and the kicking tips to bring your team to the Championship, but most importantly have fun!
