Kickball

History of Kickball

Kickball originally called “Kick Baseball”, was invented around 1917 by Nicholas C. Seuss; Supervisor of Cincinnati Park Playgrounds in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Around 1920-1921 “Kick Ball” was used by physical
education teachers in Public Schools to teach young boys and girls the basics of baseball.

Since its creation kickball has continued to grow in popularity and in the late 1990’s began to enter into the adult social sports realm. Spearheaded by a DC start-up Kickball for adults has spread across the country with groups in nearly every major city getting in on the fun!

Golden Rule

First and foremost all DC Fray leagues are 50% Social and 50% Sport. We do have officials; however, we expect individuals to respect the league’s culture of fair and fun play. Foul language and rough play will not be tolerated and individuals who cannot adhere to our standards of fair play and sportsmanship may be asked to leave the league. DC Fray wants everyone to have a fun and be social while enjoying a great sport. DC Fray will do whatever they can to make sure all players are having fun.

Players/ Teams

DC Fray is proud to relieve captains of the burden of paying for full teams. While captains and players are able to prepay for additional players and or full teams, it is not a requirement for participation in our leagues. We welcome individual player payments.

We are also proud to welcome those who do not have a full team (small groups and free agents) to participate in our league.

Our primary mission is to make it easier for people to have fun and get involved with social sports and these policies help accomplish that goal.

Because of these policies, all registrations are on a first come first serve basis and any roster that does not reach our standard size (based on each sport) is eligible to receive free agents and or small group by the league. Rosters made up of primarily free agents and or a collection of small groups may field more players than the standard roster size. This policy is in place to help ensure free agent teams are able to consistently field teams each week.

1. All players must be 21 years of age or older, have adequate health insurance and must have signed a player waiver and release.

2. Players may only play on a team which they are registered and paid for.

• Exception: A player may function as a substitute player for another team if said team is short a man or woman. This is ONLY during the regular season.

Teams & Game Play

Each team roster must consist of a minimum of twelve (12) players and no more than 24.

1. A Team roster must include at least 4 females.

2. Teams must field no fewer than 6 players and no more than 8 for field play.

3. At least 2 women must be on the field at all times.

4. The Number of Male players on the field shall be limited by the number of female players on the field Plus 1 at all times.

5. Every player present is required to be in the kicking line up.

• Exception: An injured player may be removed from the kicking lineup.

The Field

1. The field will be set up in the shape of a triangle.

2. The strike zone will be two foot on either side of home plate.

Player Equipment

1. All players must wear athletic, closed-toe, non-marking footwear applicable to the policies of the facility in which games are being held to be eligible to play DC KICKBALL. NO Cleats are permitted.

2. All players must wear their DCK or DC Fray player t-shirt while playing.

3. A player who has not received a shirt or has misplaced or forgotten a shirt will be permitted to play after the meeting the following requirements:

4. The player must be registered, paid, and in good standing on their teams Roster.

5. The player must have valid identification.

6. If the player is found not to be on the roster after a roster check, the game will be marked as a loss and the game forfeited.

7. Any equipment deemed by the Umpire, as a performance enhancement, must be removed.

Game Equipment

1. DC KICKBALL/UNITED SOCIAL SPORTS will provide the balls, bases and rest of equipment.

Referees

1. Referees and ONLY referees may officially call outs/fouls/strikes/etc.; calls made by other people are not valid.

2. The home plate referee is considered the head referee and will make final rulings.

3. Referees must be loud and clear in their calls. Kicked balls are in play unless and until the head referee says otherwise.

4. Captains are the only team members who may argue calls.

5. All rulings not specifically covered in the rules are up to the discretion of the referee.

6. The rules will be updated as needed.

Sportsmanship

DC Fray Indoor Kickball is a sport, just like any other, and at times, people will get heated during competition. This is expected and understood. However, abusive treatment to referees, other players, or spectators will not be tolerated.

A player may be ejected from the game or the league if they show extreme unsportsmanlike conduct and/or douchebaggery.

Teams on Game Day

1. Teams must kick and field a minimum of six (6) players, of which, three (3) must be male and three (3) must be female. The maximum number of players on the field is eight (8).

2. A maximum of four (4) players of one sex may play in the field at a time.

3. Every team member that shows up must be in the kicking lineup.

• Exceptions (these players do not count towards player minimums):

– Players, who cannot run, cannot play.

– Players that do not meet the minimum game gear requirements cannot play.

4. There is no gender requirement in the kicking lineup; men and women may kick in any order the captain chooses.  This lineup must be maintained during the duration of the entire game. Any latecomers must be added to the end of the lineup.

5. All players injured during a game may use a pinch runner for that sequence, but after that (s)he must be removed from the lineup. a.  An injury removal will NOT cause a penalty due to the number of players falling below the minimum number.

6. Teams are expected to arrive and be ready for play at their scheduled game time.

7. Teams will be granted a five (5)-minute grace period if they do not have the minimum number of players necessary.

8. After five (5) minutes, the game will commence and the team(s) without the minimum number needed to play will start the game the number of runs down equal to the number of players missing and will have to take one (1) out for each player they are down every time that player’s place comes up in the kicking order.

9. If the missing players show up, they will be added to the lineup in place of the corresponding automatic outs, eliminating the outs in subsequent sequences but not the penalty runs.

10. Once the kicking lineup is set, only players required to meet the minimum number of players may take the place of an out. The player’s (or an out’s) position in the lineup cannot change after that spot comes up in the lineup

11. Team captains DO NOT have the authority to waive these penalties.

12. Games will last six (6) innings or forty (45) minutes for a regulation game.

Pitching/Strikes/Balls/Walks

1. The pitcher must release the ball prior to crossing the pitching strip.  a.   Violations of this rule will result in a ball.

2. The pitcher must be touching the pitching strip when the s(he) releases the ball.

3. Violations of this rule will result in a ball.

4. The pitcher must wait for the kicker and ref to be ready before pitching.

5. There is no encroachment rule.

6. There is a limit of three pitches per kicker.

7. Two balls will result in a walk.

8. Two strikes will result in an out.

9. DCKICKBALL Strike Zone will be the size of the box that will be laid out by (but not include) cones.

10. Strikes

11. Any pitch that crosses the strike zone (without hitting a cone) is a strike.

12. The ball must enter the strike zone between the front cones and leave it between the rear cones to count as a strike.

13. Any pitch at which the kicker swings and misses is a strike.

14. Any ball kicked without hitting anything first that goes through the gap in the dividing curtain or doorway closest to the kicker is a strike. (The head ref will have some discretion to consider a kick as a live ball even if it goes through the closest gap if they believe it was playable.)

15. Any ball kicked while the plant foot of the kicker is completely past the front edge of home plate is a strike. This is considered a live ball “strike” meaning that if the ball is caught, the kicker is out and runners may tag up if they wish.

16. Any kicked ball which contacts the player twice while s(he) is still in the strike zone will be a double kick and also considered a live ball “strike.”

17. The exception to this is if the ball contacts a fielder and strikes the kicker before s(he) leaves the box, the play remains live.

18. Any ball kicked such that it crosses between the rear two cones of the strike zone before contacting anything else (player, wall, etc).

19. Pitches must be thrown underhand at “reasonable speed” without spin, curve or bounce.  Reasonable speed means not fast.  If you have to ask, it’s probably TOO FAST.

Outs

1. A count of two (2) strikes.

2. Any player, not on base, tagged or hit with a ball, not in the face/head, whether it is the result of a fielder or the kicker (outside the strike zone).

3. Any time a base is tagged by a fielder in control of the ball, where a runner is forced to run to before the runner gets there.

4. Any ball caught in the air that has not touched the ground. This includes balls that bounce off players, walls, fixtures, ceiling, etc.

5. The runner can be tagged out at any time they are not on a base.

6. Any runner, who attempts to grab the ball or slap the ball away from a fielding player (in motion of tagging them out) OR holds/kicks the ball away from a ball thrown, will be automatically out and no runners will be allowed to advance to the next base or to score. Runners will be forced back to their original position. A runner may be ejected from the game. (See Sportsmanship, Section G.1.c)

Playing the Field

1. Teams may position players however they choose but must have the minimum number of players of each sex (3) to avoid penalty. The maximum is eight (8) players on the field.

2. The intentional blocking of a runner by a fielder will result in the runner being awarded the base to which they were going.

3. Fielders may hit players with the ball to tag them out.

4. Thrown balls must not hit players in the face/head.

5. Thrown balls that hit players in the face/head result in the runner being safe and awarded the base to which they were heading, plus one extra base.

6. The only exception is when a player is not in a “substantially upright position” (e.g. they are sliding or squatting) or intentionally moves their head in an attempt to come in contact with the ball and is hit in the face/head, the player is out.

7. When a ball is overthrown the runners may run until the ball is returned to the pitcher, the pitcher is in the infield and the pitcher is not attempting to make a play.

8. There are no limits to the number of bases a runner may take.

9. The runner can be tagged out at any time they are not on a base.

10. A fielder, in order to tag a player out, advance the ball to another fielder, or return the ball to the field of play may kick the ball.

11. Any ball that is, in the view of the head referee, intentionally dropped by a fielder so as to obtain a double play will not result in an out for any runner

12. All other runners will be permitted to advance one (1) base from their originating base if this occurs.

13. The offending player may be ejected from the game.

14. Any non-fielder yelling “I got it” or anything else to call off or confuse a fielder and/or making gestures to wave off the fielders will be automatically out.

15. The offending player may be ejected from the game.

16. If this occurs by the bench of a team, ALL runners will be out.

Kicking

1. All kicks must be made below the waist. Contacts above the waist are strikes.

2. All kicks must be made with the plant foot at or behind home plate.

3. A kicked ball must not cross the line created by (and including) the rear cones of the strike zone.

4. Any double kicked ball is counted as a live ball “strike.”

5. Any kicked ball that goes into the other field via the far curtain gap or into the hall way via the far door is a ground-rule double.

6. Any kicked ball that goes through a basketball goal is a grand slam home run.

Scoring

1. Any runner that touches home plate after touching all other bases in succession will count for one (1) run.

2. Any runner who scores before the final out of an inning will count as one (1) run as long as the last out was NOT a force play or caught ball or tagged out runner on a force play.

Money Ball Inning

1. This will be one inning each game where a special, smaller ball will be used. Runs scored during the Golden Ball inning will count double.

2. The Golden Ball Inning for each team will be decided by the team’s captain before the game starts.

Running

1. There may be up to two runners on one base at a time.

2. Players are considered “on base” if they are touching another player who is touching the base.

3. Players may use this rule in reaching a base safely and in “leading off.”

4. Players may not leave a base until the ball is kicked. (No stealing bases)

5. If this occurs the runner is out and the play is redone.

6. Tagging Up: A tag up occurs after a fielder has caught the ball in the air and the runner touches the originating base and then proceeds to the next base.

7. The runner is considered “tagged up” as soon as the fielder touches the ball, whether there is a bobble, assist or any other delay before the ball is considered caught.

8. The runner will be out if (s)he leaves the base prior to the ball being touched and a fielder either touches the runner or base with the ball.

9. Runners may catch the ball to avoid being out. If this happens, the runner must immediately kick the ball away.

10. If the newly kicked ball is caught in the air, the runner is out.

11. If the runner is tagged out, the runner may not take the ball from the defensive player and kick it. (See Section J.6).

12. The person catching the ball must have been the intended target of the thrower. A runner may not catch a ball thrown to a player on the fielding team, to a base, or thrown at another player on the runner’s team.

13. Players may run in any direction or anywhere to get to the next base in order. There are no baselines.

14. A runner must beat the ball to the base.

15. There are no ties; the referees must make a call.

16. Runners may not overrun any base.

17. Runners that get out during a play should stay clear of the ongoing play as much as possible.

18. Deliberate misdirection or interference (passive or active) by put-out runners will result in the other runners being forced to return to their previous bases.

Delay of Game

1. The pitcher will deliver the ball to the kicker within a reasonable amount of time after (s)he receives the ball and is prompted by the referee. Each time the pitcher delays the game by violating this rule, the referee will call “Ball.”

2. The reasonable time limit starts when the pitcher is in possession of the ball and the kicker is at the plate, alert to the pitcher. The timing stops when the pitcher releases the ball.

3. The kicker will be ready to kick within a reasonable amount of time, decided by the referee. This includes the end of the half of an inning, or after another batter has kicked.

4. An announcement will be made to the team kicking, for the delay. If such announcement has been stated, the pitcher will be directed to pitch the ball, which will be counted as a live pitch, and this may be repeated until the kicker gets to the plate.

5. Teams will have their defense set in a timely manner so as not to delay the game.

6. Once the referee has warned a team regarding this, subsequent delay(s) will result in the referee awarding a walk to the kicking team’s first kicker.

7. If it continues in the same inning, the referee may allow subsequent kickers to be awarded a base as well.

Playoffs

1. Playoffs will be held by conference until the championship game.

2. The team with the better record in each game will be the home team.

3. Playoffs will be single elimination.

4. If one team is ahead by twenty (20) or more runs at the end of four (4) innings, the game will be over.

5. All teams make the playoffs when possible.

Category: Kickball_Rules

← Indoor Kickball

History of Kickball
Kickball originally called “Kick Baseball”, was invented around 1917 by Nicholas C. Seuss; Supervisor of Cincinnati Park Playgrounds in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Around 1920-1921 “Kick Ball” was used by physical education teachers in Public Schools to teach young boys and girls the basics of baseball.

Since its creation kickball has continued to grow in popularity and in the late 1990’s began to enter into the adult social sports realm. Spearheaded by a DC start-up Kickball for adults has spread across the country with groups in nearly every major city getting in on the fun!

Golden Rule

First and foremost all DC Fray leagues are 50% Social and 50% Sport. We do have officials; however, we expect individuals to respect the league’s culture of fair and fun play. Foul language and rough play will not be tolerated and individuals who cannot adhere to our standards of fair play and sportsmanship may be asked to leave the league. DC Fray wants everyone to have a fun and be social while enjoying a great sport. DC Fray will do whatever they can to make sure all players are having fun.

Teams

DC Fray is proud to relieve captains of the burden of paying for full teams. While captains and players are able to prepay for additional players and or full teams, it is not a requirement for participation in our leagues. We welcome individual player payments.

We are also proud to welcome those who do not have a full team (small groups and free agents) to participate in our league.

Our primary mission is to make it easier for people to have fun and get involved with social sports and these policies help accomplish that goal.

Because of these policies, all registrations are on a first come first serve basis and any roster that does not reach our standard size (based on each sport) is eligible to receive free agents and or small group by the league. Rosters made up of primarily free agents and or a collection of small groups may field more players than the standard roster size. This policy is in place to help ensure free agent teams are able to consistently field teams each week.

1. Each Team must consist of a minimum of 16 Players and a maximum of 30 Players.

2. Each Team may have a maximum of 11 players on the field.

A. Teams are expected to field a minimum of 3 men and 3 women in the field while on defense. If a Team is only able to field 2 men/women in the field, that Team may only field a maximum of 6 of the opposite gender.

B. Teams who do not meet the minimum team requirements will be given 15 minutes to assemble the necessary roster. As soon as both teams have the expected minimum, per the eligibility guidelines, the game will start. Failure to meet the team requirement within 15 minutes will result in a forfeit.

That 15 minute grace period is taken out of that game’s playing time and the game is still limited to its original time length.

3. Each Team must have a minimum of 6 men and 6 women on their roster.

4. Teams must designate a Captain and Co-Captain prior to the start of the game. These are the only Team members allowed to argue all calls

A. NO PLAYER, including the Captain and Co-Captain, may verbally abuse or argue in an unsportsmanlike manner to any Referee. Such action is grounds for immediate ejection and possible suspension or expulsion from the Division if the Host or DC Fray staff deems it appropriate.

5. Team Captains are required to provide their teams kicking order to the opposing Team upon request. Once a game has started, the lineup cannot be changed except for injury or illness. Eligible Players may be added to the end of the kicking lineup if arriving to the game late.

6. Any use of ineligible players will result in a Team forfeit.

7. If a player kicks out of roster order that player is out.

8. During the regular season, any registered DCK player for that division may serve as a sub for a team under the minimum team requirement.

9. During the playoffs, teams may not use subs and may only use players on their roster.

10. Playoff Eligibility: teams that notch 2 or more forfeits during the regular season will not be eligible for the playoffs.

Here is the roster size chart for DC Kickball. And click here for a list of all sports and their roster size policies.

Sport	Roster Promotion Size	Official Roster Size	FA Roster Size	MAX Roster Size	Female Minimum
Kickball	16	24	26	30	3

The Field

1. The field will consist of a diamond of equal sides, with bases being placed 60 ft. apart.

2. The pitching strip will be placed in the center of the diamond directly in line with 1st-3rd base and home-2nd base, or 42.42 ft.

3. To prevent collisions, there will be a double base at 1st base with 1 base being in fair territory and 1 base being in foul territory. The base in fair territory is for the fielder and runner already on 1st base. The base in foul territory is for the kicker to run to.

4. Alcohol is not permitted on or near the field. Any player bringing alcohol to the field will face severe penalties up to and including suspension or expulsion from the Division. In addition, the player’s team will immediately forfeit that week’s game(s). This violation may also result in a team facing suspension or expulsion from the Division if the Host or DC Fray staff deems it appropriate.

Equipment

1. All equipment will be provided by DC Fray and will consist of bases, cones, 10′ playground balls, pumps, field measurement aid, score sheets, and a strike/ball counter.

2. All Player participants must wear the official DC Fray Division shirt in order to play.

3. Any Player names or nicknames being placed on the jerseys may not be obscene or overtly sexual, nor may they contain any offensive language–If you are unsure, pick another nickname.

A. Should a player be found to be in violation of the equipment guidelines they will be subject to suspension and/or possible expulsion from the league.

4. Metal cleats are not allowed.

5. Players may wear any protective gear as deemed acceptable by the Head Referee.

Player Eligibility & Participation

1. All Players must be 21 and have current adequate health insurance.

2. All Players must be properly registered on a team within the Division for which they are playing, and may only play for the team they are registered for unless subbing for another team per the eligibility guidelines.

3. All Players must agree to the DC Fray Liability Waiver as described in the DC Fray Terms and Conditions section of Player Registration.

Games

1. All WEEKDAY Games will consist of 5 innings or 45 minutes from the scheduled start time, whichever comes first, and 3 outs per inning for each team’s kicking order.

2. All WEEKEND Games will consist of 6 innings or 50 minutes from the scheduled start time, whichever comes first, and 3 outs per inning for each team’s kicking order.

3. Regular Season Games can end in ties. Tournament games will play a full 5 or 6 innings (depending on the day), and will continue until a winner is decided.

4. A Regular Season Game is considered official if it remains tied after 3 full innings of play, or until the Team behind in score has had their chance to kick in the 3rd inning.

A. Games that fail to meet the above criteria will be completed at a later date with the score reverting to what it was at the end of the last complete inning.

5. Games will not be postponed due to rain unless the fields are closed or deemed unplayable by the Division Host and/or DC Fray Staff. If lightning is visible, Games will be immediately postponed, and all Players must clear the field.

6. Home and Away teams will be determined by the ancient game of Rock,Paper,Scissors before the game between each team’s captain. Best 1 out of 1 on SHOOT! The Home team shall be on the field first.

7. Forfeited games shall have the final score recorded as 6-0.

Officiating

1. DC Fray will provide one Host or head referee who is on site to settle disputes and is the final word for on any call for each Regular Season Division Game.

A. Each Team will be required to provide 2 Referees each for the game immediately before or immediately after their team’s game.

B. Teams failing to provide Referees will receive a Forfeit. While base referees are responsible for assisting with any and all calls, final rulings are made by the Head Referee.

2. Issuing ejections for unsportsmanlike behavior is at the discretion of the Host.

3. Teams shall designate 1 person to keep a score sheet to record game stats. This sheet will be turned into the Head Referee or Division Referee upon completion of the game.

Outs

1. A count of 3 Strikes.

2. A count of 3 Fouls.

3. Any pitched ball contacting the Kicker (whether kicked or not) and caught in the air prior to touching the ground.

4. Any time during a live play where the ball makes contact with a Baserunner while not on base or has not yet reached the base s/he is being forced to.

A. If any part of a thrown ball makes contact with the Baserunner’s head while the Baserunner is not diving, sliding, or ducking, the Baserunner shall be awarded the base to which s/he was running).

5. Any time a Fielder has control of the ball and touches a base to which a Baserunner is forced to advance prior to the Baserunner reaching the base.

6. Baserunners intentionally running more than 4 feet outside the baseline with the intent to avoid a tag or throw.

7. Baserunners interfering with a fielder making an active play on the ball.

8. Any Baserunner not on base when the ball is kicked.

9. Any Baserunner who passes another Baserunner.

10. Any Baserunner who is physically assisted by any team member.

11. Any attempt to make contact with a kicked ball outside of the Catcher’s zone fair or foul.

Pitching

1. A Pitcher may start his delivery anywhere on the infield, but must deliver the pitch within the Pitcher’s Circle and behind the 1st base/3rd base line.

2. The pitchers mound extends in a 12ft. radius from the pitching strip

3. Pitchers must throw the ball by hand in an underhanded manner. Overhand and side arm pitching are NOT allowed.

4. A pitched ball must touch the ground at least once prior to reaching the plate.

Strikes

1. The Strike Zone is 41 inches wide (1 foot to either side of home plate) and approximately 1 foot high. If any part of the ball touches any part of the strike zone, it shall be ruled a strike, however, the ball may not bounce more than 1 foot high, as measured from the bottom of the ball, at any time during the bounce that carries the ball through the strike zone

2. Any attempted bunt or kick that does not make contact with the ball.

Balls

1. Any pitch that is not a strike or foul.

2. A Pitcher may intentionally walk a kicker by announcing his intention to the Head Referee before throwing any pitches. A Pitcher is not required to throw any pitches to intentionally walk a kicker.

Fouls

1. Any punt or kick that lands in foul territory outside of the Catcher’s Zone.

2. Any kick during which the kicker steps in front of the Home Plate.

3. Double Kicks (anytime the kicker contacts the ball 2 or more times during an attempted kick).

4. Any kick that does not occur below the knee.

5. Any time a kicker makes contact with a pitched ball (intending to kick or not) before the ball has traveled past the kicker.

Catching

1. Teams must have 1 and only 1 catcher while on defense.

2. Catchers must stand behind the kicker and within the Catching Zone

3. Catchers may not cross in front of the kicker nor be positioned outside the Catcher’s Zone until the ball is kicked.

4. If the Catcher impedes the kicker intentionally or unintentionally, the kicker will be awarded 1st base, and any runners may advance if they are forced to.

A. If in the Head Referee’s opinion, the kicker makes an unnatural move and initiates contact in an attempt to draw a Catcher Interference call, the kicker shall be called out.

Fielding

1. All fielders with the exception of Catcher must be positioned in fair territory.

2. No fielder may cross the 1st base/3rd base line until the ball is kicked.

3. Fielders may not stand within the baseline unless making an active play on the ball. Interference with a Baserunner results in the runner being awarded the base he/she was running to.

Encroachment

1. Pitcher’s Encroachment occurs when a pitcher crosses the 1st base/3rd base line before the ball is kicked. In this event, the Kicking Team shall have the option of taking the result of the play or taking a ball in the count.

2. Catcher’s Encroachment occurs when the catcher crosses in front of the kicker or is positioned outside the Catcher’s Zone, prior to the ball being kicked. In this event, the Kicking Team shall have the option of taking the result of the play or taking a ball in the count.

3. Fielder’s Encroachment occurs when any non-pitcher crosses the 1st base/3rd base line before the ball is kicked. In this event, the Kicking Team shall have the option of taking the result of the play or taking a ball in the count.

Kicking

1. All kicks must be made by foot or by leg below the knee.

2. All kicks must occur at or behind home plate. No part of the kicker’s plant foot may be in front of the plate.

3. Double Kicks are when a kicker contacts the ball 2 or more times during an attempt to kick the ball.

4. Teams must kick in their written kicking order. Kicking out of order results in an out for the spot in the order that was due up according to the written lineup. The kicking lineup will continue to the next spot in the lineup.

Baserunning

1. Baserunners may not intentionally run more than 4 feet outside of the baseline to avoid a tag or throw.

2. Baserunners have the right-of-way within the baseline except that a Fielder has the right to make a play on any ball in play, including within the baseline.

A. In rare circumstances, a Baserunner and Fielder in the act of making a play on the ball may collide due to Baserunner/Fielder movement. It is up to the discretion of the Head Referee whether to call the Baserunner out for interference or declare the contact as incidental and allow the play to stand.

3. Baserunners may overrun the 1st base, however, if they turn toward the 2nd base as if attempting to advance, they are in play and may be tagged out.

4. Baserunners may be substituted by players of the same gender, but only if the runner is injured during the play. The injured player must then sit out of the game for 2 innings. If their spot in the kicking order comes up, their spot is skipped.

5. In order to advance on caught fly ball, Baserunners must ‘tag-up’ on their original base at or subsequent to the fielder’s first contact with the ball. Failure to tag-up allows the defense to make an out by either tagging the runner with the ball before he/she returns to their original base or by a fielder in control of the ball touching the original base before the runner returns to it.

A. Failure to tag up is not an automatic out, but must be recognized by the defense and a play made on the runner or original base.

6. If a Baserunner passes another Baserunner, the passing runner is out.

7. If a Baserunner is assisted by any other team member, the runner is out.

8. Once the Pitcher has the ball in the Pitcher’s Circle, all Baserunners must stop at the base they are running toward unless the Pitcher subsequent to receiving the ball attempts to make a play on a runner.

Overthrows

1. An Overthrow is considered any attempt at a base or Baserunner that misses its intended target and goes into foul territory.

A. An Overthrow allows a Baserunner to advance up to 1 base beyond the base they were running toward when the ball traveled into foul territory.

B. If the defense attempts to make a play on the Baserunner while advancing after an overthrow, all Baserunners may attempt to advance as many bases as they choose. It is up to the Head Referee’s discretion as to what constitutes the defense ‘making a play’ on the runner.

C. If a ball is thrown at a Baserunner and contacts that runner while not on base and deflects into foul territory, the runner is out and the ball is live. All other Baserunners may attempt to advance as many bases as they choose.

Dead Ball Plays

1. If a Baserunner intentionally touches the ball, the runner is out, the play is dead, and any other Baserunners must return to the base they were on at the beginning of the play.

2. If a fair ball becomes trapped in any object, or a Fielder faces an impediment in getting to the ball, the runner shall be awarded a ground-rule double, and all other Baserunners may advance 2 bases beyond the base they began the play on.

A. In obvious cases, the Head Referee has the discretion to award the Kicker and Baserunners whatever base s/he realistically believed they would have reached had there not been an obstruction.

B. If a ball goes over a permanent fence that is aligned in fair territory on the fly, the kicker shall be awarded an automatic Home Run.

C. Any play where a potentially serious injury occurs, play will be stopped by the Head Referee immediately.

 Fair

1. A legally kicked ball that lands in fair territory or in the Catcher’s Zone in front of the kicker and remains in fair territory until it passes the 1st base or 3rd base cone or completely stops in fair territory.

B. A legally kicked ball that lands in fair territory beyond the 1st base or 3rd base.

C. A legally kicked ball that lands in fair territory or in the Catcher’s Zone, and touches or is touched by a Fielder or Baserunner in fair territory prior to the ball traveling into foul territory.

D. A legally kicked fly ball that is in fair territory when it is touched by a Fielder or Baserunner.

 Fouls

A. Any illegally kicked ball (See KICKING).

B. Any legally kicked ball that lands in foul territory outside the Catcher’s Zone.

C. Any legally kicked ball that travels into foul territory outside the Catcher’s Zone on its own prior to reaching the 1st base or 3rd base cone.

D. Any legally kicked ball that is still inside the Catcher’s Zone when it is touched by a Fielder.

E. Any legally kicked ball that travels into foul territory in the air and the defense is unable to make a play on (i.e. catch in the air).

Sportsmanship

DC Fray Indoor Kickball is a sport, just like any other, and at times, people will get heated during competition. This is expected and understood. However, abusive treatment to referees, other players, or spectators will not be tolerated.

A player may be ejected from the game or the league if they show extreme unsportsmanlike conduct and/or douchebaggery.

Category: Kickball_Rules

← Outdoor Kickball

History of Kickball

Kickball, originally called “Kick Baseball”, was invented around 1917 by Nicholas C. Seuss; Supervisor of Cincinnati Park Playgrounds in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Around 1920-1921 “Kick Ball” was used by physical education teachers in Public Schools to teach young boys and girls the basics of baseball.

Since its creation kickball has continued to grow in popularity and in the late 1990’s began to enter into the adult social sports realm. Spear headed by a DC start-up Kickball for adults has spread across the country with groups in nearly every major city getting in on the fun!

But this is GLOW Kickball and DCK is proud to be the originators of this wild sport in the DMV!

Golden Rule

First and foremost all DC Fray leagues are 50% Social and 50% Sport. We do have officials; however, we expect individuals to respect the league’s culture of fair and fun play. Foul language and rough play will not be tolerated and individuals who cannot adhere to our standards of fair play and sportsmanship may be asked to leave the league. DC Fray wants everyone to have a fun and be social while enjoying a great sport. DC Fray will do whatever they can to make sure all players are having fun.

Teams

DC Fray is proud to relieve captains of the burden of paying for full teams. While captains and players are able to prepay for additional players and or full teams, it is not a requirement for participation in our leagues. We welcome individual player payments.

We are also proud to welcome those who do not have a full team (small groups and free agents) to participate in our league.

Our primary mission is to make it easier for people to have fun and get involved with social sports and these policies help accomplish that goal.

Because of these policies, all registrations are on a first come first serve basis and any roster that does not reach our standard size (based on each sport) is eligible to receive free agents and or small group by the league. Rosters made up of primarily free agents and or a collection of small groups may field more players than the standard roster size. This policy is in place to help ensure free agent teams are able to consistently field teams each week.

GLOW Rules

Any rule or situation not expressly defined here will default to our usual DCKickball rules. At the end of the day, these calls will be made by the head ref. Whatever their call is, it stands, so don’t be a “rule nazi”.

Since Glow Kickball will be played in the DARK, the typical DCKickball rules will be changed to put more of an emphasis on FUN and SAFETY. This will NOT be a competitive league and we encourage all of our players to look out for each other, including those on the opposing team.

1. There are 5 innings

2. Games CAN end in a tie (it happens)

3. There are 11 players max in the field (minimum of 6 – 3 guys, 3 girls)

4. All pitches MUST be thrown underhand and at a “reasonable” speed. Reasonable is obviously subjective but if you have to question it, then it’s probably too fast. This is a SOCIAL laid-back league that plays in the DARK, so fast lightening pitches are NOT allowed.

5. Strike zone is a foot on either side of the plate (yup, it’s a big strike zone)

6. Strikes are SEPARATE counts from fouls

7. 2 strikes is an out

8. 2 fouls is an out

9. 2 balls is a walk

10. Walking or running up to kick the ball is NOT allowed. You must begin and end in a stationary spot behind home plate to kick the ball. Additionally, full kicks are NOT allowed. We field tested over a dozen glow-in-the-dark balls and will be using a soccer ball which kickers can kick over 50 yards. We are playing in the dark and do NOT want the balls flying far distances – this can lead to injury for kickers, fielders and any by-standers. Remember, we are playing in the DARK.

11. Bunting is NOT allowed

12. Fielders must throw the ball with BOTH hands. The ball we’ll be playing with is smaller and harder than the normal kickball. We don’t want fielders winding and blasting the balls at players in the dark. This is to protect both runners AND your fellow fielders. Runners don’t want to get blasted with a soccer ball and your other fielders don’t want to catch a speeding ball in the dark. Balls can still be thrown at base runners to get them out, but again, the ball must be thrown with both hands and PLEASE be mindful not to blast the balls.

13. There is no leading off bases or stealing.

That’s it!  But also, never forget the most important rule of DCKickball! 🙂

Rule #0: DON’T BE A D-BAG!

The first and foremost rule of the game is to have FUN. If you are hoping to recapture your athletic glories from the past, this is NOT the kickball league for you. DCKickball is all about playing a silly kid’s game, having fun and meeting new people. Absolutely no whining will be tolerated during the course of a game. The only players allowed to communicate with the referees are the captain and co-captain. Any abuse (verbal or otherwise) of the referees or other players will constitute an immediate ejection from the game. Repeated offenders will be banned from the league. No exceptions. Have FUN and be SAFE out there in the dark and be NICE to your fellow players!

Sportsmanship

DC Fray Indoor Kickball is a sport, just like any other, and at times people will get heated during competition. This is expected and understood. However, abusive treatment to referees, other players, or spectators will not be tolerated.

A player may be ejected from the game or the league if they show extreme unsportsmanlike conduct and/or douchebaggery.

Category: Kickball_Rules

← Glow Kickball

1. Registration dues vary by location and night. DC Kickball strives to keep dues low while still providing a quality experience for our members. Most leagues range in cost from $45 – $69. This fee covers insurance, court costs , equipment, player t-shirts, parties, prizes, recruiting, and the tons of other DC Fray events that we will be hosting throughout the year. You definitely get your money’s worth!
2. Each league gets at least 6 organized nights of games, playoffs (if applicable), league shirts, and league-wide parties where you’ll get to meet literally hundreds and hundreds of other players. You’ll also have access to all our other non-kickball related events, shindigs and parties throughout the year. Please note, DC Fray does not issue refunds.

Category: Kickball

← How much does it cost to join DC Kickball?

NO. From the beginning DC Kickball has never been a competitive league. It’s kickball, have some fun. As with any sort of game, there are those that are more competitive than others and them we say, “It’s just kickball!”

Category: Kickball

← Is this a competitive league?

1. You simply show up at the courts for your scheduled games, you and your teammates play your opponents for about 45-60 minutes depending on the league and then everyone heads on over to the nearby sponsor bar for food, drinks, and partying! Teams generally have two games a night. Please make sure to read our social cornhole rules before signing up. It’s a ridiculously easy formula that’s seriously fun! Game times vary by location but weekday leagues are run in the evening anywhere from 6pm to 10pm. Weekend leagues are played as early as 11am through the afternoon.
2. Weekday leagues are 5 innings (45 min). Weekend leagues are 6 innings (60 min)

Category: Kickball

← What’s a DC Kickball game night like?

Kickball teams average 24 players per team. Our rosters are made this size because we know everyone has different schedules and may not be able to make it every week. The worst thing for a league is forfeits so we try to avoid those at all costs. 11 players in the field for defense and every player present must kick.

Category: Kickball

← How big is a team?

Yes, each team must have at least 3 females and 3 males present to play. A full field is 11 players with at least 3 of each gender at a position.

Category: Kickball

← Are there gender requirements?

DC Fray operates a lot like the sports leagues of your youth. Our goal is to connect people and to play more often! Our leagues are 6-8 weeks long with a final championship tournament and end of season party, though we also host one time events as well. From softball, to league parties, to scavenger hunts, DC Fray. organizes the events so all you have to do is show up and have fun!

Category: General

← How does this “social sports” thing work?

DC Fray understands that for most people joining a sports team is about hanging out with your friends, having a good time and meeting some new people. We strive to keep the games fair and stress free so you can do just that… socialize and have a good time!

Category: General

← Why should I join DC Fray?

You simply show up at the courts/fields/bar  for your scheduled games, you and your teammates play your opponents for about 30-60  minutes and then everyone heads on over to the nearby sponsor bar for food, drinks, and partying! It’s a ridiculously easy formula that’s seriously fun!

Times:
Depending on the location and day, weekday games are played between 6:00 and 11:30 pm. Weekend games can be anytime during the day or evening. Please check your specific league page for more details.

Category: General

← What’s a DC Fray game night like?

All players must be at least 21. Why? Because playing your game is only a small part of it. A large part of the fun happens at the bars after the games are done! Most players are between 23 and 31 years old and 60% are female.

Category: General

← How old do you have to be to join?

Since the beginning, DC Fray has always been more about meeting people, playing a fun game and socializing afterward at the bar. A few players are naturally more competitive than others but don’t worry, 95% of DC Fray is NOT competitive.

As we have grown we have begun to offer divisions for different skill levels for select sports BUT every league we offer is inherently SOCIAL, in that we are all out there to have a good time and meet new people!

Category: General

← Is this a competitive league?

Registration dues vary by location,night and sport. DC Fray strives to keep dues low while still providing a quality experience for our members. Most leagues range in cost from $25 – $70. This fee covers insurance, field permits, equipment, player t-shirts, parties, prizes, recruiting, staffing at every league  and the tons of other DC Fray events that we will be hosting throughout the year. You definitely get your money’s worth!

Each league typically  gets at least 6 organized nights of games and tomfoolery, and league-wide parties where you’ll get to meet literally hundreds and hundreds of other players. You’ll also have access to all our other league related events, shindigs and parties throughout the year.

*Please note, DC Fray does not issue refunds.

Category: General

← How much does it cost to join DC Fray?

Your ringleader simply forms a new group during the registration process. Once they’re registered, everyone then registers under that group / team. Easy Peasy! Doesn’t matter how small your group is, we’ll keep your buddies together when we merge and finalize teams after registration is closed. Start telling your buddies to sign up now!

*DC Fray reserves the right to put independent players on your group / team. Please check out our Roster Table to see average team size for leagues*

Category: General

← I have a group of friends who want to play. How can we make sure we’re on the same team?

Absolutely! A large majority of DC Fray players sign up as independents or in smaller groups. Once registration for a division is closed, we merge all free agents and small groups into bigger teams, as space is available. Right off the bat, you’ll get to meet new people from your team alone, not to mention all the other players from the other teams as the season plays out! DC Fray is the EASIEST way to meet people and make new friends!

 

Category: General

← What if I don’t know anyone in DC Fray? Can I still play?

Lots of people join DC Fray for different reasons and sometimes you may find yourself on a team that you just don’t mesh with. No worries, shoot your league commissioner an email and we will find you a new home!

Category: General

← What if I don’t like my team?

We make the final call a few hours before the games the day of, but for the most part, we usually play through a light drizzle. Any lightening in the area and games are cancelled. At permitted locations that call to cancel is made by the operating DPR.  We usually build one or more  weeks of make up days in case of weather. If a league has multiple cancellations game MAY NOT be able to be made up. Call the Weather Hotline to check the status of your games: 202-290-1969 option 1.

Category: General

← How do rainouts and game cancellations work?

DC Fray has a no refund policy. Often our rosters have limited space and last minute cancellations hinder our ability to properly plan and organize the season and our leagues as well as the costs that have already been incurred by the league.

If you are unable to participate after completing the registration process we are able to transfer your registration to a future season!

Category: General

← What is your refund policy?

To register select your desired day and location. Make sure to read through the season info before signing up (dates,location,etc). Click through the links and you will be guided through the process. If you have any questions email us at [email protected]

Category: General

← How do I join?

Absolutely! We use commish and Stripe as our processor. Simply follow the prompts at the end of your registration to pay with your debit or credit card.

Category: General

← Is your payment processor secure?

If you would like to prepay for other players or for an entire team you have the option to do so when registering! Once you are on commish and at the option to “Choose Your Destiny” there will be an option to Prepay for Others. Simply enter the number of additional people you are paying for, create a prepaid code and your total cost should update next to the box. Provide your created prepaid code to your players to use when they go to register for the season to mark their registration as paid.

Some of our divisions now offer an option to prepay for a full team! When you are creating a team/group you can select to “Prepay for a Team” just under the prepay for others option. The total for payment should be reflected on the right-hand side of the screen. Complete the rest of the registration prompts and proceed to the payment screen. When you pay for a full team you are paying for a team spot in the league and a specific number of roster spots. Your teammates still need to register for the season and apply your prepaid code! If you would like additional players you can add additional roster spots at time of checkout or after the purchase.

If you have a corporate company team or want to bring a very large group of rotating players, please email [email protected] to talk about corporate programs! 

Category: General

← Can I pay for my friend(s)?

Yes, we do offer the option to pay as a team. Since our registration is individually based the team rate is based on our Roster Table for an official roster size X the registration cost. For steps on how to pay for a team during the registration process please check the FAQ above.

Every player must be a registered member on the roster. We do not allow subs/walk-ups/whomever to play with us without being a registered DC Fray player. Certain leagues CAN use subs as long as that person is registered in the same division.

*Corporate,Veteran or other groups please email [email protected] to find out about possible groups rates.*

Category: General

← Are there team rates? Does everyone need to register for the league?

• First Offense: Loss of game.
  

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• Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.
  

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• Third Offense: Potential Removal from the league, at the discretion of league commissioners.
  

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• Any team that forfeits more than once also forfeits any guarantee or right to a certain number of guaranteed games.
  

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• If you know in advance that your team is going to forfeit a game, we encourage you to call our office, at 202-290-1969, so as to help us notify your opponent.
  

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• Teams have until ten minutes past the designated start time to field a full squad (minimum numbers of players required to play according to the rules). Refer to rules regarding gender policies(batting ratios, female designated football plays, etc). Anything less then the minimum must be approved by the staff and opposing team.

Category: General

← Forfeit Policy

First… are you sure you don’t know them or that they aren’t a friend of a friend? Once you’ve checked there it likely means free agents or another small group has been merged onto your team. When groups do not reach full team size we merge groups and free agents together to fill out rosters.

To learn more about our how the roster management and group / free agent mergers work check out our full roster management page here!

Category: General

← People I don’t know are on my Roster. Why?