Kickball has been a popular playground game for decades, enjoyed by children and adults alike. It is a simple game of running and kicking, but like many sports and activities, there are rules and terminology that can be confusing to newcomers. One of the terms you’ll hear in a kickball game is “tag up,” and if you’re new to the game, you may be wondering what it means.
What Is Kickball?
Kickball is a game that combines elements of baseball and soccer. It is usually played with two teams of eight to twelve players each. Players stand in a diamond formation and the pitcher, who may be on either team, rolls a large rubber ball towards the kicker. The kicker kicks the ball and then runs around the bases, trying to score a run. The game is usually played to a predetermined number of innings, with the team that scores the most runs declared the winner.
What Does “Tag Up” Mean?
In kickball, “tag up” is a term used to describe a situation in which a runner on base tags a base before the ball is caught in the air by a fielder. The runner can then advance to the next base if the ball is caught, or stay on the base if the ball is not caught. This rule prevents the runner from getting stuck on a base if the ball is caught in the air, since the runner can “tag up” and advance to the next base. This rule also prevents the fielder from intentionally dropping the ball in order to keep the runner from advancing.
How Does “Tag Up” Work?
In order to “tag up,” a runner must first be on a base. The runner then waits for the ball to be kicked and then watched to see if the fielder will catch it in the air. If the fielder does catch it, the runner must tag the base before the fielder has the ball in control. At this point, the runner can then advance to the next base. If the fielder does not catch the ball, the runner can stay on the base without having to tag up.
When Is “Tag Up” Not Allowed?
There are some situations in which “tag up” is not allowed. For example, if the ball is touched by a fielder before it is caught, the runner cannot “tag up.” Additionally, if the fielder catches the ball on the ground, the runner cannot “tag up.”
Benefits of “Tag Up”
The “tag up” rule is beneficial for both kickball players and spectators. It allows for more strategy in the game, making it more exciting for players and spectators alike. It also adds an element of surprise, as the runner can stay on the base or advance to the next one depending on what the fielder does.
Conclusion
“Tag up” is an important rule in kickball. It allows a runner to advance to the next base if the ball is caught in the air, and prevents the fielder from intentionally dropping the ball to keep the runner from advancing. This rule adds an element of strategy and surprise to the game, making it more exciting for both players and spectators. Knowing how “tag up” works can help you get the most out of the game of kickball.