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Event #1
Kickball was invented in 1917 by Nicholas Seuss in Cincinnati, Ohio. He invented it to teach kids the rules of baseball. He used a ball that you kick with your feet because it was cheaper than buying baseball bats and baseballs. He called it Kick Baseball. -
Event #2
Schools, churches, and other community groups were responsible for the rise of kickballs popularity. Eventually it was incorporated into school curriculum. -
Event #3
Early kickball games resembled a baseball game. There was a pitcher, baseman, shortstop, and the other position players in baseball. The pitcher would toss the ball. It had to be at the batter’s knee level or below. The kicker would get 3 strikes, 4 balls, and 3 outs like baseball. -
Event #4
Early kickballs were made out of leather with stitching. It looked like a football. It was closer to the size of a baseball. The kickball has grown in size and is made of rubber now. -
Event #5
In World War II soldiers played kickball in their free time. It’s popularity was at its peak at that time. After the War its popularity decreased until the late 1990’s. -
Event #6
Kickball started in North America. It has spread to other parts of the world. It is still most popular in North America. In South Korea kickball is referred to as “Balyagu”. -
Event #7
Modern kickball has changed to include more players. There is a neutral zone that no players are allowed in. The ball must leave the 5 foot circle for runners to advance. There are no outs. Each player gets to kick the ball and the sides switch. -
Event #8
Go Kickball is an example of an adult group who plays kickball with its members but adds a social piece to the game. The group socializes before and after the game. The business model has taken off and is increasing in popularity. -
Event #9
In Iraq solders still play kickball. They have kickball leagues set up and play Iraq teams. -
Event #10
Kickball is most popular is the U.S.(kickball), South Korea(foot baseball), Japan(quickbase), and Canada(California kickball or soccer baseball).