matball
description
Although the name probably is not familiar, the game itself may be. Matball can be considered a version of the common field game, Kickball. There are a few differences, but the majority of the rules are the same. This unit is taught in a way to teach many skills and game tactics in a short period of time. The students learn about the positions (much like baseball) as well as the various strategies in regards to kicking the ball. We review the responsibilities of each player including the fielders and kickers. During this unit the students generally will start class with a warm up, followed by a quick game. After several minutes, the class will come together to learn the skill of the day. This may be something related to kicking the ball such as kicking a ground/fly ball, or something regarding fielder positioning. Once the students have had ample time to practice this skill, they implement it into another game. This game often places added value on the newly learned skill to encourage students to continue their practice.
The most interesting rules of Matball are that you can score more than just one run and there can be multiple players occupying the same base. The baserunner has the option of "cashing in" their runs whenever they want to stop. However, if a baserunner has scored runs then gets out before "cashing in" they vacate all of their runs. It is a nice twist that keeps the game interesting. Although Matball is usually played indoors with gymnastic mats (hence the name), it is easily modified and adapted. It can be played outdoors as long as the bases are big enough to hold multiple baserunners. Matball has many different versions. It is often modified by whoever is instructing the lesson. This allows the participants a great deal of flexibility when trying to organize a game.
For more information about our Matball unit, check out the Introduction PowerPoint here.
The most interesting rules of Matball are that you can score more than just one run and there can be multiple players occupying the same base. The baserunner has the option of "cashing in" their runs whenever they want to stop. However, if a baserunner has scored runs then gets out before "cashing in" they vacate all of their runs. It is a nice twist that keeps the game interesting. Although Matball is usually played indoors with gymnastic mats (hence the name), it is easily modified and adapted. It can be played outdoors as long as the bases are big enough to hold multiple baserunners. Matball has many different versions. It is often modified by whoever is instructing the lesson. This allows the participants a great deal of flexibility when trying to organize a game.
For more information about our Matball unit, check out the Introduction PowerPoint here.
learning objectives
- Know the proper positioning for each of the fielders when the ball is hit anywhere on the field
- Learn the responsibilities of each of the fielding positions and be able to field fly balls and ground balls
- Understand how to run the bases in various situations
- Be able to kick the ball to both sides of the field, in the air and on the ground
- Demonstrate good sportspersonship
- Have fun!