Rule Time

So the Billy Madison clip brought up a couple of interesting things. Though Billy certainly doesn't necessarily follow the rules there is a nice little collision at first base that bring up a couple of rules that are worth mentioning.

Billy wasn't using a safety base in his game like we do but there is good reason why we use it. I remember when we didn't have it and we had a few injuries at first with bodies colliding.

The rule states:

1.06 - Optional Extra Base – The option of using this field setup must be made by the division board of directors
each season via formal vote and approval at a scheduled meeting prior to the third week of games played. Once
use is approved, this extra base must be used for all games of that division season and division tournament
games. If the extra base is used:
a. The Extra Base is only available for runners traveling from home plate (see Rule 10.06);
b. Fielders trying to make an out on first base must touch the base in fair territory (the First Base). Runners
hindered by a fielder touching the base in foul territory (the Extra Base), will be safe;
c. When a play is attempted at first base, a runner who touches the First Base prior to being called safe at the
Extra Base shall be called out, except under the exception in Rules 1.06f and 1.06g;
d. Once a runner has reached first base safely the runner must start the next play on the First Base. Any runner
standing on or touching the Extra Base at the beginning of the next play will be out;
e. No additional base may be used at any other base;
f. The runner is permitted to use the First Base if avoiding collision with a fielder in foul territory. In this event, the
fielder in foul territory is permitted to tag the Extra Base (see Rule 14.02o);
g. The runner may use First Base if attempting to advance to Second Base, or if there is no fielder on First Base.
A runner (see Rule 1.06a) using or touching First Base in any other circumstance is out.

So basically speaking, when you are the kicker running down to first base, unless you are trying to turn towards second, you should always hit the safety base (in foul territory). By rule, if you hit the first base (in fair territory) you are supposed to be out. And no ladies, you do not have to touch both bases. I have seen some interesting footwork by people slowing down so they can hopscotch at the last moment and tag both bases.

Here is another one.

10.02 Obstruction. Fielders must stay out of the baseline. Fielders trying to make an out on base may have their
foot on base, but must lean out of the baseline. Runners hindered by any fielder within the baseline, not making
an active play for the ball, shall be safe at the base to which they were running. Runners may choose to advance
beyond this base while the ball is still in play.

If you are a fielder and you are not actively making a play on the ball, get out of the way of the runner. If you would rather stand on the base, its a good way to get yourself run over. Also, unlike in baseball, you may not intentionally block home plate from runners scoring, even if you are making a play on the ball.

These rules are in place for safety and we don't want to see anyone get hurt. You can view all of the WAKA rules by going to the rulebook online at www.kickball.com/rules and checking out the Rules FAQ.