Q&A for How to Play Matball

Generally, officials say for every one lap around the playing area, you'll score one point. However, other officials say it'll take about two laps. Ask the officials if you aren't sure how scores are recorded where you are.

In California Matball, players score by running around all four mats and safely returning to home base. A player can also score by being on base when a teammate kicks and they complete the circuit before the third out. Some versions allow a second lap around the bases to count as an additional run, often marked by carrying a flag or rag.

You probably could, but that would be up to the officials whether that's allowed or not.

Leave your shoe off and run to the bases. Someone might pass you your lost shoe if you stay on the base. If the ball is caught or you get out, go over and pick up your shoe, or have the other team pass you your shoe if it landed on their side of the playing area.

They could be out by the time they arrive at their next base. However, all situations are different, because some officials actually allow them to get to their next base freely.

It will become a home run when it stays away and out of play, and people have to chase it down to get it back to the playing area, almost like baseball's "inside the park" home run.

That should be determined by the officials officiating the game. Some officiants count it as a home run, while others only allow certain nets to count, while not allowing others.

Generally, force-outs are a big part of baseball, as well as kickball, and while there's no tag needed, just touching the base is enough to get them out. However, if there are any questions, the officials should be able to help determine the official ruling.

It is false. There is no official rule in standard matball stating that a runner is out simply because the pitcher kneels before they cross the half-court line. Typically, outs are made by tagging the runner with the ball, throwing the ball to the base before the runner arrives, or catching a kicked ball in the air.

Yes, you are out. In matball, if the ball touches the ground first and then hits a runner, that runner is out. This rule simplifies tagging for the defense, as a direct hit in the air is not required.

When playing Matball, you should prioritize safety to prevent injuries during the fast-paced game. Avoid sliding or diving into mats, as this can cause collisions or falls. Tagging should always be gentle and never directed at the face or head. It is also advisable that the game be supervised by an umpire or teacher to enforce rules and ensure fair play.