Splash Kickball

Name and Purpose

Splash Kickball combines the familiar fun of kickball with water elements at every base, turning a classic game into a full-body cool-down experience.
Players build cooperation, fair play, and physical literacy while moving through water challenges.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 12-30 players | 30-40 minutes | Large outdoor field with a full kickball diamond; space for water elements at each base; access to a water source

Materials

Kickball (one, soft)
4 bases (flat rubber or chalk-marked)
Sprinkler or sprinkler arc near home base
Large tub or bucket of water at second base (not a dunking bucket: players dip a hand or splash themselves)
Kiddie pool at third base (shallow, filled 10-15 cm)
Slip-and-slide between third base and home (secured flat on the ground)
Water source and hose to refill as needed
Cones to mark boundaries and direct foot traffic around water elements
Towels (one per player encouraged)
Non-slip mat near the tub and pool

Quick-Run Card

Set up the diamond with water elements. Brief players on signals and water safety (no head dunking, no pushing near water elements).
Divide into two equal teams. Kicking team lines up at home. Fielding team spreads across the field.
Play standard kickball rules. Runners experience each water element as they pass each base.
Use the “everyone kicks before the side is out” rule so all players get to experience the full course.
Rotate teams after each inning. Play 3-4 innings or until time is called.

Setup and Boundaries

Lay out the diamond with adequate spacing between bases for water elements
Place cones around the kiddie pool and slip-and-slide to direct runners safely
Hose is operated by a staff member stationed at the water source
Signal: 1 whistle = pause; 2 whistles = stop and gather at home plate
Check the slip-and-slide surface for rocks or sharp objects before play; secure the edges
Check the ground around the pool and tub for mud or slippery patches

How to Play

Kicking team lines up at home plate. Fielding team spreads across the field.
The pitcher rolls the ball to the kicker. The kicker kicks and runs the bases.
At home base area: runner passes through a sprinkler arc on the way to first.
At second base: runner pauses to splash water on themselves from the tub before moving on.
At third base: runner steps into the kiddie pool and waits there until the next kick sends them toward home.
Between third base and home: runner slides down the slip-and-slide to score.
Standard kickball fielding rules apply. Use the “everyone kicks before the side is out” option so all players complete the full circuit.
Rotate teams after each inning.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Kick, run the full base circuit, and experience all water elements
S (Support): Help manage the water station, refill the pool, assist with the slip-and-slide, or pitch
Q (Quiet): Kick and walk the bases rather than run; experience water elements at their own pace
O (Observer): Watch from outside the field boundary; choose when to rotate in as a substitute kicker or fielder

Inclusion Adaptations

Players who prefer not to use the slip-and-slide can walk the final stretch to home base and splash themselves from a bucket instead
Players who prefer not to enter the kiddie pool can splash water from the pool onto themselves while standing beside it

Stewardship Moment

At the end of play, all water is emptied and pooled away from natural drainage areas. Assign two players to manage the pool and tub emptying.
Reflection: “We used quite a bit of water today. Where does that water go when it runs off the field? What’s one way we can be more thoughtful about water use at camp?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game has water at every base, including a slip-and-slide. For those not comfortable with any specific element, there are ways to move through that base without using it. Let a staff member know and we will set that up for you.”
Safety brief: “No pushing near the pool, slide, or tub. No dunking anyone else. Everyone moves through at their own pace.”
Mid-game check: After the first inning, pause and ask for a thumbs check. Adjust water elements if needed.
Opt-out and re-entry: Any player can step to the support zone at any time. Rejoin as a kicker or fielder when ready.

Risks and Mitigation

Slip hazard near pool and tub: non-slip mat placed beside each; cones to channel foot traffic
Slip-and-slide injuries from improper entry (headfirst, sideways): brief correct entry before play; one player on the slide at a time; staff stationed at the slide
Head dunking at second base: reframe second base as a self-splash moment, not a dunking station. No head submersion.
Sunburn during extended outdoor play: keep towels available; encourage sun protection before the game; take a shade break between innings if needed
Pool overflow creating muddy zones: fill pool to 10-15 cm only; have staff check levels between innings

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Water Walk”: players walk the base path once without the ball, experiencing each water element at a slow pace as a preview
“Kickball Circle”: players form a circle and pass the kickball around with their feet, practising kicking technique before the game starts

Debrief Questions

What? “Which water element surprised you the most? What happened at the base that made you laugh?”
So What? “How did the water elements change the way you played kickball compared to a regular game?”
Now What? “What other classic games could you reimagine with a twist? What would you add?”

Cleanup and Reset

Empty the kiddie pool and tub into a non-sensitive drain area
Roll up and rinse the slip-and-slide; store flat
Collect bases, cones, and the kickball
60-second field sweep for any litter or hazards
Check for muddy or slippery patches and mark them if the area will be used again