Stickball (street game) facts for kids
Stickball is a fun street game that's a lot like baseball. It's usually played in big cities, especially in the Northeastern United States like New York City and Philadelphia. It's often a pick-up game, which means people just gather and start playing without needing a big team or special field.
To play stickball, you only need a few simple things: a broom handle for a bat and a rubber ball. The ball is usually a type called a spaldeen, pensy pinky, high bouncer, or even a tennis ball. The rules come from baseball but are changed to fit where you're playing. For example, a manhole cover might be used as a base, or buildings can act as foul lines.
This game is a type of stick and ball game that has been around for a very long time, since at least the 1750s! It was super popular with kids and teens throughout the 20th century, especially until the 1980s.
Different Ways to Play
Stickball has a few different versions:
- In a game called fungo, the person batting throws the ball into the air themselves. Then, they hit it as it comes down or after it bounces once or more.
- Another popular version is called Vitilla. This game is mostly played in the Dominican Republic and in parts of the United States where many people from the Dominican Republic live.
Stickball on Screen
Stickball has even been featured in some films! These movies help show what the game is like and how much fun people have playing it.
- Fast pitch Stick ball (An Unheard Pastime) (2007) – Directed by Jesse Tornabe.
- Coverage Of Stick ball Opening Day (2008).
- Bragging Rights: Stick ball Stories (2006) – Directed by Sonia Gonzalez.
- Stick ball Night Coverage: Stick ball Highlights (2006) – Directed by Ross O Fomerand.
More Games Like Stickball
In Spanish: Stickball para niños
If you like stickball, you might also enjoy these other games that use a bat and ball:
