Age to start:

Children can begin to participate in T-Ball from the age of 5 years. T- Ball is a modified version of the game aimed at introducing children to basic skills and principles of baseball.

Rules of the game:

The basic rules of baseball are;

1. The game is played between two teams consisting of nine players on each time.
2. The object of the game is to score more runs than the opposing team.
3. A batter tries to hit the ball and then run around the bases. Once the batter runs around the bases and makes it back to home plate they have scored a run.
4. A fielding team tries to get the batter out before they reach home plate. A fielding team dismisses the batting team once they have got three of their batters out. It is then their turn to bat.
5. The field consists of three bases and a home plate laid out in a diamond formation.

Find out more about Baseball in New Zealand.

Suitability:

Baseball is an excellent activity for both boys and girls. Children can equally participate in T-Ball and junior baseball. They can play together but can also compete separately if desired. Baseball is a non contact sport so the risk of serious injury is low.

Sign up dates:

Contact your local club for sign up details for their summer season. There are clubs in:

• Bayside / Westhaven
• Howick / Pakuranga
• Te Atatu
• Central Auckland and North Shore
• Northland
• Christchurch
• And more

Sign up periods begin usually in September. For specific dates and times contact your local baseball club.

Sporting tips:

In order to successfully participate in baseball you require;

• A sound level of fitness
• Excellent hand/eye coordination
• Good ball skills, in particular throwing and catching
• The ability to work well in a team environment