No longer just a kids’ game, kickball finds resurgence among adult players

No longer just a kids’ game, kickball finds resurgence among adult players

Kickball, traditionally a school-yard sport, is running roughshod over the Columbus adult recreation sports scene, with young professionals leading the charge.

The reasons for the big red ball’s resurgence are two-fold: players say it’s easy, fun, and a reason to hit the bar on Wednesdays. But then, they add it makes them feel, well, nostalgic.

“I haven’t played kickball since the fifth grade,” said George 28, of Columbus, during a recent game. “Kickball brings you back to the good old days.”

So to meld sports and socializing, a new way for 20- and 30-year-olds to mingle on the basepaths, without breaking a sweat, the grade-school game is growing up — and being baptized with new team names like “Booze on First” and “A Swift Kick in the Grass.”

“All you need to do is kick the ball and run to first base,” said Steve Levert, commisioner or the Arena District Kickball League. “It’s like recess for adults.”

“I feel like my third-graders could beat me,” joked Alysia, 28, a teacher from Hilliard.

“It’s a social league. You play to come to the bar afterward,” said Chris, 30, of Columbus, nursing a beer at Boston’s in the Arena District after a game on Thursday. Boston’s is  the offical watering hole to players after league events.

But even after the game’s last out and the bar’s last call, players say it’s the lure of returning to a cherished game they’ve known for years that brings them to the kickball diamond.

“We don’t want to grow up,” said Mike, 27, of Columbus. “What’s a better way to relive your childhood than playing kickball?”

https://www.facebook.com/ArenaAthletic/videos/10153532130987831/

The Arena District Athletic Club is more than just a gym, it’s a premier fitness facility located in the heart of the Arena District in downtown Columbus. We provide convenience and quality, featuring top-of-the-line equipment, top-notch personal trainers, spa-like locker rooms and a wide variety of free group fitness classes daily including Cardio, Spinning, Barre Fusion, Yoga, Boot Camp and more. We offer free 2-hour parking and convenient contract-free memberships, to fit your healthy lifestyle needs. Don’t just join, belong