Get into the swing of things and play some beep baseball!
Beep baseball is an adapted form of the traditional sport. It consists of a ball that is larger than a softball, which beeps consistently so players are able to hit it when pitched, and find it in the field. There are two bases rigged with a buzzing sound that are triggered when the ball is hit, so the runner knows which way to go. Beep baseball is a great opportunity for people who are blind or visually impaired to run without a cane.
The rules of beep baseball help make the game safer and simpler to score. Rule modifications include:
- There are a total of three bases: home, first, and third
- The pitcher, who is sighted, is on the batter's team
- The game consists of six innings
For more information on how to play beep baseball, check out Physical Education and Sports for People with Visual Impairments and Deafblindness: Foundations of Instruction by Lauren J. Lieberman, Paul E. Ponchillia, and Susan V. Ponchillia, available in the AFB Bookstore.
FamilyConnect took in a game and came away with great insights on why it's important for children with visual impairments to learn about and participate in sports.
But beep baseball isn't just for kids. VisionAware guest blogger Judy Byrd manages the Atlanta Eclipse Beep Baseball Team, made up of players aged 20 to 57. Judy shares the story of her team and their journey to the Beep Baseball World Series.
To find a beep baseball team near you, contact the National Beep Baseball Association.
Now let's play ball!
