Fourth Graders Play Todd's Own 'Bennett Kickball'

from the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District:

Todd Students love to learn new games in physical education class. Recently, they learned how to play “Bennett Kickball,” a modified kickball game with elements of baseball that is also a race.

“Years ago, before I joined Todd, a student teacher came up with this game,” said physical education teacher Jamie Tranchida. “The game focuses on fielding techniques and base-running techniques.”

The game is being played by third-, fourth- and fifth-graders, as it can get a little complex.

“There’s a lot to keep track of,” Mr. Tranchida said. “It is essentially a race, but you also have base runners kicking the ball and then running around bases with partners and scoring points. Meanwhile, the fielders have to get the ball to the different bases. It is similar to baseball, but you can’t get “out” of the game in the traditional sense.”

Fourth-graders in Lorraine McDermott and Jessica Kelsey’s classes recently played the game after spending one lesson learning the rules. They were divided into two teams and the team of the runners cheered at the top of their lungs as they watched the students run around the bases as quickly as they could.

“This is a very popular game because everyone gets involved,” Mr. Tranchida said. “We have not done it in over two years because students were not allowed to share equipment and they have to touch the ball in this game, so it is great to watch them play it again. They bring a lot of energy.”

This press release was produced by the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.