The new normal causes a lot of changes in many of our habits, and playing sports is one of them. This is why a lot of people make use of their available space by switching to play wiffle ball at home. You are here because you are one of them, and you want to know how to make a wiffle ball field. I am going to make this as easy and simple as possible for you to follow. With just some steps, and you will be able to make your own wiffle ball field in no time.
Contents
1. What You Need:
- Chalk / white paint
- Measuring tape
- Fences (for the target area and boundary)
- Rubber home plates
- Home plate turf mat (for batter box)
2. 7 Steps To Make A Wiffle Ball Field
2.1. Step 1: Plan The Field
A wiffle ball field can be either permanently or temporarily, depending on how you want it to be. I recommend the temporary pitch because it is easier and faster to make, and you can remove it easily. When planning, think about the location that you choose to make the field whether or not it is appropriate. The most important of which is neighboring zoning laws because not all areas allow to have wiffle ball field. When everything is all good to go, then you can move on to the next step.
2.2. Step 2: Measure Home Run Area
Begin with measuring the home run area, and you can mark it using a line or any natural barriers nearby. The minimum height of the barrier is around 4 to 5 feet while the maximum height is up to 15 to 16 feet. A wiffle ball field for 4 teams can have a home run area of 135 feet by 180 feet. But of course, things are smaller when you do it at home in your backyard. The width of the area should be from 30 feet to 100 feet from the target plate to the target area.
2.3. Step 3: Mark Foul Lines
The distance between the home run point to the home base should be between 60 to 100 feet. Carefully measure down the foul lines from the grand slam then highlight it before placing the home plate. Then use chalk or paint to mark the foul lines, and you can decide the lengths of left and right foul lines.
2.4. Step 4: Mark Foul, Single, Double, and Triple Zones
When marking these 4 zones, the distances are varied in accordance with your pitch’s size. What you have to do is mark all zones in an arc, starting from the left to the right foul line. The distances between each zone around the home plate are:
- Foul Zone: 5 to 15 feet from home plate
- Single-Zone: 20 to 45 feet on the foul lines
- Double-Zone: 20 feet beyond the single-zone’s mark
- Triple-Zone: 20 feet beyond the double-zone or between 60 to 85 feet
2.5. Step 5: Pitcher Area
The pitching area should be flat and at the same ground level as the home plate. This game is quite challenging when it comes to throwing the ball, so the distance should not be too far. No matter if you are a beginner or a pro, the pitcher plate should be around 30 feet or less. Place it in a single zone, and you will be able to give a good throw.
2.6. Step 6: Batter Box
The batter box is a rectangular box for the batter to stand in to swing at the pitch. Normally, there are two batter boxes in a wiffle ball pitch on the left and right sides of the field. However, the batter can use any one of the batter boxes depending on his comfort and preferences in playing. Then the position should be at the center of the home plate, between the home plate’s top and the bottom. The size of the box is 4 feet in width and 6 feet in length.
2.7. Step 7: Optional Details
A wiffle ball field is fun, but it should also look nice so that the game becomes more entertaining. You can add some colors to the pitch by planting some grass around, and the lines will stand out. This can take some time, but the final result is absolutely satisfying because it makes the field more appealing. For those who have a few groups and an audience, adding some benches is one of the best things to do. The more people watching the game, the more exciting it is going to be. Besides those, you can get some cool wiffle ball accessories like scoreboards, wiffle ball pitching machines, etc.
3. What Is Wiffle Ball Field Dimensions?
According to Organize With Sandy, the dimension of a wiffle ball field should be:
- 35 feet between bases, and 50 feet among home and second
- Pitcher’s hill is 42 feet from home plate
- The privilege and left-field foul shafts are 95 feet from home plate.
- Straight away center field is 105 feet.
- There will be circular segments at 15 feet, 45 feet, 65 feet, and 85 feet to demonstrate hit territories.
You can also follow the official wiffle ball field dimensions for a small backyard which are:
- Center Field: 10 feet wide
- Home Plate: 15 square inches
- Backstop Fencing: 9 feet high
- Base paths are 10 feet from home plate
- Right and left fields are 15 feet from home plate
- The ends of the field are 5 feet from the backstop fencing
4. Wiffle Ball Accessories & Equipment
Since wiffle ball is a variation of baseball, the accessories and equipment that you need are rather simple. However, there could be a few more items that you need when you make your own wiffle ball field. So if you don’t know what you should get to make your backyard wiffle field look professional, worry no more. Below is a quick list of things you need for your wiffle ball field and game at home.
4.1. Backstop Net
In wiffle ball, a net functions as a catcher, backstop, and umpire which makes things so much more convenient and easier. According to the rule, it is a strike if the ball goes in the net. Having a backstop net also limits the number of trips needed to retrieve the balls after each hit. It is not only less tiring but also time-saving, especially if you play a long game. Some people look for a wiffle ball net, but baseball nets are also great and easier to find.
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4.2. Bats
You will need at least one wiffle bat to play the game, but I recommend at least 2 or more. Most batters prefer having their own bats because each player has different tastes in grip and size. There are sets of wiffle bats that you can find on the market, and some even include wiffle balls. When buying a wiffle bat, make sure to look for the ones that are durable and lightweight. This is to ensure that you are able to swing naturally without hurting your back and shoulders with each hit. At the same time, focus on the grip that the bat provides so that you won’t experience fatigue in your hands. Once the bats are great, the game is going to be fun as well.
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4.3. Home Plates
You can draw or paint the base, but adding home plates makes your wiffle ball field looks even better. A set of home plates allow you to set the bases for the game, and the players know where to stand. This is also a great idea for beginners because it is like a mark that sets an area for them. When purchasing wiffle ball home plates, look for the ones that are durable and weather resistant. This is to ensure that their appearance and quality last for long-term use. Along with that, make sure that they are easy to install while gripping nicely to the ground.
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4.4. Pitching Machine
For those who want to go big by training, then you might want a pitching machine. This machine allows you to learn stance and timing while getting used to the ball flying in your direction. Most of the time, wiffle ball pitching machines are ideal for beginners and young players who are training. With this machine, players will be able to train by themselves easier and faster. Just choose the best waffle ball pitching machine with the right functions, and training will be both fun and productive.
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4.5. Scoreboard
Keeping score is one of the most important parts of the game, and that is why you need a scoreboard. While some people think it is not necessary, a scoreboard makes the game looks more serious. Players simply play harder to win when the score on the board is right in front of them to see. And since scoreboards are so inexpensive, there is no reason not to get one. The best scoreboards should be made from durable and high-quality materials so that they last longer. Also, make sure that the cards can keep the score from 1 to 99 with different colors for two teams. Some scoreboards stand directly on the ground, while some others come with a pole. Both are nice, and the decision is all yours to make.
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4.6. Wiffle Balls
Last but not least, you need wiffle balls to play wiffle. The game normally needs just one ball, but it is better to get a few just in case. Most wiffle balls come with a plastic material in a hollow design, making them light and easy to hit. You don’t have to stick with white since you can have fun with the color choices. Some players say that bright wiffle balls are easier to spot and hit, and many colorful options are available. What you want to focus on is the durability and size of the wiffle balls that you choose. Most of them come in a set of 12 but fewer or more numbers are also available for choosing.
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Wrap Up
The unique thing about wiffle ball is that it is ideal for both indoor and outdoor, especially in smaller areas. It is just as fun as playing baseball, and anyone can enjoy the game. The rules are also pretty simple, and you don’t need a lot of equipment to make it happen. It is a nice game and sport, and wiffle ball is also a great way to exercise. Fun and healthy, this is one of the games that you should definitely try.