By Nenneh Fofanah
Freetown 16th February 2026 — Sierra Leone has added a new sport to its national roster, with Kickball officially recognized as the country’s 55th sporting discipline. The announcement marks a significant step in diversifying youth and women’s participation in sports beyond traditional favorites like football.
Kickball, originally invented in the United States in the early 1900s as “Kick Baseball,” was designed to teach children the basics of baseball in a fun and accessible way. Over time, it evolved into a popular recreational sport for adults worldwide.
The game is played between two teams of 8–11 players. One team kicks while the other fields, switching after three outs. Runs are scored when a player successfully rounds all bases and touches home plate, with rules similar to baseball but requiring no bats or gloves.
According to Francis S. Alpha, Head of the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports at Fourah Bay College and a member of the National Sports Authority (NSA) executive committee, Kickball was introduced in Sierra Leone in September 2025 by the Liberia National Kickball Federation through the Ministry of Higher Technical Education and the NSA.
Alpha explained that the sport is primarily designed for women, reflecting its origins in Liberia, but it is adaptable for all age groups.
“This game can be played by primary school pupils up to university students,” he said, adding that the hope is for government sponsorship to help the sport grow nationwide.
Kickball’s recognition is expected to broaden opportunities for youth engagement, promote gender inclusivity in sports, and strengthen Sierra Leone’s sporting landscape.
