Are you ready to introduce your child to the exciting world of baseball? This classic American pastime is a game of skill, strategy, and teamwork that’s perfect for kids who love to run, throw, and catch. But if you’re new to the sport, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner’s guide to understanding baseball, designed to help you explain the game to a child in a fun and easy-to-understand way. So grab a ball and a glove, and let’s get started!
What is Baseball?
A Brief History of Baseball
Baseball is a sport that originated in the United States and has since become popular worldwide. The game is played by two teams, each consisting of nine players, who take turns batting and fielding. The objective of the game is to score runs by hitting a ball thrown by the pitcher and then running around the bases.
The history of baseball can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when a variation of the game was played in the United States. The modern rules of baseball were officially established in 1845, and the first professional baseball team was formed in 1869. The popularity of the sport continued to grow, and in 1903, the first World Series was held.
Over the years, baseball has become a beloved sport in the United States, with many legendary players and iconic moments. Today, it is played at various levels, from amateur leagues to professional leagues such as Major League Baseball (MLB).
The Basic Rules of Baseball
In baseball, two teams compete against each other on a field with four bases. The objective of the game is to score runs by hitting a ball thrown by the opposing team and running around the bases. The team with the most runs at the end of the game wins. Here are the basic rules of baseball:
- Each team takes turns batting and fielding.
- The game starts with a pitcher from the opposing team throwing a ball to the catcher.
- The batter tries to hit the ball with a bat and run around the bases.
- If the batter successfully hits the ball and reaches a base, they become a runner.
- The fielders try to get the runner out by throwing the ball to the correct base before the runner reaches it.
- There are three ways to get a runner out: striking them out, throwing them out at a base, or getting a force out.
- The game ends when three outs are made in an inning or when a team scores enough runs to win the game.
- The game consists of nine innings, but extra innings may be played if the score is tied at the end of the ninth inning.
- Each team has a manager who makes decisions and a coach who helps with strategy and instruction.
- There are specific positions on the field, including pitcher, catcher, first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, left fielder, center fielder, and right fielder.
- The umpires enforce the rules and make calls on the field.
- The rules of baseball can be complex, but understanding the basic rules can help a child enjoy the game and understand its strategies and excitement.
The Field and Equipment
The Infield
In baseball, the infield refers to the area of the field that is closest to the batter. It includes four bases: first base, second base, third base, and home plate. The objective of the game is for the team at bat to score runs by having the players advance around the bases and cross home plate.
First Base
First base is the first base in the infield and is located on the right-hand side of the batter’s box. The player on the team at bat who is trying to score a run must touch first base before proceeding to second base. The first baseman is responsible for fielding the ball and throwing it to first base to record an out.
Second Base
Second base is the second base in the infield and is located in the middle of the diamond. The player on the team at bat who is trying to score a run must touch second base before proceeding to third base. The second baseman is responsible for fielding the ball and throwing it to second base to record an out.
Third Base
Third base is the third base in the infield and is located on the left-hand side of the batter’s box. The player on the team at bat who is trying to score a run must touch third base before proceeding home. The third baseman is responsible for fielding the ball and throwing it to third base to record an out.
Home Plate
Home plate is the final base in the infield and is located directly behind the catcher. The objective of the game is for the team at bat to score runs by having the players advance around the bases and cross home plate. The catcher is responsible for catching the ball and throwing it to home plate to record an out.
The Outfield
In baseball, the outfield is the area of the field that is located beyond the infield. It is where the left fielder, center fielder, and right fielder play. The outfield is typically grass or artificial turf, and it is divided into three sections: left field, center field, and right field.
The outfielders are responsible for catching the ball when it is hit by the batter and thrown by the pitcher. They must also throw the ball back into the infield to prevent the runner from scoring.
Each outfielder has a specific area of the field that they are responsible for covering. The left fielder covers the area to the left of second base, the center fielder covers the area directly behind home plate, and the right fielder covers the area to the right of second base.
Outfielders must have good speed and accuracy to be successful in the field. They must also have good eyesight and be able to judge the flight of the ball to make a successful catch.
Outfielders also need to be able to throw the ball accurately to prevent the runner from scoring. They must be able to throw the ball quickly and accurately to the correct base to make a successful throw.
In addition to their fielding responsibilities, outfielders also play a key role in the offense. They can score runs by hitting home runs or by being driven in by a teammate.
Overall, the outfield is an important part of the baseball field and the game. It is where the left fielder, center fielder, and right fielder play and they are responsible for catching the ball and throwing it back into the infield to prevent the runner from scoring. Outfielders must have good speed, accuracy, eyesight and throwing ability to be successful in the field and also play a key role in the offense.
The Tools of the Game
Baseball is a game that requires specific equipment to be played. It is important for a child to understand the different tools used in the game to fully appreciate it.
The Bat
The bat is the most important tool for the batter. It is a long, narrow stick made of wood or metal. The batter uses the bat to hit the ball that is thrown by the pitcher. The bat must be held with both hands and must not be more than 2.75 meters (90 inches) in length.
The Ball
The ball is a hard, round object that is about 20 centimeters (8 inches) in diameter. It is made of yarn and rubber and is covered with a leather shell. The ball is thrown by the pitcher to the batter, who tries to hit it with the bat.
The Glove
The glove is a padded mitt that the player wears on their hand to catch the ball. It is made of leather or synthetic materials and is designed to fit snugly on the hand. The glove is an important tool for the players in the field, who must catch the ball hit by the batter to prevent it from scoring a run.
The Base
The base is a small, round pad that is placed at each corner of the diamond. The players must run around the bases to score a run. The base is made of plastic or rubber and is designed to be slippery, making it difficult for the players to stop or slow down.
The Pitcher’s Mound
The pitcher’s mound is a raised area of dirt in the middle of the diamond. It is where the pitcher stands when they throw the ball to the batter. The pitcher’s mound is a key part of the game, as it gives the pitcher an advantage when throwing the ball.
These are just a few of the tools used in the game of baseball. By understanding the importance of each tool, a child can gain a better appreciation for the game and its rules.
The Pitcher and the Batter
The Pitcher’s Role
In baseball, the pitcher is an essential player on the field. They are responsible for throwing the ball towards the batter in an attempt to strike them out or to get them to hit the ball into play. Here are some key points to understand about the pitcher’s role in the game:
- The pitcher’s main objective is to prevent the batter from hitting the ball and scoring a run.
- The pitcher has a set of specific rules they must follow when pitching, including not being able to throw the ball directly to first base without the batter hitting it.
- The pitcher must also follow the “pitching rubber,” which is a specific spot on the field where they must throw the ball from.
- The pitcher can throw different types of pitches, such as fastballs, curveballs, and changeups, to try and confuse the batter and get them to swing and miss.
- If the batter successfully hits the ball, the pitcher’s teammates on the field must try to catch the ball or throw it to the correct base to get the batter out.
- The pitcher is also responsible for fielding their position and making plays when necessary.
- A pitcher can only pitch a certain number of innings per game, and there are rules about how many pitches they can throw in a game as well.
- A good pitcher is essential to a team’s success, as they can prevent the other team from scoring runs and keep their team in the game.
The Batter’s Role
The batter is a key player in the game of baseball. Their role is to hit the ball that is thrown by the pitcher and then run around the bases in an attempt to score a run. The batter starts off at home plate and faces the pitcher who is standing on the pitcher’s mound.
Here are some important aspects of the batter’s role in the game:
- Hitting the Ball: The batter’s main objective is to hit the ball that is thrown by the pitcher. They use a bat to hit the ball and try to hit it as far as possible to score a run.
- Scoring Runs: The batter’s ultimate goal is to score runs. They need to hit the ball and then run around the bases in an attempt to score a run. If they manage to make it all the way around the bases and reach home plate, they score a run for their team.
- Strikes and Balls: The batter needs to be aware of the count, which is the number of balls and strikes that have been thrown by the pitcher. If the count reaches three strikes, the batter is out and their turn is over. However, if the count reaches four balls, the batter gets a walk and gets to take first base.
- Batting Order: The batter is also part of the batting order, which is the sequence in which the players on a team take their turns at bat. The batting order is determined by the manager of the team and can vary depending on the game situation.
- Defense: While the batter’s main role is to hit the ball and score runs, they also need to be aware of the defense. They need to be prepared to react to any plays that may occur while they are at bat, such as a ground ball hit to the infield or a fly ball hit to the outfield.
In summary, the batter’s role in baseball is to hit the ball and score runs. They need to be aware of the count, the batting order, and the defense in order to be successful at the plate.
The Importance of Strike Zones
When it comes to understanding baseball, one of the most important concepts to grasp is the concept of strike zones. The strike zone is the area over home plate that a batter must be able to hit a pitch that is thrown by the pitcher. The pitcher’s goal is to throw the ball in such a way that the batter is unable to hit it, while the batter’s goal is to hit the ball in such a way that it is in play and they can advance around the bases.
It is important to understand that the strike zone is not just a single location, but rather an area that extends vertically from the midpoint of the batter’s chest to the top of their knees, and horizontally from the farthest point of the batter’s shoulder to the farthest point of their hip. The umpire, who is the official in charge of the game, will call a strike if the pitch is thrown and the batter does not swing at it, or if the batter swings at the pitch and misses it. If the pitch is thrown and the batter swings at it and makes contact with the ball, but the ball is caught by the pitcher or the catcher, the umpire will call a strike.
The strike zone is an important concept in baseball because it determines whether or not the batter is able to advance around the bases. If the batter is able to hit the ball and it is in play, they can advance to first base. If the batter is able to hit the ball and it is not caught by the fielding team, they can advance to second base. If the batter is able to hit the ball and it is caught by the fielding team, but the catcher does not throw the ball to first base in time, the batter can advance to first base.
In addition to determining whether or not the batter is able to advance around the bases, the strike zone also plays a role in determining the number of balls and strikes that a batter has. A batter who has three strikes is considered to be out, and the fielding team is then able to try and get the next batter out.
Understanding the strike zone is an important part of understanding the game of baseball, and it is important for beginners to understand how it works. By understanding the strike zone, beginners will be better equipped to understand the game and to follow along with the action on the field.
The Basics of Batting
Gripping the Bat
When it comes to batting in baseball, the way you hold the bat is crucial to your success at the plate. Proper grip can help you swing the bat with power and accuracy, while a poor grip can result in a weak swing and a missed opportunity to score a run.
To grip the bat correctly, follow these steps:
- Place your hands on the handle of the bat, with your dominant hand on top and your non-dominant hand on the bottom.
- Place your fingers on the knob at the end of the handle, with your thumbs resting on the top of the bat.
- Adjust your grip so that your hands are comfortably placed on the bat, with your dominant hand in a natural position to swing the bat.
It’s important to note that there are different grip styles, and finding the right one for you can take some time and practice. Some players prefer a more relaxed grip, while others prefer a tighter grip that allows for more control. Experiment with different grip styles to find what works best for you.
Remember, proper grip is just one aspect of batting in baseball. To become a skilled batter, you’ll need to practice your swing, learn how to read pitches, and develop good timing and footwork. But by starting with the basics of gripping the bat, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful batter in the game of baseball.
The Stance
In baseball, the stance refers to the position that a batter assumes when waiting for a pitch. A proper stance is crucial as it helps the batter to maintain balance, focus, and power during the swing. Here are some key aspects of the batting stance:
Feet Positioning
The feet positioning is a critical aspect of the batting stance. The batter should position their feet about shoulder-width apart, with the front foot pointing towards the pitcher. This stance provides the batter with stability and allows them to move in any direction easily.
Weight Distribution
Weight distribution is another essential aspect of the batting stance. The batter should distribute their weight evenly on both feet, with the back foot slightly behind the front foot. This distribution helps the batter to maintain balance and power during the swing.
Hands Positioning
The hands positioning is also an important aspect of the batting stance. The batter should hold the bat with a firm grip, with the hands placed about 6 inches apart on the handle. The hands should be positioned in such a way that the bat is parallel to the ground.
Eye Contact
Eye contact is also crucial when it comes to the batting stance. The batter should maintain eye contact with the pitcher, focusing on the ball as it is being pitched. This helps the batter to anticipate the movement of the ball and swing the bat with precision.
By mastering the basics of the batting stance, a beginner can improve their batting skills and increase their chances of hitting the ball with power and accuracy.
Hitting the Ball
Hitting the ball is one of the most important aspects of batting in baseball. The batter’s goal is to hit the ball with the bat and send it flying towards the field. Here are some key points to keep in mind when hitting the ball:
- Stance: The batter should stand in a comfortable, athletic position with their feet shoulder-width apart. They should keep their weight evenly distributed on both feet and keep their hands on the bat.
- Grip: The batter should hold the bat with their dominant hand at the bottom of the handle and their top hand about halfway up the handle. They should keep their hands about shoulder-width apart.
- Eye Contact: The batter should keep their eyes on the ball as it is being pitched. This will help them see the trajectory of the ball and hit it in the right direction.
- Swing: The batter should swing the bat in a smooth, circular motion. They should try to make contact with the ball when it is at its highest point in the air.
- Follow-Through: After making contact with the ball, the batter should continue their swing in the direction of the ball. This will help them generate power and send the ball flying towards the field.
By following these steps, a batter can improve their chances of hitting the ball and getting a good score for their team. It may take some practice to get the hang of hitting the ball, but with patience and persistence, anyone can become a skilled batter in baseball.
The Basics of Fielding
The Positions on the Field
In baseball, there are nine positions on the field. Each position has a specific role to play during the game. Here’s a brief overview of each position:
- Pitcher: The pitcher is responsible for throwing the ball towards the catcher, trying to prevent the batter from hitting the ball.
- Catcher: The catcher stands behind the batter and catches the ball if it’s hit, or tries to tag the batter out if they try to reach a base.
- First Baseman: The first baseman is located near the first base and catches the ball if it’s hit towards that base. They also cover the base to make sure the batter doesn’t reach it.
- Second Baseman: The second baseman is located near the second base and covers that base. They also try to field any balls hit towards that area.
- Third Baseman: The third baseman is located near the third base and covers that base. They also try to field any balls hit towards that area.
- Shortstop: The shortstop is located between the second and third bases and covers those bases. They also try to field any balls hit towards those areas.
- Left Fielder: The left fielder is located in the left field and tries to catch any balls hit towards that area.
- Center Fielder: The center fielder is located in the center of the field and tries to catch any balls hit towards that area.
- Right Fielder: The right fielder is located in the right field and tries to catch any balls hit towards that area.
Each position has its own unique responsibilities, and working together as a team is crucial to winning the game.
Throwing and Catching
Throwing and catching are two fundamental skills that every player in baseball must master. In this section, we will explain the basic mechanics of throwing and catching in baseball.
Throwing
Throwing is an essential skill in baseball, as it is used to throw the ball to different bases or to get a runner out. Here are some tips for proper throwing technique:
- Start with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your knees slightly bent.
- Hold the ball with the laces facing your throwing arm’s shoulder.
- Step towards your target with your throwing arm, keeping your arm straight.
- Snap your wrist and release the ball as you reach your target.
- Follow through by extending your arm and pointing your finger in the direction of your target.
It’s important to practice throwing regularly to develop accuracy and strength.
Catching
Catching is also a crucial skill in baseball, as it involves catching the ball thrown by the pitcher or another player. Here are some tips for proper catching technique:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your knees slightly bent.
- Extend your glove towards the ball, keeping your fingers together and your palm facing the ground.
- Catch the ball in the webbing between your thumb and index finger.
- Keep your glove close to your body and your eyes on the ball until you have secured it.
- After catching the ball, turn and throw it to the appropriate base.
It’s important to practice catching regularly to develop hand-eye coordination and reaction time.
In conclusion, throwing and catching are essential skills in baseball that require practice and repetition to master. By following the tips outlined above, a child can develop the necessary skills to play the game and enjoy the excitement of baseball.
Fielding Ground Balls
Fielding ground balls is an essential aspect of baseball as it involves the defensive players’ ability to quickly react to the ball and make a play. When a batter hits a ground ball, the fielder must field the ball and throw it to the appropriate base to record an out. Here are some tips for fielding ground balls:
- Positioning: When fielding a ground ball, it’s crucial to be in the right position. The fielder should be slightly to the side and in front of the ball’s expected path. This allows them to react quickly to the ball and make a play.
- Reading the ball: As the ball is hit, the fielder must read its trajectory and determine the best way to field it. They should anticipate the ball’s bounce and be ready to field it as soon as it hits the ground.
- Fielding technique: When fielding a ground ball, the fielder should use a smooth and efficient technique. They should use their glove to scoop the ball up and transfer it to their throwing hand quickly. The throwing hand should be kept close to the body to prevent the ball from being thrown away.
- Throwing: After fielding the ball, the fielder must throw it to the appropriate base to record an out. The throw should be made quickly and accurately, with the arm kept close to the body to prevent the runner from advancing.
- Practice: Fielding ground balls requires practice and repetition. Players should practice fielding ground balls in different situations, such as with runners on base or when the ball is hit directly at them. Regular practice will help players develop the skills needed to field ground balls effectively.
Scoring in Baseball
Running the Bases
When a player hits the ball and reaches first base, they become a runner. The goal of the game is to score runs by circling the bases and reaching home plate. Each time a runner successfully touches a base, they advance one base. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
- First Base: The runner starts at first base and can advance to second base if the batter reaches first base safely. If the batter hits a single, the runner can advance to second base. If the batter hits a double, the runner can advance to third base.
- Second Base: The runner can advance to third base if the batter hits a single or a double. If the batter hits a triple, the runner can advance to home plate.
- Third Base: The runner can advance to home plate if the batter hits a single, double, or triple. If the batter hits a home run, the runner can circle the bases and score a run.
- Home Plate: The runner can score a run if they reach home plate before the fielders can tag them out. The runner must touch the base with their foot or some part of their body while the umpire calls “safe.” If the runner is tagged out by the fielder before reaching home plate, they are out.
In addition to advancing on hits, runners can also advance on walks, hit-by-pitch, or errors by the fielders. When a runner reaches home plate, they score a run for their team. The team with the most runs at the end of the game wins.
Scoring a Run
In baseball, the ultimate goal of the game is to score runs. A run is scored when a player completes a circuit around all four bases and returns to home plate. Here are the steps involved in scoring a run:
- Batting: The batting team takes turns hitting the ball with a bat and trying to get a hit. If the batter successfully hits the ball and reaches first base before the fielding team can get them out, they become a runner.
- Base Running: Once a player reaches first base, they can advance to second base by running while the pitcher is throwing the ball to first base. If the batter gets a hit, the runner can advance to second, third, and even home base.
- Scoring: A runner can score a run by reaching home plate after advancing around the bases. This can happen when another player on the batting team hits a home run or gets a hit and the runner is able to cross home plate before the fielding team can get them out.
- Outs: If a fielder catches the ball before it hits the ground and the runner is not able to reach a base, the runner is out and the batting team is done for that inning. If the batter hits the ball and is caught by a fielder before reaching a base, they are also out.
In summary, scoring a run in baseball involves getting a hit, advancing around the bases, and reaching home plate before the fielding team can get the runner out. It is important for players to understand the rules of base running and how to effectively advance around the bases to increase their chances of scoring a run.
The Importance of Base Percentage
Base percentage is a crucial aspect of baseball that determines a player’s success on the field. It is calculated by dividing the number of times a player reaches base by the number of times they have at-bats. A player’s base percentage is used to evaluate their ability to get on base and contribute to their team’s scoring opportunities.
Here are some key points to understand about base percentage:
- A player’s base percentage is influenced by their batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage.
- A high base percentage indicates that a player is able to get on base frequently and contribute to their team’s offense.
- A low base percentage may indicate that a player is not able to get on base as often and may not be contributing as much to their team’s offense.
- A player’s base percentage can be compared to their team’s overall base percentage to evaluate their individual contribution to the team’s offense.
Overall, base percentage is an important metric in baseball that can help evaluate a player’s ability to contribute to their team’s offense and score runs.
Recap of Key Points
Baseball is a game played by two teams, with each team having nine players. The objective of the game is to score more runs than the opposing team. The following are the key points to remember when it comes to scoring in baseball:
- A player can score a run by crossing home plate after a teammate hits a home run or after reaching base safely and then advancing to home plate on a subsequent play.
- A player can also score a run by crossing home plate after reaching base safely and then advancing to home plate on a subsequent play, such as on a ground rule double or a throwing error by the opposing team.
- The team with the most runs scored at the end of the game wins.
- If the score is tied at the end of the game, the game can continue until one team scores a run to take the lead.
- If the score is still tied after extra innings, the game can end in a tie or be continued until a winner is determined.
Understanding these key points is essential for a child learning the game of baseball. By knowing how to score runs, a child can better understand the objective of the game and how to help their team win.
Tips for Watching a Baseball Game
If you’re a beginner looking to understand baseball, watching a game can be a great way to learn. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Follow the action: Keep your eyes on the ball at all times. Follow its path as it moves from the pitcher’s mound to the batter, and then to the fielders. This will help you understand the flow of the game and how different players contribute to the action.
- Listen to the announcers: The announcers can provide valuable insights into the game, including the rules, strategies, and nuances of the sport. Pay attention to their commentary to gain a better understanding of what’s happening on the field.
- Pay attention to the scoreboard: The scoreboard can tell you a lot about what’s happening in the game. Keep an eye on the score, inning, and outs, as well as the number of runners on base. This will help you understand the context of the action and what’s at stake for each team.
- Watch the base runners: Base running is an important part of the game, and it can be exciting to watch. Pay attention to the runners as they move around the bases, and try to understand the strategies involved in advancing from one base to the next.
- Cheer for your favorite team: Finally, don’t forget to cheer for your favorite team! Baseball is a fun and exciting sport, and there’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching your team come out on top. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the game!
Resources for Learning More About Baseball
There are many resources available for children who want to learn more about baseball. These resources can include books, websites, and videos that provide detailed information about the game and its rules.
One useful resource for children who want to learn more about baseball is a book called “Baseball for Kids: The Official Parents’ Guide to Helping Your Child Play the Game.” This book provides an overview of the game, including the rules and strategies, and also includes tips for parents on how to help their children develop their skills.
Another helpful resource is the official website of Major League Baseball (MLB), which offers a variety of educational materials for children of all ages. These materials include interactive games, videos, and educational resources that cover topics such as the history of the game, the rules, and the strategies used by professional teams.
Children can also learn about baseball by watching games on television or attending games in person. Watching the game with a parent or guardian can help children understand the rules and strategies, and also provide an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the game.
Overall, there are many resources available for children who want to learn more about baseball. By using these resources, children can develop a better understanding of the game and its rules, and also gain a greater appreciation for the skills and strategies used by professional players.
FAQs
1. What is baseball?
Baseball is a sport played with a bat and a ball. The objective of the game is for the team at bat to score runs by hitting the ball thrown by the pitcher and running around the bases.
2. How do you play baseball?
The game is played on a field with four bases: home plate, first base, second base, and third base. The pitcher throws the ball towards the batter, who tries to hit the ball with a bat. If the batter successfully hits the ball, they become a runner and try to reach the next base. The fielders, including the catcher, try to throw the ball to the bases to get the runner out. The team with the most runs at the end of the game wins.
3. What is the role of each player in baseball?
The players on the field include the pitcher, catcher, first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, and outfielders. The pitcher throws the ball to the batter and tries to get them out. The catcher catches the ball when the batter misses it and tries to throw the runner out. The first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop play defense and try to get the runner out. The outfielders catch the ball when the batter hits it and try to throw the runner out.
4. What is a strikeout?
A strikeout occurs when the batter fails to hit the ball and the pitcher throws three strikes. The batter is then out and the next batter comes up to bat.
5. What is a home run?
A home run occurs when the batter hits the ball and runs around all the bases without being tagged out. It is a way for the team to score a lot of runs quickly.
6. How long does a baseball game last?
A baseball game can last anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the pace of the game and the skill of the players.
7. When is a good time to take a child to a baseball game?
A good time to take a child to a baseball game is during the weekend or on a summer evening. This allows for plenty of time to enjoy the game and make memories with your child.
8. What should I bring to a baseball game?
You should bring snacks, drinks, and a blanket or chairs to sit on. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
9. What should I teach my child about baseball?
You should teach your child the basics of the game, such as the positions on the field and how to play defense. You should also teach them the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship. It’s also a good idea to encourage them to have fun and enjoy the game.