Welcome to Bostonet! Whether you’re brand new to catchball, looking to join an existing team, or curious about how our league works, we’ve got you covered below.
🏐 The Basics
What is Catchball, and how is it played?
Catchball (known internationally as Kadureshet or Cachibol) is an active team sport based on volleyball rules, but with one key difference: players catch and throw the ball rather than bumping and spiking.
- 👥 Team Size: 6 players on the court at a time, with rosters typically ranging from 8 to 16 players.
- 🎯 The Goal: Catch the ball securely within one second, pass to teammates (up to 3 touches per side), and throw it over the net to score points.
How is Catchball different from Volleyball?
Because catching replaces high-impact bumping and setting, Catchball has a much faster learning curve and is significantly easier on joints and fingers. At the same time, it keeps all the excitement of volleyball: dynamic court rotations, fast offensive plays, blocks at the net, and intense strategic rallies! ⚡
Is Catchball competitive or recreational?
Both! Catchball accommodates every athletic goal:
- 🤝 Camaraderie & Fitness: Many players love the supportive community, regular exercise, and social connection.
- 🏆 High Intensity & Strategy: For those seeking fierce competition, catchball is fast-paced, highly tactical, and features intense league games, regional tournaments, and championships. Bostonet offers opportunities that suit both recreational play and competitive drive.
👟 Getting Started & Experience
Can I play if I’ve never played sports before?
Yes, 100%! Catchball is designed to be accessible to adult women of all fitness levels and athletic backgrounds. You do not need prior volleyball or sports experience. If you can catch and throw a ball, you can play! 💪
How do I try it out?
You have a few great ways to get started:
- 🎓 Catchball School: Attend our beginner-friendly clinics, where coaches break down basic movement, rules, and passing technique from scratch.
- 🏐 Drop-in Pickups: Join one of our open pickup sessions to scrimmage in a casual, welcoming setting.
- 👀 Come Watch: Drop by a local team practice to see the game in action and meet the community!
What gear do I need?
- 👟 Attire: Comfortable athletic clothing and supportive indoor court sneakers.
- 🛡️ Knee Pads: Highly recommended for court safety, floor defense, and mobility.
- 🏐 Balls & Equipment: Provided by Bostonet and your local team.
📋 Teams, Free Agents & Season Info
Where are teams located?
Bostonet has teams and practices across the Greater Boston area—including Cambridge, Brookline, Newton, Needham and surrounding communities, with players traveling from all across the region! 📍
What if I want to play, but my schedule doesn’t work for a weekly team?
You can join Bostonet as a Free Agent! ⭐
- 🎟️ Attend all open tournaments, league pickups, Catchball School, and league-wide events.
- 🔄 Sub in as a backup player when teams need an extra hand during official league games.
When does the season run?
Our official league season tips off in September, but your annual registration and insurance coverage remain active all throughout the summer ☀️ to cover off-season clinics and summer pickups through the end of August.
📬 Still have questions?
Reach out to our board anytime at info@bostonet.org or connect with our community on our social channels. We can’t wait to see you on the court! 🙌