Sloshball

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Sloshball is an unofficial variant of softball that is very similar to its sister game. Essentially, the inclusion of alcohol has been implemented to enhance amusement, while diminishing both mental and physical acuity. The rules and names of this sport vary by region. Sloshball may also be known as Beerball (another variant of baseball/softball) or Kegball (a variant based on the rules of kickball). Many rule variations exist, especially as to the amount of alcohol used.

For example, in "College Rules" 6 kegs are used -- one per base, plus one "spare" per team bench, and the game is continued either until sunset or until someone vomits. This variant is potentially very dangerous, though, and the possibility for alcohol poisoning is abundant. When playing by these rules, it is usually understood that the beer in the kegs will be "light" beer with a low proof -- usually under 7 -- to ensure a lengthy game. Typical rules would specify that the batter must drink one-half of a beer for each swing that does not result in a hit while at the plate; that one full beer must be chugged at each base; and that defensive feats -- such as catching a fly ball while holding a beer in one hand -- could score the defensive team a run. It is sometimes customary for different fraternities to play against one another, with the losing team hosting the night's party.

Major metropolitan areas usually have their own customary sets of rules, too. In San Diego, for example, the rules are as follows: a keg is placed on second base, with half-full beers placed on top. Typically, a keg is also placed in the dugout to keep everyone happy. Every defensive player must have a beer in hand at all times, except for when throwing the ball. Runners must chug the half-beer before leaving second base, which can hold as many runners as necessary - but they must leave in the order they arrived. On special-but-rare occasions, a second keg is placed behind home plate, and a run may not be scored until the runner chugs a half-beer from this keg as well. Hitting any keg with a ball or striking out results in a keg stand, as does fouling the ball out of play. As there are no umpires, close calls are decided with a chug-off. The end of the game is determined by an inevitable hissing sound from the keg, signifying that there is no beer left, and thus, no reason to continue.

In several other regions, modifications have been made as well (e.g., the runner must make a long slip 'n slide between the bases), but all variations center on turning one of America's favorite past-times into an even more fun time to drink.