Question:
I am writing for clarification on a kickball rule issue.
Last week, our opponent had the bases loaded with 2 outs. The batter kicked the ball into the outfield, the ball hit the ground, and our outfielder threw the ball to 2nd base for a force out -- the 3rd out of the inning.
The point of contention is that the runner on 3rd base crossed home plate before the ball reached 2nd base for the force out.
Our opponent insisted that the run counts and the umpire counted the run. I didn't argue vehemently, but I have coached and umpired baseball for a number of years and the run does not count in this situation.
Whenever the third out is a force out at any base, the run does not score even if the runner crosses home plate before the out is made.
(See MLB Rule 4.09: "Rule 4.09 - A run scores when a runner touches home plate before the third out is made, EXCEPT that no run can score when the third out is the result of a force play, or when the batter is put out before reaching first base.")
This is an issue that is sure to occur again, and an often misunderstood rule, so I figured I would raise it for an official clarification.
Thank you.
A very handsome and politely articulate DSL Member
(OK I am writing that to protect the innocent)
Answer:
What I am about to write is a lengthier version than what we gave but it will clarify things for everyone...
This is simple...
You are correct!!! The umpire in this case got the issue wrong and we will make sure they (as well as all the umpires) know the rules.
One addition we will make is to be careful going by MLB rules. They are a great guidline for how we play kickball but our rules are specific to our league. We have made them based on what OUR MEMBERS WANT! When in doubt though we usually go with MLB rules in cases such as this, but by no means do we follow the MLB rule book to the letter. We will now add this in to our rules specifically (which we had not done). We figure that if the MLB can still be adding and changing rules some 200 years later...so can we. 
Thanks for the e-mail and for asking a question I am sure others have fantastic annonymous member!