ROCHESTER, NY — Bounce it, kick it, catch it. Chase it, throw it or smack it. The ball, arguably the most popular plaything of all time, has finally earned a place inside a glass case at the National Toy Hall of Fame.

Along with the Big Wheel tricycle and the Game Boy, the ball was selected yesterday for the all-star lineup at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. The 41 classics in the collection range from the bicycle and the kite to the jump rope, the teddy bear and Mr. Potato Head.

Longevity is one key for getting into the hall. Each toy must also foster learning, creativity or discovery through play.