Kickboxing Rules

 

Kickboxing is a relatively modern, full-contact sport and martial art that has its roots in several other martial disciplines. With the modern sport of kickboxing beginning in the USA in the 1970s, it was an amalgamation of several other striking arts put into a more familiar American concept, manly by holding competitions in a boxing ring.

Japanese karate, Muay Thai, western boxing, the French kicking art of Savate and Korean Taekwondo are all in part responsible for the modern sport of kickboxing, with the sport taking off rapidly and being popular around the world. However, it was in America and Japan that were (and still are) kickboxing strongholds.

The American kickboxing scene was dominated by its home-grown superstars, such as Joe Lewis, Benny Urquidez, Chuck Norris, and Bill ‘Superfoot’ Wallace whilst in Japan, their K1 Kickboxing promotions gradually became a big box office draw, from the 90s attracting top competitors from around the world.

Today, kickboxing has been overshadowed somewhat by the emergence of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) but still remains popular around the world. Unlike some other sports, kickboxing has a multitude of different governing bodies and international and national associations. However, despite some slight discrepancies, the rules of full contact kickboxing remain the same regardless of association.

Object of Kickboxing

Like its close relative – boxing – the aim of kickboxing is to beat your opponent by using kicking and punching techniques to knock them out, force the referee to stop the fight or to display superior skills in both defence and attack to win on the judge’s points cards. Kickboxing is a full contact sport and, as well as being adept at striking with both their hands and feet, kickboxers need to be extremely fit and flexible, as some of the most effective techniques are kicks to the head.

Players & Equipment

Kickboxing requires relatively few pieces of equipment.

• Boxing ring: Kickboxing almost always takes place in a boxing ring. The exact size may vary depending upon the different associations and promotions.
• Boxing gloves: Kickboxers wear regulation boxing gloves and these may be in any colour. Underneath the gloves, kickboxers use hand wraps to help keep their fist in shape and prevent any injuries to the knuckles and wrist.
• Footpads: Because kickboxing utilises the feet as a striking weapon, pads are worn on the feet to protect them. This is a fundamental difference between kickboxing and its close relative, Thai boxing, in which boxers do not wear foot pads (and are also allowed to strike with the knee and elbow).
• Groin guards and mouth guards are also worn by all kickboxers.

Scoring

There may be different methods of scoring depending upon each different individual kickboxing organisation, but the vast majority use the type of scoring as used in boxing. Judges (or in some cases, just the referee) score each fighter in each round depending upon their performance.

The better fighter in each round is awarded ten points, whilst the other fighter is awarded nine points. If both fighters are deemed to have performed equally well, then both are awarded ten points, whilst if one has significantly outperformed the other or has knocked them down, the round is scored ten points to eight.

Winning the Match

Like boxing and Muay Thai, there are several ways in which a fight can be won:

• Knockout: This is where one fighter striker strikes their opponent rendering them incapable of carrying on. The striker is then declared the winner after a count of ten, which gives the other fighter a chance to get up and continue fighting.
• TKO: This is a technical knockout and is when the referee decides that one fighter is no longer able to defend themselves, immediately ending the fight and declaring the other fighter the winner.
• Points: If no knockout or TKO occurs during the fight, then the fight goes to points. The judge/referee’s points on a scorecard are added up and the fighter with the most points is declared the winner. If the points are equal at the end of the fight then the fight is declared a draw.

Rules of Kickboxing

• All kickboxing matches should take place in a boxing ring.
• Any competitor in full contact kickboxing must compete against a fighter in the same weight category as themselves to ensure a fair fight.
• After listening to the referee’s instructions, both fighters touch glove and the fight begins.
• Rounds usually last 3-minutes and the number of rounds depends upon the experience of the fighters involved. There is a 1-minute break between each round. Championship fights are usually over 12 x 3 minute rounds.
• Each fighter must attempt to defeat their opponent by using punches and kicks to the body and head in an attempt to knock their opponent out.
• If both fighters fail to knock their opponent out or force the referee to stop the fight, then the fight is judged on points. The fighter with the greater number of points is declared the winner.
• If both fighters have the same amount of points, the match is considered a draw.

 

 

Kin-Ball Rules

Kin-Ball is a recently invented game that comes from Quebec, Canada. Invented by Canadian university professor, Mario Demers, in 1986, it is a very distinctive game that is played by nearly 4 million people around the world.

Unlike almost any other game on the planet, the game is not played in the traditional one-versus-one team or individual format, but it is played with three teams, all competing against each other to win at the same time.

As a game, it is played across the world and is overseen by the International Kin-Ball Federation. Countries in which it is particularly popular are the USA, Canada, Malaysia, France, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Spain, and Switzerland and is rising in popularity in other nations year-on-year. The game is regulated by the International Kin-Ball Sport Federation.

Object of the Game

The object of Kin-Ball is simple: to score more points than the two other opponents and win the game. Players do this by working as a team against the two other teams. Because of the nature of Kin-Ball, a great deal of teamwork is involved, as is a good level of fitness due to the fast paced nature of the game.

Players & Equipment

Kin-Ball is played in a gymnasium usually but it can also be played outdoors. The only required equipment to play the game is an official Kin-Ball, 48” in size with a weight of 2.2lbs. This can be in a range of colours such as grey, black, or pink. For an official game of Kin-Ball, an electric ball inflator is required too as is a scoreboard.

Scoring

Scoring in Kin-Ball is relatively simple. When a team faults, a point is awarded to the two other teams. A fault occurs when a team fails to catch and control the Kin-ball before it touches the ground.

Winning the Game

At the end of the game, the team with the most amount of points is declared the winner. If at the end of the game there are two or more teams on the same amount of points, a tie break situation comes into play, for which there are the following criteria:

• 1st Amount of First Places Won: If the teams have the same amount of first places.
• 2nd Amount of Second Places Won: If the teams have the same amount of second places.
• 3rd Amount of Fair-Play Ranking Points: If the teams have the same amount of points.
• 4th Amount of Ranking Points in the Game(s) where the Teams Played Against Each Other: If the teams have the same amount of ranking points in the games that they have played against each other.
• 5th Total Amount of Won Periods : If the teams have the same amount of won periods.
• 6th Amount of Periods Won by Each Team during the Games in which They Played One Against the Other: If teams have the same amount.
• 7th Total Amount of Lost Periods during Preliminaries: If the teams have the same amount of lost periods during preliminaries.
• 8th The IKBF will determine if it is appropriate to run a 5 points period or to play a complete game.

It is highly unusual for a tie break game to need to go beyond the 3rd or 4th criteria.

Rules of Kin-Ball

• Games of Kin-Ball have three periods, each lasting 15-minutes, although this can reduce to 7-minutes for younger players.
• The game shall be played by thee opposing teams each consisting of four players.
• Between each period players will have a 1-minute break.
• The objective of the game is for any team when their colour is called to catch the ball with any part of their bodies before the ball touches the ground and then hit it back to another team.
• Play continues like this until a fault is committed by one team who fail to prevent the ball touching the ground and a point is awarded to the two other teams.
• When playing the ball, a team should have three players holding the ball, whilst the fourth player runs and strikes the ball after clearly shouting “Omnikin” and the colour of the team which will be required to run and catch the ball.
• Points can also be awarded to the two other teams if the striker of the ball mistakenly yells the colour of his/her own team.
• There are eight other types of foul in Kin-Ball:
  • Shouting another team’s colour whilst simultaneously striking the ball.
  • Letting the ball touch the walls of the game room without the naked team touching it.
  • Hitting the ball twice in a row.
  • Hitting the ball in a downwards direction.
  • Taking more than 5 seconds to hit the ball after 3 players make contact.
  • Hitting the ball less than 6 feet in distance.
  • Hitting the ball when there are less than 3 players in contact with it.
  • Purposely blocking an opposition player.
• The team with the most amount of points at the end of the game is declared the winner.

• Ki-o-rahi

   

   

   

  

   

  A traditional kī-o-rahi ball.

  Kī-o-rahi is a ball sport played in New Zealand with a small round ball called a 'kī'. The game is widely known in Māori communities and in scattered mainstream locations throughout the country.^[1] It is a fast-paced sport incorporating skills similar to Australian Rules, rugby union, netball and touch.^[1] Two teams of seven players play on a circular field divided into zones, and score points by touching the 'pou' (boundary markers) and hitting a central 'tupu' or target.^[1][2] The game is played with varying rules (e.g. number of people, size of field, tag ripping rules etc.) depending on the geographic area it is played in. A process called Tatu, before the game, determines which rules the two teams will use.

  In 2005 kī-o-rahi was chosen to represent New Zealand by global fast-food chain McDonald's as part of its 'Passport to Play' programme to teach physical play activities in 31,000 American schools.^[2][3] The programme will give instruction in 15 ethnic games to seven million primary school children.^[2]

  The New Zealand kī-o-rahi representative organisation, Kī-o-Rahi Akotanga Iho, formed with men's and women's national teams, completed a 14 match tour of Europe in September and October 2010. The men's team included 22-test All Black veteran Wayne Shelford who led the team to a 57-10 test win against Kī-o-Rahi Dieppe Organisation, the French Kī-o-Rahi federation. Shelford's kī-o-rahi test jersey made him the first kī-o-rahi/rugby double international for NZ. The women's team coached by Andrea Cameron (Head of PE at Tikipunga High School) also won by 33-0. These were the first historic test matches between NZ and France.^[4]

GAME WHAKAPAPA/ATUATANGA

Based on the Purakau (legend) of Rahitutakahina and the rescue of his wife Tiarakurapakewai. The tākaro is a reflection of Tupuna story telling at its best, as well as provides an insight into the way in which they would explain and design Tākaro to reflect their unique "world view". The Papa Tākaro (field) layout of Ki o Rahi and the way the Tākaro is played is a perfect example of this.

GAME DESCRIPTION

A large team game played between 2 teams, kioma and taniwha on a large circular field. Played for 4 quarters or 2 halves of a set time, teams alternate roles of Kīoma and Taniwha at half or quarter time.

Kīoma score by touching Pou/s with the Kī (for potential points) then running the Kī through Te Roto and placing it down in Pawero to convert pou touches into points. Kīoma stop the other team, Taniwha.

Taniwha score by hitting the Tupu with the Kī. Kīoma will have Kaitiaki (guardians) around the Tupu to stop Taniwha from hitting the Tupu. Depending on which variation is being played, Taniwha must stop Kīoma from scoring by either touching, 2 handed touch, ripping the tag or tackling them in the appropriate area.

NUMBER OF PLAYERS REQUIRED

14 People minimum (7 a side)

SPACE REQUIRED

A good size field/area will be needed to play.

 

Ki o Rahi is played on a circular field with concentric circles.

The size of the field varies depending on the amount of players, level of fitness and the type of rules being played.

Team zones

Kioma can go into Te Marama, Te Ao, Pawero zones. Te Ara is for the Kaitiaki/guardians to get in and out of Pawero to help attack or defend the Tupu. Te Roto can only be used by Kīomawhen running through to covert Pou touches into points.

Taniwha can go into Te Roto and Te Ao zones only.

GAME BENEFITS

A wide range of skills will be learnt and improved while playing Kīo Rahi.

Running, sidestepping, being evasive with a Kī

One handed and two handed accurate passing and catching

Flag/tag ripping skills

Jump shots and accurate shooting/throwing

Blocking

Communication and team work

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

1 tupu (central target) approx 40 gallon drum or rubbish bin.

7 pou.

Ki, woven flax ball, normal ball, rocks, rolled up jersey or anything.

Field marking.

Team ID.

GUIDELINES

Play is started from te Marama, with Kioma throw or kick the ki to a team mate in Pawero area.

They attempt to pass the ki to team mate who touches a pou (for a potential point) then can touch more pou to accumulate more potential points or run it through te roto  then place the ki on or over the Pawero line to convert all pou touches into points on the board. (this is the only time they can enter te roto).

Kioma can not go through or over te ara to score.

If a kioma player is “tagged” in te roto while trying to score it is a hand over, if they run into te roto and run or pass the ki back out with out being touch they retain possession but the pou touches are recounted.

Kioma scores and play restarts with a kick off from te marama.

Out of bounds, last team in possession hand over to other team.

Taniwha scores by hitting the tupu with the ki and play carries on.

Jump shots may be allowed if the taniwha player jumps from te roto and releases the ki before landing in Pawero, they must leave immediattely and not affect play or Kioma gain possession.

Players in possession must be moving or they have 3-5 seconds to pass or shot or hand it over.

Players can not enter te ara, unless they are kioma moving between pawero and te ao.

Players may get the ki from other zones as long as part of their body stays in their legal zone, Taniwha may take jump shots at the tupu as long as the ball is released before they touch the ground. (some Iwi play no entering other zones or penalties may occur) This is called the Turangawaewae rule.

We have attached a couple of variations of how it can be played. Keep an eye out on this site for video instructions!

VARIATIONS

Nonoke (tackle)       

Full contact version, which is also the traditional method of play. Tatū (negotiation of rules and conduct) is an important part and necessary process of Nonoke. Teams negotiate what's acceptable in the way of contact i.e. no head high tackles, no shoulder charges, substitutions etc. Tatū also governs and negotiates how teams will conduct themselves on and off the Papa Tākaro (Field)            

Ripper version  If attacking player gets ripped they have 3-5 seconds to pass the ki.

Touch version  Touched with the ki, 3-5 seconds to pass, some Iwi play handover if touched with the ki.

Tupu Tangata  2 or 3 players in the pawero are the tupu, so taniwha try to hit them to score, kioma / tupu  try to karo / avoid being hit.

 

 

 

                    

 

 

 

 

 

Korfball Rules

Korfball is a Dutch game that is rooted in both netball and basketball. A team game, it is played with eight players on each side, usually all female although it can be played with four females and four males. Scoring points (goals) is done by putting the ball through the opposition’s raised basket.

The sport’s history stretches back to 1902 which is when the game was invented by Dutch schoolteacher Nico Broekhuysen. His inspiration was a Swedish game and he decided to formulate his own version and introduce it to the Netherlands. It courted controversy at the time because the game can be played in mixed sex teams and many people were offended by this. However, its popularity began to increase and it was even included at the Olympic Games in 1920 and 1928 as a demonstration sport, though it sadly never made it to becoming a regular Olympic activity.

Now the game is played across the globe and is present in both South America, North America Asia, Africa and Europe. A regular event at the World Games for sports not part of the Olympics, the two most successful nations in Korfball are the Netherlands and Belgium.

Overseeing the game internationally is the IKF (The International Korfball Federation) who as well as overseeing the rules and regulations of the game is tasked with promoting the sport around the world. It’s a task that has been successful with the IKF having 66 countries as members.

Object of the Game

The object of Korfball is to score more goals than the opposition and win the game. Players do this by working as a team to move the ball upfield until they get into a position in which they can shoot the ball into their opposition's net.

Because it is a team game, a high degree of teamwork and communication is required for a team to be successful, as is a good level of physical fitness and ball skills.

Players & Equipment

There are eight players that make up a Korfball team, and this should consist of four females and four males or eight females. The court used should be 20m x 40m or if playing outdoors it should be 30m x 60m. Both nets should be mounted on top of a 3.5m pole.

In terms of equipment, the ball used must be a round number 5 type ball that has been approved by the IKF, should weigh between 445g and 475 and have a circumference of between 68cm and 70.5cm. No other equipment is essential although individual leagues will almost certainly require teams to wear a suitable strip and training shoes.

Scoring

The scoring system in Korfball is simple and contributes to the fast paced nature of the game. A goal is scored when the ball is thrown through the opposition's net. Both teams therefore are constantly trying to work the ball upfield to place themselves in an attacking position to shoot.

However, a player may not try and take a shot if they have been ‘defended’. This is when the opposition player positions themselves in between the attacker and the net and within an arm’s length from them.

Winning the Game

The game of Korfball is won by one team scoring more goals than their opposition. If at the end of the game the scores are level, then the game is declared a draw. In cup games of tournaments where a winner is required, then depending upon the individual requirements of the competition it may be decided by a shoot-out, with the team scoring the most amount of goals being declared the winner.

Rules of Korfball

• If playing indoors, the size of the Korfball court should be 20m x 40m or if playing outdoors it should be 30m x 60m.
• Teams shall consist of eight players and shall consist solely of female players or four female and four male.
• Korfball matches consist of two halves, each lasting for a total of 35 minutes, with a 10 minute halftime break.
• Each team has four players in each half and during the match they cannot switch zones. The game begins once a coin toss has decided who shall begin.
• In Korfball, the aim is to score by throwing the ball through the opposition’s basket.
• Once two goals have been scored, the teams change zones, with attackers becoming defenders and vice versa. Teams also swap ends at half time.
• On receiving the ball, a player may not dribble, walk or run with it but can move one foot with one remaining planted to the ground as in netball.
• Tackling, blocking and holding are not allowed in Korfball.
• The team with the most goals (points) at the end of the match are declared the winner.
• If both teams are on equal points at the end of the match, the game is declared a draw.

 

Lacrosse Rules

Lacrosse is a team game in which a ball is passed between teammates using a stick with a mesh or net at one end. It originates in Native American communities where it was used as a training ground for tribal warriors and dates back almost a thousand years. You might remember a friendly game of lacrosse taking place in the film ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ in which Daniel Day Lewis stars, and in its early form there were sometimes thousands of players on either side battling for victory.

Since early versions of the game were witnessed and documented by French Jesuit missionaries it gained popularity and was first codified in Canada in 1867. The modern game is a fast, frenetic contact sport that requires players to wear padding and helmets – a sight at which no doubt the Mohicans would have laughed heartily. Here we will focus on field lacrosse (as opposed to the less common variations of box lacrosse and intercrosse).

Object of the Game

The object of the game is similar to many team sports involving a ball, namely to shoot said ball into the opponent’s goal more times than they do to yours. The lacrosse stick (or “crosse”) can be used to catch, carry and pass the ball with the intention of stopping your opponents gaining possession.

When the opposing side have the ball the defending team can attempt to dispossess them using their sticks (against opponents’ sticks) or bodies.

Players & Equipment

Each team consists of ten players: one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three attackers.

The lacrosse sticks are split between “short” and “long” sticks. The former must measure between 40 and 42 inches and the latter between 52 and 72 inches in length, the head of which must be no less than six inches and no more than 10 inches at its widest point. The goalkeeper’s stick may be anything between 40 and 72 inches in length and up to 15 inches in width. No more than four players are permitted to carry a long stick (excluding the goalkeeper).

The ball is made of solid rubber and measures around eight inches in diameter. Hence helmets are required to be worn, while mouthpieces, shoulder pads, arm pads and gloves are recommended.

Scoring

To score a goal a team must propel the ball from their lacrosse stick into the goal such that it fully crosses the goal line. Infringements – such as a player entering the “crease” before the ball has crossed the goal line – will result in the goal being disallowed.

Winning the Game

The winning team is simply the one that has scored the most goals within the timeframe of the game. If scores are level after the game time is up, an additional period of Sudden Victory Overtime may ensue in which the first team to score a goal becomes the overall winner.

Rules of Lacrosse

• Lacrosse is played on a field measuring 110 yards in length by 60 yards in width, with goals at either end measuring six feet by six feet. The goal is surrounded by a circular “crease” with a diameter of 18 feet. A player may not score from within said crease. The pitch is dissected by the midfield line.
• The game duration is split into four quarters, each of 20 minutes. Team time-outs may be called by either side, during which the game time will be paused.
• Each player carries a stick or “crosse”, with up to four carrying a long stick (52-72 inches) and the rest carrying a short stick (40-42 inches).
• Players who make infringements – such as being offside or holding an opponent – are punished by being sent to the penalty box for a period of time, usually 30 seconds or one minute.
• Games are started (and restarted after stoppages for goals and at the start of each quarter) with a face-off. During a face-off a player from each side lays their stick horizontally next to the ball until the official blows their whistle, at which point the players battle for possession of the ball.
• Once a team gains possession of the ball they must ensure the ball is progressed beyond the midfield line within 20 seconds to encourage a fast-flowing game.

 

 

 

MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Rules

MMA (mixed martial arts) is one of the world's fastest growing sports and is one of the most dynamic and exciting full contact combat sports on the planet. Mixed martial arts is essentially a sport in which fighters of any martial discipline, such as boxing, karate, jiu jitsu, wrestling and judo compete under rules that allow kicking, punching and grappling techniques, both stand-up and on the ground.

It is usually fought in a cage which is a fighting area enclosed by metal fencing, a traditional boxing ring or in amateur competitions, sometimes a simple matted area is used.

Such fighting has gone on for many years and can be traced as far back as ancient Greece where a sport known as Pankration was popular which was a combat sport that featured range of grappling and striking techniques. Similar styles of combat have existed throughout the ages but none have ever attracted worldwide attention until the advent of the Ultimate Fighting Championship in the USA in 1993.

Pitting fighters of different martial arts styles against each other, it was a TV hit and began to popularise the sport of MMA across the world. Today the UFC is MMA’s largest promotion, has fight nights across the globe and is worth several billion dollars.

There is no one governing body for MMA and there is no uniform set of rules that are used the world over, and many of the hundreds of different federations, promotions and associations across the globe may all have slightly differing takes on MMA rules.

However, several state commissions across the United States of America came together to create the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts and this set of rules has been adopted by fighting promotions all across the globe, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship. By far the most widely used MMA rulebooks, even those promotions that don’t subscribe to them will almost certainly use a close variation of them.

Object of MMA

The object of the sport is to defeat your opponent utilising striking, throwing and grappling techniques. Although in the early years of MMA and particularly the UFC fighters tended to concentrate on one martial art and tended to be solely strikers and grapplers, nowadays most fighters recognise the need to cross-train to be successful in MMA.

That means fighters will often have a base style such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but will also incorporate wrestling, thai boxing and western boxing training to give them an all round fight game. Such a mix of styles in which you take the strengths of each is essential to being successful in modern MMA and consistently winning matches.

Players & Equipment

MMA is contested by two people in a cage or a ring. It is generally thought of as an adult only sport but there are more and more juniors training in MMA and they compete in competitions. However, because MMA can be a dangerous sport, matches are generally not full contact, strikes to the face are not allowed and nor are any forms of joint locks that could be dangerous to growing bones. In adult competition, the following weight classes apply:

• Super Heavyweight over 265 pounds
• Heavyweight over 205 to 265 pounds
• Light Heavyweight over 185 to 205 pounds
• Middleweight over 170 to 185 pounds
• Welterweight over 155 to 170 pounds
• Lightweight over 145 to 155 pounds
• Featherweight over 135 to 145 pounds
• Women's Bantamweight over 125 to 135 pounds
• Bantamweight over 125 to 135 pounds
• Flyweight over 115 pounds to 125
• Strawweight up to 115 pounds

The ring/cage used in MMA must be between 20 square feet and 32 square feet.

Because mixed martial arts is the ultimate one-on-one combat sport, no other equipment is used apart from MMA gloves, lightweight padded gloves that allow movement of the fingers whilst also protecting the hands when punching.

Scoring

In mixed martial arts matches, scoring is done in the same way as many other combat sports such as boxing. Three judges sit around the ring and score each round, giving the winner of the round in their judgement 10 points and the loser 9 points. In rounds where there is a clear winner, the loser may only receive 8 points.

If the match lasts the whole duration then the judges scorecards are added up and the winner announced. If the judges scorecards indicate that both scores are equal, then the match is declared a draw

Winning the Match

MMA matches can be won in one of a number of ways:

• Knockout - When one fighter causes their opponent to lose consciousness due to striking
• Decision - If the fight lasts all of its rounds, then the outcome of the match is decided by judges, the winner being the fighter with the most points.
• Submission - This is when one fighter places their opponent into a hold and then the opponent ‘taps out’ or, if they refuse to and the hold continues, they may lose consciousness and the referee ends the fight immediately.
• Technical knockout (TKO) - This is when a fight is ended by the referrer, the fighter’s corner or a doctor. Reasons can include a fighter unable to defend themselves or if continuing the fight could put the fighter’s health at risk.
• Forfeit - A fighter can forfeit the match before the fight if they are injured and unable to fight.
• No contest - If both fighters continually break the rules of if one fighter is injured unintentionally by an illegal action, a no contest can be called

Rules of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)

• Matches shall consist of three rounds, each of which should last no more than five minutes.
• Fights shall take place in a ring or cage that measures between 20 square feet and 32 square feet.
• To ensure a fair fight, competitors may only fight those fighters that are in the same weight category.
• When the contest begins, fighters should use legal strikes grappling and throwing techniques in an attempt to defeat their opponent.

Attacks that are not allowed in MMA include:

• Strikes to the groin
• Eye gouging
• Biting
• Grabbing or striking the throat
• Manipulating the fingers
• Hair pulling
• Head butts
• Striking the back of the head
• Intentionally throwing your opponent out of the cage
• Attacking orifices
• Fighters must listen to the referee at all times and comply immediately with his instructions.

Fights can be won in a number of ways:

• Knockout
• Submission
• Decision
• TKO
• Forfeit
• No contest
• If the contest goes the distance, the three judges shall combine the points they have awarded competitors for each round to determine the winner. If the scores are tied, then the match shall be declared a draw.

  What's the Difference Between UFC and MMA?

  

  agusyonok / Shutterstock.com

  If you are a sports fan (or even if you are not) then chances are you have heard about MMA and the UFC. Standing for Mixed Martial Arts and the Ultimate Fighting Championship respectively, sport martial arts are rapidly taking over boxing as the most watched combat sport in the world.

  But, if you’re confused about just what MMA is, what the UFC is, and what the difference between them is, then it really is quite simple.

   

  MMA Is the Sport. UFC Is the Major Organisation/Promotion Within That Sport

  MMA stands for mixed martial arts. It is a sport that has only really come to prominence relevantly recently but it’s actually been about for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Essentially MMA is a full contact sport that allows the use of both striking and wrestling, both standing and on the ground.

  Since ancient times, contests have been fought with these kinds of rules such as the ancient Olympic combat sport of Pankration, which was practiced in Ancient Greece and later by the Romans. However, it is only since the late 20th century that the sport of MMA has come into the consciousness of the masses, thanks mainly to the inception of the UFC - the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

  The Foundations of Modern MMA

  Before the UFC, there were various types of mixed martial arts organisations in existence. The two most popular were Vale Tudo in Brazil, which was dominated by the Gracie Jiu Jitsu clan and shoot wrestling shows in Japan. Although reasonably popular in their respective countries, neither ever really broke into the big US television market.

  It was the creation of the UFC in 1993 that rocketed the sport of MMA into the public’s imagination. The first Ultimate Fighting Championship was supposed to be a one-off, a competition to identify which was the world’s most effective martial art, with representatives of different fighting styles such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Karate, and Taekwondo.

   

  It was won by Royce Gracie, younger brother of one of the show’s founders and viewers were highly impressed at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that he used to defeat all of his opponents, often fighting men twice his size. Because of this popularity, further UFC promotions were organised with Royce Gracie winning three of the first five. It has gone from strength to strength and today is the premier MMA fighting organization that attracts the very best fighters from across the world.

  UFC and the Development of MMA

  In the early days of the UFC, MMA was essentially one style of fighter fighting against another. Therefore, you may have had a Judo player fighting someone skilled in Taekwondo or a wrestler fighting someone skilled in Karate. However, as the UFC developed over the years, it became clear that one style was not enough to be truly effective. This realisation was to change MMA forever.

  No longer a mix of martial arts with one style being pitted against other, fighters in the UFC (and other mixed martial arts promotions) began to cross-train in different martial arts, grapplers becoming better strikers and vice versa.

  That means mixed martial arts competitions were no longer a mixture of martial arts being pitted against each other but MMA itself became its own style – a mixture of the very best techniques of all martial arts mixed together.

  Therefore these days as well as being a sport, MMA is a martial arts style in its own right with the UFC being the major promoter and organisation within the sport, attracting the very best fighters from all around the world.

 

 

Modern Pentathlon Rules

Modern Pentathlon is a multi-platform sporting event that includes five different stages: fencing, 200m swimming (freestyle), show jumping and a combined pistol shooting and 3200m cross-country race. All of the stages are completed over the course of a single day. The performance of an athlete in the first three events will dictate their starting position for the shooting/racing combination event at the end of the Modern Pentathlon. The athlete who crosses the finish line first in the final run is declared the overall winner of the entire competition.

Modern Pentathlon is believed to have originated in the 19th Century in Greece, although several individuals have claimed to have invented the sport and this continues to be a source of debate to this day.

The events performed in Modern Pentathlon have varied slightly over time, and up until the 1950s, only cavalry troops participated in the competition. Modern Pentathlon was designed specifically to simulate a soldier’s experience of escaping from behind enemy lines, and cavalry troops were considered to be the only individuals that possessed the diverse skillset required to complete each event. Modern Pentathlon was eventually opened to all men in 1952 and all women in 1981.

Hungary is the current world leader in Modern Pentathlon at the Summer Olympics with 22 medals overall. Sweden is close behind with 21 medals, whilst the Soviet Union claimed 15 and Russia have 5.

Object of the Game

Modern Pentathlon requires athletes to have a diverse and varied skillset in order to complete a series of different events. The object of the game is for participants to rank as highly possible in the first three events so that they are in the best possible position for the combined shooting/racing event at the end of the competition. The greater their starting position, the more likely an athlete will be to win the final race and be declared the overall winner.

Players & Equipment

Given how Modern Pentathlon consists of five separate events, there is a vast and varied amount of equipment involved. This includes:

Fencing Equipment

The fencing stage in a Modern Pentathlon involves competing against another athlete in a sword battle. Along with the sword (which is an “Epee” model in Modern Pentathlon), athletes must wear protective clothing from top to bottom. This includes a metal mesh mask for the face, a “Sous-Plastron” for under the arms, a kevlar jacket for the body, “breechers” for the thighs, legs and knees, special shoes for the feet and gloves for good hand grip.

Swimming Equipment

The equipment for the swimming stage in Modern Pentathlon is fairly basic. Along with light, aerodynamic swimsuits, athletes will often also wear goggles to protect their eyes and improve their vision whilst under water. Caps may also be worn to prevent hair from being caught in their eyes during the race and trunks offer an added layer of protection for the groin area.

Show Jumping Equipment

For the show jumping event, the athlete will need to effectively utilise different types of horse controlling equipment in order to dictate the movements of the animal. This equipment is known as “horse tack” and includes the saddle (the rider’s seat), the stirrups (footholds for the rider), the halters (headgear for the horse), the reins (leather strips the rider pulls on the change the horse’s direction) and the Martingale (a safety device that stops the horse from tossing its head and injuring the rider).

Pistol Shooting Equipment

Traditionally, Modern Pentathlon players were permitted to pick out a pistol of their preference for the shooting stage. However, the standard variants of pistols (multi-barrelled pistols, revolvers, semi-automatic pistols) have now been replaced with laser pistols instead.

Cross Country Run Equipment

The running event in Modern Pentathlon is the one that requires the least amount of equipment. Participants wear light clothing (vests and shorts) and airy cross-country shoes to help them cover lots of ground over the shortest possible period of time. These shoes tend to have tiny spikes at the base to help the athlete maintain their grip on the track.

Athletes/Players

Modern Pentathlon competitors are occasionally known as “Pentathletes”.

Scoring

Scoring for Modern Pentathlon is different for each event. Athletes earn points in the fencing, swimming and horse riding events, and the higher they score, the greater “head start” they’ll be given for the combined shooting/racing event at the end. From that point onwards, the winner is simply the athlete who crosses the finish line first.

Winning

The winner of a Modern Pentathlon competition is the athlete that crosses the finish line first in the final shooting/racing event. The amount of points they score in the earlier events simply determines where they begin on the track.

Rules of Modern Pentathlon

All five sports involved in Modern Pentathlon have different rules and regulations that athletes must follow.

Fencing Rules

In Modern Pentathlon fencing, athletes must use an Epee that has a curve of less than 1 cm, and must not strike an opponent before the command “Allez!” is shouted or after the command “Halte!” is announced. Doing so will lead to penalisation.

Swimming Rules

During the swimming stage, athletes are permitted to swim underwater for the first 15 metres, but after this point must keep some of their body above the surface. Athletes must touch the wall when they reach the end of the pool and turn back, and cannot obstruct an opponent in any way during a race.

Show Jumping Rules

Athletes must show respect, courtesy and professionalism during the show jumping stage of the Modern Pentathlon. The horse must follow directions, timing, and stay within the competition court, and if there is any evidence of poor treatment toward the animal, the athlete is promptly disqualified.

Shooting and Cross Country Racing Rules

During the combination event at the end of the Modern Pentathlon, athletes must wait until the minimum shooting time is over at the pistol stage before they can begin running again. Athletes found to be obstructing opponents in any way will risk being disqualified from the entire event.

 

 

Muay Thai Rules

Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing is a martial art/combat sport that originated in Thailand. Unlike kickboxing which just uses punches and kicks, Muay Thai is known as the ‘art of 8 limbs’ as it utilises fists, feet, elbows, knees and shins (as well as the head traditionally, though this has been removed from modern competition). With a history stretching back to the mid 16th century, it has over time risen to become a popular sport that is practiced around the world.

Unlike many martial arts that are also sports, Thai Boxing has lost none of its martial effectiveness. Muay Thai is a devastatingly efficient full contact sport and one that all competitors have to be at the height of fitness to compete in. As well as being a popular sport in its own right, it is one of the most popular styles that MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) competitors train in due to its effective striking techniques and tough training regimes.

Object of Muay Thai

Muay Thai pits two competitors against each other in a boxing ring and the object of the sport is for one fighter to win the contest by knocking their opponent out, the opponent being stopped by the referee as unfit to carry on (technical knock out) or winning on points. Fighters utilise their fists, feet, shins, elbows and knees to try and win the fight as well as occasional clinch and grapple techniques. Despite the extreme physical and combative nature of the Muay Thai, it takes a lot of skill to become a proficient fighter and win matches at the higher levels of competition.

Players & Equipment

Under the World Muay Thai Council rules, to compete in a professional Muay Thai fight, a fighter must be over the age of 15 and must weigh at least 100 pounds. Fighters are all classified into weight divisions and when competing, there must not be more than 5 pounds difference in weight. The weight divisions are as follows (in pounds):

• Super Heavyweight 209+
• Heavyweight 209
• Cruiserweight 190
• Super Light Heavyweight
• Light Heavyweight 175
• Super Middleweight 168
• Middleweight 160
• Junior Middleweight 154
• Welterweight 147
• Junior Welterweight 140
• Lightweight 135
• Junior Lightweight 130
• Featherweight 126
• Junior Featherweight 122
• Bantamweight 118
• Junior Bantamweight 115
• Flyweight 112
• Junior Flyweight 108
• Mini Flyweight 105

There is little equipment that is essential for Muay Thai competitors. All fighters must wear gloves sanctioned by the WMC and the correct weight for the respective weight classification must wear shorts at half-thigh length. A groin guard and mouth guard must also be worn and long hair is discouraged as are beards. All boxers must wear a Mongkol which is a sacred headband before the bout commences and each boxer may also wear a charm or inscribed cloth around their upper arm or their waist. No footwear is to be worn as fighters compete barefoot.

Scoring

Scoring in Muay Thai fights is relatively straightforward and is scored on a round er round basis. Basically, the fighter who is judged to have won the round is given 10 points and the loser is given 9, 8 or 7 judged on their performance in the round. When both boxers are deemed to have performed equally well in the round, then each fighter is awarded 10 points.

• A 10:9 round is where one fighter is deemed to have won the round.
• A 10:8 round is where one fighter is deemed to have won the round clearly.
• A 10:7 round is where one fighter is deemed to have won the round clearly and their opponent has been on the canvas and received a count from the referee.

Boxers who receive a warning in a round lose one point.

Winning the Fight

A Muay Thai fight can be won in one of three ways:

• Knockout: If one fighter knocks his opponent out, they are immediately declared the winner.
• Technical Knockout - Known as a TKO, this is the same as in boxing where the referee deems one fighter as not fit to carry on.
• Points: At the end of the match, if neither competitor has managed to stop their opponent, then it goes to the judges scorecards. The fighter with the highest amount of points is judged to be the winner. If both fighters are on the same amount of points then the match is declared a draw.

Rules of Muay Thai

• Muay Thai matches take place in a ring between 6.1m x 6.1m and 7.3m x 7.3m.
• Competitors competing in a professional match should be over the age of 15 and their weight should be in the same weight category and not more than 5 pounds difference in weight.
• Before every Thai Boxing match, each boxer is required to pay homage in accordance with the heritage of Muay Thai. This involves a ritual dance accompanied by music played by a Javanese tom-tom drum, a Javanese oboe and and a small pair of cymbals.
• Once homeage has been completed, the bout is ready to begin and both fighters must shake hands before the bout begins to agree that they will compete in accordance with the rules and in a sportsmanlike manner.
• Muay Thai bouts have 5 rounds each of 3 minutes each, with a two minute rest period between each.
• Once the bout begins, both fighters attempt to win the match by utilising their fists, feet, elbows, knees and shins in an attempt to defeat their opponent.
• The fight is won once one fighter knocks out their opponent, the referee stops the fight because they deem one fighter unfit to carry on or the fight goes the full distance and one fighter is declared the winner on points. Should the points totals be equal then the match is declared a draw.

 

 

 

Netball Rules

The origination of netball began in England in the 1890s when the game was derived from an early version of basketball. A set of standard rules for international play was devised by the 1960s and the International Federation of Netball Associations now has over 60 teams playing in five regions around the world.

Object of the Game

The object of netball is to score more points than your opponent.

A netball game lasts for a regulation 60 minutes. This is split into four quarters, with each quarter lasting 15 minutes. Between the first and second quarter, and the third and fourth quarter, there is an interval of three minutes. Between the second and third quarter -half-time - there is an interval of five minutes.

A referee or umpire is allowed to call time and when they do, the time keeper will stop the timer, which begins again when play starts again. There is a maximum of two minutes allowed for an injury.

Players & Equipment

The standard netball games features 7 players on each side although games can go ahead with a team having a minimum of 5 players.

There are set positions in a netball team and these positions will limit where the player can be on the court.

• Goal shooter
• Goal Attack
• Wing Attack
• Centre
• Wing Defence
• Goal Defence
• Goal Keeper

The netball court, which is just bigger than a basketball court, traditionally measures up at 30.5 metres (or 100ft) long and 15.25 metres (50 ft) wide.

The netball court is divided into three sections and this impacts on where players are allowed to move. The sections are referred to as the two goal thirds and the centre or middle-third.

A netball game can be played with a court, two goals and a ball. Regulation uniforms are part of the game in official matches but impromptu netball games can take place with a minimum amount of equipment.

Scoring

A goal is scored in netball when the ball is passed to a player in the goal third who shoots the ball through their opponent’s goal ring. Only the Goal Shooter or Goal Attack can score goals in netball and they must be within the semi-circle when they shoot.

Winning the Game

To win in netball you must score more points than your opponent. The netball ball must be moved around the court by passing and there are a number of different passes available to a player. The ball must be worked to the Goal Shooter and Goal Attack players, who attempt to shoot from inside the semi-circle.

Rules of Netball

• A match consists of four quarters lasting 15 minutes each.
• Each team can have a maximum of 7 players and a minimum of 5.
• The court must be divided unto 3 sections, with each player holding a specific position on the court.
• If a player moves into a position that they shouldn’t be in, they will be deemed to be offside.
• Players cannot hold the ball for more than three seconds.
• Players cannot take more than 1.5 steps when in possession of the ball.
• The ball must go through the ringed hoop for a goal to be given.

  What Is the History of the Olympic Games?

  

  lazyllama / Shutterstock.com

  The Olympic Games is the world’s premier sports competition and currently features 306 events in 28 sports with thousands of athletes competing. Originating in ancient Greece around 3,000 years ago, the games were later revived in the late 1800s.

  In ancient times, the games were held in Olympia, in the western Peloponnese region in Greece, and were completed every four years.

  In their modern incarnation, the games are also held every four years but in different locations around the world. Since 1994, the summer and winter Olympics have been held separately, alternating every two years.

   

  The Ancient Greek Olympics

  The first records we have of the Olympic Games date from 776 BC when a competitor named Coroebus won the games’ only event called 'the stade' – a running race over 192m. However, it’s generally believed that the games had been going on for a long time before this. The ancient Olympics were always held in August/September time during a religious festival that honoured the ruler of the gods Zeus and occurred every four years.

  Over time, more and more events became part of the Olympics, including various running races and the pentathlon, which consisted of a running race, discus, javelin, long jump, and a wrestling match. In ancient times, however, women were not allowed to compete and married women were even barred from watching the events.

  Unfortunately, after Greece was conquered by the Roman Empire, despite the games continuing regularly, the quality greatly declined. Then, with the Roman adoption of Christianity, Emperor Theodosius I banned all ‘pagan’ events, which included the Olympics, and ended the tradition that had lasted over 11 centuries.

   

  The Modern Olympic Games

  The world was without an Olympics for 1500 years until a gentleman called Baron Pierre de Coubertin of France re-established them. He was inspired to bring them back to promote physical education and, after visiting the ancient site of the Olympics in Greece, he decided to go ahead with the idea. At a meeting of the Union des Sports Athletiques in France, he proposed his idea of reviving the Olympic games.

  After two years of hard work and negotiation, he helped found the IOC (the International Olympic Committee), which continues to oversee the games to this day.

  The first modern Olympic Games was held in 1896 in Athens Greece and was watched by a crowd of 60,000. A total number of 280 people competed from 13 different countries in 43 events. The competitors were all male, however this was to begin changing from the 1900 games onwards. The Olympics have been held every four years except for three occasions (1916, 1940 and 1944) when the world was at war.

  Today the Olympic games remains the world’s leading sporting event in which nearly every nation is represented. Despite numerous controversies, boycotts, drug scandals, and even a terrorist attack, the Olympic brand is as strong as ever, reflecting its own motto Citius – Altius – Fortius, meaning Faster – Higher – Stronger.

Can Professional Athletes Compete in the Olympics?

The Olympics, which occurs every four years, is one of the world’s greatest sporting events. Inspired by the ancient Olympics in Greece, the modern games began in 1896 and were long known as a bastion for amateurism with professionals being unable to compete in the games.

However, during the latter half of the 20th century, the IOC (International Olympic Committee) has had to adapt to a number of political and economic advancements and one of these was the growing issue of corporate endorsements and sponsorship which blurred the lines of amateurism and professionalism resulting in the rules being steadily relaxed for almost all sports in the Olympic movement, allowing professionals to compete in all sports, except boxing and wrestling.

Why Were Only Amateur Sportsmen and Women Allowed To Compete In The Olympic Games?

Pierre de Coubertin was the founder of the International Olympic Committee and was the driving force behind the first of the modern Olympic Games. Pierre de Coubertin was greatly influenced by the aristocratic ethos behind the English public school system that saw sport as a fundamental part of an all-round education, summed up by the Latin phrase mens sana in corpore sano (healthy body, healthy mind).

As part of this philosophy, young gentlemen were not expected to be specialists in one activity but to be an all-rounder. Fairness was also an overriding principle with training almost considered to be cheating. Those who played or practiced a sport professionally were considered to have an unfair advantage over their amateur counterparts.

Professional Athlete Controversies

The fact that professional sports people were long excluded from the Olympic Games has resulted in a number of controversies. In 1912, Jim Thorpe who won gold medals in both the pentathlon and decathlon was stripped of his medals after it was discovered he was a professional sportsman. However, he wasn’t a professional pentathlete or decathlete, it was the fact he had been paid for playing baseball in a semi-professional capacity. The IOC restored his medals posthumously in 1983 on compassionate grounds.

Other controversies include the 1936 Winter Olympics boycott by Austrian and Swiss skiers. This was in reaction to some of them being banned from competing for teaching the art of skiing and they were, therefore, considered “professional”, as they had earned money from their sport.

The Transition from Amateurism to Professionalism

As the 20th century moved on, so did the perception of sport. The idea of the gentleman amateur gradually became out-dated and the line between amateur and professional became blurred. One of the main reasons for this lay not in the capitalist west but in the communist Eastern Bloc countries, such as Russia and East Germany. They pioneered the idea of the state sponsored ‘full time amateur athlete’, which in turn, put those athletes who were forced to be self financing at a severe disadvantage. The IOC also gradually came to the realisation that allowing sponsorship, advertising, and other commercial interests could turn the Olympic Games into a goldmine that could attract the very best international professional athletes.

The most iconic moment that defines the leap from amateurism to professionalism in the Olympic Games was the United States Basketball team at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. The team was made up of some of the most famous ever players to play in the NBA including Charles Barkley, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Patrick Ewing and was described as the ‘Dream Team’, as well as the greatest sports team ever to be assembled. Unsurprisingly, the team easily progressed through the Olympic competition and won the gold medal, beating Croatia 117-85 in the final.

The Olympics Today

Today, professional athletes are allowed to compete in the Olympic Games alongside their amateur counterparts. However, two sports continued to resist the onset of professionalism in the Olympics. These are wrestling and boxing. However, the AIBA (Amateur International Boxing Association) has signalled that it will allow professionals to compete in the Olympics, beginning in 2016. Wrestling in its Olympic form remains an amateur sport but this could well change by the time it next makes an appearance in the 2020 games.

 

 

 

 

Padel Rules

Padel is a form of racquet sport and is a close relative of tennis. Although not as popular as tennis across the world, it is particularly popular in Spanish speaking countries such as Mexico, Spain and Argentina.

As a sport it is growing and the game is spreading into more and more countries across the globe year-on-year and its popularity in Spanish holiday resorts has exposed it to a lot of British visitors, making the UK one of the countries with the quickest uptake of the sport.

Popular too in the USA, it is known there as Paddle and is often thought of as a game played in exclusive country clubs by the more affluent members of society. However, more and more schools are beginning to form Paddle clubs.

As a game, it is very similar to tennis, however there are some slight differences. Played only in doubles, it is also played on an enclosed court that is significantly smaller than a tennis court and has walls that can be used during the game. However, the balls used are almost identical (although with slightly less pressure) and the scoring system is the same.

Padel is a relatively new sport invented in Mexico in 1969 by a gentleman known as Enrique Corcuera when he modified a plot of his land and paced walls all around it and began playing a form of tennis on it with a friend Mr Corcuera from Spain.

The first official court was installed in an exclusive Marbella club and was popular with Argentinian Polo players who then took the game back to South America where its popularity spread even more. Padel is overseen by the International Padel Federation.

Object of the Game

The object of Padel is to win two out of the three sets that constitute a match. In doing so, each pairing must work as a team to outplay the opposition paring. Because the court is much smaller than in tennis and is enclosed, players are close together so need to develop a good understanding if they are to be successful and it is also important to be fit too.

The pace of the game demands an awful lot from players which means that fitness should be at a premium to be a successful Padel pair.

Players & Equipment

Padel is played on an enclosed court that is just over a third of the size of a tennis court and has a playing surface of 20m x 10m. Like a tennis court it is divided in the middle by a net but unlike tennis the court is surrounded by walls, which can be utilised by players during the game of Padel.

The surface of the court can be made from a variety of materials, including cement, synthetic materials or artificial grass. The FIP also stipulates that the playing surface of a Padel court should be terracotta, blue or green.

The racquets used in Padel differ substantially from tennis rackets. Padel racquets are made from composite materials with a perforated surface that is ergonomically designed to allow for airflow. The face measures 26cm x 29cm and the overall length of the racquet is 45cm. Because the racquet is much shorter than a tennis racquet, it is much easier to control.

Scoring

Scoring in Padel is exactly the same as in tennis. That means the points go up as follows: 15, 30, 40 and game. Should there be a tie on 40 - 40 then this is called deuce and the winner is the first player to lead by two clear points. Games of Padel are played as the best of three sets, each of which consist of six games.

Winning the Game

To win a set, a pairing should win six games with two clear games. If the score gets to 6-6, a tiebreak is played in which the winner is the first side to get to seven points with two clear points. If the game continues to be tied, then another tiebreak is played in which the first side to have a two game lead is declared the winner. The first pair to win two sets is declared the winner.

Rules of Padel

• Padel matches should be played on a regulation Padel court that is 20m x 10m and is blue, green or terracotta.
• Padel games shall be played between two pairs of players using regulation Padel racquets.
• Before a match, a coin is tossed. The winner gets to choose whether to serve first or which end of the court to start on.
• Each match begins with a serve, which must be done underarm but like tennis must go diagonally into the opponent's court.
• Both teams must attempt to score more points than their opponents.
• The opposition wins a point when any of the following occurs:
  • The ball bounces twice
  • The ball strikes you or a teammate
  • The ball hits the wire fencing or another fixture before going over the net or going into the opponent’s court (classed as out of bounds).
• Matches are made up of 3 sets, with each set made up of six games. The winners of two out of the three sets will be declared winners of the Padel match.

 

Parkour

Parkour is the act of running, jumping, swinging, climbing, etc. based on military obstacle course training techniques. It is often practiced in urban environments with the aim of getting from one point to another as quickly and as efficiently as possible without the use of specialised equipment.

Pickleball Rules

Pickleball is a popular sport that is played with racquets and combines elements and features of a number of other games and sports including badminton, tennis and table tennis. Using solid paddles of wood, players play on a court that is bisected by a net and try to hit a ball that is very similar to a Wiffle Ball over it to score points in a fashion similar to both badminton and tennis.

Pickleball is a relatively young game and was invented in the 1960s and was popularised as a children's pastime but over the years it's become more and more popular amongst adults as it is a fun and enjoyable sport that is suitable for anyone of any age to play. It is an unregulated sport and there is no international governing body.

Object of the Game

The object of a Pickleball match is to win the game by scoring more points than your opponent. Pickleball as a game itself though has a larger objective for many people and that is as a game that can informally introduce people to games such as tennis and badminton with greater ease. Pickleball is also a popular way of bringing racquet sports to the disabled as there are a growing number of wheelchair leagues and competitions starting across the world.

Players & Equipment

Pickleball is played on a badminton sized court with a raised net in the middle of the court. It is traditionally played with special Pickleball paddles that are made of wood (or other more hi-tech materials). The ball used is plastic and is very similar to a Wiffle Ball but is usually slightly smaller. Because the game is unregulated and not usually played in a highly competitive environment, there are no hard and fast rules concerning equipment and suitable alternatives may be used. In terms of players, the game of Pickleball is played one-on-one (known as singles) or two-on-two (doubles).

Scoring

Points can only be scored by the side that is serving. A point may be scored in a number of ways:

• Opponent fails to return the ball
• Opponent volleys in the non-volley zone
• Opponent hits the ball out of bounds

If a non-serving player’s opponent commits any of the above, no point is scored.

Winning the Game

The game is won when one side is first to reach a score of 11 and is leading by at least two points. If a side reaches 11 points but is not two points ahead, then the game continues until one team is two points ahead of their opponent. For this reason, it is impossible for a game of Pickleball to end in a draw. In some tournaments, a points score of 15 or 21 may be required, along with the 2 point rule.

Rules of Pickleball

• Pickleball is played on a badminton sized court that has a net in the middle.
• It can be played as singles or as doubles.
• The game begins after a coin toss to decide which side serves first.
• The ball should be served diagonally and should be done so underhand, with the paddle below the waist and both feet behind the back line.
• The serve must clear the net and land within the opposition’s playing area.
• The receiver of the ball just let the ball bounce before returning the serve, and then the server must also let the ball bounce before returning.
• If playing doubles, only the player served to can return the ball. If the ball is touched by their partner, then a point is scored by the serving side.
• If a serve strikes the net, this is called a let and other serve is performed. Unlike tennis, there is no limit to the number of times that this can occur.
• There is a non volley zone that is a 7 foot zone on each side of the net. No volleying can occur in this zone, preventing players playing a smash shot to their opponents. Volleys may be performed outside of this zone, and non-volleys can be hit within it.
• Points can only be scored by the serving side and are done so when the opponent faults by:
  • not returning the ball
  • hitting the ball out of bounds
  • stepping into the non volley zone and volleying the ball
• Serves alternate until one side reaches a score of 11 (or 15 or 21 if agreed earlier) and has a clear two point lead. The side doing this is declared the winner.

 

Polo Rules

Polo is a dynamic and exciting team game that is played on horseback. One of the oldest known sports in the world, it is thought to have originated in Persia over 2000 years ago. The game as we know it today originates in India in the 1800s, where British soldiers who were stationed there saw the game being played locally and adapted it for their own uses, often using it as training for cavalry riders.

Brought to Britain soon after, rules were established and from then on the game spread, and is now played across the world where as well as the UK, it is particularly popular in Argentina and the USA. The sport is overseen by the Federation of International Polo

Object of the Game

The object of Polo is for a team to score more points than its opposition, thus winning the game. Each team attempts to move the ball into the opposition's half of the pitch with the aim of eventually hitting it through the goal to score. Each team of four is made up of attackers and defenders, but realistically all members of a polo team are expected to be flexible and make any play whether offensive or defensive and change position as necessary to benefit the team.

Players & Equipment

Each team is made up of four players, each one assigned a position which is displayed by the number worn on their kit.

• Position 1 is known as an attacking offensive player, similar to a striker in soccer or forward in hockey. Hard and accurate hitters of the ball, their prime aim is to score but when defending, they also have the responsibility of looking after the opposition’s position 3 player.
• Position 2 is an offensive player primarily, backing up the position 1 player in attack. However, they also have defensive responsibilities, often interchanging with the position 3 player when they attack.
• Position 3 is very similar to the quarterback position and is usually a position that is filled by the best player in the team. It is an attacking position and players in this position must be able to hit the ball accurately upfield to the position 1 and 2 players.
• Position 4 is a defensive position, tasked with defending the team’s goal. However, they do have offensive responsibilities and when successfully defending the goal, they are expected to move the ball forward accurately to the team’s offensive players.

In terms of equipment, the most obvious piece of equipment is a horse specifically bred for the game of Polo, known as Polo pony. Each player will need at least two to switch out between chukkas and these may be the player's own or they may be provided by their club. These horses will need a special saddle which will enable the player to be seated securely, control the horse and swing the mallet. Other essential pieces of equipment are a helmet, a polo stick, knee guards and a ball.

Scoring

Scoring is simple in Polo, and a point (known as a goal) is scored when the ball is hit into the goal. Unlike many other games that change halves at set periods such as halftime, in Polo, teams change field direction every time a goal is scored. It’s not known exactly why this is the case but it is thought that it stems from the past where pitches were traditionally on an East/West axis and teams would not want to spend extended periods of time with the sun or wind in their face.

Winning the Game

The team who have scored the most amount of goals and thus end up with the highest amount of points at the end of the game are deemed the winners. If the game is drawn, another chukka is played and the first to score wins. If nobody scores in this, another chukka is played in which the goalposts are widened and the first to score wins.

Rules of Polo

• Polo is played on a Polo field that is 300 yards long and 200 yards wide, although this may be just 160 yards wide if it is a boarded pitch.
• The goalposts have a width of 8 yards and are open at the top.
• Each Polo match shall consist of 4 chukkas (plays), each one lasting 7 minutes of actual play.
• The game shall start when the umpire throws the ball in between the two teams. This is how play is restarted after a goal is scored too.
• When a goal is scored, the teams change ends, which helps to equalise any ground or weather advantages.
• Players may challenge opposition team members by ‘riding them off’, which is where a payer rides their pony alongside their opponent’s and attempts to move them away from the ball or even take them out of play. Player may also ‘bump’ the opposition, which is a physical manoeuvre akin to the body check in hockey. Players may also hook an opponent’s stick when they are attempting to hit the ball.
• Polo is overseen by two mounted umpires who consult each other on decisions. Should they disagree, they can seek the opinion of the match referee also known as the ‘third man’.
• Following a foul, a free hit may be awarded towards goal.
• The team with the most amount of goals at the end of the match is declared the winner.

 

Pool Rules

Pool is a popular game that is played all over the world by millions of people. However, there are many different varieties of the game, all with distinctly different rules and regulations. By far, the most popular forms of the game are the ones that originated in the USA, known as ‘eight-ball’ and ‘nine-ball’ pool.

Both are played on a normal sized pool table with the regulation six pockets and both have multiple championships around the world. However, it is eight-ball that is the more common game – the one you’ll most likely see being played at your local pool hall and the one that most people first think of when the word pool is mentioned.

Eight-ball pool can be played as a singles or doubles game and is played with cues and 16 balls, 15 object balls, and one cue ball (the ball the players strike to try and hit the other balls). Pool can be a relatively high-speed game compared to its close relatives snooker and billiards but that makes it no less skilful with players requiring a high degree of skill, concentration, and tactical thinking to play the game at a high level.

Object of the Game

The object of pool is to pot all of your designated balls (either stripes or solids) and then pot the 8 ball, thus winning the game. As pool matches often consist of several games in a ‘best out of’ format, players attempt to win as many games as needed to win the match. Players must use their skills in both attack and safety play, as well as tactical nous to help them win the match.

Players & Equipment

To play pool, the following pieces of equipment are required:

• Table: The table used in pool is approximately 9 feet by 4.5 feet although games can often be played on differing sized tables.
• Balls: 16 balls in total, comprising a white cue ball, seven striped balls, seven solid balls, and one black ball (8 ball).
• Cues: Players have a cue each which can be made from wood, carbon fibre, or fibreglass and this is used for striking the cue ball.
• Chalk: To ensure they have more control over their shots, each player tends to chalk the end of their cue to ensure there is good contact between the cue and the ball.

Scoring

There is no score as such in pool with both players simply attempting to pot all of their designated object balls and then potting the 8 ball into the pocket that they have chosen. However, pool matches are often played over a number of games, so for example, in a best of nine frame match, the first player to reach five frames would be declared the winner.

Winning the Game

8 Ball pool is won when one of the following occurs:

• A player pots all of their designated balls and then legally pockets the 8 ball into their nominated pocket.
• The opposing player illegally pots the 8 ball before clearing their own set of balls.
• The 8 ball is knocked of the table by the opposition.

Rules of Pool

The rules of pool are some of the most contested of any sport, with slightly differing variations being played in different countries, cities, areas, and even establishments. However, the World Pool Billiard Association (WPA) have produced a standardized set of rules for both amateur and professionals by which to abide.

• Before the game begins, the object balls should be placed in a triangular rack and positioned at the lower end of the table so that the apex ball of the rack lies on the foot spot. The order of the balls should be random apart from the black 8-ball, which should be placed in the middle of the third row. The white ball should be placed anywhere behind the service line on the table.
• If it is the first game in a match, a coin should be tossed to decide who gets to choose whether to break. After that, the break is taken in turns.
• To make a legal break, the player must hit the balls and ensure that four balls hit cushions and that the cue ball doesn’t go down a pocket. If the 8-ball is potted on the break, the player is entitled to ask for a re-rack.
• The first player to pot an object ball will then have to continue to pot the balls from that category (stripes or solids). The opposition player will have to pot the other group.
• A player will continue to make shots until they foul, or fail to pot an object ball. Then it is the turn of the opposing player. Play continues like this for the remainder of the game.
• If a player commits a foul, the opposition player is entitled to place the cue ball anywhere on the table. There are numerous fouls in pool, some of the most common being:
  • Failing to hit your own object balls.
  • Hitting the cue ball off the table.
  • Potting one of the opposition's object balls.
  • Hitting the cue ball twice.
  • Pushing the cue ball rather than striking it.
  • A player taking a shot when it is not their turn.
• Once all of a player’s balls have been potted, they must then sink the 8 ball. They must first designate which pocket they intend to pot the 8-ball in and then do as stated. Failure to do so will result in the opposition player returning to the table. If the player pots the 8 ball in any other pocket other than the nominated one, they forfeit the game.

 

Racquetball Rules

Racquetball was invented by Joe Sobek in 1950. Sobek, an American professional tennis and squash player wanted to invent a new game that combined elements of squash, handball and paddleball that was quick and easy to learn.

Originally called paddle rackets, the game’s rules were codified in 1952 and, through use of America’s 40,000 YMCA and JCC (Jewish Community Center) handball courts, the sport achieved rapid growth. In 1969 the International Racquetball Association (unfortunate acronym!) was founded and recognition by the US Olympic Committee followed. There are currently around six million racquetball players, as well as many more that play (confusingly) racketball, a less dynamic UK-invented variant of the sport.

Object of the Game

The object of racquetball is to win points by winning rallies, the exchanges of play between players where the ball must be hit against the front wall and returned with no more than one bounce. Matches are played as the best of two games, with a third, shorter tie-break game if the scores are level after two games.

Players & Equipment

As with other such sports, racquetball can be played as singles (one versus one), doubles (two against two) or two competing against one, the latter being for informal games. The rules are essentially the same with the main difference being the service and so here we will look solely at the singles game.

The only equipment really required is the ball and the racquets, although of course the court itself is needed too. The court is similar to a squash court, being fully enclosed and rectangular. It is both 20ft high and wide and 40ft in length with red lines to demarcate the service and reception zones.

The ball is hard, bouncy, made of rubber and 2.25 inches (57mm) in diameter, significantly bigger than a regulation squash ball. The racquets are no longer than 22 inches and the only other equipment is the eye-guards that are mandatory in competitions and recommended when playing less formally, if you value your sight!

Scoring

Points are scored only on your own serve, as in squash, volleyball and other sports. If you “win” a point on the opponents serve you win the serve but no actual point. You lose the point if and when:

• The ball hits the floor more than once before you play your return.
• The ball skips or does not hit the front wall without bouncing when you play your shot.
• The ball goes into the viewing gallery, wall opening or out-of-bounds from your shot.
• The ball hits the other player but was clearly not going to hit the front wall.
• The ball hits you (i.e. the player who hit it originally).
• You switch racquet hand during the point.
• You touch the ball with any part of your body or clothes.
• You carry or throw the ball with the racquet (double hit).
• The player serving makes two (or one, under the one serve rule sometimes used at the top level) illegal serves.

Winning the Game

To win the game the player (or team in doubles) has to win two games. Games are won by reaching 15 points or, in the deciding third game if needed, 11 points. It is not necessary to win by two clear points.

Rules of Racquetball

• The player who is to serve first is decided by lots in the first game, alternates for the second game and goes to the person with the most cumulative points for the decider (if needed).
• To serve, the ball is bounced before being hit against the front wall after which it may hit one side wall before hitting the floor again. The ball cannot hit the back wall on the full and must not touch the ceiling. The ball must hit the front wall first or the point (i.e. both serves) is automatically lost and the other player serves.
• Once the ball is in play, that is, has passed the receiving line or bounced beyond the short line, the receiver must hit it against the front wall.
• Apart from on serve, the ball can be hit against any combination of walls and ceiling as long as it hits the front wall without bouncing.
• A “hinder” is when an obstruction is caused by one player being in the way of the ball or their opponent’s view. This is normally called as a let and the point is replayed, although in the case of a penalty hinder, where one player has been deprived the chance of a point-winning shot, they receive the point (or win back serve).

  What Is the Difference Between Squash and Racquetball?

  

  Racquetball and squash are sports that have a great deal of similarities. Both racket sports played with a ball on an enclosed court, they both require a high level of fitness and are exciting and dynamic to play.

  However, as much as they might be similar, there are, in fact, more differences between them with some features more significant than others.

   

  Administration

  Racquetball and squash are administered by two different governing bodies. The International Racquetball Federation is the governing body for racquetball and oversees all internationally sanctioned events, as well as the various national bodies.

  The Squash Federation is the international federation for squash and looks after the sport across the world and has 145 member federations. Because of the similarity of the sports, in some countries, one organisation oversees both games. An example of this is in England where both sports are governed by England Squash.

  The Court

  Both squash courts and racquetball courts are enclosed but there are differences between the two sports when it comes to the playing surface and the size. Racquetball courts are larger, measuring 20x40x20 feet. Squash courts are 21x32x15 feet. In racquetball, every surface is included as in-bound including the ceiling, whereas in squash, you’re not allowed to hit the ceiling.

  The Racket

  Squash rackets are larger and can measure up to 27 inches compared to 22 inches in racquetball. Whilst both used to feature a circular head similar to those used in badminton, they both now have more teardrop shaped heads. Those in racquetball, however, are wider and this is to cope with the larger ball that is used compared to squash.

   

  The Ball

  The balls used in squash are just 4cm in diameter and are made from rubber. The balls used in racquetball are 6cm in diameter, also made from rubber but tend to be a lot more bouncy than the ones used in squash.

  Service

  In squash, players are only allowed one service per point, however, in racquetball you are allowed two, which is similar to tennis. In squash, there is no bounce before hitting the ball before service whereas in racquetball the ball must bounce once before striking it. In squash, the server has to hit the ball into one of two service boxes whereas in racquetball the server can hit any part of the wall.

  Scoring

  Squash games go up to nine points in regular matches and eleven in championships and tournaments. Games must be won with two clear points. Like tennis, points can be won regardless of whether the player is serving or receiving.

  In racquetball, games go up to fifteen points but points can only be scored when it is your serve. Like squash, games must also be won with two clear points.

  Popularity

  Racquetball is played by 5.6 million people worldwide, whereas squash is more popular and is played by an estimated 20 million across the globe. The popularity of both games is on the increase with both being played by an increasing number of players in an increasing number of countries.

 

 

Roller Derby Rules

Roller Derby is a popular team sport that is played in the United States of America and a range of other countries across the world. It is a full contact sport that is action packed and exciting for both competitors and spectators. The sport has a number of governing bodies, but by far the largest is the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, that looks after over 400 leagues, reflecting the fact that it is a game that is predominantly played by teams of women.

However, there are more and more men taking up the game, and another governing body, the The Mens Roller Derby Association has been formed to look after this side of the game. Many different countries also have their own national governing bodies.

Object of the Game

The object of Roller Derby is simple. Each team is trying to score more points than the opposition. Points are awarded when the offensive player from one team, known as the jammer, laps a member of the opposing team. As a full contact sport, the defensive players of the opposing team, known as blockers, can use physical force to stop the jammer passing them, as well as helping to clear the way for their own jammer.

Players & Equipment

Each rollerball team consists of up to 14 members but fields five players at a time, four of which are known as blockers, and one being a jammer. The single jammer on each team is the only member who is allowed to score, and they are signified by the star that they wear on their helmet. Of the four blockers, one of these is known as the Pivot. The Pivot acts like a captain or pack leader, and makes the defensive play calls.

All players skate on quad roller skates rather than inline skates. This is because quad skates have a smaller wheelbase which means there is less chance of skaters tripping on each other’s skates. They are also generally more stable and easier to control, which makes things easier for players considering the combative nature of the sport.

Other equipment that players are required to wear include mouth guards, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards and a helmet. Gender specific protective gear may also be worn, such as protective sports bras for women and a groin guard for men.

Scoring

Scoring in Roller Derby can only occur during periods of time known as jams. These occur throughout each half and last for up to two minutes, though the lead jammer can call them off earlier. Points are scored during the jam when a team’s jammer laps members of the opposing team. To try and prevent this, the opposing team will use a whole host of tactics such as blocking and body contact to try and prevent this happening. The jammer scores a point for each member of the opposite team that they lap.

Winning the Game

The team that has the most points at the end of the match is deemed the winner. Because Roller Derby matches are not allowed to end in a tie, an overtime jam occurs to determine the winner. The overtime jam has no lead jammer and the team with the most points at the end of the jam is declared the winner. If the match is still tied, then successive jams will occur until a winner has been found.

Rules of Roller Derby

• Roller derby teams may consist of up to 14 players, but only 5 may be on the track at any one time. These shall consist of:
  • 1 jammer: The jammer is the only member of the team who can score points
  • 4 blockers: These are defensive positions whose aim is to block the opposition jammer lapping them and therefore scoring. One of the blockers is known as a pivot, and it is they who are in effect the team captain, calling the shots.
• Roller Derby matches are played in two periods lasting 30 minutes each.
• Roller Derby is played on a track that is oval. At the start of a Roller Derby match, the blockers from each opposing team skate as one single pack around the track. Once the pack passes the starting line and the last member of the track is 30 feet from it, a whistle is blown and the two jammers (one from each team) begin to skate.
• Each jammer must then skate as fast as they can and then fight their way through the pack. Once this has been done, the jammers are then in a position to score.
• Each jammer can then score by racing round the Roller Derby track and overtaking (lapping) members of the opposite team. For each member of the opposition team that the jammer passes, they score one point.
• Blockers can use physical force to prevent the opposition jammer passing them and scoring.
• Each jam lasts for up to two minutes.
• Penalties can be issued for a variety of reasons. These can include:
  • tripping
  • blocking above the shoulder
  • blocking a player when out of bounds
  • blocking with the arm below the elbow
  • charging from the rear
• At the end of the match, the team with the highest number of points is declared the winner.
• If the match is tied, an overtime jam occurs, and jams keep occurring until one team has a greater number of points at the end of the jam and is declared the winner.

 

Rounders Rules

The game of rounders dates back as far as 1744 where people literally started to hit a ball with a stick. Since then the game has evolved somewhat of which you can read more of in this article. For those of you familiar with Baseball then you will likely pick up the rules of rounders pretty comfortably and notice many similarities.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is to hit a ball (roughly the size of a tennis, but much harder) with a bat. Once the ball is hit you then need to run around 4 bases to score a run. The team with the most runs at the end of the game is deemed the winner.

Players & Equipment

The dimensions of a rounders pitch can vary dramatically in size depending whether you are playing professionally or just recreationally. Any open space will do as long as the required markings can are apparent. Professional pitches include 4 posts, a pitching square and a batters square. The posts run in an anti-clockwise direction – if you were looking from the batters square. The first post is 12m away from the batting square, the second 12 metres away from that, the third 12m metres from there and the 4th 8.5m away from the last. The first three posts are the start of diamond formation whilst the 4th post is found on the baseline and runs straight down from the third.

For each game the batters will use either wooden, aluminium or plastic bats which should all be of a smooth surface and with a handle at the bottom for grip. The balls can be white or coloured, but will more commonly be white – baseballs can be used for rounders. Players may wear studded footwear in wet conditions such as football boots, but spiked footwear such as running shoes are prohibited at all time.

Each team is made up of 9 players. This can vary depending on the level of match but all teams must have an equal amount. If one team has more than the other then the same numbers of batters and fielders must be used for both teams. Where applicable substitutes can be used but can only bat in the order of the player they are replacing. Where teams are mixed with male and female members each team cannot contain more than 5 male players.

Scoring

To score a point a player must hit the ball and make it round to the 4th post before the next ball is bowled. If a player manages to get to the 4th post without hitting a ball then half a rounder is scored. A half rounder is also awarded if a penalty for obstruction is caused by the fielding team, 2 consecutive no balls from the pitcher and 2nd or 3rd post is hit by the original batter before the next ball is bowled.

Winning the Game

The team with the most points at the end of the game will be declared the winner. If the game is a tie then it goes to the team with the most full rounders.

Rules of Rounders

• Each game is officiated by a bowling and batting umpire. These umpires are to adjudge the integrity of the game and also pick on any infractions whilst the game is taking place. It’s also up the umpires to try and keep all players safe as well as keeping equipment in the best possible order.
• Whilst waiting to go into bat, the batting team must all wait in the batting area found 10m behind the playing line. Two areas should be constructed, one with the waiting batters and the other with the out batters.
• Each batter will face just one delivery. It’s up to them to try and get to first post before being given out. If a player reaches the first post but then breaches one of the out laws, then they will be given out.
• A no ball will be called if a bowler fails to bowl the ball underarm, the ball is above shoulder or blow knee height, ball bounces before reaching the batter, is too wide of the batter for them to hit the ball or the bowler’s foot is outside the pitching square.
• Players can be given out by being caught, foot outside the batting square, running inside any of the posts, stumped at a post before they reach it (must be running to that post), overtaking a fellow batsmen whilst running, throw the bat or lose contact with the post before the ball is bowled.

 

Rowing Rules

Rowing is a sport that involves using a wooden paddle, known as an oar, to propel a long boat through water at high speeds in order to win a race.

Rowing is one of the oldest and most prestigious sports on the planet, with evidence suggesting the first rowing races may have occurred as long ago as the Egyptian era. Oxford and Cambridge University organised a competitive rowing race in 1828, and the two education facilities still compete against one another to this day.

Rowing has featured at almost every edition of the Summer Olympics since the games first began. Only the 1896 tournament did not include any rowing competitions, with extreme weather conditions forcing organisers to pull water sports from the schedule. Male rowing events have been in place since 1900, and female rowing competitions were introduced much later in 1976.

The United States of America are by far the most successful overall nation in Olympic rowing, having amassed a whopping 89 medals so far. However, East Germany were excellent challengers during their time (managing to secure 33 golds, a record which the USA have only matched very recently) and Great Britain have performed terrifically during the past decade, topping the Olympic games rowing medal table on three successive occasions.

The greatest male rower of all time is widely considered to be Britain’s Sir Steve Redgrave, with Elisabeta Lipa of Romania often regarded as the best female rower. Both have picked up five gold medals each.Latter years have seen New Zealand's teams and individuals excel.

Object of the Game

The objective of rowing is simple: the boat that reaches the finish line first is declared the winner of the race. Reaching the finish line in the quickest possible time requires an astonishing amount of physical and mental strength, high levels of stamina and seamless synchronisation when competing in team events.

Players & Equipment

All participating athletes in rowing competitions have a different role to play, and the number of players and piece of equipment can vary depending on the type of rowing of event in question.

Boats & Players

Rowing races adopt different names depending on the number of people participating and the type of boat being used. The main events held at the Olympics include:

• Single Scull: One athlete in a “scull” boat with two oars (one in each hand)
• Double Scull: Two athletes in a “scull” boat with two oars each (one in each hand)
• Quadruple Scull: Four athletes in a “scull” boat – all with two oars each (one in each hand)
• Coxless Pairs: Two athletes in a boat that has no “coxswain” (a person who sits in the stern to facilitate steering); Each athlete has one sweep oar each
• Coxed Pairs: Two athletes in a boat that has a coxswain present. Both athletes have one sweep oar each
• Coxless Fours: Like Coxless Pairs, only with four athletes instead of two
• Coxed Fours: Like Coxed Pairs, only with four athletes instead of two
• Eights: Eight rowers who all have one sweep oar each with the boat steered by a coxswain

Oars

Different types of oars are used for different races. Despite the varying designs, the vast majority of rowing oars have a long, thin body with a thick paddle-like moulding at the end. Larger, thicker “sweep oars” are used for coxless and coxed rowing events.

Steering

In sculling races, athletes are required to use their oars to steer the boat in a particular direction. In coxed races, the coxswains control the steering through rudder. When there is no coxswain present, the crew will control the boat with a rudder cable attached to the toes.

Rowing Tank

A lot of rowing athletes will train for Olympic races by practicing their rowing in a Rowing Tank. These artificial chambers contain water that can be completely controlled in terms of tempo and aggressiveness, enabling athletes to practice in a wide variety of different conditions. Rowing Tanks also prove extremely useful when bad weather makes training impossible, allowing rowers to work on their technique and build their physique regardless of the poor outdoor conditions.

Scoring

There is no point scoring involved in rowing. It is merely a case of working alongside teammates to function as a unit and propel the boat through the water at the highest speed possible in order to reach the finish line in the quickest time.

Winning

The winner of a rowing race is the individual or team that reaches the finish line first. In the modern Olympics, all races are held over 2000 metres, including men’s and women’s events.

In order to win a rowing competition outright, an athlete/team must advance through a series of “heats” in order to progress through the tournament. The first three boats to cross the finish line in the final will receive the gold, silver and bronze medals.

Rules of Rowing

Competitive rowing involves a number of rules that athletes must adhere to in order to avoid being disqualified. These include:

• Lane Changing: There are six separate lanes in an Olympic rowing event, with one lane assigned to each boat. Athletes and teams are actually allowed to move across from one lane to another if they desire – provided they do not impede or obstruct another boat whilst doing so.
• False Starts: Boats must not leave the starting line until the firing gun goes off. Athletes/teams are allowed one “false” start (i.e. setting off before they are permitted to do so). If they do this twice, however, they will be disqualified from the race.
• Olympic Medal Winners: The gold, silver and bronze Olympic games medals are awarded to the boats that finish in the top three of the final race, which has six teams/athletes competing.

 

 

 

Rugby Rules

Rugby is one of the most physical of sports. Internationally the pinnacle of the sport lies in the Rugby World Cup. Other tournaments such as the Tri Nations (including South Africa, New Zealand and Australia), Six Nations (including England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy and France) and the Heineken Cup are other tournaments which are held in high esteem throughout.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is score more points than your opponents in the 80 minute time frame allotted for each rugby match. The team with the greater number of points at full time is announced as the winner. Games may end as a draw.

The team with the ball must move the ball up the field in ‘phases of play’. The ball can never be passed forwards but players can run forwards with the ball or kick the ball forward to chase it down. The opposing team needs to stop the attacking team by tackling and trying to retain the ball.

Players & Equipment

Each rugby team will consist of 15 players. The team is split into two groups known as forwards and backs. There are 8 forwards (positions include Hooker, Prop, Second Row, Flanker and Number Eight) and 7 backs (positions include Scrum Half, Fly Half, Inside Centre, Outside Centre, Wingers and a Full Back).

The pitch is split up into three sections; one main playing area which must not exceed 100 metres and two dead goal areas which can range from 10 to 20 m. The pitch must then be equal to 70 metres wide. The goal posts are in an ‘H’ shape and are roughly 5 to 6 meters apart with no restrictions on height.

Studded boots can be worn along with gum shields, head guards, shoulder pads and shin pads. Each team must wear the same coloured jerseys with matching shorts and socks.

Rugby Ball guidelines :Rugby balls come in three sizes, many different qualities and are have many different brands. The ball is oval or egg shaped. The ball originally was constructed using a pig's bladder and because they had a tendency to be oval shaped, that is how the design developed. It was William Webb Ellis that first caught and ran with a ball, whilst at Rugby School, against the rules at that time, was thought to be the first resemblance to the modern game. At that time, the three football codes had not been split (Football, Union and League).

Blowing the ball up was not a pleasant task, as the ball was still in its early stage and was starting to smell quite badly. The early balls had no set size as it was governed by how big the pig's bladder was.

The rugby ball comes in 4 sizes and is suitable for use by the following age groups:-

• Size 3 Mini rugby age groups - under 7, u8 and u9.

• Size 4 – Junior rugby – age groups – Under 10, u11, u12, u13 and u14.

• Size 4.5 – Women's rugby – age groups – Under 15 and above, into senior rugby.

• Size 5 – Full sized rugby – age groups – Under 15 and above, into senior rugby.

• The list is endless but, I am sure you get the picture.

The types of ball are categorised as recreational, training and match balls. There are also all weather variations of each ball. The variations in design in most cases are cosmetic but, the type of material used defines the use as a match or training ball. Every ball has bumps or raised dimples, this gives the player a better feel and improves the grip on the ball. The configuration varies greatly from each manufacturer.

The laws of Rugby Union state the balls must be oval in shape and made from 4 panels. For a size 5 Rugby ball, the length should be between 280mm to 300mm, the length circumference 740mm to 770mm and the width circumference is 580mm to 620mm. It may be treated to make it water resistant, making it easier to grip. The weight of the ball when new should range between 410g to 460g with an optimum ball pressure of 9.5 to 10 PSI.

The laws of Rugby League state the balls shall be an oval air inflated ball. the outer cover to be leather or another material approved by the International Board. The dimensions of the ball shall be those approved by the International Board which are length 280mm to 300mm, width circumference of 610mm and a weight of 383g to 440g. Rugby League Officials suggest the balls are slightly flatter and more pointed than Rugby Union Balls

 

 

Scoring

Points can be scored by one of four ways:

• A try is awarded when a player places the ball down in their opponent’s dead ball area behind the goal. 5 points are awarded.
• A conversion is a free kick that the team is awarded after a try to earn 2 bonus points. A successful kick needs to pass between the upper posts and top bar on the goal.
• A penalty kick will gain a team 3 points and is awarded to a team when the opposing team causes an infringement.
• A drop goal can be kicked out of the hand as long as the ball bounces first and can earn a team 3 points.

Winning the Game

To win the game you must score more points than your opponent within 80 minutes. Points can be scored via any of the methods mentioned above.

Rules of Rugby

• The game is broken down into two 40 minute halves with a 10 minute rest period in between. The game carries no stoppage time and will end exactly on 80 minutes.
• Each team can start with 15 players and up to 7 substitutes. Players that have left the field are only allowed to return if they have been treated for an injury.
• The field must be roughly 100 metres long and 70 metres wide with a minimum of a 10 metre dead ball area. The H shaped goal needs to be 6 metres wide with no restrictions on height.
• The field consist of the following markings; half way line, 5 metre line, 22 metre line, 10 metre line and dead ball line. Also included is a centre spot for restarting the game after a try, penalty or drop goal has been scored.
• The game must have one referee and two touch judges. It’s the referee’s job to time keep, make decisions throughout the game and keep order on the field. The two touch judges can assist the referee with decisions and also notify the referee when players are in touch (out of playing boundaries).
• The game will stop if a player is fouled, the ball goes out of play or a try or drop goal is scored.
• The defending team must tackle a player by grabbing a hold and pulling them to the floor. A tackle cannot be made above shoulder height and doing so will cause the referee to award a foul.
• Once the ball goes into touch a line out is called. Up to 7 players can enter a line out and any of these players can be lifted in order to catch the ball being thrown in. Both teams can compete to win the ball.
• A successful conversion, penalty or kick at goal only occurs when the player manages to kick the ball through the top section of the goal. If a player is unsuccessful the ball is still in play until it crosses one of the playing fields boundaries.
• Attacking players must remain behind the ball whilst active or run the risk of being called offside. Players not interfering with play can be in front of ball but must get back behind the ball before then again interfering wit

  What Is the Difference Between Rugby League and Rugby Union?

  

  Rugby Union and Rugby League are both very popular games that are played all over the world. Originating in the UK, Rugby Union is the older of the two codes with the RFU (Rugby Football Union) formed in 1871.

  However, the game of rugby split into two in 1895 when Lancashire and Yorkshire clubs wanted their players to be compensated for missing work. The RFU was against any form of professionalism and, therefore, the northern clubs formed the Northern Union and the amateur game of the RFU was known as rugby union and the Northern Union game was called rugby league. Over the years, both games developed separately with various rule and regulation changes. Finally, the Rugby Football Union embraced professionalism in 1995.

  When discussing what the difference is between rugby league and rugby union, it’s important to point out that the two forms of rugby share a huge amount of similarities.

   

  Similarities

  • Aim of the Game: In both games, the aim for both teams is to win the game by scoring more points than their opponents through more tries, conversions, drop goals, and penalty goals.
  • Scoring: In both forms, a try is scored when a player touches the ball down beyond the defending team’s goal line. Teams are then allowed to attempt to gain two more points by kicking a conversion.
  • The Ball: The ovoid ball used in both codes is exactly the same and in both forms of rugby, it can be taken forward in three ways. By running with it, by kicking it or as the result of a set piece. It can also be passed in a sideways or backwards direction but not forward.
  • Tackling: In both rugby league and rugby union, only the player carrying the ball is allowed to be tackled and, in both codes, play restarts with the ball being transferred to another member of the team albeit in slightly different ways.

  Differences

  • Pitch: Rugby union pitches are a maximum of 144 m x 70m, whereas rugby league pitches can have be a maximum size of 122 x 68m. Despite these slight differences, both league and union can generally be played on the same pitches with some league and union teams sharing stadiums. An example is Headingley Stadium in Leeds, which is shared by rugby league, Leeds Rhinos, and union’s, Leeds Carnegie.
  • Players: In rugby union, each team has 15 players on the pitch, whereas in rugby league, each team has just 13. In both codes, these players are divided between forwards and backs.
  • Possession: In rugby union, a team can hold on to the ball for as long as they want and are able to, whilst the other team attempt to take it from them. However, in rugby league, each team is only allowed to be tackled six times before handing possession over.
  • Tackling: Tackling is generally very similar in both codes but in rugby league players are allowed to use their legs to bring their opponent down too when they have both hands on them. Once a tackle has been made in league, a play the ball occurs, the play stopping for a moment to enable the tackled player to roll the ball back to a teammate. In union, however, the game flows and play does not stop with a ruck often forming to contest the ball.
  • Scoring: Although both rugby league and rugby union have the same ways of scoring, there are subtle differences in the points on offer.
    • Try: In rugby union, a try is worth five-points, whereas in league it is worth four
    • Conversion: Both codes are two points
    • Drop Goal: In rugby league, it is worth one-point, whereas in union it is worth three
    • Penalty Goal: Worth three points in union, yet just one in league
  • Demographic: Generally rugby union is seen as a more middle class game, whereas rugby league is seen more as a working class sport. 

   

• 

  Sailing

  Sailing (also known as Yachting) is a sport which involves controlling a boat and racing across different types of waters. Most commonly, competitive sailing adopts a “fleet racing” format, which involves two sailboats racing against one another over a course, which is assembled by the organisers. Sailing has been present at the Olympics since 1904, and has been competed in by both men and women since the very beginning of the games.

  

  Celso Pupo / Bigstockphoto.com

  Shooting

  Shooting involves the use of various types of firearms to hit a target. Every participant will aim for the highest points areas marked out on the target board in an attempt to accumulate enough points to win the competition. Shooting sports have been performed at most Olympic games since they first began, and include air pistol, air rifle, double trap, pistol, rapid fire pistol, rifle, skeet and trap shooting events.

   

   

  Ski Jumping Rules

Ski jumping is one of the most famous and iconic winter sports that sees competitors attempt to jump off a large ramp and land successfully scoring the most points. As part of the Winter Olympics since it began in 1924 for men and, since 2014 for women, it has provided some of the Winter Olympics some of its most dramatic moments. Ski jumping is actually a form of Nordic skiing although unlike most other forms of skiing it is not done on a piste, rather on a specially constructed ramp known as an in-run.

A popular winter sport around the world, it came to wider world attention in 1988 when the UK’s Eddie the Eagle became an unlikely world star when he came last out of 73 competitors in the 1988 Winter Games. In 2016, a critically acclaimed film was made about his exploits at the games.

Unsurprisingly, thanks to their geographic locations, Norway, Finland and Austria are by far the most successful ski jumping nations.

Object of the Game

The object of ski jumping is very simple. It is to score more points from the judges than the other competitors. Each competitor must descend down a specially constructed ramp, known as an in-run, until they eventually reach the end ramp from which they ski off. From here, each competitor attempts to ‘fly’ as far as they can through the air and then successfully land on the steeply sloped hill that lies below as close to the ‘K Line’ as possible.

Players & Equipment

Ski jumping is an individual event and one that has relatively few pieces of equipment.

• Jumping Skis: These are specially designed skis that are made specifically for ski jumping. They are longer than normal skis at about 252cm long and are heavier too, as they have to be more substantial to cope with the impact of landings. All ski jumping skis have free heel bindings.
• Ski Boots: Once again, specialist equipment is needed. In ski jumping, a jumper needs boots that let them lean forward during a flight. They also need to be flexible and with a high back but low cut front.
• Ski Suit: Ski suits are required to be manufactured by with the same material throughout and are sleek, streamlined and stretchable.
• Helmet: Helmets are mandatory in ski jumping competitions thanks to the potential dangers of the sport.

Scoring

Each hill has a line calculated and marked on it known as the K Line. Jumpers must try to land as close to this as possible. Deductions of points are made for each metre over or under the ski jumper lands. There are other considerations that judges make too. They also consider:

• Style: The better the form of the ski jumper, the more points they will receive.
• Bodyweight: Ski jumpers whose weight is very low are penalized with a shorter maximum ski length, reducing the aerodynamic lift they can achieve. This is because lighter jumpers can often jump further.
• Gate Factor: This is where certain compensation is given for variable outdoor conditions. This is to ensure that if weather conditions change during a competition, all competitors are treated equally.
• Wind Conditions: Another factor to provide fairness as jumpers with a strong wind behind them will be at a big advantage. Therefore, their jumps may be factored to take this into account.

Winning

The winner of a ski jumping competition is the one who has the most points at the end of the competition.

Rules of Ski Jumping

• Most major ski jumping competitions are made up of two rounds.
• The first round consists of 50 jumpers who each get two jumps.
• Only valid jumps in which the jumper successfully lands without touching the ground with their hands are counted.
• All jumps are assessed by five judges.
• Landings are videotaped to ensure exact measuring.
• The overall scores of each jumpers jumps are added and the top 30 competitors progress to the next round.
• The 30 competitors each make two more jumps with the scores of each added up. The jumper with the highest number of points is declared the winner.

 

Snooker Rules

Snooker is one of the world’s most popular games due to its growth in India and China but, for now, it remains largely dominated by British players at the highest level. The Snooker World Championship is – for many – one of the biggest sporting events of the year but the sport is also played in clubs, and sometimes pubs, all over the UK by amateurs of all levels.

It developed from another cue sport, billiards, which began in the 16th century, with snooker coming along in the late 19th century. The first official snooker tournament was in 1916 with the first World Championship appearing in 1927 and since then the popularity of the game has ebbed and flowed, with the 1970s and 1980s probably the game’s finest era.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is to use the white cue ball to pot the other balls in the correct sequence and ultimately score more points than your opponent in order to win the frame, a frame being the individual game unit.

Players & Equipment

Snooker is played one against one and the size of the balls and table are regulated. The table is rectangular, measuring 12ft x 6ft and just under 3ft in height, and usually made of wood with a slate top covered in green baize. The table has six pockets into which the balls are potted, one in each corner and two in the middle of the long sides, or cushions. The end from which the game starts is called the baulk end and has a line across the width of the table 29 inches from the baulk cushion. In the centre of this is the D, an 11.5 inch-radius semi-circle with the baulk line as its diameter.

The hard balls, made from phenolic resin, are approximately 2.7 inches in diameter (they are given in metric units of 52.5mm). There are 15 red balls and one each of black, pink, blue, brown, green and yellow, as well as a white cue ball which is the only one struck by the players. The colours go on their spots, the green, brown and yellow from left to right on the baulk line across the semi-circle. The blue goes in the middle of the table, the pink midway between there and the top cushion (the opposite end to the baulk cushion) with the black in the centre, 12¾ inches off the top cushion. The 15 reds are placed in a triangle with one red at the point behind the pink.

The players use a cue, usually made of wood, to strike the white ball and this must be “not less than 3ft in length and shall show no substantial departure from the traditionally and generally accepted shape and form”.

Scoring

Players score one point for potting a red, after which they must nominate a colour for their next shot. The black is worth seven and is the most valuable going down through pink (six), blue (five), brown (four), green (three) and yellow (two). After each colour (the six colours are re-spotted but the reds are not) the player reverts to a red and alternates red, then colour until all the reds are potted. The remaining six colours are then potted in ascending points order, thus finishing with the black.

A player continues until he misses a ball or commits a foul, the players alternating turns. The maximum standard break (the term given to a consecutive run of pots) is 147 (15 reds taken with 15 blacks and then all the colours).

If a player commits a foul their opponent is awarded four points, unless the foul occurred whilst playing the blue, pink or black or hit one of those higher values first, in which case the foul is worth the value of the ball in question.

Winning the Game

The winner is the person who scores the most points in a frame. Once a player has a lead of more points than remain on the table the opponent is said to “need snookers”. A snooker is where the balls are so placed so that the player cannot directly hit the next legal ball. The hope is to force a foul and earn four points. If a player thinks they cannot win, even by forcing snookers, they concede the frame, usually when around four or more snookers (fouls) would be required in addition to all the remaining balls, depending on how many balls are left.

A match is normally played “best of” a set number of frames, ranging from three right up to 35 for modern World Championship finals, such that the winner would be the first player to reach an unassailable lead.

Rules of Snooker

• Players take it in turns to break (start the frame) with a coin toss deciding who starts the first frame. The break is made with the cue-ball in the D and a red must be struck.
• If both players agree a frame can be restarted, if, for example, both players agree the balls are so placed that the frame could lead to a stalemate.
• A push shot, which is a foul, is when the tip of the cue remains in contact with the cue-ball as it in turn touches the target ball. The cue ball must only be played with one clean strike of the cue.
• The referee may call a miss if the player does not strike the correct ball and is adjudged not to have made a serious attempt to. The other player is awarded the foul (four or more) and has the option to make the player replay the shot.
• All balls must be stationary before the next shot is played.
• The cue ball must hit the nominated ball first, or if it is a red, any red. Failure to do so is a foul, as is not hitting any ball or potting a non-nominated ball.
• If the player touches any ball with any part of their body or any ball other than the white with their cue it is a foul.
• Hitting a ball off the table is a foul. Reds are not replaced but colours will be re-spotted.
• If the spot on which a colour would usually be replaced is covered by another ball the colour is placed on the next highest available spot. If all spots are occupied the colour is placed as close to its spot as possible, between that spot and the top cushion. The ball must not be touching any other ball.
• When the cue-ball is touching another ball the referee shall state “touching ball” and the player must play away from that ball. If that ball moves it is a foul. If the player nominated that ball then they can play away and it is classed as already having made contact with that ball.
• If a player fouls and the other player cannot hit the whole of the next legal ball then a free ball is declared. The player may then hit any ball of their choice (they must nominate) and this will score and act as per the next legal ball, meaning, for example, that the black may be nominated as a red and if potted, followed by a colour.
• The player must have at least some part of one foot on the ground whilst playing a shot.
• Potting the white is a foul, as is a jump shot, where one ball leaves the table and clears another ball.

 

 

 

 

Softball Rules

Softball is a variation of the sport baseball. It’s more commonly played at a recreational level and played on a pitch smaller than that of baseball. Whilst the rules are very similar there are some that differ. The sport is widely played throughout North America but there are also professional leagues played in Asia, Europe and South America.

Object of the Game

The object of softball is to hit the ball with a bat before the player tries to run around an infield with four bases. Once a player manages to get right round without being given out a run is scored. The team with the most runs at the end of the game is deemed the winner.

Players & Equipment

Each softball team has 9 players. The game takes place over 7 innings and within each innings the team will bat then field. An innings is split into two sections called the top and the bottom of the innings. The away team bats first at the top of the innings whilst the home team field, then teams switch so the home team bats at the bottom of the innings.

Pitch sizes vary in softball and are often just whatever size can be found or used at the time. The in- filed has four bases in a diamond shape. The bases are home base (where the batter stands), first base, second base and third base. Home plate can be found in the centre of the field where the pitcher must stand to throw the ball. The pitcher must throw the ball underarm and must have at least one foot on the plate at the point of delivery.

Once a batting order is set at the start of the game it cannot be changed throughout. A batsman can be given out by being caught by a fielder without the ball bouncing, missing the ball three times in which a strike is called or by being tagged by a fielder holding the ball whilst running between bases. A batsman can be walked to first base if the pitcher fails to get the ball within the strike zone 4 times without a stroke being made. The strike zone in softball is larger than that of baseball.

Teams can be mixed with men and women or with just a single sex on each team. Once a team have completed their innings then the teams switch to do the opposite role. An innings is complete when the fielding team manage to get three players out from the bating team.

Scoring

To score a run the batsman must successfully first hit the ball and make it around the bases without being given out. One run is scored for every batsmen they manage to get round. A run can be scored even if the batsmen who hit the ball doesn’t make it round to home plate but manages to get a player that’s already on one of the bases home.

Winning the Game

The winners of the game will be decided after the 7 innings have all been completed. The team with most runs after 7 innings will be declared the winner. If after 7 innings the game is tied, then an extra innings will be played until a winner is found.

Rules of Softball

• Each team consists of 9 players and teams can be of mixed gender
• A game lasts for 7 innings and is split into two sections; the top and bottom of the innings.
• Each team bats once in each innings before the sides switch.
• The fielding team has a pitcher, catcher, a player on first base, second base, third base, three deep fielders and short stop.
• A batter must successfully strike the ball and run around as many bases as possible. Once they get all the way around and back to home plate without being given out a run is scored.
• The fielding team can prevent the batsmen by making them miss the ball, catching the ball, tagging one of the bases before they reach it or tagging the batsmen whilst they are running with the ball in hand.
• Down the first and third base line is a foul area. Once the ball crosses this line before it bounces the ball is deemed ‘dead’ and play restarts with a new pitch.
• A home run can be scored by hitting the ball over the outfield and into a dead ball area. The batsmen can then stroll around the bases to score along with any additional batsmen on base.

 

Speed Skating Rules

Speed Skating is a winter racing sport where athletes compete against one another on an ice-based circuit, using skates to navigate their way around the track. There are three main variants of speed skating – Long Track Speed Skating, Short Track Speed Skating, and Marathon Speed Skating. In the Olympics, “Speed Skating” is the term used to describe the Long Track category, whereas Short Track Speed Skating is abbreviated to “Short Track”.

Speed Skating was developed at some point during the 19th Century, and whilst its precise origins are routinely debated, the first competitive events can be traced back to Norway in 1863.

Speedskating has been a part of the Winter Olympics from the very beginning with four separate men’s events held in 1924. Since 1960, a number of women’s events have been introduced, as well as Team Pursuit events in recent years.

The Netherlands have collected the most Olympic Speed Skating medals overall, with the USA and Norway also experiencing success. Eric Heiden of America and Clas Thunberg of Finland are the most individually decorated Speed Skaters at the Olympics with five gold medals each.

Object of the Game

Speed Skating is a racing sport, so the primary aim is to complete each circuit in the fastest time possible. Athletes compete in races two at a time, with a lane reserved for each. During the race, athletes reach a specific point where they swap lanes to ensure they cover the same amount of distance as one another overall. If a race is neck and neck and both competitors meet on a corner, the athlete occupying the inner lane must offer right of way to the rival on the outside. The athlete that reaches the finish line first is declared the winner.

Players & Equipment

In a Speed Skating race, players ordinarily race around the circuit two at a time. Every participant is required to wear specific equipment, including the following.

Suits

Athletes require specially made suits that offer protection on the ice but also enable them to skate around the track at high speeds. For low air resistance, these suits are usually skin-tight in design and are tailored to each individual athlete’s specific body shape. They also contain Kevlar for added protection.

Footwear

Boots are tailor made for professional Speed Skaters, with the blades at the base varying in length from 14 to 18 inches. These blades are also designed with a curve in order to assist turning when racing around the circuit.

Safety

Athletes also wear helmets, neck guards, goggles, and ankle shields during racing as well as their suits, which offer added layers of protection in the event of a fall.

The specific equipment used in Long Track and Short Track differs slightly, with most of the main protective items not required in Long Track.

Scoring

In order to improve their chances of reaching the finish line first, Speed Skaters must adopt a particular set of techniques. These include:

Balance

Athletes must keep a low centre of gravity by bending their knees in order to skate at the highest possible speeds and take corners effectively. The lower to the ground, the better.

Positioning

Speed Skaters must take the circuit into account whenever they are competing. As a rule, the skater on the inner lane will have the upper-hand, so athletes must continue to make ground when they’re in the outer lane and recognise how to position themselves correctly.

Winning

The winner of a Speed Skating race is the athlete that reaches the finish line first. There are often no heats or finals in Speed Skating like there are in other racing sports.

Rules of Speed Skating

• In Olympic Speed Skating, races are participated on a 400-meter oval track. In Short Track, they are contested on a 111-meter circuit.
• Races begin from a standing start, signalled by firing a gun. If an athlete moves too soon, this is known as a “false start” and they are given a warning. More than one false start places an athlete at serious risk of being disqualified.
• If two athletes meet on a corner, the racer in the inner lane must give right of way to the rival on the outer lane. Failing to oblige to this regulation or impeding an opponent in any way will result in disqualification.
• Depending on the nature of the race, an athlete that falls down may have the option to run the race again.
• Skaters are not permitted to move lanes when approaching the finish line.
• In certain races, a skater may call a “relay player”, who is essentially a replacement. Before a relay player can be called, the athlete who began the race must have completed a minimum of one lap.

 

Squash Rules

Squash is a game played around the world and has as big a following professionally as it does in amateur ranks. The game dates back to 19th century with variations of the game (then called racquets) evolving into the modern game as we now know it. Whilst squash isn’t currently an Olympic sport, its pinnacle comes in the form of the Squash World Championships where the best players from around the world compete to be the ultimate squash champion.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is hit the ball off the back wall until you manage to make your opponent fail in returning the ball. Every time you do so you will receive a point. Points make up sets, which in turn determine the winner of the match.

Players & Equipment

Squash is played between two people in a box like room. All that is needed is a squash racket (similar to a tennis racket but smaller head size) and a squash ball. The squash ball is around 2 and a half inches in diameter and made from rubber. There are 5 different speeds of squash ball ranging from super slow (competition standard) to fast (more beginner standard). The ball is generally pretty low bouncing, especially the super slow balls, which make it tough to return the ball.

There are many lines on a squash court. The first line is out line that runs across the top of the back wall and down the sides of the side wall. Any ball hitting outside this area is deemed out and a point is awarded to your opponent. A board runs along the bottom of the back wall which is technically the ‘net’. If the ball hits into the board then it is deemed a foul. 3 feet above the board is the service line. All serves must hit above this line for it to be a legitimate serve. The back of the court is split into two rectangular sections where a player must start from before each point. A service box is in each section and a player is required to have at least one foot in whilst they serve or are waiting to receive the serve.

Scoring

Scoring a point can come one of 4 ways: the ball bounces twice before your opponent hits the ball, the ball hits the back board (or net), the ball goes outside the outline or a player causes interference purposely to prevent their opponents from getting the ball.

There are two methods of scoring Squash. The first is called ‘PAR’ where you play first to 11 points and you can score a point from either yours or your opponents serve. The second is a more traditional style where you play first to 9 points but can only score points off your own serve.

The 11 point PAR scoring system is now the official scoring system in professional ranks and the majority of amateur games.

Winning the Game

In order to win the game you need to reach the required amounts of sets determined before the start of the match. Most sets are best of 5 games, so the first to that number wins.

Rules of Squash

• Games can be played by either two (singles) or four (doubles) players at one time.
• You must hit the ball with your racket within the boundaries on the back wall.
• The ball can hit the side wall at any time as long as at some point it hits the back wall.
• A let is called when a player accidently gets in their opponents way and is unable to get out the way.
• A foul is called if the player purposely tries to get in the way of their opponent.
• If a game gets to 10-10 then a player must win by two clear points to win that game.
• You cannot hit the ball twice and you cannot carry the ball.
• When serving one foot must be within the service box; the same goes for your opponent.
• Upon returning a serve you may hit the ball on the volley or after it bounces.
• The speed of balls are determined by number and colours of small spots on the ball:
• Double Yellow = Extra Super slow for competitions
• Yellow = Super slow
• Green or White = Slow
• Red = Medium
• Blue = Fast

• What Is the Difference Between Squash and Racquetball?

  

  Racquetball and squash are sports that have a great deal of similarities. Both racket sports played with a ball on an enclosed court, they both require a high level of fitness and are exciting and dynamic to play.

  However, as much as they might be similar, there are, in fact, more differences between them with some features more significant than others.

   

  Administration

  Racquetball and squash are administered by two different governing bodies. The International Racquetball Federation is the governing body for racquetball and oversees all internationally sanctioned events, as well as the various national bodies.

  The Squash Federation is the international federation for squash and looks after the sport across the world and has 145 member federations. Because of the similarity of the sports, in some countries, one organisation oversees both games. An example of this is in England where both sports are governed by England Squash.

  The Court

  Both squash courts and racquetball courts are enclosed but there are differences between the two sports when it comes to the playing surface and the size. Racquetball courts are larger, measuring 20x40x20 feet. Squash courts are 21x32x15 feet. In racquetball, every surface is included as in-bound including the ceiling, whereas in squash, you’re not allowed to hit the ceiling.

  The Racket

  Squash rackets are larger and can measure up to 27 inches compared to 22 inches in racquetball. Whilst both used to feature a circular head similar to those used in badminton, they both now have more teardrop shaped heads. Those in racquetball, however, are wider and this is to cope with the larger ball that is used compared to squash.

   

  The Ball

  The balls used in squash are just 4cm in diameter and are made from rubber. The balls used in racquetball are 6cm in diameter, also made from rubber but tend to be a lot more bouncy than the ones used in squash.

  Service

  In squash, players are only allowed one service per point, however, in racquetball you are allowed two, which is similar to tennis. In squash, there is no bounce before hitting the ball before service whereas in racquetball the ball must bounce once before striking it. In squash, the server has to hit the ball into one of two service boxes whereas in racquetball the server can hit any part of the wall.

  Scoring

  Squash games go up to nine points in regular matches and eleven in championships and tournaments. Games must be won with two clear points. Like tennis, points can be won regardless of whether the player is serving or receiving.

  In racquetball, games go up to fifteen points but points can only be scored when it is your serve. Like squash, games must also be won with two clear points.

  Popularity

  Racquetball is played by 5.6 million people worldwide, whereas squash is more popular and is played by an estimated 20 million across the globe. The popularity of both games is on the increase with both being played by an increasing number of players in an increasing number of countries.

 

Sumo Wrestling Rules

Sumo Wrestling is one of the world’s most distinctive forms of wrestling. Originating in Japan, Sumo can trace its roots back to the Edo period of Japan’s history (circa 1603) and was a popular form of entertainment. The original wrestlers were almost certainly ronin, samurais who had no lord or master and they would have competed as Sumo would provide them with a source of income.

Sumo is considered a martial art in Japan but is more accurately described as a sport, but one which still retains many of the ancient traditions of the Shinto religion as can be seen from the rituals at the beginning of every Sumo bout.

Object of Sumo Wrestling

The object of Sumo is simple. To force your opponent out of the ring or force your opponent to the canvas. However, behind this deceptively simple objective lies a complex and fascinating sport in which there are plethora of techniques and practices that wrestlers can use to win their match which elevates it far above a simple test of strength.

As well as the sporting aspect of Sumo Wrestling however is the fact that as a sport, it is very closely associated with the Shinto religion and this can be seen at the beginning of every Sumo bout where wrestlers perform a certain set of moves that include leg raises and claps.

The claps are traditionally meant to show their opponent that they are not hiding any weapons and that they wish to meet in a fair fight. As well as this, salt is also thrown by both fighters into the ring. Salt is important in Japan’s Shinto religion and is used to purify, and each wrestler throws it to help drive away evil spirits.

Players & Equipment

The first thing that anyone notices about Sumo is the size of the competitors. Unlike nearly every other sport in the world, in Sumo, being as big as possible is not just advantageous, it is a requirement if a competitor is to be successful. Despite being so fat, Sumo wrestlers are surprisingly light on their feet but despite the fitness required to be a Sumo wrestler, the fact that they carry so much weight does catch up with many competitors, with many developing high blood pressure and Type 2 Diabetes later in life.

The only equipment requirements in Sumo are that all wrestlers wear a mawashi which is the loincloth that is made from tough, heavyweight fabric. Wrestlers are also expected to grow their hair long and wear it in a chonmage (topknot).

Scoring

No points are scored in Sumo, as Sumo is a simple win/lose format in which there can be no tied bouts. However, there are various levels of Sumo Wrestler dependent upon ability, and they exist effectively in six divisions in which promotion and relegation is possible every year. Wrestlers are awarded points depending upon their performance at the main Sumo tournaments which then affects their ranking within their division.

Winning the Match

A Sumo match can be won in a number of of ways. Firstly, you can push your competitor out of the ring. Secondly, you can grab your opponent's belt and force them out of the ring by pushing them or throwing them. Thirdly, you can force your opponent to the canvas.

These are the three main ways (and there are multiple variations of each one), although a match can be won by disqualification or if one competitor is not deemed fit to continue. It is not possible to draw a Sumo bout and matches very rarely last more than a minute.

Rules of Sumo Wrestling

• Sumo bouts take place in a ring that is approximately 15 feet in diameter and is raised on a block of clay that is known as a dohyo approximately 2.5 feet above the ground.
• Each Sumo bout must begin with an elaborate ceremonial ritual in which the wrestlers both perform certain actions and throw salt into the ring. Once the ritual is over, the two wrestlers face each other and wait for the referee to begin the action.
• Both wrestlers are to crouch with fists on the floor until the referee signifies the start of the match.
• Both fighters then engage with each other in an attempt to win the bout.
• There are essentially three ways that Rikishi can attempt to win the match:
  • Pushing their opponent out of the ring
  • Grabbing their opponent’s belt and forcing them out of the ring
  • Forcing their opponent to the floor
• A Rikishi is permitted to use any technique to try and win the match apart from:
  • hair pulling
  • punching
  • striking the ears
  • choking
  • attacking the groin area
• As soon as one competitor has been forced out of the ring or to the floor, the match is over and the referee announces the winner as well as the technique (kimarite) that was used to win the fight.
• Contestants can also lose a Sumo fight by using an illegal technique (known as kinjite) or if their belt become undone.

 

 

Table Tennis (Ping Pong) Rules

Table tennis has been an Olympic sport since 1988 and is hugely popular in Asia, although it is played all over the world from the dusty streets of Ethiopia to the public schools of rural England. The game did indeed begin in England at the end of the 19th century, first as a postprandial parlour game for upper classes. The sound of the ball on early bats gave it the name “ping pong” but as this became a trademarked term in some countries table tennis soon became the more common name.

Object of the Game

As of 2001 the aim of the game is to score 11 points (it was previously 21) by outmanoeuvring your opponent into either hitting the ball into the net, hitting it off the table or missing it completely. Matches are normally contested as best of five, seven or nine games: that is to say, the first person to reach 11 points in three, four or five games respectively.

Players & Equipment

In singles play it is a game of one against one, whilst doubles pits two against two, although it is also possible to play two against one in informal situations (family holidays for instance!). Here we shall focus on singles rules.

Little equipment is needed to play ping pong, which is unsurprising given it was originally an improvised game played on a table using books for both the net and the bats! Officially the game is played using a 40mm diameter, white (or sometimes orange) table tennis ball weighing 2.7g; rackets (official term) that are normally called bats (UK) or paddles (USA) and are red on one side and black on the other; and a table measuring 2.74m (9ft) long, 76cm (30 inches) high and 1.52m (5ft) wide. The table is usually blue or green and has a 15.25cm (6 inch) net across its width, bisecting its length.

Scoring

Scoring is done by forcing your opponent into hitting the ball long or wide of the table or otherwise into the net or by playing a shot which they are unable to hit at all. When serving, your opponent wins the point if you fail to make a valid serve – one that bounces on your side of the table, then clears the net (if it hits the net it is a let and the player reserves) and bounces on their side.

Volleying the ball is not allowed, nor is obstructing it, whilst a double hit will also result in the awarding of the point to your opponent. Note that in table tennis the edges of the table (the lines) are “in” but the side is not.

Winning the Game

The winner of the match is the first to reach the allotted number of games, normally three, four or five. To win a game you must reach 11 points, although if the scores become level at 10-10 it is then the first player to lead by two points that is awarded the game.

Rules of Table Tennis (Ping Pong)

• Ping pong is played over a pre-agreed number of games and the first to 11 points wins each game.
• The toss of a coin or another form of lot-drawing determines which of the players shall serve first.
• Each table tennis player serves twice in turn and serves must be made from an open palm, the ball tossed six inches then struck so it bounces on the service side, clears the net, then bounces on the receiver’s side.
• Points are decided as described above and games must be won by two clear points. At 10-10 each player serves once only, in turn, until one player established a two point lead and wins the game.
• After each game the players rotate both the end of the table from which they are playing as well as who serves and receives the ball first.
• In the deciding game of a match the players swap ends after either player reaches five points.

  What Is the Difference Between Ping Pong and Table Tennis?

  

  Table tennis and ping-pong are essentially the same game and there are no major differences between them. The real difference, however, is one of perception. Table tennis is the serious, competitive side of the sport in which people compete in leagues and cup competitions across the world, as well as in international championships.

  Ping-pong is an almost identical game (although there are several variations, including the well-known game of beer pong, of course) that is played in a much more informal and social way. Whilst not all might agree with these differences, those who prefer to play the more social game of 'ping pong' may make some slight adjustments.

   

  The Differences

  In the early days of the sport, the terms ping pong and table tennis were both used and were reasonably interchangeable. However, because of fears about trademark disputes over the name ping-pong, when writing up the standardised rules of the sport the ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation) chose to use the words table tennis.

  Today, many of the more serious players of table tennis do not like their game being referred to as ping pong. They believe the onomatopoeic nature of the word gives the wrong impression of the game making it sound frivolous and childlike.

  However, the ping pong community have embraced the looser and less formal name. Focussing not on competition but on the social and fun side of the game, they tend to play a stripped down version of the game free from some of the more intricate rules of table tennis.

  Service

  In table tennis, the ball is required to be thrown more than six inches upwards from an open hand and then hit from behind the table’s baseline. However, in less formal ping pong games, serves may be hit straight out of the hand or following a bounce on the table.

  Scoring

  In modern table tennis, games go up to 11 points, players having two serves at a time. In many ping pong matches though, the traditional 21 point format is used with each player having five serves alternately.

  Rundlauf

  As well as the usual singles and doubles matches, ping pong has several variations around the world. One of these is Rundlauf (round the table). Originating in Germany, it is a fantastic way for larger groups of players all to enjoy ping pong at the same time. Basically, two teams of players form two queues leading anti clockwise around the table tennis table.

  The ball is served the first member of one team and then each player takes their turn at the end of the table to hit the ball before moving on and going to the back of the queue. Losing a point can mean elimination from the game of the loss of a life depending on the particular rules being played.

  Although it originates in Germany, Rundlauf is becoming a more and more popular version of ping pong and can be played by between 10 and 16 players. No such group form of the game exists in table tennis.

 For some additional interesting information check out https://www.thegamesguy.com/how-to-improve-at-ping-pong/

 

 

Taekwondo Rules

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and Olympic sport that was developed in post World War 2 Korea by various martial artists but is usually attributed to military general and martial artist Choi Hong Hi. Taekwondo is based on the native Korean martial arts of Taekkyeon, Subak and Gwonbeop but also has significant elements of other martial arts such as Japanese Karate and to a lesser extent Chinese Kung Fu.

As a martial art, it is known as a style that focuses particularly on kicking, and experienced practitioners can be seen performing various spectacular head height and jumping kicks. There are various Taekwondo administration bodies but the main two are the ITF (International Taekwondo Federation) and the WTF (World Taekwondo Federation) but it is the latter that is the best known as it the WTF form of Taekwondo that has been a major part of the Olympic Games since 1988.

Object of Taekwondo

In Taekwondo competition, the object is to land kicks and punches upon the scoring zones of your opponent. These are the the torso and the head and both kicks and punches must be accurate and powerful, as light tapping kicks are not counted by scorers (or electronic scoring systems in major competitions). At the end of the three rounds of the match, the player with the most points is declared the winner, but the match can end early by one player knocking the other player out.

All Taekwondo practitioners, whether competitors or not are at all times expected to uphold the five tenets of Taekwondo. These are courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Players & Equipment

In Taekwondo competition, fighters compete against other fighters of the same sex. They are also placed into weight categories to ensure that fights are as evenly matched as possible. In junior competitions, there may also be age categories too.

The white taekwondo uniform that competitors wear is often called a gi, but technically that is the Japanese name for a martial arts uniform and the proper Korean term is a dobok. A coloured belt is tied round the middle of the dobok and the colour signifies the grade of the practitioner. The belt system goes from white for beginners through to yellow, green, blue, red and then black for more experienced practitioners. Black belts then receive their ‘dan’ grades as they progress further in their experience and expertise. In a Taekwondo match, each competitor wears several pieces of protective equipment and these are:

• Head guard
• Chest (trunk) protector
• Groin guard
• Forearm guards
• Hand protectors
• Shin guards
• Mouth guard

Scoring

Scoring in a Taekwondo match is simple. A player gets:

• One point for a basic attack to the opponent’s torso
• Two points for a spinning kick to the opponent’s torso
• Three points for a kick to the head

In major competitions, electronic scoring systems are used that are placed within each player’s chest protector and are adjusted to take into account of the weight category of the fight. For head kicks (and fights where electronic scoring is not used), a panel of 4 judges push a button when they see a scoring point. When at least 3 judges agree, then a point is awarded.

Winning the Match

Once a Taekwondo match is over (at the end of the 3 x 2 minute rounds), the winner is the fighter that has the most points. If both fighters have the same amount of points, then an extra round is fought called the golden point round. In this round, the first fighter to score a point is declared the winner. Taekwondo matches can be won earlier if one fighter knocks the other out or if one fighter is disqualified for a rule breach.

Rules of Taekwondo

• Taekwondo matches should be contested by competitors of the same sex and in the same classified weight category.
• The competition area is a mat that measures 8 metres squared.
• Taekwondo matches are contested over 3 x 2 minute rounds with a rest of 1 minute between rounds.
• Each fighter attempts to knockout their opponent or score points by landing blows on their opponent’s torso or head. Kicks are allowed to both to the torso and head, whilst punches are only allowed to the body. Below the waist is not a permitted target.
• If a fighter and their coach think that a point has been missed or that a mistake has been made, they can make a protest. A video replay is then looked at by judges and a decision is made.
• Fighters can lose points by the way of penalties. These can be incurred by actions such as:
  • Punching to the face
  • Attacking with the knee
  • Attacking below the waist
  • Stepping out of the ring with both feet
  • Turning your back on your opponent
  • Pushing, holding or grabbing your opponent
  • Feigning injury
• The match is won by the fighter who knocks their opponent out or who has the greater number of points at the end of the three rounds.
• If the match is a draw, a golden point round is fought, with the fighter landing the first scoring point being declared the winner.

 

Tee-Ball Rules

Tee-Ball is a team sport that is very similar to the game of baseball and is a game that is used to introduce young children to the game through its simplified rules. As well as this, it is also used as a way of helping children to develop hand/eye coordination and ball skills.

The main difference between Tee-Ball and baseball is that, whereas in baseball a pitcher pitches the ball towards the hitter, this does not happen in Tee-Ball. Instead, the hitter hits the ball off a tee which is stationary, thus allowing young children an easier way of hitting the ball and engaging with the game and developing skills. Although in Tee-Ball the ball is softer, the lack of the ball being pitched also makes it safer for children.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is for one team to defeat another by scoring more runs. They do this by attempting to score as many runs as they can during their innings and attempting to prevent their opposition's scoring runs whilst fielding.

However, there is a greater objective to Tee-Ball and that is to introduce children to baseball and to sport in general, so as well as helping introduce them to the rules of baseball, it gets them active, helps develop hand/eye coordination as well as ball skills.

Players & Equipment

One of the reasons behind Tee-Ball’s popularity is its simplicity and the fact that it needs relatively little equipment to play. Teams are made up of between 5 and 7 players, although more can be played by agreement and all players should wear suitable training shoes. When batting, each player is required to wear a suitable safety helmet and wear gloves.

The bats used should be between 25 and 26 inches long and the balls are special Tee-Ball ones, very similar to regulation baseballs but made to be softer to help minimize the risk of injuries.

Scoring

Scoring is like in baseball, with each member of the batting team who makes it round all bases scoring a point for their team. In games featuring particular younger children, often these games are not scored and are played solely for fun and to help develop hand/eye coordination, ball skills and have experience of playing in a team.

Winning the Game

At the end of the match, the runs that have been scored by each team are added together and the team with the most is declared the winner. If the scores are the same at the end then a tiebreaker could be played with another innings for each team although due to the friendly nature of the sport it may be decided to draw the game. In games for younger members that aren’t scored, there is no winner of the game.

Rules of Tee-Ball

• Tee-Ball is played by two teams of between five and seven players, but can be played with more if the team sizes are equal.
• A coin is tossed at the start of the game with the representative from the winning side choosing whether to bat or field first.
• The number of innings shall be exactly the same as the number of players on each team, with the hitting order rotating each innings enabling each player to have the chance to lead off an innings.

Batting

• When batting, the ball shall not be pitched but shall be placed on a tee from which the batter shall hit it.
• The batter (aka hitter) is entitled to have as many swings as they need to hit the ball.
• A player is declared as being out when:
• The ball is hit and then caught without hitting the ground.
• A player who has the ball stands on the base before the runner makes it to the base.
• A fielder with the glove or hand that is holding the ball tags a runner between the bases.
• An innings is complete when each player on the team that is batting has had a turn to bat.
• Once the first team to bat’s innings are all complete, it is the turn of the opposition to have their innings.

Fielding

• Fielding positions are as follows:
• The Pitcher: The pitcher does not pitch the ball but is tasked with fielding the diamond area in which most balls are hit
• The Catcher: This role, unlike their baseball equivalent is to place the ball on the tee, catch the ball and to tag runners running for home base.
• Bases: First Base, Second Base and Third Base positions field in and around their base area and attempt to run out players running for their base.
• Others: If playing with larger numbers, other fielders are placed around the playing area and are tasked with fielding the ball, catching and trying to run players out.

Running Bases

• Unlike baseball and in an attempt to encourage fielders to throw, once a throw is made, a runner may only advance to the base they were going for.
• If runners turn back towards a previous base, they must return to that base.

The game is won by the team with the greater number of points at the end of the game.

 

 

Tennis Rules

Tennis is a sport that originated in England around the 19th century and is now played in a host of countries around the world. There are four major tournaments known as the ‘majors’ that include Wimbledon, US Open, French Open and Australian tournament.

Object of the Game

The game of tennis played on a rectangular court with a net running across the centre. The aim is to hit the ball over the net landing the ball within the margins of the court and in a way that results in your opponent being unable to return the ball. You win a point every time your opponent is unable to return the ball within the court.

Players & Equipment

A tennis match can be played by either one player on each side – a singles match – or two players on each side – a doubles match. The rectangular shaped court has a base line (at the back), service areas (two spaces just over the net in which a successful serve must land in) and two tram lines down either side. A singles match will mean you use the inner side tram line and a doubles match will mean you use the outer tram line.

A court can be played on four main surfaces including grass, clay, hard surface and carpet. Each tournament will choose one surface type and stick without throughout. All that is required in terms of equipment is a stringed racket each and a tennis ball.

Scoring

You need to score four points to win a game of tennis. The points are known as 15 (1 point), 30 (two points), 40 (three points) and the fourth would result in the winning point and the end of that game. If the scores went to 40-40 this would be known as deuce. When a game reaches deuce the player must then win by two clear points.

Winning the Game

To win the game you must win a certain amount of sets (best of three for women’s matches and best of 5 sets for men’s matches). Winning a set is simply the first player to reach 6 games but have to be clear by at least 2 games. If your opponent wins 5 games you must win the set 7-5. If the set goes to 6-6 then a tie break is played and it’s simply the first player to 7 points.

Rules of Tennis

• The game starts with a coin toss to determine which player must serve first and which side they want to serve from.
• The server must then serve each point from alternative sides on the base line. At no point must the server’s feet move in front of the baseline on the court prior to hitting their serve.
• If the server fails to get their first serve in they may take advantage of a second serve. If they again fail to get their second serve in then a double fault will be called and the point lost.
• If the server clips the net but the ball goes in the service area still then let is called and they get to take that serve again without penalty. If the ball hits the net and fails to go in the service area then out is called and they lose that serve.
• The receiver may stand where they wish upon receipt of the serve. If the ball is struck without the serve bouncing then the server will receive the point.
• Once a serve has been made the amount of shots between the players can be unlimited. The point is won by hitting the ball so the opponent fails to return it in the scoring areas.
• Points are awarded in scores of 15, 30 and 40. 15 represent 1 point, 30 = 2 and 40 = 3. You
• need 4 points to win a game. If a game lands on 40-40 it’s known as deuce. From deuce a player needs to win 2 consecutive points to win the game. After winning one point from deuce they player is on advantage. If the player wins the next point they win the game, if they lose it goes back to deuce.
• To win the set a player must win 6 games by 2 or more. The opening sets will go to a tie break if its ends up 6-6 where players play first to 7 points. The final set will not have a tie break and requires players to win by two games with no limits.
• If a player touches the net, distracts his opponent or impedes in anyway then they automatically lose the point.
• The ball can hit any part of the line for the point to be called in, outside the line and the ball is out.
• The balls in a tennis match are changed for new balls every 6 games
• A player loses a point if they fail to return the ball in either the correct areas on the court, hits the net and doesn’t go into opponent’s area or fails to return the ball before it bounces twice in their half.
• 

  yurikr / Bigstockphoto.com

  Triathlon

  Triathlons are multi-stage events that incorporate three separate sports into one large-scale competition. Ordinarily, a Triathlon will consist of a swimming stage, cycling stage, and running stage. The aim is to complete the entire competition in the fastest possible time. Triathlon events were introduced to the Olympic games in 2000 and have remained a permanent fixture ever since.

 

 

 

Tug of War Rules

Tug of War is one of the most ancient games known to man and there is evidence that it was played across the ancient world including ancient Greece, Egypt and China. Also known as rope pulling, tugging war and war of tug, it remains today a popular sport that pits the strengths of two teams against each other and is practiced in some form in almost every country in the world.

Many of these countries have their own national governing bodies and there is an international body too known as the Tug of War International Federation which has over 50 countries affiliated with it.

The sport is played by both men and women, and historically was part of the Olympic Games between 1900 and 1920, but has not been included since this dates despite attempts to bring it back. There are many variations of Tug of War around the world including Sokatira in Spain’s Basque Country, Japan’s Tsunahiki, Indonesia’s Tarik Tambang and Korea’s Jul Parigi.

Object of the Game

Most Tug of War matches are completed in a best of three format, and the objective is to beat the competition and win the match by winning at least two of the three pulls in the match. Within each pull, the objective is to win by pulling the opposition and the opposition’s 4m marker towards the centre so that the mark passes the centre line, resulting in a win. It is not possible to tie a Tug of War match.

Players & Equipment

Each Tug of War team consists of 8 members, all of whom cooperate to pull the rope. Despite looking like quite a simple sport, there is some technicality to it, with team members utilising a rhythm to help pull the rope in an effective way. This is done with the help of a ‘driver’, who is not a member of the team but is in effect like a coach and they give orders of when to pull and when to rest from the sidelines.

The rope is the most important piece of equipment and this should be approximately 11 cm in circumference and should be at least 33.5m long with plain, whipped ends. Other pieces of equipment that participants may use include specialist boots, back, elbow and knee supports as well as belts to support the back.

Scoring

In Tug of War, there is no scoring as such like you may see in other team games such as American Football or Soccer. However, because teams are pitted against each other usually in a best of three match, there is a form of scoring, in that the winner of the match must win two out the three pulls to win the match.

Winning the Game

Each team has a mark on their end of the rope 4m from the centre. The team who is pulled by the opposition towards the centre whose mark goes over the centre line is declared the loser. With matches often being the best of three, it is the that successfully wins two out of three pulls that is declared the winner.

Rules of Tug of War

• Each team in a Tug of War competition consists of eight people.
• There are various weight classifications in Tug of War, and the mass of the eight people combined must not weigh more than that determined by the category that they are placed in.
• The rope used should be of a circumference of approximately 11 cm and should be marked in the middle with a centre line as well as two marks that should be placed 4m from the centre line.
• At the start of the pull, the centre line of the rope should be immediately above line marked on the ground.
• Both teams pull the rope, the winner being the team who manage to pull the mark on the rope closest to their opponents over the centre line.
• The rope must be pulled underarm and nobody’s elbow must go below the knee, otherwise a foul will be called.
• Matches are often a best of three pull, the winner winning two out of the three pulls.

 

Ultimate Frisbee Rules

Ultimate Frisbee is now known in many countries simply as the less-catchy “Ultimate” due to the fact that Frisbee is a registered trademark. It is a fast-paced sport with similarities to netball, football (soccer) and American Football. Played by around five million people in the US and with leagues in the UK and other European countries, Ultimate is a far cry from the humble origins of the Frisbee.

As with many inventions there are multiple reported variations on how Frisbees came to be, but the commonly agreed version is that it comes from the Frisbie Baking Company, whose empty metal pie tins were thrown by college students in the 1920s. Subsequently, in 1948, Walter Morrison invented a plastic version with improved aero-dynamics, and then followed the Pluto Platter.

Ultimate was created in 1967 by students at Columbia High School and in 1979 the Ultimate Players Association, now USA Ultimate, was formed. The sport has grown from its early years as a relaxed sport played for fun and increasingly attracts better athletes and is played more competitively.

Object of the Game

The object of Ultimate is to pass the flying disc to a player in the endzone of the pitch and in so doing a goal is scored. As in rugby and American Football the ends – the last 18m in this case – of the pitch are the scoring zones. The winner is usually decided by whichever team is first to score a specified number of goals or whichever team scores the most goals in a given timeframe.

Players & Equipment

One of the beauties of the sport is that very little equipment is needed, with an inexpensive disc and an open space sufficient for a rudimentary game. Ultimate is contested between two sides of seven players with substitutions permitted and so with a disc, seven bibs and a field you’re away!

The pitch is 100m long with the endzones, as said, 18m deep at either end. It is 37m across and a regulation disc is 10.75 inches in diameter and weighs 175g.

Scoring

Points are scored by getting the disc to one of your players in the end zone by passing it through the air. That’s the only way to score, making the game a very simple one to understand and play.

Winning the Game

Games are usually played as the first side to reach 15 or sometimes 17 goals, although any number can be agreed between the teams. Sometimes games are played over two 15 minute periods with a five minute half-time break. In these games the side with the most goals at the end is deemed the winner.

Rules of Ultimate Frisbee

• The match is started by a “pull”, where one side throws-off to the other.
• A player cannot run with the disc and must stop as soon as they receive it, although they may pivot on one leg (a la netball).
• If a pass hits the floor, is intercepted or is caught out of bounds possession goes to the other side.
• A player in possession has 10 seconds in which to pass the disc or they cede possession to the opposition.
• The defender (marker) makes the count (stall count).
• Ultimate is a non-contact sport and defenders may only stand within three meters of the disc-holder.
• Substitutions are only allowed after a goal has been scored (and before the throw-off), to replace an injured player or after periods of play and not during a timeout.

Ultimate is self-officiating and, indicative of its origins and free-spirited reputation, the Spirit of the Game (SOTG) is highly respected. Only a fouled player may call or appeal for a foul and there is a strong spirit of respect and sportsmanship demanded. Many other sports could do well to take heed.

 

 

Underwater Hockey Rules

Underwater Hockey (sometimes called Octopus) was invented in the 1950s by the British Navy in order to keep their divers in shape and to improve their efficiency under water. It then became popularised in Australia before expanding across the world. The sport intertwines disciplines from both ice hockey and swimming in creating a competitive and fairly physical battle.

Object of the Game

The object of underwater hockey is to successfully hit the puck into your opponent’s goal. The team that scores the most goals in the allotted time is then the winner. Obviously the game is played totally underwater and players must remain underwater until a goal is scored. Only when a break in play for a goal or a foul is called by the referee may players then resurface.

Players & Equipment

Each team consist of 10 players. There will only ever be 6 players submerged in the water at any one time with the reaming 4 players acting as rolling substitutes – similar to Ice Hockey. The players then remain on the swimming pool floor where the 3lb puck will be situated. Players are allowed to pass the puck along the floor to team mates using a stick that is attached to their glove of roughly one foot in length.

On top of the stick players are allowed to wear a mask, snorkel, ear protectors, fins, swimsuit and gloves. Whilst the sport is essentially a non-contact sport, the game can turn quite rough and become physical in the same way basketball can. It takes players many years to hone their skills in underwater hockey none more so than the ability to hold their breath for extended periods of time.

The pool is usually around 25m in length, 12 m wide and 2m deep. Ropes or lead weights can be used as a goal.

Scoring

A goal is scored when a team manages to hit the puck into their opponent’s goal using their stick. No other instrument or body part can be used in the game and any goals deemed to come off a players body will result in a foul in their opponents favour.

Winning the Game

The game is won when the allotted time has surpassed and the team with the most goals is the winner. If the game is a tie after the allotted time then an extra 15 minutes is played until a winner is found.

Rules of Underwater Hockey

• Teams consist of 10 players with 6 players in the pool at all time. The remaining 4 act as rolling substitutes.
• Games take place for two 15 minute halves with a 5 minute rest period in between halves.
• Players generally cover zones rather than having positions but formations do come into play.
• Teams can also be split into attack and defence. Variations of midfield players have also been noted before.
• Players can only score using the stick in their hands and cannot use any body parts to assist moving the puck. Players are prohibited from making contact with players unless they are in possession of the puck.