Shuffleboard

Game in which players push weighted pucks down a narrow court

Shuffleboard

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Highest governing body
Nicknames
First played
Registered players
Clubs
Contact	No
Team members	Individual or team
Mixed-sex
Type	Indoor, outdoor

Shuffleboard is a game in which players use cues to push weighted pucks down a narrow and elongated court, aiming to have them come to rest within a marked scoring area. The game can be played indoors or outdoors and is popular in various forms around the world.

History

The origins of shuffleboard are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been played in Europe as early as the 15th century. The game gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in retirement communities and on cruise ships.

Equipment

The primary equipment used in shuffleboard includes:

• Pucks: Also known as weights, these are the discs that players slide down the court.
• Cues: Long sticks used to push the pucks.
• Shuffleboard court: A long, narrow surface with marked scoring zones.

Rules

The basic rules of shuffleboard involve sliding pucks down the court to land within specific scoring areas. Points are awarded based on where the pucks come to rest. The game can be played in singles or doubles format.

Scoring

The scoring zones are typically marked with different point values. The goal is to accumulate the highest score by the end of the game. Pucks that do not reach the scoring area or fall off the court do not earn points.

Variations

There are several variations of shuffleboard, including:

• Deck shuffleboard: Commonly played on cruise ships.
• Table shuffleboard: Played on a smaller, table-sized court.
• Outdoor shuffleboard: Played on a larger, outdoor court.

Strategy

Effective shuffleboard strategy involves both offensive and defensive play. Players aim to place their pucks in high-scoring zones while also attempting to knock opponents' pucks out of scoring areas.

Popularity

Shuffleboard remains a popular pastime in many retirement communities and is also enjoyed recreationally in bars and clubs. The game has a dedicated following and is played competitively in various leagues and tournaments.

See also

• Curling
• Bocce
• Petanque
• Bowls