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Read More May 21, 2015 | Blain's Farm & FleetHow to Play Four Square
Four square is a classic playground game that’s fun, simple, and perfect for players of all ages. You don’t need expensive gear, an elaborate setup, or even prior experience to play. Whether you’re new to four square or just need a refresher, this guide from Blain’s Farm & Fleet will walk you through everything you need to know. By the end, you’ll be ready to grab a ball, mark out your court, and jump right into the game.
What You’ll Need
To get started, you only need two things:
- A Ball: A standard rubber playground ball works best.
- A Court: You’ll need a flat playing area big enough for your four square court. You can draw this on the pavement using chalk, or use pre-painted courts at schools and parks.
Setting Up the Court
If you’re creating your own court, here’s how to get it set up:
- Make sure you’ve chosen a flat, open area. It should measure about 16 feet by 16 feet to give you enough room for the court. Use a tape measure to confirm it’s the right size.
- Use chalk or tape to create a large square.
- Divide the large square into four smaller, equal squares. Each square should be about 4 feet by 4 feet.
- Label the squares 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Basic Rules of Four Square
The rules of four square are pretty straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
- Serving the Ball: The player in Square 4 (the King) serves by bouncing the ball once in their own square, then hitting it into another square. The serve must be underhand.
- Objective: The goal is to eliminate other players by causing them to make an error. Once a player is out, they leave the game, and other players advance to fill their spot. Square 1 will become a new player. The winner is the longest-standing player in Square 4.
- Ball Movement: The ball must be hit with an open hand or fist. Players must strike (not catch or hold) the ball. Players also must allow the ball to bounce in their square before returning it to another.
- Eliminations: You’re out if:
- You hit the ball before it bounces in your square.
- The ball bounces more than once in your square before you hit it.
- You hit the ball out of bounds or onto an inside line.
- You hit the ball with something other than your hand.
- You hit the ball when it was in another player’s square.
- You hold or carry the ball instead of slapping it with your hand.
- Majority agrees on elimination or a do-over due to a dispute over rules or boundaries.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Four Square
- Gather Players: Players should occupy one square each. Squares are based on rank (highest in 4, lowest in 1).
- Serve the Ball: The King (player in Square 4) begins by serving. They should bounce the ball in their square, then direct it toward another player’s square.
- Keep the Game Going: The receiving player should allow the ball to bounce once in their square, then hit it into another square. The cycle continues until one player commits a fault.
- Eliminate Players: If a player commits a fault, they’re eliminated. All other players should rotate upward, with a new player joining in Square 1. If you only have four people, the player who was eliminated must move to Square 1, or the lowest rank. The objective is to climb to Square 4 and maintain your position there as long as possible.
- Determine a Winner: The last player left standing in the King square is the winner of that round!
Advanced Tips and Strategies
Want to take your skills to the next level? Here are some tips to follow:
- Control the Ball: Practice hitting the ball with just the right amount of force. Hitting it too hard might send it flying out of bounds, while hitting it too soft will make it easier for your opponent to return it.
- Aim Smartly: Direct your hits to corners or areas where your opponent might struggle to return the ball.
- Vary Your Play: Mix up your shots. Use high bounces, soft taps, or different angles to keep your opponents guessing. You can also pretend to aim for one square, then quickly redirect the ball to another.
- Be Observant: Watch other players’ techniques and weaknesses during gameplay. Adapt your strategy accordingly to give you the upper hand.
Fun Variations to Try
After mastering the basics, many players start to make up their own custom rules. Here are a few variation ideas:
- King’s Court: Only the player in Square 4 can make the rules, and all players must follow them once announced.
- Obstacle Play: Add small obstacles or restrictions to increase the challenge, like a smaller court or a rule that the ball must bounce twice before hitting another square.
- Time Limit: Include other little changes, like setting a time limit for each round.
Feel free to get creative and come up with other rule changes to suit your group’s preferences!
Four square is a favorite for both casual fun and competitive play. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident player. Gather your friends, and enjoy the fast-paced fun this timeless game brings!
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