Southern Wisconsin Times

Croquet is a widely enjoyed outdoor game known for its blend of strategy, precision, and friendly competition. It appeals to players of all ages, fitting well into backyard gatherings or formal contests. This article, based on insights from Blain’s Farm & Fleet, aims to help beginners get started with croquet.

The game is traditionally played on a grass lawn, where players or teams use mallets to strike balls through a course of wire hoops, also known as wickets. The goal is to guide the ball through all hoops in the correct order and hit the finishing stake first. Essential equipment includes mallets for each player, balls (traditionally red, black, blue, and yellow), wickets set in six or nine formations, and two stakes to mark start and finish lines.

Setting up a croquet course requires choosing a flat, grassy area, ideally 100 feet by 50 feet. However, backyard dimensions can suffice for casual play. The course setup includes two stakes at opposing ends of the field and wickets arranged in a double-diamond pattern. Each player selects a ball and corresponding mallet color.

According to typical U.S. rules, players take turns hitting their balls using their mallets. A successful shot through a wicket earns a bonus stroke, while hitting another player's ball, termed a “roquet,” awards two extra shots and strategic positioning opportunities. Victory requires navigating all wickets in order and striking the finishing stake first.

For newcomers, tips include strategic ball placement ahead of the next wicket, leveraging opponent balls through roqueting, prioritizing accuracy over power, and maintaining patience for calculated play. By mastering these skills, players are equipped to engage and teach croquet to others, experiencing the enjoyment the game offers.