Welcome to the Cardinal Ball Armory! While the game is simple, your choice of equipment can add unique twists and challenges. Hereβs a closer look at each piece of gear, along with some fun and creative ideas.
πThe Poles: Your Stands of Glory!
These are the proud pillars that hold your target objects. Stability and height are key!
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Official Height: Aim for approximately keg height (around 23-24 inches). This ensures a consistent challenge.
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Common Choices & Ideas:
- Actual Kegs: If you have them (empty, of course!), they make for sturdy and thematic poles.
- PVC Pipes: Cut to length and mounted on a flat base (like a piece of wood or a frisbee filled with sand) or stuck into the ground if playing on grass.
- Wooden Dowels/Posts: Similar to PVC, ensure they are stable.
- Parking Cones: Larger, stable parking cones can work if they are around the right height. Make sure they won’t tip too easily!
- Buckets: Weighted 5-gallon buckets, perhaps with a dowel inserted into the center (filled with sand/gravel).
Tip for Stability: Whatever you choose, make sure your poles are stable enough not to fall over from a slight breeze but will still allow the target object to be knocked off cleanly. For lighter options, consider adding weight to the base or using small stakes if on soft ground.
π―The Target Object: What You’re Aiming For!
This is what you’re trying to send flying! The standard is a lightweight ball, but you can get creative for different levels of difficulty.
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Standard Target: A lightweight, round ball, similar to a whiffle ball. It should be able to balance on top of the pole without falling off too easily on its own.
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Challenge Variations:
- Smaller Balls: A golf ball (plastic practice ball is safer) or a ping pong ball can significantly increase the difficulty.
- Empty Plastic Cups/Bottles: Lightweight and offer a different kind of target. An empty, upside-down plastic cup can be a good challenge.
- Uniquely Shaped Objects: As long as it’s safe and can balance, try a small, lightweight toy or a specially designated “target totem.” Ensure it’s not too heavy to damage poles or be a hazard.
Tip for Balancing: If your pole top is perfectly flat, great! If it’s rounded or uneven, you might need a small, flat ‘cap’ (like a jar lid or a small piece of wood) to help the target object balance better. Ensure the target isn’t *too* stable β it needs to be knock-off-able!
βΎThe Throwing Ball: Your Precision Tool!
This is your ammunition! The type of throwing ball will significantly affect the game’s feel and difficulty.
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Recommended Standard: A racquetball or a similar dense, small ball. These offer a good balance of weight for accuracy and bounce for the “Mandatory Bounce Throw.”
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Alternative Options:
- Tennis Ball: Generally easier to control due to its size and fuzz, but might have a less aggressive bounce than a racquetball. A good option for beginners or a more casual game.
- Super Ball / Bouncy Ball: Get ready for some wild bounces! These can make “Mandatory Bounce Throws” very unpredictable and fun (or frustrating!). Use a medium-sized one for best results.
- Lacrosse Ball (Use with Caution): Much heavier and harder. If used, ensure all players are aware and that poles/targets can withstand the impact. May not be suitable for all setups or younger players.
- Wiffle Ball (for a lighter game): If you want a very light-impact game, you could even use another wiffle ball as the throwing ball, though it will be harder to aim accurately, especially in wind.
Considerations When Choosing: Think about weight (for distance and impact), bounce (for the bounce throw), and grip. A ball that’s too light might be hard to throw accurately over 14 feet, while one that’s too heavy could be overkill.
πOther Game Essentials
Don’t forget these crucial items!
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Measuring Tape: π Essential for accurately setting the 14-foot distance between poles. Fair play starts with a fair field!
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Drinks (Optional): π₯€ If you’re playing the drinking game version, have your beverages of choice ready. Remember to drink responsibly.
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Scorekeeper (Optional but Recommended): π A notepad and pen, or a designated scorekeeping app/person, helps keep track of points accurately, especially in a close game!
π¨DIY & Creativity Corner
Cardinal Ball is all about fun! Don’t have the “perfect” equipment? No problem! Get creative:
- Look for household items that can be safely repurposed. Think sturdy cardboard tubes for poles (weighted), or different types of play balls you already own.
- The key is to match the recommended height for poles and ensure targets are balanced but knock-off-able.
- Always prioritize safety! Avoid sharp objects or anything that could break into dangerous pieces.
- Discuss and agree on any equipment substitutions with all players before starting to ensure everyone is on the same page.
The more creative you get, the more unique your Cardinal Ball experience will be!