9wroundup
Hidden Nine Wicket Croquet By Paul Bennett Have you ever heard of “hidden backyard croquet?” No? Perhaps it is a new term I have come up with to describe where I believe some players still reside in American croquet.
The USCA is an association of clubs and members with this interest in mind. When traveling, it is a great deal of fun learning about where and how others play croquet.
I have found through the grapevine, often during idle cocktail chats, when someone asks, “What do you do to have fun?” and I answer, “Play croquet.” They then relay a story about a friend they know or a place they have been where they have seen croquet played.
The issue I have found as a member of the Nine Wicket and Long-Grass committee is trying to “locate these hidden gems.”
As the conversation progresses, I generally determine whether they mean “competition croquet” or “backyard fun croquet.” And, of course, I prod into the details when they seem to know what they are talking about. Whether croquet is played in the backyard, park setting or one of the finer country clubs (defined as having a croquet lawn), serious croquet enthusiasts love to play the game on a regular basis in a competitive manner. They want to learn the rules of play and develop their skills at playing the game well.
I would like to learn more about the clubs and players that want to play croquet on a regular basis, who have a court or a place to play at, and who are not yet registered with the USCA. We would love to find you and make you part of our network. I would like to see the long-grass group of players grow in numbers. When the numbers grow large enough in a particular area, then the parks and recreation managers take notice and are more easily persuaded to “provide improvements to your facility.” There are several ways to make croquet fun and exciting, but you are the most important member we have. You keep the game alive and well – no matter where you play. Have a Wonderful New Year and a lovely all-round break to the peg!
34 | www.croquetamerica.com
