The joy of cornhole! A classic outdoor game that's perfect for backyard gatherings, tailgating parties, and community events. But, have you ever wondered what the official rules are? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the official printable cornhole rules and regulations, so you can ensure a fun and fair game for all players.
Cornhole has become an increasingly popular recreational activity, with many organizations and leagues emerging to promote the game. The American Cornhole Association (ACA) is the governing body that oversees the rules and regulations of the game. In this article, we'll delve into the official ACA rules, covering everything from equipment to gameplay to scoring.
Understanding the Equipment
Before we dive into the rules, let's take a look at the equipment needed to play cornhole.
The official cornhole equipment consists of:
- Two wooden platforms or boards with holes in them (measuring 4 feet x 2 feet)
- Eight cornhole bags (four of each color)
- A scoreboard or scoring system
Setting Up the Game
To set up the game, follow these steps:
- Place the two cornhole boards facing each other, with the holes aligned.
- Measure the distance between the boards, ensuring it's exactly 27 feet (measured from the front edge of each board).
- Divide the players into teams of one or two players per team.
Gameplay Basics
Here's a brief overview of the gameplay:
- Players take turns throwing the cornhole bags.
- Each player throws from behind the front edge of their board.
- The objective is to throw the bag onto the board or through the hole.
The Official Cornhole Rules
Now, let's dive into the official ACA rules.
Gameplay Rules
- Throwing Order: Players alternate throwing the bags. The team with the highest score at the end of the previous round throws first.
- Throwing Distance: Players must throw from behind the front edge of their board.
- Bag in Play: A bag is considered in play if it lands on the board or goes through the hole.
- Out of Bounds: A bag that lands outside the board or on the ground is considered out of bounds.
Scoring Rules
- In the Hole: A bag that goes through the hole scores 3 points.
- On the Board: A bag that lands on the board scores 1 point.
- Out of Bounds: A bag that lands outside the board or on the ground scores 0 points.
- Cancellation Scoring: If both teams have a bag on the board or in the hole, the points cancel each other out.
Gameplay Faults
- Foot Fault: A player's foot goes beyond the front edge of the board while throwing.
- Out of Turn: A player throws out of turn.
Penalties
- Foot Fault: The bag is removed from the board, and the player's turn ends.
- Out of Turn: The bag is removed from the board, and the player's turn ends.
Gameplay Strategies and Tips
Here are some expert tips to improve your cornhole game:
- Master the Throw: Practice your throwing technique to develop accuracy and control.
- Board Positioning: Pay attention to the position of the boards and adjust your throw accordingly.
- Cancellation Scoring: Use cancellation scoring to your advantage by knocking opponents' bags off the board.
Variations and House Rules
While the official ACA rules provide a solid foundation for gameplay, you can always modify the rules to suit your group's preferences or create house rules.
Some popular variations include:
- Blind Draw: Players draw a bag without looking at the score.
- Around the World: Players throw from different locations around the board.
Conclusion
And there you have it! The official printable cornhole rules and regulations guide. By following these rules, you'll ensure a fun and fair game for all players. Remember to always practice good sportsmanship and have fun!
Share your favorite cornhole moments and tips in the comments below!
FAQ Section
What is the official size of a cornhole board?
+The official size of a cornhole board is 4 feet x 2 feet.
How far apart should the cornhole boards be placed?
+The cornhole boards should be placed exactly 27 feet apart, measured from the front edge of each board.
What is cancellation scoring in cornhole?
+Cancellation scoring occurs when both teams have a bag on the board or in the hole, resulting in the points cancelling each other out.