Croquet's history stretches back to 13th-century France, evolving from a simple game played by peasants to a structured pastime popular among the British upper class by the 19th century. It gained widespread popularity in England after being introduced from Ireland and popularized by manufacturers like John Jaques. Though its popularity waned with the rise of lawn tennis, croquet has seen a resurgence and is now a recognized competitive sport with a growing global presence

Westmoreland County Croquet Tournament: Official Rules & Guidelines

Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Location: Westmoreland County Community College
Presented by: Event7

1. Tournament Format

  • The event will feature team play in a bracket-style elimination format.

  • Each team will consist of two players, and all teams will be assigned to a division based on experience level or by random draw.

  • Matches will be played on custom regulation courts (reduced size for time and accessibility).

  • Each match has a 25-minute time limit to keep gameplay moving.

2. Basic Game Rules

  • The game will follow American Six-Wicket Croquet rules with modifications for tournament play and timing.

  • Each player uses one ball (blue, black, red, or yellow).

  • Teams take alternating turns.

  • The object is to navigate all wickets in the correct order and hit the finishing stake before your opponents.

3. Scoring and Advancement

  • A point is scored each time a ball passes through a wicket in the correct direction and order.

  • The team with the most points at the end of the match—or that finishes the full course first—wins.

  • In the event of a tie at the 25-minute mark, a sudden-death shootout will be held: one ball per team, nearest to the stake wins.

4. Dress Code

  • All participants and spectators must wear predominantly white attire.

  • Fun, flamboyant accessories encouraged—think hats, bowties, parasols, and vintage picnic flair.

  • Soft-soled shoes or flat shoes are required on the lawn.

5. Conduct & Spirit

  • This is a charity event and a community celebration—sportsmanship, good humor, and inclusion are the highest priorities.

  • Unsportsmanlike behavior or excessive competitiveness will result in disqualification.

  • All rulings by referees or court marshals are final.

6. Equipment

  • All game equipment (mallets, balls, wickets) will be provided by the tournament.

  • Players may bring their own mallets if approved during check-in.

  • Courts will be maintained by Event7 volunteers throughout the day.

7. Divisions & Prizes

  • Prizes will be awarded in categories including:

    • Tournament Champion

    • Best Decorated Tent

    • Most Spirited

    • People’s Choice

8. Registration & Check-In

  • All teams must be registered by September 10, 2025.

  • On the day of the event, check-in opens at 11:00 AM. First matches begin at 12:00 PM sharp.

  • Teams that miss check-in risk forfeiting their match.

9. Weather & Cancellation

  • The tournament is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of extreme weather, the tournament director reserves the right to delay, modify, or cancel play.

10. Volunteer Referees & Support

  • Each court will be staffed by an official Event7 referee or volunteer marshal to oversee fairness and timing.

  • Questions or concerns should be directed respectfully to your court official.