Cornhole Etiquette: How to Play the Game with Respect
Whether you're a seasoned cornhole player or just starting out, it's important to follow proper etiquette to ensure fair play, good sportsmanship, and fun for everyone involved. In this post, we'll cover some of the most important cornhole etiquette rules to keep in mind.
General Guidlines
Set Up and Equipment:
Before you start playing, it's important to set up the game properly and use the right equipment. This includes placing the boards at the proper cornhole distance for regulation play, using regulation-size and weight bags, and making sure the boards are level. Don't modify the boards or bags in any way that could give you an unfair advantage. If you're playing in a tournament or league, make sure you understand the specific rules and regulations that apply and do not attempt to gain an unfair advantage by bringing non-conforming equipment or trying to alter the gear provided.
Respect Your Opponents
Cornhole is a game that requires both skill and a bit of luck. Everyone has good and bad days. Be respectful of your opponents, no matter their level of play, and don't talk trash or make fun of them if they miss a shot or make a mistake. Remember, the spirit of the game is to have fun and enjoy the game. Also remember, everyone was a beginner once and you have had your share of off days too. If you are playing in a tournament or league, it's important to maintain a professional attitude and avoid any behavior that could be considered unsportsmanlike.
Considerations During Gameplay
Stay Quiet and Still During Play
When it's your turn to throw, make sure you're standing still and not purposely distracting your opponent. Don't talk, move around, or make any sudden noises that could throw off their concentration. Wait until the bags come to a complete stop before retrieving them from the board or ground. Don’t attempt any bush league distraction tactics like telling your opponent to stop mid-throw or faking a motion into the path of their shot. You would not want that done to you, would you?
Avoid Interference
Don't interfere with your opponent's bags or throw, even if they land close to the edge of the board or on the ground. You should also avoid standing in the way of your opponent's throw or blocking their line of sight. If a bag hits you or another object before landing on the board, it's considered a foul and doesn't count. If you accidentally interfere with your opponent's throw, apologize and offer to let them retake the shot.
Follow Scoring Rules
Make sure you understand the scoring rules and keep track of the score accurately. Also, be sure to align on the rules BEFORE the game starts to understand any house rules and to avoid in game arguments. Typically, a bag that lands on the board is worth one point, while a bag that goes through the hole is worth three points. Bags that touch the ground or land outside the board don't count. Cancellation scoring is also typically used. For a full run down of rules check out the ultimate cornhole guide. Don't argue with your opponent about the score, and be honest about any mistakes you make. If there's a dispute about the score, try to resolve it calmly and with the help of a third party if necessary.
Common Courtesy
Handle Disputes Respectfully
Despite everyone's best efforts, disputes and disagreements can sometimes arise during a game of cornhole. If this happens, it's important to handle the situation calmly and respectfully. Avoid getting angry or confrontational, and try to listen to the other person's perspective. If you can't resolve the dispute on your own, seek the help of a third party or referee. If you're playing in a tournament or league, make sure you understand the dispute resolution process and follow it accordingly.
Be Mindful of Others
When playing cornhole in a public or shared space, it's important to be mindful of others around you. Don't block pathways or interfere with other people's activities. If someone walks by while you're playing, pause the game briefly to let them pass. Also, be mindful of the volume of your conversations and avoid using foul language or making inappropriate jokes. Remember, you're representing the sport of cornhole and the community of players who love the game.
Clean Up After Yourself
When you're finished playing, be sure to clean up after yourself. This includes picking up all the bags and putting them back in their storage container, as well as any trash or debris that was left behind. If you're playing in a public space, make sure to dispose of trash in the appropriate bins and leave the area clean and tidy for the next person to use.
Alcohol
Finally, we’d be remiss if we did not mention drinking while playing cornhole because let’s face it, a large majority of casual games involve consuming adult beverages. While there is nothing wrong with that, just do so responsibly. It does nobody any good if you get hammered while playing and start causing a ruckus or disturbing anyone nearby of folks not in your group. Respect the game and the people around you.
In conclusion, cornhole is a fun and exciting game that can bring people together and create lasting memories. By following proper etiquette and showing respect for your opponents and the game itself, you can enhance the experience for everyone involved. Whether you're playing casually with friends or competing in a tournament, remember to always play with sportsmanship and respect, and enjoy the game to its fullest.