Rules of Sport

RULES OF SPORT
Archery Rules
Photo credit: ProAdventure (Source)
Archery – that is, the use of a stringed bow to propel arrows towards a target – is
thought to go back thousands of years – possibly even as far as the stone age of
20,000 BC – with bows and arrows used by numerous peoples over the millennia
as a means of hunting and warfare. From the ancient Egyptians to the Shang
dynasty of China (1766-1027 BC), Attila the Hun’s hordes to the great
civilisations of the Assyrians, Persians and Pathians, archery was widely utilised.
The need to master archery – for huntsmen and soldiers alike – inevitably led to
practising the art, which in turn led to organised tournaments, the first recorded
event of which took place in Finsbury in England in 1583 and included 3000
participants. The development of guns caused archery to lose its appeal on the
battlefield, but it remained popular as a pastime and regular competitions were
held in various countries. Archery was first included as an Olympic sport in 1900
for men and 1904 for women – one of the earliest sports for female competitors –
and then in 1908 and 1920, then dropping out for a few decades before being
reintroduced in 1972, since when it has been a mainstay of the Games.
Object of the Game
Competitive archery – that is, archery that involves archers aiming arrows at a
target – has various forms, but all have the same aim: to shoot your arrows as
close to the centre of the target as possible. In the Olympics competitors aim at a
target from a distance of 70 metres, and rounds include a ranking round where
the overall scores determine the athletes’ rankings priors to a head to head
elimination format.
Players & Equipment

While clearly only one archer holds a bow at once, both individual and team
competitions are undertaken. Archers must, of course, have a bow, which is
described by the World Archery Federation (WA) as “an instrument consisting of
a handle (grip), riser (no shoot-through type) and two flexible limbs each ending
in a tip with a string nock.”
The bowstring may have any number of strands as long as it fits the bow, and an
adjustable arrow rest and a bow sight may also be used. There is little restriction
over the types of arrows used, other than those that may cause undue damage
to targets, though the maximum diameter of the arrow shaft should not exceed
9.3mm and the diameter of the tips should not exceed 9.4mm. The athletes’
arrows should all be marked with his or her name or initials on the shaft and all
arrows used by a competitor in a particular round (or “end”) should be identical.
Finger protection (including tape or gloves) may be used, as are chest protectors,
arm guards and other such accessories that offer no explicit advantage other
than of a protective or comfort-enhancing nature.
The target itself varies in size –those used in Olympic archery events measure
122cm in diameter – but all contain 10 concentric rings which represent the
different scoring sectors. The outermost two rings (called one ring and two ring)
are white, three and four are black, five and six are blue, seven and eight are red
and nine and ten – the innermost rings – are gold. Ten ring also has an inner ring
(known as “inner 10” or “X ring”) which is sometimes used to decide ties.
Scoring
Scoring in archery is very simple: you just add up the number of points based on
where your arrows hit the target. The highest score for a single arrow is 10 for
hitting the inner gold ring, while the least (for hitting the outer white ring) is one
point. Arrows missing the target altogether do not score at all.
In Olympic competition athletes must shoot 72 arrows in 12 phases, with the

overall cumulative score deciding their ranking. They then go into a head to head
knockout competition where they must simply score more than their opponent.
Tournaments vary in format and the number of arrows competitors must shoot
and the distance to the target.
Winning the Game
As mentioned it would depend on the specifics of the tournament in which the

archer is competing, but in an archery competition the winner is either the person
who has the highest cumulative total score after a set number of arrows, or the
one who has successfully overcome all opponents faced in a knockout scenario.
In the event of a tied score the archer with the highest number of 10s (including
inner 10s) is declared the victor. If that number is also equal the one with the
greater number of inner 10s is the winner. Alternatively – or subsequently – a
shoot-off can be used to separate the competitors who have tied.
Rules of Archery
Archers must adhere to all official rules in terms of the equipment they use in the
performance of their sport, with the main emphasis being on them using no
equipment or accessories that would give an unfair advantage over an opponent.
The maximum time permitted to shoot an end of three arrows is two minutes, and
four minutes for an end of six arrows.
Athletes may not raise the bow arm until the signal to start is given and penalties
can be given – in the form of points forfeits – if the bow is drawn after the official
practice has been closed.
An arrow cannot be re-shot under any circumstances. The arrow may be

considered not to have been shot if it falls from the bow or misfires, or if the
target blows or falls over. Extra time would be given in such circumstances.
An arrow that rebounds or hangs from the target will still score based on the
mark it makes on the target face. Arrows that stick – Robin Hood-style – in the
nock of another shall score the same as the arrow in which they are embedded.
Athletes can be disqualified, have points deducted or be banned from

competition for various breaches of rules, based on the severity of the offence.
If equipment is damaged, appeals can be made to the judge for such equipment
to be replaced or fixed, and any time allowances will be at the judge’s discretion.
Badminton Rules
Photo credit: Agência Brasil (source)
Badminton is a sport that has been around since the 16th century. The sport is
played indoors and the pinnacle comes from its Olympic events. The sport is very
popular in Asian countries such as China and India with these countries leading
the way by producing some of the world’s best players.
Object of the Game
The object of badminton is to hit the shuttlecock over the net and have it land in
the designated court areas. If your opponent manages to return the shuttlecock
then a rally occurs. If you win this rally i.e. force your opponent to hit the
shuttlecock out or into the net then you win a point. You are required to win 21
points to win a set with most matches being best of 3 sets. Points can be won on
either serve.
Players & Equipment
There are two forms of badminton, singles and doubles (it’s also possible to play
mixed doubles). Each player is allowed to use a stringed racket (similar to a
tennis racket but with the head being smaller) and a shuttlecock. The shuttlecock
is made up of half round ball at the bottom and a feather like material
surrounding the top. You can only really hit the bottom of the shuttlecock and as
gravity comes into play will always revert the ball side facing down. You may only
hit the shuttlecock once before it either hits the ground or goes over the net.
The court measures 6.1m wide and 13.4m long. Across the middle of the
rectangular court is a net which runs at 1.55m. Running along each side of the
court are two tram lines. The inside lines are used as the parameter for singles
match whilst the outside line is used for a doubles match.
Scoring
A point is scored when you successfully hit the shuttlecock over the net and land
it in your opponent’s court before they hit it. A point can also be gained when
your opponent hits the shuttlecock into either the net or outside the parameters.
Winning the Game
To win a game you must reach 21 points before your opponent. If you do so then
you will have won that set. If the scores are tied at 20-20 then it comes down to
whichever player manages to get two clear points ahead. If the points are still
tied at 29-29 then the next point will decide the winner of the set. Winning the
overall game will require you to win 2 out of the 3 sets played.
Rules of Badminton
A game can take place with either two (singles) or four (doubles) players.
An official match has to be played indoors on the proper court dimensions. The
dimensions are 6.1m by 13.4m, The net is situated through the middle of the
court and is set at 1.55m.
To score a point the shuttlecock must hit within the parameters of the opponents
court.
If the shuttlecock hits the net or lands out then a point is awarded to your
opponent.
Players must serve diagonally across the net to their opponent. As points are
won then serving stations move from one side to the other. There are no second
serves so if your first serve goes out then your opponent wins the point.
A serve must be hit underarm and below the servers waist. No overarm serves
are allowed.
Each game will start with a toss to determine which player will serve first and
which side of the court the opponent would like to start from.
Once the shuttlecock is ‘live’ then a player may move around the court as they
wish. They are permitted to hit the shuttlecock from out of the playing area.
If a player touches the net with any part of their body or racket then it is deemed
a fault and their opponent receives the point.
A fault is also called if a player deliberately distracts their opponent, the

shuttlecock is caught in the racket then flung, the shuttlecock is hit twice or if the
player continues to infract with the laws of badminton.
Each game is umpired by a referee on a high chair who overlooks the game.
There are also line judges who monitor if the shuttlecock lands in or not. The
referee has overriding calls on infringements and faults.
Let may be called by the referee if an unforeseen or accidental circumstance

arose. These may include the shuttlecock getting stuck in the bet, server serving
out of turn, one player was not ready or a decision which is too close to call.
The game has only two rest periods coming the form of a 90 second rest after
the first game and a 5 minute rest period after the second game.
If the laws are continuously broken by a player then the referee holds the power
to dock that player of points with persisting fouls receiving a forfeit of the set or
even the match.
Baseball Rules
Baseball is a sport that dates back as far as 1744 and formats of the game have
been in place until the modern era today. The game is predominantly big in North
America, Canada and Japan. The game is played worldwide with the pinnacle of
sport coming from the World Series of Baseball. Ironically, this event is only
competed by North American teams.
Object of the Game
The object of baseball is to score more runs than your opponent. The idea is to
hit the ball thrown at you as far as you can before running around 4 bases to
complete a run. Once a player manages to get around the four bases before
being tagged out, then another batter steps in.
Players & Equipment

A game is played out between two teams, each made up of 9 players. The game
lasts for 9 innings with each team alternating between batting and fielding in each
inning. The scores at the end of the innings are added to a cumulative score and
the team with most points wins. Each team has three outs per inning before they
then swap roles. Each inning can be broken down into the top (where the away
team bats), and the bottom (where the home team bats).
The field is split into two sections: infield and outfield. Separating the infield and
outfield is a diamond shape with four bases, spaced at 90 feet apart each. In the
center of the infield is the pitching mound where the pitcher stands and throws
the ball toward the batter. The batter stands at the home plate. The other three
bases are known as first base, second base and third base. The batter must
touch all bases before successfully scoring a run.
The bats are made out of either wood, aluminium or metal materials. The ball is
white with red stitching and is roughly 3 inches in diameter. The fielding team
wear ‘mits’, which are basically an oversized glove to help them catch and pick
up the ball. The catcher (standing behind the batter to catch any balls missed)
wears extra padding in their glove, along with leg guards, a body pad, and a
helmet.
Scoring
To score, a batter must hit the ball with the bat into the designated fielding area
and make it around all four bases (before the fielding team is able to collect the
ball and throw it to the base the batter is running to). A player can score a
mandatory point if they hit a home run, which usually means the ball has left the
playing area, often landing in the crowd. A player can stop at any base if they feel
they might not make it to the next base before being tagged out.
Players can score multiple points from one hit if more than one player is already
on one of the bases. When you hear the phrase 'the bases are loaded', this
refers to the instance where there is a player on every base. So, every time a
batter successfully makes it to first base, the other players on the second and
third bases are able to trickle home, earning a point for their team each time.
Depending on how many players get around to home plate before being tagged
will depend on how many points you score. A maximum of four points can be
scored on one hit.
Winning the Game
To win a game, you must outscore your opposition through the 9 innings played.
The team with the most points after 9 innings is deemed the winner. In the event
of a tie, extra innings are played until a winner has been concluded.
Rules of Baseball
Baseball has two teams of 9 players.
The fielding team’s positions are made up of a pitcher, catcher, first baseman,
second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, and three outfielders at left field,
centre field and right field.
Games last for 9 innings of which both teams get to bat once. If the game is a tie
after 9 innings then an extra inning will be added until a winner is found. If the
team batting second in the bottom of the 9th inning are already ahead in points,
then they do not need to complete their batting innings.
Once a batting order is picked, then it cannot be changed throughout the game.
Substitutes are permitted, however, they must bat in the order of the previous
player whom they replaced.
If the batter manages to hit the ball from the pitcher, they must make an effort to
at least get to first base. They can then run to as many bases as they wish before
being tagged out. Each base must be touched with some part of the batters body
when running past.
A batter gets up to three strikes before getting out. A strike is deemed when a
batter swings for a ball and misses it. The batter can leave the ball but, if it’s
within a certain area (called the 'strike zone'), then a strike will also be given. If
four balls miss the strike zone and the batter does not swing their bat, they can
walk to first base.
When on base, the batter can run to the next base at any point.
Players can be dismissed by either a 'strike out' (referring to a batsman missing

the ball three times), 'force out' (when a player fails to make the base before the
defensive player), 'fly out' (when the ball is hit in the air and caught without it
bouncing), and 'tag outs' (where a defensive player with the ball tags the
batsman with the ball all whilst they are running).
Basketball Rules
Photo credit: Keith Allison (Source)
Basketball dates back as far as 1891 and since then has evolved into a sport
played around the world. Many countries have adopted the game such as
Russia, Great Britain, Germany, Spain and parts of Asia, but it is America where
the biggest and most lucrative league in the world lives: the NBA (National
Basketball Association).
Object of the Game
The object of basketball is to throw the ball (basketball) into a hoop to score
points. The game is played out on a rectangular court and depending on which
section of court you successfully throw a ball into the basket will depend on how
many points are scored. The ball can be moved around the by dribbling or
passing the ball. At the end of the game the team with the most points is
declared the winner.
Players & Equipment
Each team is made up of 12 players with only 5 allowed on the court at any time.
The positions are broken up into Point Guard, Defensive Guard, Center,
Offensive forward and Defensive Forward. Each player will then take up a
position on the court but are allowed to move around as they please.
The court is a rectangular shaped and measures 91 feet long and 50 feet wide.
There is a halfway line in which a small circle is found in the centre; this is where
the game starts with a tip off (the ball is thrown in the air by the referee and a
player from each team tries to win possession for their team). At each end of the
court are two baskets both 10 feet in height. A three point arc is the outside ring,
whilst in the middle of that is the key which includes a free throw line.
All that is needed to play is a court and basketball. Teams must wear matching
strips with some players choosing to wear gum shields and face masks for
protection.
The game is split up into 4 twelve minute quarters. In between the 2 nd and 3rd
quarter is a 15 minute half time interval.
Scoring
There are three scoring numbers for basketball players. Any basket scored from
outside the three point arc will result in three points being scored. Baskets scored
within the three point arc will result in two points being scored. Successful free
throws will result in 1 point being scored per free throw. The number of free
throws will depend on where the foul was committed.
Winning the Game
Winning a game of basketball is pretty simple; score more points than your
opponents in the allotted game time. If the scores are tied at the end then an
extra quarter will be played until a winner is found.
Rules of Basketball
Each team can have a maximum of 5 players on the court at any one time.
Substitutions can be made as many times as they wish within the game.
The ball can only be moved by either dribbling (bouncing the ball) or passing the
ball. Once a player puts two hands on the ball (not including catching the ball)
they cannot then dribble or move with the ball and the ball must be passed or
shot.
After the ball goes into a team’s half and they win possession back the ball must
then make it back over the half way line within 10 seconds. If the ball fails to do
so then a foul will be called and the ball will be turned over.
Each team has 24 seconds to at least shot at the basket. A shot constitutes
either going in the basket or hitting the rim of the basket. If after the shot is taken
and the ball fails to go in the basket then the shot clock is restarted for another
24 seconds.
The team trying to score a basket is called the offence whilst the team trying to
prevent them from scoring is called the defence. The defence must do all they
can to stop the offence from scoring by either blocking a shot or preventing a
shot from being fired.
After each successful basket the ball is then turned over to the opposition.
Fouls committed throughout the game will be accumulated and then when
reached a certain number will be eventually be awarded as a free throw. A free
throw involves one playerfrom the offensive team (the player fouled) to take a
shot unopposed from the free throw line. Depending on where the foul was
committed will depend on the number free throws a player gets.
Violations in basketball include travelling (taking more than one step without
bouncing the ball), double dribble (picking the ball up dribbling, stopping then
dribbling again with two hands), goaltending (a defensive player interferes with
the ball travelling downwards towards the basket) and back court violation (once
the ball passes the half way line the offensive team cannot take the ball back
over the half way line).
Billiards Rules
Billiards (in this case referring to English Billiards) is a game that is popular not
just in England but around the world thanks to its popularity during the time of the
British Empire. Billiards is a cue sport that is played by two players and utilises
one object ball (red) and two cue balls (yellow and white).
Each player uses a different color cue ball and attempts to score more points
than their opponent and reach the previously agreed total required to win the
match.
There are many forms of Billiards around the world, but it is English Billiards that
is one of the most common and most popular. Originating in England, it is an
amalgamation of a number of different games, including the ‘winning and losing
carambole game’. The game is played across the world, especially in
Commonwealth countries but over the last 30-years it has seen its popularity
decline as snooker (a more straightforward and TV friendly game) has rocketed
in the numbers both playing and watching on TV.
Object of the Game
The object of a game of Billiards is to score more points than your opponent,
reaching the agreed amount that is needed to win the game. Like chess, it’s an
immensely tactical game that requires players to think both attacking and
defensively at the same time. Although not a physical game in any sense of the
word, it is a game that requires a tremendous degree of mental dexterity and
concentration.
Players & Equipment
English Billiards can be played one-vs-one or two-vs-two with the singles version
of the game being the most popular. The game is played on a table that has
exactly the same dimensions (3569 mm x 1778 mm) as a snooker table, and in
many places both games are played on the same table. Three balls must also be
used, one red, one yellow and one white, and each must be 52.5mm in size.
Players have a cue each which can be made from wood or fibreglass and this is
used for striking the balls. The last essential piece of equipment is chalk. During
the game, each player will chalk the end of their cue to ensure there is good
contact between the cue and the ball.
Scoring
In English Billiards, scoring is as follows:
 A cannon: This is where the cue ball is struck so that it hits the red and
other cue ball (in any order) on the same shot. This scores two points.
 A pot: This is when the red ball is struck by the player's cue ball so that
the red ends up entering a pocket. This scores three points. If the player’s
cue ball strikes the other cue ball resulting it going down the pocket, then
this scores two points.
 In-off: This occurs when a player strikes their cue ball, hitting another ball
and then entering a pocket. This scores three points if the red was the first
ball hit and two points if it was the other player’s cue ball hit first.
Combinations of the above can be played in the same shot, with a maximum of
ten points per shot possible.
Winning the Game
English Billiards is won when one player (or team) reaches the agreed amount of
points needed to win the game (often 300). Despite their being only three balls
on the table at any one time, it is a very tactical game which requires a
tremendous degree of savvy gameplay as well as skill to ensure that you keep
ahead of your opponent.
As well as thinking in terms of attack and scoring points, it is essential for anyone
who wants to win a game of billiards to think defensively at the same time and
make things as difficult as they can for their opponent.
Rules of Billiards
 All games of Billiards shall be played with three balls, consisting of a red,
yellow and white.
 Each of the two players has their own cue ball, one having the white ball,
the other the yellow ball.
 Both players must decide who is to break off first, and this is done by both
players simultaneously hitting their cue ball the length of the table, hitting
the cushion and returning back towards them. The player who gets their
cue ball nearest to the baulk cushion at the end the shot was played gets
to choose who breaks.
 The red is then placed on the Billiards sport and then the player going first
places their cue ball in the D and then plays the ball.
 Players then take it in turn to attempt to score the most amount of points
and eventually win the game. Players can score in three ways:
o In-off: When your cue ball hits one of more balls and then goes
down a pocket (2 / 3 points).
o Pot: This is when any ball other than your cue ball goes into a
pocket (2 / 3 points).
o Cannon: This happens when the cue ball hits both other balls (2
points).
 Players remain on the table until they fail to make a scoring shot.
 Following a foul, the opposing player has the option of having the balls all
put on their spots or leaving the table as it is.
 The winner of the game is the first player to the points total that was
declared the winning total before the game.
Boxing Rules
Photo credit: Ian.Go (Source)
In essence boxing may well be the world’s oldest sport. At its most basic it is
fighting and since there has been man, there has been conflict. It is certainly at
least as old as 688 BC when it was included in the ancient Olympic Games,
although more regulated, codified versions of boxing date to about the 1500s.
Having said that, carvings dating to the 3rd millennium BC show people fist-
fighting in front of audiences so it is safe to say the art of pugilism is an ancient
one indeed.
More modern rules have included Broughton’s rules from 1743, the London Prize
Ring rules (1838) and the more well-known Marquess of Queensbury Rules
which date to 1867. At its best boxing is graceful, elegant and explosive and a
magnificent example of the human body’s abilities and few spectacles can match
the sight of two top heavyweights going toe to toe.
Object Of The Game
Brutally enough the object of boxing could be stated as to concuss your fellow
human being; a less barbaric sounding aphorism, to hit and not be hit, may be a
preferred way to look at it, depending on your standpoint.
Players & Equipment
The exact specification of certain equipment varies according to the sanctioning

body but the ring (ironically, of course, usually square) is generally around 16-25
feet (4.9-7.6m) along each side. The posts at the corner are 5ft above the level of
the ring and the ring itself is usually about three or four feet off the ground on a
raised platform.
Boxers wear gloves and although there has been a long history of bear-knuckle
boxing, hand protection dates to Ancient Greece. Modern gloves are usually
12oz, 14oz or 16oz and are designed to protect the hand and the opponent,
although there are arguments that they actually increase brain injuries by
facilitating a boxer receiving more damaging blows.
Boxers are divided according to their weight with the different governing bodies
having different weights and names for the groupings. Fighters only fight
opponents of similar weights as physical size is so crucial to the contest.
Scoring
At professional level the bouts are scored by three ringside judges using a
subjective method based on which boxer they felt won each individual round. If
the match is undecided by knockout, retirement or disqualification then the
judges’ scorecards are used. If all three judges agree the decision is unanimous,
whilst if two think one fighter won it is a split decision. If two judges mark the fight
level, or one does and the other two are divided, the fight is classed as a draw.
It is, however, more common for a fight, especially at the heavier weights, to be
stopped before the 12 rounds are up. A boxer is knocked out if they are floored
and cannot get up within 10 seconds, whilst the referee may disqualify a fighter
for certain foul play. The other method of winning is by a technical knockout or
TKO. If a boxer is unwilling to continue, or is deemed unable to do so by either
the referee or his corner team or medical staff then it is a TKO. This can also be
awarded if a fighter is knocked down a defined number of times in a round
(usually three).
Winning The Game
The winner is either as scored by the judges if the fight goes the distance or is
decided by knockout, technical knockout or disqualification, as detailed above.
In amateur bouts different methods are used, for example the referee may simply
decide or ringside judges use electronic scoring to count the number of blows
landed.
Rules of Boxing
 In professional boxing, bouts take place over 12 three minute rounds with
one minute rest between rounds.
 The only method of attack is punching with a clenched fist and you may
not strike below the belt, in the kidneys or the back of your opponents
head or neck.
 You cannot use the ropes for leverage.
 You cannot hit an opponent when they are down.
 A boxer hit with a low blow can take five minutes to recover.
 If an unintentional foul (such as a clash of heads) ends the fight before
four rounds are completed this is a “no contest”, from the fifth onwards the
decision goes to the judge’s cards and is either a technical decision for
either fighter or a technical draw.
Cricket Rules
Photo credit: Prescott Pym (source)
Cricket is a sport that has been tracked back to the early 16th century and has
been a popular ever since. The pinnacle of the international game comes in the
form of the Cricket World Cup. Other major events include the T20 World Cup,
Test Series and One Day series. Each country runs a host of domestic
competitions all highly competitive.
Object of the Game
The object of cricket is to score more runs than your opponent. There are three
variations of the game (Test, One Day and Twenty 20) and each give a certain
timescale in which the game must be completed.
To score a run you need to hit the ball with a cricket bat made from wood (usually
English willow or Kashmir). Whilst one team bats the other bowls and fields. The
aim is to bowl the opposing team out for as few runs as possible or restrict them
to as few runs in the allocated time. After a team has lost all their wickets or the
allotted time has expired then the teams will switch roles.
Players & Equipment
Each team consists of 11 players. These eleven players will have varying roles in
the team from batsmen, bowlers, fielders and wicket keepers. Whilst each player
may have a specialist role they can take up any role should they wish.
Pitch sizes vary greatly in cricket but are usually played on a circular grass field
with a circumference of around 200m. Around the edge of the field is what’s
known as the boundary edge and is basically the line between being in play and
out of play.
In the centre of the pitch will be the wicket. The wicket will have two sets of three
stumps at either end and they must be 22 yards apart. At each end of the wicket
is known as the crease and a line is drawn about 2 yards across the wicket from
the stumps. The bowler will bowl the cricket ball from one end whilst the batsmen
will try and hit the ball from the other end.
Batsmen can wear a host of padding including leg guards, gloves, thigh guards,
inner thigh guards, a box, a helmet and a chest guard. All players will wear
spiked shoes and will all be wearing white clothing (the only exception is in
shorter games where the players may wear coloured clothing).
The cricket ball is made of cork and will be either red (test match) or white (one
day games).
Scoring
A run occurs when a batsmen hits the ball with their bat and the two batsmen at
the wicket mange to successfully run to the other end. The batsmen can run as
many times as they like before being given out. If the ball crosses the boundary
rope after it has bounced at least once from leaving the bat then 4 runs are
given. If the ball goes over the boundary rope without bouncing then 6 runs are
awarded to the batting team.
Runs can also be scored when the bowler bowls a wide delivery (a ball that is too
far away from the stumps), a no ball (where the bowler oversteps the front line on
the wicket), a bye (where no one touches the ball but the two batsmen run
anyway) and a leg bye (where the ball hits the batsmen’s leg or body and a run is
taken).
Winning the Game
One team will bat first and one team will field first. The batting team will try and
score as many runs as possible in the allotted time whilst the bowling team will
try and contain them by fielding the ball. The teams then swap and the second
team batting will try and outscore the runs their opponents scored first. If they fail
they lose, if they succeed they win.
Rules of Cricket
 Each team is made up of 11 players.

 The bowler must bowl 6 legal deliveries to constitute an over.
 A game must have two umpires stood at either end of the wicket. The
umpires then must count the number of balls in the over, make decisions
on whether the batsmen is out after an appeal and also check that the
bowler has bowled a legal delivery.
 A batsmen can be given out by either being bowled ( the ball hitting their
stumps), caught (fielder catches the ball without it bouncing), Leg Before
Wicket (the ball hits the batsmen’s pads impeding its line into the stumps),
stumped (the wicket keeper strikes the stumps with their gloves whilst the
batsmen is outside of their crease with ball in hand), hit wicket (the
batsmen hits their own wicket), Handled ball ( the batsmen handles the
cricket ball on purpose), timed out (the player fails to reach the crease
within 30 seconds of the previous batsmen leaving the field), hit ball twice
(batsmen hits the cricket ball twice with their bat) and obstruction ( the
batsmen purposely prevents the fielder from getting the ball).
 Test cricket is played over 5 days where each team has two innings (or
two chances to bat).
 The scores are then cumulative and the team with the most runs after
each innings is the winner.
 One Day cricket in played with 50 overs. Each team has 50 overs to bat
and bowl before swapping and doing the previous discipline. The team
with the most runs at the end of the game wins.
 International games will have a further two umpires known as the third and
fourth umpire. These are in place to review any decisions that the on field
umpires are unable to make.
 The fielding team must have one designated wicket keeper who is the only
person allow to wear pads and gloves on the field. The wicket keeper
stands behind the opposite end to the bowler to catch the ball.
Darts Rules
Photo credit: PeterPan23 (Source)
Being a “sport” – many argue it is a game – mainly played in pubs and requiring
little or no physical fitness, darts is one activity at which Britain excels! Darts is
thought to have been created when soldiers began throwing short arrows at cut
tree trunks or alternatively at the bottom of the cask. As the wood dried cracks
appeared, creating sections which, steadily, over time became set scores, albeit
with much regional and international variation.
Darts is now widely played in many parts of the world, but especially in former
Commonwealth countries, the Netherlands and Belgium, the United States and
Scandinavia. There are two main professional governing bodies, the PDC and
BDO, the latter being the longer running of the two. Given the presence of the
sport in pubs and bars it is probably one of the largest participatory sports in the
world.
Object of the Game
501 is the standard version of the game in competition and the object is to “check
out” by getting your score down to 50 or less before ending the game by reaching
zero by either throwing a double or a bullseye with your final dart.
Players & Equipment
Darts only requires a board and the darts themselves, this limited list of
equipment being one of the reasons for its success. The board that is now used
as standard was created in 1896 by a Lancashire carpenter with the aim of
penalising inaccurate throwing by keeping large numbers apart and bordering
them with small numbers. Whilst mathematicians have long argued over the best
board layout to minimise the reward for inaccurate efforts, the current design is
actually pretty good.
The board itself is made from compressed sisal fibres and despite modern
electronic versions is now the accepted norm. In the early days after the First
World War darts was played using a heavy, solid wood board, normally made
from elm and subsequently clay versions were trialled.
The standard board is 17¾ inches (451mm) in diameter and is divided into 20
radial sections by thin metal wire. The sections are numbered from 1-20 and
contain a thin section at the outer edge (double) and slightly smaller area midway
towards the centre (treble). The bullseye or “bull” is a small circle, usually red, at
the very centre of the board and is surrounded by the larger, green, outer bull.
The darts are usually used using a combination of metal, nylon and plastic for the
points, barrels, shafts and fletching. The exact style and make-up of the dart will
vary according to the player’s style and ability (or what pub you’re in!) but they
must weigh no more than 50g and be no longer than 300mm.
Scoring
A player scores points by throwing the darts at the board. Each player throws
three darts on their turn with the maximum score being 180, achieved by hitting
three treble 20s. The bull is worth 50 points, the outer bull 25 points and the
various numbers score their own value, unless they are doubled (the outer rim)
or trebled.
Winning the Game
To win a player must reach zero by hitting a double or a bull, having first got their
score down from the 501 starting point. If they do that they win the leg and the
first to three legs wins the set. Most matches are normally played “best of” a
defined (odd) number of sets, with the sport’s biggest prize, the PDC World
Championship, involving a final that is best of 13 (therefore the winner is the first
to seven sets).
Rules of Darts
The rules of darts are very simple and have basically been discussed in previous
sections. Some key points to note are as follows:
 Which player takes the first turn in a game is decided by throwing a single
dart each with the nearest to the bull taking the first throw.
 A throw consists of throwing three darts unless the game is won in fewer.
 Only darts in the board at the end of the throw are counted and ones that
bounce or fall out cannot be thrown again.
 If a player scores more than their remaining points total their throw ends
and is scored zero (for example if they have 16 remaining and accidentally
hit a 20 with their first dart).
 The centre of the bull should be exactly 5ft 8in (1.73 metres) high.
 Darts are thrown from a clearly marked toe-line, often called the oche, at
least 7ft 9 ¼ in from the board, measured horizontally.
Fencing Rules
Photo credit: Marie-Lan Nguyen (Source)
Fencing is a sport with a long history and is one of just five sports to have
featured in every modern Olympic Games. In the UK it maintains something of an
elitist reputation, in part due to its association with aristocratic duelling but there
are moves to make it more inclusive.
The sport known as fencing normally refers to Olympic fencing, with classical
fencing (which is more martial arts based) and historical fencing other variants of
the sport. In this article we shall concern ourselves with the Olympic variety and
its three branches, foil, sabre and epée, the sport also known as competitive
fencing for a little added confusion!
Object of the Game
The object of the game is to use your weapon to strike your opponent whilst
avoiding being hit yourself. Simple, ruthless and – if you get it wrong – painful.
Players & Equipment
Fencing is only ever contested one against one, although team events exist. The
most important piece of equipment is of course the weapon itself of which, as
mentioned, there are three kinds: the epée is the heaviest sword, the foil is a
lighter thrusting weapon, and the sabre is a cutting and thrusting weapon derived
from the cavalry sword.
In order to register the scores players’ swords are electronically sensitive, as are
the scoring areas of the body, and are connected by a body cord to the scoring
box. When a strike is registered there is an audible tone and a light illuminates.
Fencers must wear a variety of protective attire to minimise the chance of serious
injury. This includes a mask and helmet that completely covers the head and has
a tough mesh at the front through which fencers can see but which is strong
enough to repel the weapons. A fencing jacket, pads and a glove on the weapon
hand are also require, with other pads to protect various areas of the body.
Fencers compete on a “piste” that is 46 feet long and around six feet wide. There
is a centre line with on-guard lines six feet to either side across the width of the
piste and this is where the fencers start each round from.
Scoring
Scoring is done differently in the three variants of fencing. When using the the foil
only strikes to the torso, neck, groin and back count and points can only be won
using the tip of the weapon, not the side of the blade.
With the sabre strikes beneath the waist do not count, the rule originating in the
cavalry days when striking an opponent’s horse was considered ungentlemanly.
The hands do not register as a hit but the competitors may use both the tip and
blade of the sabre to score. As with the foil, should players strike each other at
the same time the referee will use the “right of way” rule, awarding the point to
the competitor who began their attack first.
With the epée the right of way rule does not apply and both fencers may score
simultaneously, unless it is the deciding point when neither strike counts. Only
the tip of the weapon may be used and the entire body is a target in epée.
Winning the Game
At the Olympic Games matches are contested over three three-minute rounds,
with the winner being either the first to 15 points or whoever has the most hits
after the three rounds. Other scoring protocols exist and are usually based on the
first fencer to a predetermined number of points, with a five point/three minute
system quite common.
Rules of Fencing
 Fencers must salute one another and the referee at the beginning and end
of the bout, with failure to do so can result in the loss of a point (the
winner) or even suspension (the loser).
 Points are scored by hitting your opponent in accordance with the specific
requirements for the type of weapon being used (as detailed above).
 In foil, strikes outside the target area stop the contest before resuming
afresh, however strikes with the blade (whilst not counting) do not stop the
action; the latter rule also applies to the epée.
 Barging the opponent, using your hand to cover the target zone or foot
faults can lead to a points penalty at the referee’s discretion.
Football (Soccer) Rules
Photo credit: Rick Dikeman (source)
Football (Soccer) is one of the oldest sports in the world and with that; it’s also
one of the most recognised. The pinnacle of the international game comes in the
form the Football World Cup. There are also tournament such as the Euro
Championships, Copa America and the African Cup of Nations. Domestically the
strongest leagues come from England (English Premier League), Spain (La
Liga), Italy (Serie A) and Germany (Bundesliga). In parts of the world the sport is
also known as Soccer.
Object of the Game
The aim of football is to score more goals then your opponent in a 90 minute
playing time frame. The match is split up into two halves of 45 minutes. After the
first 45 minutes players will take a 15 minute rest period called half time. The
second 45 minutes will resume and any time deemed fit to be added on by the
referee (injury time) will be accordingly.
Players & Equipment
Each team consists of 11 players. These are made up of one goalkeeper and ten
outfield players. The pitch dimensions vary from each ground but are roughly 120
yards long and 75 yards wide. On each pitch you will have a 6 yard box next to
the goal mouth, an 18 yard box surrounding the 6 yard box and a centre circle.
Each half of the pitch must be a mirror image of the other in terms of dimensions.
Essentially the equipment that is needed for a soccer match is pitch and a
football. Additionally players can be found wearing studded football boots, shin
pads and matching strips. The goalkeepers will additionally wear padded gloves
as they are the only players allowed to handle the ball. Each team will have a
designated captain.
Scoring
To score the ball must go into your opponent’s goal. The whole ball needs to be
over the line for it to be a legitimate goal. A goal can be scored with any part of
the body apart from the hand or arm up to the shoulder. The goal itself consists
of a frame measuring 8 feet high and 8 yards wide.
Winning the Game
To win you have to score more goals than that of your opponents. If the scores
are level after 90 minutes then the game will end as a draw apart from in cup
games where the game can go to extra time and even a penalty shootout to
decide the winner. Players must use their feet to kick the ball and are prohibited
to use their hands apart from goalkeepers who can use any part of their body
within the 18 yard box (of which more can be found out in the next section).
Rules of Football (Soccer)
 A match consists of two 45 minutes halves with a 15 minute rest period in

between.
 Each team can have a minimum off 11 players (including 1 goalkeeper
who is the only player allowed to handle the ball within the 18 yard box)
and a minimum of 7 players are needed to constitute a match.
 The field must be made of either artificial or natural grass. The size of
pitches is allowed to vary but must be within 100-130 yards long and 50-
100 yards wide. The pitch must also be marked with a rectangular shape
around the outside showing out of bounds, two six yard boxes, two 18
yard boxes and a centre circle. A spot for a penalty placed 12 yards out of
both goals and centre circle must also be visible.
 The ball must have a circumference of 58-61cm and be of a circular
shape.
 Each team can name up to 7 substitute players. Substitutions can be
made at any time of the match with each team being able to make a
maximum of 3 substitutions per side. In the event of all three substitutes
being made and a player having to leave the field for injury the team will
be forced to play without a replacement for that player.
 Each game must include one referee and two assistant referee’s
(linesmen). It’s the job of the referee to act as time keeper and make any
decisions which may need to be made such as fouls, free kicks, throw ins,
penalties and added on time at the end of each half. The referee may
consult the assistant referees at any time in the match regarding a
decision. It’s the assistant referee’s job to spot offside’s in the match (see
below), throw ins for either team and also assist the referee in all decision
making processes where appropriate.
 If the game needs to head to extra time as a result of both teams being
level in a match then 30 minutes will be added in the form of two 15
minute halves after the allotted 90 minutes.
 If teams are still level after extra time then a penalty shootout must take
place.
 The whole ball must cross the goal line for it to constitute as a goal.
 For fouls committed a player could receive either a yellow or red card
depending on the severity of the foul; this comes down to the referee’s
discretion. The yellow is a warning and a red card is a dismissal of that
player. Two yellow cards will equal one red. Once a player is sent off then
they cannot be replaced.
 If a ball goes out of play off an opponent in either of the side lines then it is
given as a throw in. If it goes out of play off an attacking player on the
base line then it is a goal kick. If it comes off a defending player it is a
corner kick.
The Offside Rule in Football
Offside can be called when an attacking player is in front of the last defender
when the pass is played through to them. The offside area is designed to
discourage players from simply hanging around the opponent’s goal waiting for a
pass. To be onside they must be placed behind the last defender when the ball is
played to them. If the player is in front of that last defender then he is deemed to
be offside and free kick to the defending team will be called.
A player cannot be caught offside in their own half. The goalkeeper does not
count as a defender. If the ball is played backwards and the player is in front of
the last defender then he is deemed to be not offside.
Karate Rules
Karate is a martial art that originated in Okinawa with its history being able to be
traced back to the 1300s. Brought to mainland Japan in the early 20th century, it
has become one of the world’s most popular martial arts and has developed
several different styles including Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, Kyokushinkai and Wado-
Ryu.
Karate, unlike Japanese Judo is primarily a striking art and involves the use of
punches, kicks, knee and elbow strikes and various other striking techniques.
Some forms of karate may also include a small amount of throws, joint locks and
grappling, though it is as an exciting striking art that Karate is known.
Karate is practiced all around the world by people young and old. Some famous
people to have achieved Karate black belts include James Caan, Sean Connery,
Forest Whitaker, Bear Grylls and Elvis Presley. Practitioners of Karate are known
as Karateka and for those that want to compete, Karate has a big sporting
element known as Kumite, with the World Karate Federation being the world’s
largest organisation overseeing the sporting side of the martial art. The WKF
hosts competitions across the world and is the only Karate governing body
recognised by the International Olympic Committee.
Object of Karate
The object of Karate is to defeat your opponent by utilising punches, kicks and
throws to score points. At the end of a Karate kumite, the competitor with the
most points is declared the winner (or before the end if they reach and eight point
lead over their opponent). As well as being a combative physical activity, Karate
is highly skilled and tactical, and all competitors are required to have a high level
of skill, experience, speed and dexterity to be successful in Karate competition.
Players & Equipment
Competitors are placed into categories according to their weight and maybe their
age in the case of junior competitions. All competitors in Karate kumite
competitions are required to wear a traditional Karate suit known as a gi and this
should be plain and without stripes or embroidery. Instead of wearing the belt
colour that signifies their rank, one contestant wears a red belt and the other a
blue belt to help distinguish them. Other prescribed pieces of equipment are:
 A gum shield
 Body protection (and extra chest protection for females)
 Shin pads
 Foot protectors
Groin guards can be worn but are not mandatory.
Scoring
Scoring in Karate competitions is relatively simple. Scoring is limited to the

following areas of the opponent's body:
 Head
 Face
 Neck
 Chest
 Abdomen
 Side
 Back
A score is awarded when one fighter performs a technique that conforms to the
following criteria and the blow lands on a relevant scoring area of their
opponent’s body:
 Good form
 Vigorous application
 Good timing
 Accurate distance
 Awareness
 Sporting attitude
Fighters can score one, two or three points for attacking techniques:
Ippon (three points) is awarded for:
 A jodan kick (kick to upper level)

 Any scoring technique performed on a fallen or thrown opponent
Waza-ari (two points) is awarded for:
 Chudan (mid level) kicks
Yuko (one point) is awarded for:
 Chudan or Jodan Tsuki (mid or upper level punch)

 Jodan or Chudan Uchi (mid or upper level punch).
Winning the Match
A Karate match can be won in a number of ways:
 By having more points than your opponent at the end of the fight.
 By extending a lead of eight points immediately ends the match
 If you render your opponent unable to carry on
 If your opponent is disqualified.
If the amount of points are equal at the end, then the referee and the three
judges consult and decide a winner between them.
Rules of Karate
 Karate Kumite matches take place on a matted square of 8m x 8m with an

additional 1m on all sides that is called the safety area.
 Once the referee and judges have taken their places, competitors should
exchange bows.
 The fight starts when the referee shouts “SHOBU HAJIME!”
 Both fighters should attempt scoring techniques (punches, kicks and
throws) on their opponent. These are classified as Yuko, Waza-ari and
Ippon and are one, two and three points respectively.
 If the referee deems a scoring technique may have been used, the referee
shouts YAME and the contestants, judges and referee all resume their
original positions.
 The judges will then indicate their opinion by means of a signal and if a
score is to be awarded, the referee identifies the contents and the area
that they attacked and then awards them the relevant socire (Yuko, Waza-
ari or Ippon) and then restarts the bout by shouting “TSUZUKETE
HAJIME!”
 If one competitor establishes a clear lead of eight points during a match,
then the referee calls a halt to the bout and declares them the winner.
 If no competitor establishes a clear lead of eight points during the fight,
then the fighter who has the most points is declared the winner.
 In the event of the points being level, the referee and the judges will
decide who is the winner of the bout.
 Fights can end earlier if one competitor is knocked down and is not in a
position to carry on or if one fighter is disqualified.
Pool Rules
Pool is a popular game that is played all over the world by millions of people.
However, there are many different varieties of the game, all with distinctly
different rules and regulations. By far, the most popular forms of the game are
the ones that originated in the USA, known as ‘eight-ball’ and ‘nine-ball’ pool.
Both are played on a normal sized pool table with the regulation six pockets and
both have multiple championships around the world. However, it is eight-ball that
is the more common game – the one you’ll most likely see being played at your
local pool hall and the one that most people first think of when the word pool is
mentioned.
Eight-ball pool can be played as a singles or doubles game and is played with
cues and 16 balls, 15 object balls, and one cue ball (the ball the players strike to
try and hit the other balls). Pool can be a relatively high-speed game compared
to its close relatives snooker and billiards but that makes it no less skilful with
players requiring a high degree of skill, concentration, and tactical thinking to play
the game at a high level.
Object of the Game
The object of pool is to pot all of your designated balls (either stripes or solids)
and then pot the 8 ball, thus winning the game. As pool matches often consist of
several games in a ‘best out of’ format, players attempt to win as many games as
needed to win the match. Players must use their skills in both attack and safety
play, as well as tactical nous to help them win the match.
Players & Equipment
To play pool, the following pieces of equipment are required:
 Table: The table used in pool is approximately 9 feet by 4.5 feet although
games can often be played on differing sized tables.
 Balls: 16 balls in total, comprising a white cue ball, seven striped balls,
seven solid balls, and one black ball (8 ball).
 Cues: Players have a cue each which can be made from wood, carbon
fibre, or fibreglass and this is used for striking the cue ball.
 Chalk: To ensure they have more control over their shots, each player
tends to chalk the end of their cue to ensure there is good contact
between the cue and the ball.
Scoring
There is no score as such in pool with both players simply attempting to pot all of
their designated object balls and then potting the 8 ball into the pocket that they
have chosen. However, pool matches are often played over a number of games,
so for example, in a best of nine frame match, the first player to reach five frames
would be declared the winner.
Winning the Game
8 Ball pool is won when one of the following occurs:
 A player pots all of their designated balls and then legally pockets the 8
ball into their nominated pocket.
 The opposing player illegally pots the 8 ball before clearing their own set
of balls.
 The 8 ball is knocked of the table by the opposition.
Rules of Pool
The rules of pool are some of the most contested of any sport, with slightly
differing variations being played in different countries, cities, areas, and even
establishments. However, the World Pool Billiard Association (WPA) have
produced a standardized set of rules for both amateur and professionals by
which to abide.
 Before the game begins, the object balls should be placed in a triangular
rack and positioned at the lower end of the table so that the apex ball of
the rack lies on the foot spot. The order of the balls should be random
apart from the black 8-ball, which should be placed in the middle of the
third row. The white ball should be placed anywhere behind the service
line on the table.
 If it is the first game in a match, a coin should be tossed to decide who
gets to choose whether to break. After that, the break is taken in turns.
 To make a legal break, the player must hit the balls and ensure that four
balls hit cushions and that the cue ball doesn’t go down a pocket. If the 8-
ball is potted on the break, the player is entitled to ask for a re-rack.
 The first player to pot an object ball will then have to continue to pot the
balls from that category (stripes or solids). The opposition player will have
to pot the other group.
 A player will continue to make shots until they foul, or fail to pot an object
ball. Then it is the turn of the opposing player. Play continues like this for
the remainder of the game.
 If a player commits a foul, the opposition player is entitled to place the cue
ball anywhere on the table. There are numerous fouls in pool, some of the
most common being:
o Failing to hit your own object balls.
o Hitting the cue ball off the table.
o Potting one of the opposition's object balls.
o Hitting the cue ball twice.
o Pushing the cue ball rather than striking it.
o A player taking a shot when it is not their turn.
 Once all of a player’s balls have been potted, they must then sink the 8
ball. They must first designate which pocket they intend to pot the 8-ball in
and then do as stated. Failure to do so will result in the opposition player
returning to the table. If the player pots the 8 ball in any other pocket other
than the nominated one, they forfeit the game.
Sepak Takraw Rules
Photo credit: Pal2iyawit / Shutterstock.com
Sepak Takraw is a volleyball-like game that originated in Southeast Asia. With a

literal translation of ‘Kick Ball’, 3 players compete against their opposition on a
volleyball style court with a net across the middle.
Unlike volleyball, in Sepak Takraw, players are not allowed to use their hands to
play the ball and are required to use their feet, head, knees and chest to touch
the ball. Popular across Southeast Asia, it is particularly popular in Malaysia
where it is locally known as 'Sepak Raga' and Thailand where it is called
'Takraw'.
The game’s history stretches back to the 15th century with slightly differing
versions of the game being played in different parts of Southeast Asia. It was in
the 1940s, however, that the first set of formalised rules were introduced and the
game took the official name of Sepak Takraw with, ISTAF, the International
Sepak Takraw Federation governing the sport worldwide where it is growing in
popularity year-on-year. Outside of Southeast Asia, the game is particularly
popular in the USA and Canada and other western countries where there are
significant southeast Asian communities.
Object of the Game
The object of the game is for one team to score more points than their opposition
by causing their opponents to commit a fault, resulting in a score being awarded.
However, in a slightly different version of the game called 'Chin Lone' played in
Myanmar (Burma), teams actually play together, the game being considered
more of an art in which the aim is not to beat any opposition, but to keep the ball
aloft in increasingly interesting and graceful ways.
Players & Equipment
Each of the two teams in Sepak Takraw consists of three players, each playing a
specific position. These are the ‘Teukgong’ which is the player who stands
furthest back on the court and an Inside Left Inside and a Right Inside who play
closer to the net on each side of the court.
The ball used in games are made of a number of synthetic materials and all balls
must be approved by ISTAF if being used in competition. Balls are ‘woven’, and
must consist of 12 holes and 20 intersections and be with the regulation size and
weight
Games are to be played on a court that is similar to a double sized badminton

court with dimensions of 13.4 x 6.1 metres with a net stretched across the centre
at a height of 1.5m for men and 1.42m for women.
Scoring
Scoring in Sepak Takraw is relatively simple with a side receiving a point every
time their opponents fault. Faults (which result in a point for the opposition)
include:
 The Tekong jumping off the ground to make the service

 The Tekong not licking the ball when making service
 An Inside player touches the net whilst throwing the ball
 The ball fails to cross to the opposition's half
 The ball goes over the net but lands outside of the court boundaries
 Playing the ball more than 3 times in a row
 Touching the ball on the opposing side
 The ball touches the arm
 Holding or grabbing the ball
 The ball touching the ceiling or any other object
Scoring
include:

Scoring
include:

Scoring
include:

Scoring
include:

Winning the Game

A game of Sepak Takraw is won by the first side to win two sets. Each set is is
won by the team that is first to reach 21 points. If a set is tied 21-21, then a tie
breaker shall be played in which the first team to open up a two point lead or
reaches 25 points is declared the winner. Because of the fast and athletic nature
of the game, it takes a good degree of physical fitness, flexibility as well as
teamwork for a team to be successful in winning a match.
Rules of Sepak Takraw

 Games of Sepak Takraw shall be played by two teams of three players.
 Games should be played on a court that fits the regulation size and markings as
set out by ITSAF, with an official Sepak Takraw ball.
 The team to serve first is decided by a coin toss before the match commences.
 Play begins when the server is thrown the ball by a teammate and must then kick
the ball over the net whilst keeping one foot in the service circle.
 Players may only touch the ball with their feet, head, knees and chest. Touching
the ball with the hand or any other part of the body can result in a fault and a
point for the opposition.
 Each team is allowed a maximum of three touches of the ball to return it back
over the net without letting it touch the ground.
 Failure to return the ball over the net before it hits the ground results in a point to
the opposition.
 Points are always scored in Sepak Takraw by the opposition faulting, and they
can do this in a number of ways (see above).
 The first team to reach 21 points wins a set. The first team to win two sets is
declared the winner.
Table Tennis (Ping Pong) Rules
Photo credit: Vinqui (source)
Table tennis has been an Olympic sport since 1988 and is hugely popular in
Asia, although it is played all over the world from the dusty streets of Ethiopia to
the public schools of rural England. The game did indeed begin in England at the
end of the 19th century, first as a postprandial parlour game for upper classes.
The sound of the ball on early bats gave it the name “ping pong” but as this
became a trademarked term in some countries table tennis soon became the
more common name.
Object of the Game
As of 2001 the aim of the game is to score 11 points (it was previously 21) by
outmanoeuvring your opponent into either hitting the ball into the net, hitting it off
the table or missing it completely. Matches are normally contested as best of five,
seven or nine games: that is to say, the first person to reach 11 points in three,
four or five games respectively.
Players & Equipment
In singles play it is a game of one against one, whilst doubles pits two against
two, although it is also possible to play two against one in informal situations
(family holidays for instance!). Here we shall focus on singles rules.
Little equipment is needed to play ping pong, which is unsurprising given it was
originally an improvised game played on a table using books for both the net and
the bats! Officially the game is played using a 40mm diameter, white (or
sometimes orange) table tennis ball weighing 2.7g; rackets (official term) that are
normally called bats (UK) or paddles (USA) and are red on one side and black on
the other; and a table measuring 2.74m (9ft) long, 76cm (30 inches) high and
1.52m (5ft) wide. The table is usually blue or green and has a 15.25cm (6 inch)
net across its width, bisecting its length.
Scoring
Scoring is done by forcing your opponent into hitting the ball long or wide of the
table or otherwise into the net or by playing a shot which they are unable to hit at
all. When serving, your opponent wins the point if you fail to make a valid serve –
one that bounces on your side of the table, then clears the net (if it hits the net it
is a let and the player reserves) and bounces on their side.
Volleying the ball is not allowed, nor is obstructing it, whilst a double hit will also
result in the awarding of the point to your opponent. Note that in table tennis the
edges of the table (the lines) are “in” but the side is not.
Winning the Game
The winner of the match is the first to reach the allotted number of games,
normally three, four or five. To win a game you must reach 11 points, although if
the scores become level at 10-10 it is then the first player to lead by two points
that is awarded the game.
Rules of Table Tennis (Ping Pong)
 Ping pong is played over a pre-agreed number of games and the first to
11 points wins each game.
 The toss of a coin or another form of lot-drawing determines which of the
players shall serve first.
 Each table tennis player serves twice in turn and serves must be made
from an open palm, the ball tossed six inches then struck so it bounces on
the service side, clears the net, then bounces on the receiver’s side.
 Points are decided as described above and games must be won by two
clear points. At 10-10 each player serves once only, in turn, until one
player established a two point lead and wins the game.
 After each game the players rotate both the end of the table from which
they are playing as well as who serves and receives the ball first.
 In the deciding game of a match the players swap ends after either player
reaches five points.
Taekwondo Rules
Photo credit: BUGNUT23 / Shutterstock.com
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and Olympic sport that was developed in post
World War 2 Korea by various martial artists but is usually attributed to military
general and martial artist Choi Hong Hi. Taekwondo is based on the native
Korean martial arts of Taekkyeon, Subak and Gwonbeop but also has significant
elements of other martial arts such as Japanese Karate and to a lesser extent
Chinese Kung Fu.
As a martial art, it is known as a style that focuses particularly on kicking, and

experienced practitioners can be seen performing various spectacular head
height and jumping kicks. There are various Taekwondo administration bodies
but the main two are the ITF (International Taekwondo Federation) and the WTF
(World Taekwondo Federation) but it is the latter that is the best known as it the
WTF form of Taekwondo that has been a major part of the Olympic Games since
1988.
Object of Taekwondo
In Taekwondo competition, the object is to land kicks and punches upon the
scoring zones of your opponent. These are the the torso and the head and both
kicks and punches must be accurate and powerful, as light tapping kicks are not
counted by scorers (or electronic scoring systems in major competitions). At the
end of the three rounds of the match, the player with the most points is declared
the winner, but the match can end early by one player knocking the other player
out.
All Taekwondo practitioners, whether competitors or not are at all times expected
to uphold the five tenets of Taekwondo. These are courtesy, integrity,
perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.
Players & Equipment
In Taekwondo competition, fighters compete against other fighters of the same

sex. They are also placed into weight categories to ensure that fights are as
evenly matched as possible. In junior competitions, there may also be age
categories too.
The white taekwondo uniform that competitors wear is often called a gi, but
technically that is the Japanese name for a martial arts uniform and the proper
Korean term is a dobok. A coloured belt is tied round the middle of the dobok and
the colour signifies the grade of the practitioner. The belt system goes from white
for beginners through to yellow, green, blue, red and then black for more
experienced practitioners. Black belts then receive their ‘dan’ grades as they
progress further in their experience and expertise. In a Taekwondo match, each
competitor wears several pieces of protective equipment and these are:
 Head guard
 Chest (trunk) protector
 Groin guard
 Forearm guards
 Hand protectors
 Shin guards
 Mouth guard
Scoring
Scoring in a Taekwondo match is simple. A player gets:
 One point for a basic attack to the opponent’s torso

 Two points for a spinning kick to the opponent’s torso
 Three points for a kick to the head
In major competitions, electronic scoring systems are used that are placed within
each player’s chest protector and are adjusted to take into account of the weight
category of the fight. For head kicks (and fights where electronic scoring is not
used), a panel of 4 judges push a button when they see a scoring point. When at
least 3 judges agree, then a point is awarded.
Winning the Match
Once a Taekwondo match is over (at the end of the 3 x 2 minute rounds), the
winner is the fighter that has the most points. If both fighters have the same
amount of points, then an extra round is fought called the golden point round. In
this round, the first fighter to score a point is declared the winner. Taekwondo
matches can be won earlier if one fighter knocks the other out or if one fighter is
disqualified for a rule breach.
Rules of Taekwondo
 Taekwondo matches should be contested by competitors of the same sex

and in the same classified weight category.
 The competition area is a mat that measures 8 metres squared.
 Taekwondo matches are contested over 3 x 2 minute rounds with a rest of
1 minute between rounds.
 Each fighter attempts to knockout their opponent or score points by
landing blows on their opponent’s torso or head. Kicks are allowed to both
to the torso and head, whilst punches are only allowed to the body. Below
the waist is not a permitted target.
 If a fighter and their coach think that a point has been missed or that a
mistake has been made, they can make a protest. A video replay is then
looked at by judges and a decision is made.
 Fighters can lose points by the way of penalties. These can be incurred by
actions such as:
o Punching to the face
o Attacking with the knee
o Attacking below the waist
o Stepping out of the ring with both feet
o Turning your back on your opponent
o Pushing, holding or grabbing your opponent
o Feigning injury
 The match is won by the fighter who knocks their opponent out or who has
the greater number of points at the end of the three rounds.
 If the match is a draw, a golden point round is fought, with the fighter
landing the first scoring point being declared the winner.
Tennis Rules
Tennis is a sport that originated in England around the 19th century and is now
played in a host of countries around the world. There are four major tournaments
known as the ‘majors’ that include Wimbledon, US Open, French Open and
Australian tournament.
Object of the Game
The game of tennis played on a rectangular court with a net running across the
centre. The aim is to hit the ball over the net landing the ball within the margins of
the court and in a way that results in your opponent being unable to return the
ball. You win a point every time your opponent is unable to return the ball within
the court.
Players & Equipment
A tennis match can be played by either one player on each side – a singles
match – or two players on each side – a doubles match. The rectangular shaped
court has a base line (at the back), service areas (two spaces just over the net in
which a successful serve must land in) and two tram lines down either side. A
singles match will mean you use the inner side tram line and a doubles match will
mean you use the outer tram line.
A court can be played on four main surfaces including grass, clay, hard surface
and carpet. Each tournament will choose one surface type and stick without
throughout. All that is required in terms of equipment is a stringed racket each
and a tennis ball.
Scoring
You need to score four points to win a game of tennis. The points are known as
15 (1 point), 30 (two points), 40 (three points) and the fourth would result in the
winning point and the end of that game. If the scores went to 40-40 this would be
known as deuce. When a game reaches deuce the player must then win by two
clear points.
Winning the Game

To win the game you must win a certain amount of sets (best of three for
women’s matches and best of 5 sets for men’s matches). Winning a set is simply
the first player to reach 6 games but have to be clear by at least 2 games. If your
opponent wins 5 games you must win the set 7-5. If the set goes to 6-6 then a tie
break is played and it’s simply the first player to 7 points.
Rules of Tennis
 The game starts with a coin toss to determine which player must serve first and
which side they want to serve from.
 The server must then serve each point from alternative sides on the base line. At
no point must the server’s feet move in front of the baseline on the court prior to
hitting their serve.
 If the server fails to get their first serve in they may take advantage of a second
serve. If they again fail to get their second serve in then a double fault will be
called and the point lost.
 If the server clips the net but the ball goes in the service area still then let is
called and they get to take that serve again without penalty. If the ball hits the net
and fails to go in the service area then out is called and they lose that serve.
 The receiver may stand where they wish upon receipt of the serve. If the ball is
struck without the serve bouncing then the server will receive the point.
 Once a serve has been made the amount of shots between the players can be
unlimited. The point is won by hitting the ball so the opponent fails to return it in
the scoring areas.
 Points are awarded in scores of 15, 30 and 40. 15 represent 1 point, 30 = 2 and
40 = 3. You
 need 4 points to win a game. If a game lands on 40-40 it’s known as deuce.
From deuce a player needs to win 2 consecutive points to win the game. After
winning one point from deuce they player is on advantage. If the player wins the
next point they win the game, if they lose it goes back to deuce.
 To win the set a player must win 6 games by 2 or more. The opening sets will go
to a tie break if its ends up 6-6 where players play first to 7 points. The final set
will not have a tie break and requires players to win by two games with no limits.
 If a player touches the net, distracts his opponent or impedes in anyway then
they automatically lose the point.
 The ball can hit any part of the line for the point to be called in, outside the line
and the ball is out.
 The balls in a tennis match are changed for new balls every 6 games
 A player loses a point if they fail to return the ball in either the correct areas on
the court, hits the net and doesn’t go into opponent’s area or fails to return the
ball before it bounces twice in their half
Volleyball Rules
Photo credit: Wikicommons (Source)
Variations of the game volleyball have been in circulation since around 1895. The
game has evolved since then and it was in 1964 where the sport entered its first
Olympic games. The sport now has a global following with nations from around
the world professionally competing. The pinnacle of the sport comes in the
Olympic Games were the best players are often on show.
Object of the Game
The object of volleyball is to hit the volleyball over the net (by only using your
hands) running through the centre of the court whilst trying to get it to bounce in
your opponents half. The opposing team have to try and prevent the ball from
bouncing before returning the ball. Games are played out in best of 3 or 5 sets
and the team with most sets at the end of the game wins.
Players & Equipment
Each team has 6 players on a court at any one time. Substitutes can be used
throughout the game. There are no professional mixed sex teams. Each player
takes up a position in either the attacking zone (next to the net) or the defensive
zone (at the back of the court). Three players are in each zone and rotate in a
clockwise position after every point.
The court is of a rectangular shape and measures 18m x 9m. Running across the
court is a 2.43m high net with the ball measuring 8 inches in diameter and
weighing between 9 and 10 ounces. Around the outlines of the court is an out of
bounds area and if the ball were to bounce in these sections then a point would
be awarded to the opposing team.
Each team gets up to two timeouts per set of 30 seconds each. After each set
the amount of timeouts resets back to two regardless of how many have been
used previously.
Scoring
To score a point the ball must hit the ground within the outlined section in your
opponents half. You can also score a point by your opponent failing to hit the
outlined section within your half or your opponent hitting the ball into the net. A
point can be scored off either teams serve.
A player serving must do so from behind the base line and can use either an over
or underarm action and hit with only the hand. Once the serve has been made
the sever can join their team in-play and battle out the point.
Each team is allowed to hit the ball three times before the ball must be returned.
A player is not allowed to hit the ball twice in succession. If the ball hits the
boundary line then the ball is deemed to be in-play. The defensive team can
jump and try to block the ball returning to their side of the court. If a block attempt
is made and the ball bounces in their opponents half then a point is awarded. If
after the block the ball bounces out then a point is awarded to the opposing
team.
Each game is played to 25 points and must be two points clear. If the scores
reach 24-24 then the game is played until one team leads by two.
Winning the Game
To win the game you must score more points than your opponents. The best of 3
or 5 sets are generally played and the winners will be the first team to reach the
required number of sets.
Rules of Volleyball
 Each team consist of 6 players and 6 substitutes. Players can be

substituted at any time but if they are to return can only be swapped for
the player that replaced them.
 Each team can hit the ball up to three times before the ball must be
returned. The defensive team can then try and block or return the ball
again hitting it a maximum of three times.
 Games are played up to 25 points and must be won by 2 clear points.
 Violations will be called for the following:
o Stepping over the base line when serving the ball.
o Ball hits the net and fails to get over the net (If the ball hits the net
and still goes over the net then this is perfectly legal).
o Players are not allowed to carry, palm or run with the ball.
o Players must not touch the net with any part of the body. If the net
is said to have hit them rather than vice-versa, then this is ok.
o The ball cannot travel under the net.
o Players cannot reach over the net and hit the ball.
Athletics Dress Code
Male
 Contestants must wear loose fitting, full length, sweat pants, warm-up pants or trousers.
 Uniformity in dress is mandatory for team events.
 Students competing in basketball may wear their athletic attire during their event only.
 Non-marking soles are required for all athletic shoes worn on gym floors.
 Shorts, and sleeveless shirts will NOT be allowed. (Exception: a numbered tank top over a
colored T-shirt is acceptable for athletics)
Female
 Loose-fitting skirts and tops are to be worn for competition. Skirts must be full and loose fitting.
Skirts must touch the floor when the wearer is in an upright kneeling position.
 For modesty reasons is it recommended that: o white athletic clothing NOT be worn. o dark
colored leggings be worn under the skirt.
 Non-marking soles are required for all athletic shoes worn on gym floors.
 Shorts, and sleeveless shirts will NOT be allowed. (Exception: a numbered tank top over a
colored T-shirt is acceptable for athletics)
COMPETITION RULES

Rules of Sport

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RULES OF SPORT

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Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

In Olympic competition athletes must shoot 72 arrows in 12 phases, with the

Winning the Game

As mentioned it would depend on the specifics of the tournament in which the

An arrow cannot be re-shot under any circumstances. The arrow may be

Athletes can be disqualified, have points deducted or be banned from

Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

Winning the Game

A fault is also called if a player deliberately distracts their opponent, the

Let may be called by the referee if an unforeseen or accidental circumstance

Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

Winning the Game

Players can be dismissed by either a 'strike out' (referring to a batsman missing

Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

Winning the Game

Players & Equipment

In English Billiards, scoring is as follows:

Object Of The Game

Players & Equipment

The exact specification of certain equipment varies according to the sanctioning

Winning The Game

Photo credit: Prescott Pym (source)

Object of the Game

 Each team is made up of 11 players.

Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

Winning the Game

Photo credit: Marie-Lan Nguyen (Source)

Object of the Game

Winning the Game

Football (Soccer) Rules

Photo credit: Rick Dikeman (source)

Players & Equipment

Winning the Game

 A match consists of two 45 minutes halves with a 15 minute rest period in

Players & Equipment

Groin guards can be worn but are not mandatory.

Scoring in Karate competitions is relatively simple. Scoring is limited to the

Ippon (three points) is awarded for:

 A jodan kick (kick to upper level)

Waza-ari (two points) is awarded for:

 Chudan (mid level) kicks

Yuko (one point) is awarded for:

 Chudan or Jodan Tsuki (mid or upper level punch)

Winning the Match

A Karate match can be won in a number of ways:

 Karate Kumite matches take place on a matted square of 8m x 8m with an

Object of the Game

Players & Equipment

To play pool, the following pieces of equipment are required:

8 Ball pool is won when one of the following occurs:

Sepak Takraw Rules

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Sepak Takraw is a volleyball-like game that originated in Southeast Asia. With a

Players & Equipment

Games are to be played on a court that is similar to a double sized badminton

 The Tekong jumping off the ground to make the service