Is there a Pre-Richieball gathering this year?
We have contacted the folks at Nikobees (formerly Patsby's) at 10301 Southwest Hwy in Chicago Ridge and will be in their outdoor beer garden on Friday evening. Anyone is welcome to come and hang out to witness the unveiling of the regular season schedule and the tournament boards. Nikobees has TV's, fire pits, and bean bags outdoors, so you should be able to be entertained. Remember to come early and leave early so that we can make it on time the next day (perhaps I will heed my own advice this year).
Can I practice for Richieball?
Absolutely not. If you do you will be hunted down and suspended for life.
Where is Richieball this year?
Richieball XI is at the same place as last year, White Eagle Woods located in Lyons, IL. Click here for a map on Google Maps if you want to print directions. The White Eagle Picnic Grove is located 2 blocks West of Harlem off 40th street. There is a Marshall's and a Cardinal Fitness at the small intersection of 40th and Harlem, so keep your eyes open and don't miss the turn.
How many teams are participating in this year's tournament?
There will be 64 teams (128 participants) competing in the year's double elimination tournament. Unlike in year's past, Richieball XI will include our first ever play-in game between the 64th and 65th team's registered this year. The play-in game will replace the marquee matchup. There are an additional 8 teams in this year's tourney so a 10th alley will be added.
I am playing in Richieball, what time should I get there?
All teams should be at the grove at 10:30 ready to play. Any team that is missing at the start of the tournament will forfeit their initial game and may be replaced with an alternate team if their arrival is in question. Once a team starts together, they must continue the entire tournament as a team. There are absolutely no substitutions once a team has started its first game. Changing players throughout the day will result in suspension. The Richieball Head Council encourages teams to come earlier than 10:30 to hang out and get an understanding of how the game is set up and how the scheduling works. It is imperative that every team understands how the schedule works so that we can complete the tournament in a timely manner (before nightfall). At least one member of your team should be well aware where and when your next matchup is. If a team needs to be tracked down or can not be found, they will forfeit that game. The most critical thing a team can do on the day of Richieball (besides from showing up) is being aware of when and on what alley your next matchup is taking place.
Are my friends and family welcome to the event?
Yes, friends and family are welcome at Richieball, although there are a couple of things to take into consideration: We have a limited supply of beer, food, and water so don't bring the entire neighborhood; Anyone consuming alcohol must be at least 21 years of age. This consequences of providing alcohol to a minor are severe (as everyone is well aware) and we do not want anyone put in a precarious situation. So once again, anyone consuming alcohol must be at least 21 years old.
What does my team's $60 go towards?
Each teams entry fee is used to pay for the many permits needed to secure the picnic grove, the food, beer, ice, tent rental, water, and the rest is donated at the end of the day to the American Cancer Society (along with the proceeds of t-shirt sales and the 50-50 raffle). Remember, one of the things that makes Richieball unique is that the players pay and the fans come for free.
What should I bring to Richieball?
All sales of the raffle tickets and merchandise benefit the American Cancer Society, so please bring a few extra bucks to spend. Other than that, prepare as if you were heading out for a picnic or BBQ (bugspray, lawn chair, snacks, etc).
WhiteEagleWoods2007_600dpi.pdfChris Buerhle will headline the Pre-Richieball party that will be held at Frankie's Roadhouse on Friday, August 10th. The party will begin at 7 pm and end at 2 am. As in past years, the official Richieball schedule will be revealed at the Pre-Richieball party. Richieball X T-Shirts, stickers, and split the pot tickets will be available for purchase (proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society). The management of Frankie's Roadhouse (formerly Rico D's) have graciously agreed to run beer and food specials throughout the evening.
The Richieball Head Council is proud to welcome Chris Buehrle to the Richieball experience. You can hear Chris's song, "Give Me One More Second" on the recently released Pontiac Cafe Summer Sessions compilation CD. You will also be able to see Chris August 25th at Alpine Valley on the Alpine Valley VIP stage at the Guster/Dave Matthews Band concert. For more information about Chris and his music click here. We look forward to seeing you, and all of your friends, on Friday evening for this special event.
On January 3rd 2006, the Richieball Head Council secured the picnic permit for Richieball IX from the Cook County Forest Preserve. Both the optimal date (August 12, 2006) and the optimal site location (Buffalo Grove #4) are secured for this year's event. Reportedly, at least 200 people are expected to attend.
NOTE: Buffalo Grove #4 is located near the intersection of 87th Street and Hon. Muzzarelli Dr in Hickory Hills, IL. For further site information, contact the Richieball Head Council or a Veteran.
Thank you for visiting Richieball.com. We look forward to Richieball IX being bigger and better than ever. Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 12th 2006.
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