It is that time of the year again and Richieball is only days away. I
wanted to take a moment and share some important information about the
event so that it can be run as efficient as possible. These are the
most frequently asked questions (and answers) that the head council has
received:
Is there a Pre-Richieball gathering this year?We will be having the pre-party at The Stag's Head (
click for webiste). The bar/restaurant is located in Willow Springs and is the same location we had the Pre-Party for RB X. The party will start at 6:30. There will be newly designed T-Shirts and 50/50 raffle tickets available (all proceeds to charity). 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.
Are there any available spots in the tournament?
Each of the 64 spots is accounted for. The best way to become a participant in future tournaments is by coming to this year's Richieball and speaking with all of the members of the Council independently.
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.
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 be ejected from the tournament and a replacement team will be inserted in their place. 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 our charity (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 Walter Payton Foundation, 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).
