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).