Nine-Wicket Croquet

Nine-wicket croquet is the casual, social form of croquet played by millions in North America on the traditional nine-wicket, two-stake, double-diamond court. It is usually played on long grass or other slow or irregular surfaces in backyards or public parks. Using up to six balls and as many players, the many varieties of this game are usually played with lightweight, inexpensive 6-ball sets popularly available in discount and department stories for $50 to $100.

Backyard Croquet

The most complex game played on a nine-wicket court is Backyard Croquet. It is recommended for adult play. Read a brief synopsis, or look up the official rules, of Backyard Croquet. This nine-wicket game most closely resembles the six-wicket games played on regulation courts and short-cut greens at USCA clubs.

Family Croquet

For family play, the court layout can be of any size or shape, and is often distorted to take "advantage" of trees and bushes. Six balls, instead of the usual four balls, are often used. Players play individually, rather than in teams. This variation of Backyard Croquet is also called Guerilla Croquet.

Visit the USCA's special 9-Wicket Group website to learn even more.