Fraser Valley Croquet Society

Instruction (45 minutes):

• Welcome & Introductions: Course expectations and safety guidelines
• Outdoor Nine Wicket Croquet: Introduction to the traditional American game format
• Equipment Overview: Wickets, mallets, balls, and stakes - how the game is set up
• Basic Rules: Turn order, wicket running, roquet and croquet strokes, completing the course
• Basic Technique: Holding the mallet, stance, and simple striking
• Game Objective: Navigate through all nine wickets and strike the finishing stake

Game Play (45 minutes):

• First games with instructor guidance
• Learning by playing - experiencing turn sequence and basic tactics
• Real-time coaching during play
• Questions and clarifications as situations arise

Focus: Get students playing immediately while learning the basic flow and rules of outdoor nine wicket croquet.

Instruction (40 minutes):

• Mallet Selection: Types, weights, lengths, and personal fitting for outdoor nine wicket play
• Grip Techniques: Standard grip, variations, and hand positioning
• Stance: Proper body alignment, foot placement, and balance
• Swing Fundamentals: Pendulum motion, follow-through, and power control
• Ball Contact: Sweet spot, angle of approach, and common errors
• Practice Drills: Target practice and accuracy exercises

Game Play (50 minutes):

• Full games applying improved technique
• Focus on consistent striking and accuracy
• Instructor observation and individual coaching
• Peer feedback and technique refinement

Focus: Developing proper mallet technique and consistent striking ability through instruction and game play.

Instruction (40 minutes):

• Ball Control: Direction, distance, and accuracy in outdoor play
• Wicket Running Techniques: Angles, approach, and execution for the nine wicket course
• Stop Shots: Controlling ball after contact
• Court Positioning: Reading the course and planning your sequence through the wickets
• Distance Control: Soft shots vs. power shots depending on situation
• Practice Drills: Accuracy exercises and wicket approach practice

Game Play (50 minutes):

• Games with emphasis on wicket running accuracy
• Strategic positioning and shot selection
• Developing consistency through repeated play
• Individual coaching on specific situations

Focus: Mastering ball control and wicket running to advance efficiently through the nine wicket course.

Instruction (40 minutes):

• Roqueting: Striking another ball and earning bonus strokes
• Ball-to-Ball Accuracy: Aiming, contact point, and follow-through
• Croquet Strokes: Taking croquet after a successful roquet - mechanics and strategy
• Shot Planning: Using roquets to advance position and block opponents
• Game Tactics: When to roquet, when to focus on wickets, defensive positioning
• Practice Drills: Roqueting exercises at various distances

Game Play (50 minutes):

• Full games emphasizing roquet and croquet stroke strategy
• Applying bonus strokes to gain advantage
• Tactical decision-making during play
• Real-time coaching on roquet situations

Focus: Mastering the roquet and croquet stroke - the key to earning extra turns and controlling the game.

Instruction (30 minutes):

• History & Context: Brief overview of croquet history and game varieties (Golf Croquet, Association Croquet)
• Advanced Strategy: Multi-turn planning and positional play in nine wicket croquet
• Offensive Tactics: Aggressive play, creating runs, maintaining momentum
• Defensive Tactics: Blocking opponents, strategic positioning, damage control
• Court Etiquette: Proper behavior, turn sequence, and sportsmanship
• Game Management: Keeping score and handling disputes

Game Play (60 minutes):

• Competitive games with rotating partners
• Focus on strategic decision-making
• Applying both offensive and defensive tactics
• Discussion of game situations and alternative strategies
• Developing personal playing style

Focus: Elevating play through strategic thinking, competitive tactics, and understanding the broader croquet context.

Instruction (20 minutes):

• Review & Refinement: Addressing common challenges and questions from the course
• Game Variations: Introduction to other croquet formats (Golf Croquet on formal courts, Association Croquet, backyard variants)
• Health Benefits: Physical activity, social engagement, mental stimulation from regular croquet play
• Continuing Your Journey: FVCS member clubs, practice resources, and skill development pathways
• Setting Up Your Own Game: Equipment needs, space requirements, playing with friends and family

Game Play (70 minutes):

• Mini-tournament format with all participants
• Celebrating improved skills and friendly competition
• Individual skill assessment and personalized feedback
• Supervised games demonstrating progression
• Group discussion of memorable moments and learning

Course Conclusion:

• Certificate of completion presentation
• Information on FVCS membership and ongoing play opportunities
• Course feedback and participant suggestions

Focus: Celebrating achievement, tournament experience, and pathways to continue playing outdoor nine wicket croquet.