Croquet clinics at Peachtree Hills Place are well underway! We’ve loved getting to see you all connect with neighbors and friends while playing the game we’ve all come to know and love. Here’s what our clinics have looked like so far and what we’re expecting to learn in the sessions to come.

Session 1

In our first session of the Peachtree Hills Place croquet clinics, we started with the basics. From grip to where to look when hitting the ball — we covered it all.

• We began by learning about the different types of grips — Solomon, Standard and Irish. Players were able to practice each type of grip to figure out what works best for them.
• Tons of croquet terminology was defined and the basics of the game were discussed. Some of the words players learned were pendulum swing, stalking and casting.
• Players learned how to line up their shot and where to look when preparing to swing. Eyes should focus on the ball at all times. Keep your head down and your eyes on the ball from beginning to end!
• How to hit the ball various distances was also discussed. The weight of the mallet should provide the force when swinging and if you want the ball to go further, all you have to do is simply take a bigger backswing. Don’t rely on body force to make the ball go farther.

Session 2

This session was all about equipment and attire! This was a great course for our beginners to test out different mallets to find what works best for them.

• We discussed the different kinds of balls and other equipment. This included conversation about the difference between primary colored balls and secondary colored balls. Brush up on this here!
• The importance of white attire was also discussed. Attire is very important in croquet! If you’re needing to update your wardrobe, take a look at our apparel catalog.
• Players were able to test different mallets to see which size and weight worked for them. Look for an announcement of a ‘Demo Day’ in the Fall to test several different types of mallets to see what is the best feel and suited to your game.
• Players also learned that a ball is 3 5/8″ and the hoop opening is 3 3/4″.  Not a lot of margin for error – 1/16″ tolerance on either side of the ball going through the hoop!

Session 3

This is where things got interesting! We began discussing the layout of the lawn and gameplay.

• A full “how-to” was conducted as it relates to gameplay.
• Players were able to see how a court is laid out and how this contributes to sequence of gameplay.
• Players were able to practice hitting the ball around the lawn from hoop 1-7, to get more comfortable with the order of the hoops.
• The different types of shots were discussed and demonstrated — everything from a stop shot to a carom.
• The 30-degree rule was discussed in full.

Session 4

In session four, we dove a bit deeper into actual gameplay and strategy. Starting with your first shot and moving through each successive shot takes thought and focus! Each shot and each game are different, so our goal is to equip our players with the knowledge to make the best possible choice for their turn.

• Players learned how to start the game — 36 inches from the starting corner and aiming for the first hoop.
• On each successive shot, players were taught to ask three questions. How can I help myself? How can I help my partner? How can I impede my opponent?
• The three options for each shot were discussed. A player can either shoot a hoop, clear a ball or block an opponent. It’s just a bonus if you can do all three!

Session 5

Session five was all about faults! Both striking faults and nonstriking faults were discussed.

• The most common striking faults include- hitting the ball with the beveled edge, crush shots, push or pull shots and double taps. Players learned about each type of fault and what happens when that type of fault occurs.
• Non-striking faults are typically accidental and result in no penalty. For example, a player faults when they accidentally move a ball with their foot while walking or when their mallet accidentally hits a ball but they have not yet taken their stance.
• Playing the wrong ball and mishits were also discussed.
• We’re encouraging Members to stop by Lauren’s office and pick-up a copy of the “PHP Golf Croquet Quick Reference” booklet. It explains many of the items discussed in this session and highlights the most common rules and faults

So, what’s to come in session six of our croquet clinics? Players will be able to practice everything we’ve learned thus far and learn about social and tournament play! We can’t wait to see you on the courts for our next croquet clinic! All Members living at Peachtree Hills Place are welcome!