Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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Game Playing Equipment and Method
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent App. Ser. No.
12/166,277,
filed July 1, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0002] The entire contents of U.S. Provisional App. Ser. No. 60/991,667, filed
November 30, 2007 is incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to game playing
equipment, game playing methods and arenas for playing games. Particular,
embodiments of the present invention relate to athletic team competition games
and
sports and equipment and arenas used for such games and sports.
[0004] Throughout history, people have engaged in various types of sports for
fun,
competition and business. Sports from hockey to golf have been developed with
specific
games, rules and procedures, equipment and, in some cases, game playing areas
or
arenas.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] Embodiments of the present invention described herein relate to sport
game play
rules procedures and, game arenas and/or game equipment used for sports games.
While
embodiments are described herein with reference to sports games involving a
particular
game stick and ball equipment, particular game play rules and procedures and
particular
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game arenas, other embodiments may employ one or more of the particular
equipment
embodiments, game rules and procedure embodiments and/or game arena
individually or
in combination with other suitable equipment, rules, procedures and arena
configurations
without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the
invention
also relate to individual components of sports games as described herein
(including, but
not limited to equipment, rules, procedures and arena configuration), as well
as various
combinations of those components.
[0006] For example, while game equipment described herein may be used in a
designated arena, such as, but not limited to the arena described herein, the
game
equipment can also be used without an arena configuration described herein
but, instead,
in an open field, beach, park or other suitable open space. Similarly, the
game playing
rules and procedures described herein can be used with the equipment and arena
described herein or with other suitable equipment and play areas. Also, the
arena
configurations described herein can be used in combination with the game play
equipment, rules and procedures described herein or with other suitable game
play
equipment, rules and procedures. The description herein is intended to
describe example
embodiments and is not to be construed in a limiting manner.
[0007] In one example embodiment, the game is a contest between two teams of
up to
ten players, where only four players from each team can be on the playing
surface at any
given time. The game is played with a game play stick that is used to catch
and throw
(pass or shoot) the ball. In general, the game is played by throwing the ball
to other
members of one's team to move the ball toward the opposing team's end of the
arena and
into or through a goal located at or near that end of the arena. A predefined
point value is
awarded when a team successfully moves the ball into or through the
appropriate goal.
When the player has possession of the ball while in certain defined zones of
the arena,
that player cannot run. If the player is running when the player receives the
ball then the
player stops running as soon as possible or within a predefined number of
steps or
distance from location of receipt.
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[0008] The team that acquires the highest number of points wins. In one
example,
points are scored by shooting the ball through circular goals located high in
the air at each
end of the arena, as described in further detail below. In that example
embodiment, each
goal is worth a predefined point value, such as but not limited to, one point,
unless one of
the following conditions occurs: i) Goals scored by a "hot-player" (defined
below) are
worth a bonus, such as but not limited to one or more additional points, and
ii) Any goals
scored as a result of a shot initiated in the "wing zones" of the arena are
worth a bonus,
such as but not limited to one or more additional points.
[0009] The game play equipment can be a tubular stick structure having a
handle, a
base and a ball catching region. The tubular handle has a diameter and length
to hold one
or more balls. The base of the stick may be sealed or otherwise configured in
size or
shape to inhibit the balls from falling to the ground. The catching end may be
split open
from about half the length of the stick to the end of the stick. At the
catching end, the
stick may be in a semicircular shape.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Fig. 1 is a front view of a player holding a game play stick and a ball
thrown by
the player.
[0011] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the game play stick shown in Fig. 1.
[0012] Fig. 3 is a cross-section view of the game play stick from Figs. 1 and
2.
[0013] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an arena that can be used to play a
team sport.
[0014] Fig. 5 is a top-down, cross-sectional view of the arena from Fig. 4.
[0015] Fig. 6 is a flow chart of a face-off method for beginning the team
sport
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0016] Embodiments of the current invention relate to athletic sport,
including team
games and individual games, associated with the sport, equipment and arenas
that may be
used with embodiments of the sport. Team games may be conducted such that each
player can use a game play stick 10 to propel and receive a ball 18 as shown
in Fig. 1.
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The athletic game may be played with game sticks as shown and described with
respect
to Figs. 2 and 3, on an arena as shown and described with respect to Figs. 4
and 5.
[0017] In the embodiments of Figs. 2 and 3, the game play stick 10 is formed
as a
unitary tubular structure composed of a generally cylindrical tube that is
open at least one
end to form the ball handling region 16 and closed or otherwise restricted at
a second end
to inhibit the ball from passing through the end. The second end of the
tubular structure
can form a handle 12. Various structures can inhibit the ball from passing
through the
second end of the tubular structure, such as but not limited to, a narrowing
tubular
structure, a tubular structure changes into a rectangular or an oval shape, a
net like
structure or a seal.
[0018] As shown in Fig. 2, the game play stick 10 can have a tubular structure
having a
handle 12 and a ball handling region 16. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view
of the game
play stick 10 from Fig. 2. In the cross sectional view, the hollow handle is
configured to
receive and/or retain one or more balls 18. A bottom end 14 of the handle can
be sealed
or otherwise configured in size or shape to inhibit a ball from passing
through the bottom
end 14. A top end 13 of the handle can extend into or be coupled to the ball
handling
region 16. The ball handling region 16 can have curved edges, the ball
handling region
can form a tubular member having a larger diameter than the diameter of the
handle 12.
In the embodiment shown in Figs. 2 and 3 the ball handling region 16 is shown
having an
angle A of the handle 12. Other embodiments of the tubular structure can be
straight and
thus have no angle. In other embodiments, the game play stick 10 can be formed
of
multiple coupled tubular section structures.
[0019] In the embodiment of Fig. 3, a game play stick 10 having a tubular
handle 12
with the hollow tube extending the entire length of the handle is shown. In
other
embodiments, the hollow tube of the handle 12 can extend less than the entire
length of
the handle 12. Fig. 3 shows the tubular structure in the handle 12 retaining
at least three
balls 18. In other embodiments, the handle 12 can retain more or less than
three balls 18.
The balls 18 can enter the handle via the opening in the tubular structure
that provides the
ball catching region 16.
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[0020] In one embodiment of the current invention, the ball can be spherical
in shape
and have a diameter of approximately 30 to 50 millimeters. In one preferred
embodiment
the ball can have a diameter of 48 millimeter with a range of 35 to 50
millimeters. The
ball may be made of a material and constructed, such that when the ball is at
a
temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and dropped from a height of 1 meter onto a
hard
surface the ball should bounce to a height of about 40 to 50 centimeters. In
other
embodiments, other projectiles such as other balls having other suitable
materials, shapes,
sizes and weights may be used.
[0021] In the above equipment, the ball 18 and the game play stick 10 can be
utilized
for various games to propel the ball. In one embodiment, the equipment can be
used to
play a game in any suitable game playing area or arena. In another embodiment,
the
equipment can be used in an arena 20 as shown in Fig. 4.
[0022] Embodiments of the present invention can include an arena 20 in which a
game
is played, where the game may involve one or more players (such as two or more
teams
of players) using game play sticks 10 and one or more balls as described
above. Other
embodiments include an arena as described herein, used with other types of
game
equipment, balls, catching and throwing devices or the like. Described below
with
reference to Figs. 4 and 5 are non-limiting examples of arenas and team sport
games
played in such arenas that involve game playing sticks and balls as described
above.
[0023] The arena 20 can be defined by a playing surface and walls surrounding
the
playing surface. There can be side walls and end walls extending from the
playing
surface. The side walls can be curved walls extending from the playing
surface. A goal
may be located at or near the end walls. A passage located at or near the end
walls can
allow players to enter or exit a central playing surface.
[0024] In one embodiment of the current invention, the playing surface of the
arena 20
can be generally flat and can be the floor of the arena 20. The playing
surface can have a
length and a width dimension and at least one wall attached to or otherwise
extending
from each of the four sides of the floor. In one embodiment, the playing
surface can be
generally rectangular. The playing surface can be have markings that designate
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zones and areas. In an example embodiment, the playing surface can be about 50
meters
long and a width of about 20 meters. In further example embodiments, the
playing
surface can be have a ceiling height above the playing surface ranging from
about 40 to
about 60 meters and a width raging from about 15 to about 25 meters. The
playing
surface can be constructed from any suitable material that allows a player to
run and a
ball to bounce.
[0025] In one embodiment, the arena includes curved side walls wherein a
curved side
wall extends laterally outward and upward from each side of the width
dimension of the
floor. The curvature of the side wall can allow a player to climb and run up
and onto at
least a portion of the side wall. In one embodiment, the curved side wall can
form an
elliptical shape. The curved side walls can gradually extend outward and rise
to the
height of about 5 meters at the widest portion of the arena 20. In other
embodiments, the
height of the curved side wall can have an a range of about 4 to 8 meters.
Other
embodiments may have other suitable side wall heights. After reaching the
widest point
of the area the curved side wall can go higher and curve back towards the top
of the
arena. In the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4 the curved side walls can connect
the
playing surface to the a roof. In one embodiment, the width of the curved side
wall can
be about 8 meters having an approximate range of 6 to 10 meters.
[0026] In one embodiment of the current invention, the end walls can extend
upward
from or adjacent to each end of a length dimension of the arena 20. Each end
wall can
have at least one opening or passageway for the entrance and exit of players
to and from
the playing surface. The opening for the players can be located at the playing
surface
height of the arena. In other embodiments, the end wall can connect with the
curved side
walls of the arena 20 or in other embodiments, the entire structure of the end
walls and
the side walls can be formed of a unitary body. At least one goal 22 may be
provided on
or near each end wall.
[0027] In one embodiment of the current invention, two goals can be arranged
in the
arena 20, one on each end wall, on opposite ends of the lengthwise dimension
of the
playing surface. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, each goal 22 can be an
opening in
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the end wall. One example goal can be a round opening in the end wall that can
be up to
2 meters in diameter, through which the ball 16 may pass. In other
embodiments, each
goal 22 can be a ring located on or near an end wall, through which the ball
16 may pass.
In other embodiments, the goal 22 can be an opening, receptacle, hoop or other
suitable
structure having any suitable shape including, but not limited to, a
rectangle, oval,
hexagon, or a parallelogram into or through which the ball 16 may be received
or passed.
[0028] The roof and each wall of the arena 20 can be constructed of any
suitable
material, such as, but not limited to a transparent (including partially
transparent)
polycarbonate or other transparent material. In other embodiments the floor
can be
constructed from the same materials as the walls or other suitable materials.
[0029] The arena 20 can be utilized for a variety of game playing methods and
procedures. Described herein is one example embodiment of the game play method
and
arena configuration. The object of one example game can be to score the
highest number
of points. Points can be scored when the ball passes through the opposing
teams goal. In
one embodiment the players can pass the ball to team members in an attempt to
move the
ball closer to or into the goal.
[0030] The game playing surface can be marked with lines, shapes or other
visible
indicia that can designate zones, lanes, or other areas of significance in
certain game
embodiments. An example embodiment of markings on the game playing surface and
games that use such marking are described below with reference to Figs. 4 and
5.
However, other embodiments may employ other suitable markings and games.
[0031] Markings including lines can be utilized to divide the playing surface.
The
game playing surface in one embodiment can be divided into two halves using a
marking,
for example a dividing line also referred to as the central line 46. The
center line 46
extends across the width dimension of the playing surface, near the center of
the playing
surface. In one example embodiment, during game play each half can be defended
by a
respective one of the two teams. In one embodiment, a defensive zone is
designated near
each goal, an area where a team can defend its goal. The area near each goal
can be
referred to as the defensive zone 38, defined by a dividing line also referred
to as a
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defensive line 40. Each defensive line 40 extends across at least a portion of
the width
dimension of the playing surface, and is located between the center line 46
and a
respective goal 22. Each defensive line 40 has right and left end points on
respective
right and left side zone lines 48. Another set of lines is used to mark the
playing surface
such that opposing end points of the defensive line are connected to form an X
shape on
the playing surface. The set of lines can be referred to as wedge lines 44.
Each central
area enclosed by two wedge lines 44 and a defensive line 40 can be in the
shape of a
triangle and can be referred to as a wedge 32. Zone lines 48 extend parallel
to the length
dimension of the playing surface and can be located at the right and left
outer sides of the
width dimension of the playing surface.
[0032] In one example embodiment, the center line 46 can be a solid red line,
approximately 8 centimeters in thickness and span the width of the arena. In
another
embodiment, the center line 46 can have two other markings for example, but
not limited
to, open circles and can be referred to as break points. In one embodiment,
the two break
points can be approximately 0.5 meters in diameters about 5 meters from the
center of the
playing surface. The line that forms the break points in one example
embodiment can be
about 3 centimeters thick.
[0033] Each defensive line 40 can be a solid line of any suitable color, for
example a
red line, that is parallel to the center line 46. Each defensive line 40 can
be located
approximately 8 meters from a respective end of the arena 20 and can connect
to the zone
lines 48 at each end. The defensive line can be further marked with other
markings, for
example, but not limited to, two black circular in shaped spots. The black
spots can be
used as locations to restart the game after a penalty. The area between the
defensive line
40 and the closest goal 22 can referred to as the defensive zone 38. In one
embodiment
the players may not shoot at the closest goal while standing in the defensive
zone.
[0034] In one example embodiment, the playing surface can have two wedge lines
44
that can be approximately 3 centimeters thick ending at locations on the
defensive lines
40. The wedge lines can intersect each other by connecting at the central
marking 34
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opposing ends of the defensive lines discussed above. The intersecting wedge
lines
described in the above embodiments can create various zones.
[0035] In one example embodiment, the wedge lines 44 can form a wedge 32. The
wedge 32 can be an area on the playing surface extending from the center of
the playing
surface to the ends of the wedge lines 44. In the drawings, the wedge 32 has a
triangular
shape. However, in other embodiment the wedge lines 44 and wedge 32 can be
modified
to form any suitable shape.
[0036] In one embodiment, the zone lines 48 can define a boundary at which the
generally flat floor of the playing surface curves upward to form the curved
side walls.
The curved side wall portion of the arena can have a wing zone 30. During the
game a
player in the wing zone 30 can be allowed to move or perform certain actions
not allowed
in the central zone 42 or flat area between the two zone lines of the playing
surface,
according to the games rules. In one embodiment, players may move freely for
up to five
seconds within the wing zone
[0037] The central zone 42 can be formed between the above mentioned zone
lines 48
and defensive lines 40. The central zone 42 can be rectangular in shape. In
one example
embodiment of a game, a player in the central zone 42 may not take more than
three steps
within the zone while controlling the ball, without passing or shooting the
ball. However,
in other embodiments, a player may move without restriction. Rules regarding
the
player's conduct and scoring may be applied differently in the various
different zones
marked on the playing surface.
[0038] In an example embodiment, the center of the playing surface can be
marked
with a center marking 34 that can designate an area of a size that allows at
least two
players to stand within it. In an example game, the center marking 34 can be
referred to
as a mental spot. The center marking 34 can be for example in a circular shape
of about 3
meters in diameter. In other embodiments, the center marking can be other
suitable sizes
and shapes.
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[0039] In one embodiment, team benches 70 can be located in an area outside
the
playing surface, past each teams respective goals. Players may enter and exit
the playing
surface from the team bench area conveniently through an open passage in the
end walls.
[0040] In one embodiment of the current invention, a game can be played using
the
above described arena 20, game play stick 10 and/or ball 16. In another
embodiment of
the current invention other game play sticks, arena or ball can be used to
play a game
using rules and procedures as described herein.
[0041] Embodiments of the present invention can include team game sports, as
well as
one on one game sports. Another aspect of the present invention relates to
manners of
starting the game play using a face off procedure as described herein. The
duration of the
game may be divided into periods and sub periods that occur after the face-off
procedure.
During the game, players can score points and obey the rules and procedures of
the game
or be penalized by a referee. A referee can be present to control the players
conduct and
keep official time. In one embodiment the referee can use various body and/or
hand
signals to communicate infractions and events during a game to the players and
the
audience of the game. In further embodiments of the game, by following certain
rules
and scoring in succession or being in certain zones, a team or player can
score bonus
points. In other embodiments, an arena is not required and the game can be
played on a
street or other suitable locations.
[0042] In one embodiment a team can be formed with a plurality of players. In
an
example embodiment, a team can have at least five players. In another
embodiment a
team can have no more than ten players. In one example embodiment, each team
must
have no more than four players on the game playing surface at any time. A game
can
begin with a number of players on game playing surface. As part of the game
play a
team may substitute players at their discretion during the game and during
game breaks.
However, in one embodiment once the match has entered an over-time period, no
substitutions are permitted.
[0043] Once the players are on the game play surface a game can begin. In one
embodiment, a game can begin using a face-off procedure, for example, as shown
in Fig.
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7. The example face-off procedure of Fig. 7 can start by standing two players
from
opposing teams adjacent one another, but facing an opposing directions, back-
to-back
(F 1). Next, a ball is placed between the shoulder blades of the two players
(F2). Then,
the two players are given a signal (F3) to separate and contest for the ball
(F4). This
procedure ends when the ball exits the mental spot 34, described in greater
detail below.
[0044] In another embodiment of the face-off procedure a referee can place the
ball
between the two players while the players face each other. Then the referee
can signal
the two players to contest for the ball. The signal can be a whistle or other
audible sound
made by the referee or other game official. Each team may select one player to
compete
in the face-off. In another embodiment various rules can govern players
conduct during
the face-off procedure, for example, players competing in the face-off are
permitted to
bend slightly at the knee but must, in the match referee's opinion, be
standing upright.
The players support the ball above the playing surface by pressing the ball
between their
respective back. Players competing in the face-off may not separate or try to
dislodge the
ball until the referee has blown the whistle to indicate play has begun. As
the players
separate the ball may fall toward the playing surface, while the face-off
players contest
for the ball by trying to grab the ball and place it in the player's game
stick. In one
embodiment, players competing in the face-off may not touch the ball, or use
their stick
or clothing to touch the ball, until it has at least dropped below a player's
knee. If a
player fails to comply with the face off procedures then the player or the
player's team
can be penalized.
[0045] The face off procedure is completed when the ball leaves the central
marking 34
such as, but not limited to, when a player in possession of the ball leaves
the central
marking 34.
[0046] During the face-off the players not competing in the face-off must
stand outside
the central marking perimeter until the face-off has ended. Players must stand
on their
team's side of the center line until the face-off has ended. The penalty for
failing to
conform to the above rules, is that the opposing team is awarded a free-throw
from the
central marking 34.
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[0047] In situations where the match referee deems it necessary to stop the
game for
injury or reasons not clearly defined in the rules of the game and one team
clearly has
possession of the ball, the game will be started by a free-throw award to the
team in
possession of the ball at the time of stoppage and from the nearest break or
black point to
the ball carrier (a player in possession of the ball) when play was stopped.
In other
embodiments, if the match referee deems it necessary to stop the game for
reasons not
covered by the rules of the game when neither team has clear possession of the
ball, the
game can be restarted using the face-off procedure.
[0048] A game can have matches of limited duration. The duration of one match
can
be determine before the beginning of the match. In one example embodiment, a
match
between two teams can be divided into three periods. In an example embodiment
each
period can be fifteen minutes long and can be further subdivided into rounds.
In an
example embodiment, each round can have a five minute duration. In further
embodiments, between each round, a team can be allowed to take a one minute
time-out,
and between each period, there can be an intermission of up to fifteen
minutes. In one
embodiment, a time-out is the ability of a team to stop the clock for tactical
discussion or
to take a break for one minute once per period. An over-time period can be
provided, if
at the end of regulation time the score is tied. In one embodiment, the over-
time period
can be five minutes long. In another embodiment, the overtime period can end
when one
team has scored a goal, where the scoring team will be declared the winner. If
neither
team has scored at the end of the over-time period then the game can be
decided by a
mental shot competition discussed in greater detail below. In one embodiment,
the
mental spot competition can be a best-of-five with the team scoring the most
goals during
this time being declared as the winner. The best-of-five can be a method where
each
team takes five shots on goal and the team with the highest number of
successful goal sis
declared the winner. In other embodiments each team can take different number
of shots
such as but not limited to 3, 4, 6, 7 or more. If the scores are tied after
the mental shot
competition then the teams will continue taking mental shots under sudden-
death
regulations discussed in greater detail below.
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[0049] In one embodiment, teams can change sides of the arena at the end of
each
period. In further embodiments, the players are allowed to leave the playing
surface
during the intermission between periods. During the one-minute time-out
between
rounds players will be permitted to congregate on the playing surface or at
their
respective team benches 70. However, in one embodiment the players may not be
allowed to leave the arena 20 during the one-minute time-out period.
[0050] In one embodiment of the current invention, game play can be stopped
for
various reasons, such as but not limited to team timeouts, injury or
consultation with the
officials. Each team can have one team timeout per match which can last for
one minute.
During the timeout teams may congregate on the playing surface or at their
respective
team bench, but in one embodiment teams can be prohibited from leaving the
arena 20.
In order to take a team time-out, a team signals its intent to a match
official who must
then prevent play from restarting.
[0051] In one embodiment, a match referee can be provided to regulate the
game. A
match referee can be the default time-keeper but can delegate the duty to an
assistant
referee or an official time-keeper. In another embodiment, if the match
referee elects to
delegate time-keeping responsibility, the match referee remains responsible
for signaling
any stoppages to the new time-keeper.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, if time expires after the
match
referee has awarded a mental shot, then time shall be extended until the shot
has been
taken and either a goal is scored or the ball has rebounded off the backboard.
In another
embodiment, the match referee has the authority to discontinue the match at
any time if
the match referee believes that it would be dangerous to continue.
[0053] The team with the greater number of points at the end of the game wins.
One or
more points can be scored for a team when the ball passes through the opposing
teams
goal. In one embodiment, the players can pass the ball to team members in an
attempt to
move the ball closer to the goal. A pass can be an attempt to transfer
possession of the
ball from one player to another by throwing the ball using the game stick. In
the game
play method, an objective is to win the game by scoring the highest number of
points.
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[0054] Various different methods of scoring could be used in embodiments of
the
invention. In one embodiment, each ordinary goal is worth one point. In other
embodiments, each ordinary goal may be awarded any suitable defined number of
points.
In one embodiment, various conditions must be met for a goal to count. For
example, the
ball must pass completely into the goal for a goal to count. As a further
example, for a
goal to count, the ball must be delivered into the goal through the use of the
game play
stick described above. In such embodiments, if a player delivers the ball into
the goal
without use of the stick, then the opposing team will be awarded a free-throw
from the
spot nearest to where that player was located when the ball left the player's
possession.
In a further embodiment, if a player delivers the ball into their own team's
goal, with or
without use of the stick, then the goal will be credited to the opposing team.
In a further
embodiment, for a goal to count the ball must be delivered into the goal from
the
opposing team's side of the center line and not within the defensive zone.
[0055] In a further embodiment, bonus points can be awarded for scoring a goal
under
certain game play conditions. A goal can be worth more than an ordinary goal
(and for
example, may be worth multiple points, such as two points), if the opposing
team is
operating under a hot-time period, described below. If the player who scored a
current
goal also scored the latest previous goal, then the current goal can be worth
more than an
ordinary goal (and for example, may be worth multiple points, such as two
points). In
one embodiment a player who scores one goal is referred to as a hot-player and
any
additional goals scored by that player are worth more than an ordinary goal
(and for
example, may be worth multiple points, such as one or more additional points).
In
another embodiment, a goal scored as a result of a shot initiated in the wing
zones can be
worth more than an ordinary goal (and for example, may be worth multiple
points, such
as one additional point). Hot time ends when the period expires, after the hot
player as
scored another goal, after a goal is scored by another player on either team,
or when the
hot player is substituted.
[0056] In one embodiment, after a goal has been scored, the game can be
restarted by a
free-throw. In other embodiments a face off procedure can be used to restart
the game
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after a goal. If a free-throw is used to restart the game, then the free-throw
can be taken
by the non-scoring team from one of the two black points nearest to the goal
in which the
goal was scored. In one embodiment, the players on the scoring team should
stand on
their own side of the center line until the free-throw has been taken.
[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, a player can gain the
designation of
a special player by meeting certain requirements. A player who scores a goal
is
considered to be a special player. The special player can be referred to as
the "hot
player." Any goals scored by that player will be worth more than the normal
allocation
(such as, but not limited to, one point over the normal allocation) until one
of the
following occurs, at which time, the player's hot-time will expire, the period
ends, the
hot-player scores another goal, a goal is scored by another player from either
team or the
hot player is substituted out.
[0058] In embodiments of the current invention decisions made by the match
official
can be final and, in one embodiment may not be disputed. The match officials
can be a
match referee and one or more assistant referees, appointed by the match
organizers. If
the match referee is unable to complete the match, then the most senior
assistant referee
will be appointed as the new match referee for the duration of the match.
[0059] In one embodiment of the game play rules, the match referee can have
multiple
duties before the match that can include the coin toss or other procedures for
selecting a
side, ensuring that the arena 20 is safe, ensuring that the match ball meets
the ball
specification requirements and also ensuring that the players' attire meets
game
requirements.
[0060] In one embodiment of the present invention, prior to the beginning the
game, the
match referee can organize a coin toss before the match. In an example coin
toss, one
team player tosses a coin and the other team players chooses a side of the
coin. The team
players whose chosen side or declared side lands facing up is declared the
winner of the
coin toss. The team players involved in the coin toss can be team captains.
The winner
of the toss in one embodiment, is granted the right to choose which end of the
arena to
play from in the opening period. The winning team can inform the match referee
of their
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decision at least five minutes before the start of the match. Alternatively,
the match
referee can randomly assign teams to each end of the arena.
[0061] In one embodiment of the current invention, a player can be allowed to
shoot an
uninhibited shot at the goal from a particular location on the playing
surface. The shot
can be referred to as a mental shot. The mental shot is a free shot at the
goal, awarded by
the match referee, and taken by one player from within the central marking 34
or the
mental spot. A mental shot is awarded to a team when a player catches a ball
thrown by a
member of the same team and the catching player has at least one part of one
foot within
the mental spot.
[0062] However, in further embodiments, a mental shot may not awarded if the
ball is
caught from a free-throw. The player who caught the ball which resulted in the
mental
shot award must take the mental shot. If the catching player is injured in the
process of
catching, or is otherwise unable to take the mental shot, then play will
restart with a free-
throw from the mental spot. The team that was awarded the mental shot will
take the
free-throw. In one embodiment, during a mental shot the player must shoot at
the goal.
The player taking the mental shot must have both feet within the mental spot
when the
ball is released from the game play stick 10. The player taking the mental
shot must wait
until the match referee has blown the whistle to signal that play has begun
before taking
the shot. The mental shot ends if the ball leaves the mental spot.
[0063] Players on the opposing team can stand relatively still with their
hands by their
side until the mental shot has been taken. If the mental shot was successful
then there is
no penalty, but if the shot was not successful then it is retaken. In one
embodiment,
players on the opposing team must make no effort to distract the player taking
the mental
shot, through motion, sound, or otherwise. In further embodiments, players on
the
opposing team must not stand in the wedge in front of the goal being targeted
or in the
defensive zone under the goal being targeted until the mental shot has been
taken.
[0064] In embodiments of the present invention, the match referee can have
multiple
duties such as but not limited to, enforcing the rules of game in a fair and
impartial
manner, operating as a judge or the sole judge of fact and interpretation of
rules during a
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match, grant permission for medically trained persons to enter the playing
surface, record
the score, track the time, identify and time hot-players (discussed in greater
detail below),
stop the match following outside interference and ensure that no unauthorized
persons
enter the arena.
[0065] In further embodiments, an assistant referee can have various
responsibilities
during the match, such as but not limited to, assist the match referee as
required by the
match referee, and govern the penalty box. Moreover, the assistant referee can
also
inform the match referee of any incidents of foul which the match referee has
not seen,
advise the match referee when requested by the match referee and to
communicate with
the teams before and during the match, when asked by the match referee.
[0066] In further embodiments of the game, both the match referee and the
assistance
referee can consult with one another before making a decision. In further
embodiments,
to facilitate a faster communication the match referee and the assistant
referee may use a
telecommunication device, such as but not limited to a two-way radio, ham
radio or
cellular phone.
[0067] In one embodiment, if the ball contacts the match referee, then the
play can
continue as long as one side has not gained an advantage due to the contact.
However, if
one side gains an advantage from the contact, the referee can stop the play
and award a
free-throw (free-throw procedure will be discussed in greater detail below) to
the
disadvantaged side.
[0068] In one embodiment, the match referee can have a duty to communicate the
score
to a representative of both teams. However in other embodiments an electronic
score
board can be used to keep track of the score. The electronic score board can
be
controlled by the match referee or other authorized individuals who can be
instructed by
the match referee.
[0069] The player's conduct may be regulated by the match referee. The match
referee
regulates the player conduct by penalizing the player or the team. There are
multiple
penalty classes that can be used by the match referee. In one embodiment, the
match
referee is the sole judge of the severity of a foul and therefore in
determining the class of
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penalty which shall be awarded to a player or team as permitted by rule. In
yet another
embodiment the assistant referee or other authorized individuals can judge the
severity of
a foul and therefore determine or participate in determining the class of
penalty.
Penalties can be assessed as actual playing time and are divided into the
following
classes: free-throw, minor penalty, major penalty and serious misconduct.
[0070] When a free-throw class of penalty is declared, a free-throw can be
awarded to
the non-offending team. In another embodiment, a free-throw can be a least
severe
penalty class. A free-throw can be taken from the nearest break point or black
point to
the incident which resulted in the free-throw award as determined by one of
the referees.
In one embodiment, any player on the team that is awarded a free-throw may
take the
free throw. During the free throw procedure the player can attempt to pass the
ball and
not shoot directly at the goal from a free-throw penalty. However, if the free
throw
shooting player accidentally scores, then a free-throw is awarded to the
opposing team
from the same spot. During the free throw the players not taking the free-
throw must
stand at least two meters from the player taking the free-throw.
[0071] When the match referee declares a minor penalty, a mental shot can be
awarded
to the non-offending team. Any player from the non-offending team may take the
mental
shot. A minor penalty can the fourth least severe penalty. Misuse of a game
play stick
can be deemed a minor penalty. When the referee declares a major penalty, a
mental shot
can be awarded to the non-offending team. In other embodiments, the referee
can choose
between awarding a mental shot or a free throw for a minor penalty or a major
penalty.
In addition, an offending player can receive a penalty suspension for a
specified period of
time, such as, but not limited to one minute.
[0072] If the referee declares serious misconduct, then a mental shot can be
awarded to
the non-offending team. In addition, in one embodiment, the offending player
can
receive a penalty suspension for a specified period of time, such as, but not
limited to
three minutes, after which that player may be ejected from the game for any
subsequent
misconduct. In other embodiments, the player can receives more than three
minutes or
less than three minutes for a serious misconduct penalty.
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[0073] When a player receives a penalty suspension, the player can proceed
immediately to the penalty box. A penalty box is an area of the arena where
the players
serving temporary suspension can sit. A player in the penalty box is
considered to be on
the playing surface and so he may not be replaced by the offending team until
the
player's suspension has finished. A player in the penalty box may not leave
the penalty
box until given permission by a match official or until the period ends.
However, the
player can return to the play area of the play surface at the beginning of the
next period.
However, if the non-offending team scores a goal while an opponent is under
penalty
suspension then the player's suspension will immediately end.
[0074] A player who has been ejected from the game can immediately leave the
arena
20. This includes the playing surface, the penalty box, and the team bench.
Although the
player will not be physically in the penalty box, the player is still
considered as serving a
three minute penalty suspension and therefore may not be replaced until the
penalty
suspension period (for example, three minutes) has expired.
[0075] In one example embodiment of the current invention, a team may have no
more
than two players under suspension at any one time. If a third player receives
a penalty
suspension, then that player can be permanently replaced until the end of the
round and
the player's penalty suspension time will be added to the time of the player
in the penalty
box with the longest time yet to serve. If both players in the penalty box
have an equal
amount of time to serve, then the match official can randomly assign the
additional time
to either one of the players in the penalty box.
[0076] If the non-offending team scores a goal while players on the opposing
team are
serving concurrent penalty suspensions, then the suspension of the player with
the least
amount of time left to serve can end.
[0077] The referee can use any suitable variation of gestures to signal events
during a
match. A referee can use the signals that are preferred by the referee, so
long as they
communicate the same concept to each team and the audience. In one embodiment,
a
goal can be expressed as arms outstretched pointing to the goal in which the
points were
scored. In another example embodiment, a free-throw can be expressed as an arm
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outstretched pointing to the end of the arena that the team awarded the free-
throw is
playing toward.
[0078] The referee can signal a face-off by open palms held together. A minor
penalty
mental shot can be communicated by an arm bent with open hand positioned
behind the
ear then the arm straightened while pointing toward the goal at which the
mental shot will
be taken. Arms held laterally away from the body can represent a major
penalty. Serious
misconduct can be represented by arms crossed at the forearm above the head.
[0079] When a player takes more than the allowed number of steps, the match
referee
can signal by fists rotated in front of the body. To signal holding, the
referee can
outstretch arms in front of the chest and their pull them back into the body.
A holding
can be the act of restraining an opposing player by use of the hands or arms.
Obstruction
can be signaled by palms held facing out in front of the body. If a player has
illegal
contact with the ball below the waist, a foot swept back and forth can be the
signal for the
associated infraction or penalty. A player conducts an illegal contact with
the ball by
deliberately using a foot, leg, hands, or lower arm, to manipulate the ball.
[0080] If a player has illegal contact with the ball above the waist, the
referee can signal
that by fingers of one hand tapping against the palm of the other. Ball
holding can be
represented by the arms pulled down into the chest from a vertical position.
[0081] The match referee can signal an illegal pass by sweeping an arm back
and forth
to the side of his body. An illegal pass can be defined as intentionally
rolling or bouncing
the ball on the playing surface, or causing the ball to leave the game play
stick and then
initiating contact with the ball before it has been touched by a second
player.
[0082] An illegal re-entering of zone can be signaled by and open hand swept
back and
forth with fingers pointing away from his body. If the ball is unplayable, the
match
referee could signal by holding the knuckles of each fist together. To signal
time-
wasting, the referee can use an open palm taping the left wrist of the other
arm. The
misuse of the stick can be signaled by chopping the forearm in front of the
body.
[0083] An illegal tripping can be signaled by a knee lifted and hand moved in
a
slashing motion down the side of the shin. Tripping can be an act of using the
feet, stick,
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or hands, to cause another player to stumble or check their run. A punching
can be
signaled by first smacking an open palm. Punching can be an action of using
the fist or
elbow to intentionally hit an opponent. Kicking can be signaled by lifting one
foot
behind the body and tapping the ground with the toe. Kicking can be the act of
using the
foot or knee to intentionally hit an opponent. A dissent can be signaled by
and
outstretched hand opening and closing to mimic talking.
[0084] If a player sustains an injury and is bleeding, then the referee can
order that
player to leave the playing surface until the bleeding has stopped and the
wound has been
covered. Once play has been stopped in order to allow an injured player to
receive
treatment, that injured player can leave the playing surface before the game
has been
restarted. If a player is sufficiently injured and cannot continue to play,
then in one
embodiment, the game shall not be stopped until the injured player's team has
secured
possession of the ball. However, if the injured players' team has possession
of the ball at
the time of injury then the game can be stopped immediately by the match
referee. An
only exception to the possession rule can be when the match referee or an
assistant
referee judges that a player has sustained serious injury. In that event, the
referee or
assistant referee can stop the game immediately and instruct the appropriate
medical team
to enter the playing surface.
[0085] If the match referee believes that a player is sufficiently injured and
should no
longer play, then the referee can ban the player from the playing surface. The
match
referee also has the power to demand that a player leave the playing surface
to receive
medical attention.
[0086] During a match, different rules can apply to a player when in different
zones of
the playing surface. Different modes of play can apply within each zone. In
one example
embodiment, a player in the central zone who is in possession of the ball may
not run. If
a player receives the ball while running then the player should make every
effort to stop
as quickly as possible. Once a player has stopped, then the player is
permitted a preset
maximum number of steps such as, but not limited to three steps to assist the
player in
playing the ball. In further embodiments, the maximum steps must be taken in
quick
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succession. A player may, upon catching the ball on the run, choose not to
immediately
stop but instead attempt to play the ball or enter another zone. If the player
fails to enter
the other zone, then in one embodiment of the current invention, the player
has a
maximum of three steps in which the player must either pass, shoot, or
otherwise
surrender possession. In another example embodiment, a player may not be in
possession
of the ball for longer than five seconds in the central zone.
[0087] A player in the wing zone 30 can be mobile within the wing zones. A
player
may retain possession of the ball indefinitely within the wing zone. However,
if the
referee deems that a player is not attempting to gain an advantage to shoot or
deliver a
favorable pass then the player can be subject to a penalty for time wasting.
[0088] In one embodiment a player is considered to be in the zone that
contains the
largest portion of the player's body. In another embodiment, once a player in
possession
of the ball has left a zone, then the player may not return to that zone prior
to losing
possession of the ball. Violation of the above rule can lead to a free throw
penalty. If a
player in possession of the ball is forced to re-enter a zone due to the
movement of a
player from the opposing team, then the player in possession of the ball
should
immediately rid themselves of possession of the ball.
[0089] In one embodiment of the current invention, players and team officials
may not
dispute the decision of the match officials. A team official is any
representative of a team
who is permitted on the team bench but who is not eligible as a player in the
match.
Violation of this rule can lead to a major penalty. Players and team officials
may not
direct threatening or offensive language or gestures at the match officials
before, during,
or after the match. Players may not aggressively make contact, or use any
foreign object
to contact, the match officials, before, during, or after the game. Violation
of this rule
can lead to serious misconduct penalty. Players and team officials may not
interfere, or
attempt to interfere, in any manner with the duties of the match officials.
Players and
team officials may not intentionally attempt to deceive the match officials in
any way
during the course of their duties.
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[0090] Players and team officials may not direct threatening or offensive
language or
gestures at other players, team officials, or spectators, before, during, or
after the match.
Violation of this rule can lead to a major penalty. Players and team officials
may not
contact, or use any foreign object to contact other players, team officials,
or spectators at
any point before, during, or after the game in a violent manner.
[0091] Players should stop play immediately after hearing the match referee's
whistle
or receiving a match referees signal. Players may not throw the ball away or
otherwise
prevent a player from the opposing team from collecting the ball after hearing
the match
referees' whistle. A player is not permitted to deliberately trip an opposing
player by
using the feet, stick, or hands.
[0092] A player may not bring a game play stick into contact with another
player or
team official. A player may not bring a game play stick into contact with
another
player's stick. A player may not throw a stick. A player may not use a stick
to
intentionally hit any part of the arena floor or wall. A player may not use
their hands or
arms to hold or otherwise restrain a player from the opposing team. A player
may not
shield a teammate in possession of the ball from an opposing player or prevent
an
opposing player from contesting a loose ball. A ball is considered loose when
neither
team has possession or control of the ball. Obstruction can be shielding a
teammate in
possession of the ball or preventing an opposing player from fairly contesting
a loose
ball. A player may not kick the ball or deliberately trap the ball with the
player's feet or
legs. A player may not deliberately use any part of the player's arm below the
elbow to
contact the ball. A player may not roll or bounce the ball along the playing
surface. A
player may not pass the ball to themselves. Once the ball has left a player's
game play
stick, it must be touched by another player or another player's stick on
either team before
the passing player, or that player's game play stick, may contact the ball
again.
[0093] A player may not deliberately waste time or delay game play. In an
example
embodiment, time wasting can include a player in possession of the ball for a
defined
period of time while inside a wing zone. Time-wasting can be deliberately
trying to
delay the game or not engaging in the spirit of the sport with the purpose of
allowing time
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to pass on the game clock. A player may not deliberately shoot the ball out of
the arena.
If a player accidentally causes the ball to leave the arena then the opposing
team will be
awarded a free-throw from the spot nearest to where the player was standing
when the
player initiated the action that caused the ball to leave the arena.
[0094] A player may not repeatedly violate any rule regardless of the player's
intent. A
team may not repeatedly violate any rule, regardless of intent. A player may
not
participate in any act of bad sportsmanship.
[0095] In one embodiment, a ball is considered loose if neither team can be
said to have
possession or control of the ball. Any player may collect a loose ball. A
player may use
their hands to collect a loose ball if the ball is below the player's knee,
but the player
must immediately return the ball to the player's game play stick.
[0096] If the ball becomes wedged in the game play stick and is subsequently
unplayable then a player may use the palm of a hand to slap the ball into the
shaft of the
stick. This may be done above knee-height. Players contesting for a loose ball
may use
reasonable shoulder-to-shoulder contact with another player when contesting
for the ball.
[0097] In one embodiment of the current invention, acts contrary to good
sportsmanship can be defined as an action of trying to gain an advantage over
an
opponent by methods against the spirit of the sport.
[0098] In yet another embodiment, the game play stick can be used in a street
version
of the game. The street variations of the sport are variations that can be
self-regulated
and to encourage enjoyment, while not compromising the physically demand or
skill
aspects of the game.
[0099] Playing is performed by throwing the ball to other members of the
player's team
and trying to work the ball toward the opposition's end of the designated play
area.
When a player has possession of the ball, the player cannot run. In this
embodiment, if
the player is running when the ball is received then the player needs to stop
as soon as
possible, but the player is allowed to move one foot or to shuffle their feet
to help the
player pass the ball. In a street version game, the players can choose to
mimic some or
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all of the rules discussed above for the arena sport, for example, by using
three 15 minute
periods, and change of goals halfway through the game.
[0100] A first embodiment of the street version of the athletic sport is
described below.
To begin the game, eight marks or objects can be used to mark the four corners
of two
rectangular end zones. The end zones should be relatively equal in size and a
desired
distance apart.
[0101] As street version of the game can start by a face-off in the middle of
the street
arena. Two players stand back-to-back and someone puts the ball between their
shoulders. A designated person shouts `go' and then the players standing back-
to-back
are allowed to separate and compete for the ball. If the ball is loose (i.e.
bouncing
around on the floor) then the player can pick it up using a hand to return it
to the game
stick, so long as the ball is below knee-height. When competing for the ball,
a player
should not intentionally knock an opponent or the opponent's game stick out of
the way.
[0102] Catching the ball with one or more feet in the end-zone is sufficient
for the goal
to be awarded. Once a goal is scored the game is restarted by a free-pass for
the non-
scoring team from inside that team's own end-zone. In other embodiments, the
possession of the ball could be given back to the scoring team. Fouls can
result in the
non-offending team having a free-pass from where the foul took place.
[0103] In another embodiment, two objects of substantially equal size are hung
at each
end of the street arena to serve as the goals. These goals should of a
reasonable size and
unlikely to break when hit. The center of the street arena should be marked as
described
above by using a marking mechanism, such as but not limited to, paint, color,
powder or
other objects.
