Section 3: Playing Area
The playing area is defined by the pole and a designated court space around it. While tetherball can be played on any flat surface, having a defined area ensures fair play and safety.
Court Dimensions
The court is typically a square or rectangular area centered around the pole. For standard play, the distance from the center of the pole to the boundary lines should be at least 10 feet. This gives players enough room to move and hit the ball without being too close to the pole or the sidelines. The court can be marked with chalk, tape, or painted lines on concrete or grass.
Pole Height
The height of the pole determines the length of the rope and the difficulty of the game. For children, a pole height of 8 to 10 feet is recommended. For adult or competitive play, the standard pole height is often 12 to 15 feet. The rope should be attached near the top of the pole, leaving a small amount of slack at the bottom when the ball is first served.
Surface
The surface should be flat and non-slip to prevent players from slipping while moving. Hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt are common in parks, but grass or artificial turf is preferred for safety to reduce the impact of falls. If playing on a hard surface, players should wear appropriate footwear with good traction.