Imagine a game that requires the strategic teamwork of hockey, lacrosse, and basketball. Throw in whiffle balls. Put all the players in bumper cars to amp up the excitement, and you have WhirlyBall. This unique activity is making waves in the recreational games scene, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
What is Whirlyball?
Whirlyball is a unique team sport that blends elements of basketball, hockey, lacrosse, and jai alai, played while riding small electric vehicles similar to bumper cars known as “Whirlybugs.” The objective is to score points by getting a whiffle ball into the opposing team’s goal using handheld scoops
The genius of WhirlyBall is how it seamlessly and imaginatively combines elements from various sports to create something new. In this action-packed game, players race around in their WhirlyBugs, wielding lacrosse-like scoops to pass a whiffle ball and shoot it at an elevated target, trying to score points against the opposing team. The team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
How To Play Whirlyball
One reason so many people have taken to WhirlyBall is that the basic rules are easy to grasp. The game is immediately accessible to new players, while more experienced players enjoy its strategic depth. Below is a breakdown of the gameplay’s basics.
The Court
Two teams of five players face off on a WhirlyBall court. At each end of the court are the goals — targets that hang 10 feet from the floor. Think of them as basketball hoops with no rim.
Equipment
Players use a scoop to pick up and throw the whiffle ball, passing it between teammates and launching it at the opponent’s goal. Players zip around the court in WhirlyBugs. These are specially modified electric bumper cars. All WhirlyBugs have a set maximum speed of 4 mph to ensure all players are on an even playing field.
Objective
The objective is simple — use your scoop to launch the ball into the opposing team’s goal. This is how your team scores points. Typically, games have a 10-minute time limit, and whichever team has scored the most points at the end wins.
Gameplay Mechanics
WhirlyBall games are fast-paced and exciting. Players maneuver their WhirlyBugs around the court to get into position for their teammates or strategically block opponents. Successfully block an opponent’s attack, and you can scoop up the whiffle ball and fire it toward the goal. Strategy often comes down to the right balance of offense and defense.
How Much Does It Cost To Play WhirlyBall?
The cost of a game can vary depending on the location, day of the week, and duration of your session. Venues typically have set prices for individual sessions or group bookings, and they might offer party packages or other discounts.
For example, WhirlyBall Chicago has pricing per hour, per court, for a minimum of four players and up to 10. The basic hire fee if you book online is $250 per hour, subject to service fees and taxes, and includes a 10-minute rules and safety briefing. The venue also accepts walk-ins, subject to availability, and charges $15 per person for a half hour or $30 per person for a full hour.
If you want to find the best deals when booking your WhirlyBall experience, consider the following:
- Look for weekday deals: Lots of WhirlyBall locations offer discounted rates if you book games during weekdays or outside of peak hours.
- Ask about group discounts: It can depend on the venue, but booking and playing in a large group can often be cheaper. For example, 10 walk-ins for an hour’s play at WhirlyBall Chicago would cost $300, but booking a court for your group for an hour would only cost $250.
- Look for package deals: Venues may offer package deals that include game time, food, and drinks. If you’re booking WhirlyBall for a large group or for a special occasion, package deals can often be the most cost-effective option.
There may be additional costs for equipment rental or membership fees, depending on the venue, but most locations provide you with all the necessary equipment for your game. It’s best to ask your local WhirlyBall venue for specific prices and check its website for any discounts or promotions.
Where Can I Play WhirlBball in Chicago?
WhirlyBall enthusiasts in Chicago can check out WhirlyBall Chicago. This venue offers a state-of-the-art WhirlyBall court, along with private rooms and an extensive food and drink menu. It’s the perfect location for casual games, corporate events, and birthdays. WhirlyBall Chicago even offers WhirlyBall weddings. The venue’s details are listed below:
- Address: 1825 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, IL 60614
- Phone number: 773-486-7777
- Website: https://www.whirlyball.com/book-now-chicago
You can book by phone or through the website. Bookings can only be made a maximum of three days in advance, excluding those for group events.
The Unique Appeal of WhirlyBall
There are a lot of exciting recreational activities out there. What sets WhiryBall apart is that it’s such a great blend of sporting strategy, physical competition, and pure fun. Driving a bumper car around taps into a pure, almost child-like joy. By looking to sports such as basketball, lacrosse, and soccer for inspiration, WhirlyBall offers an experience that appeals to a wide range of people.
It’s also a very teamwork-driven game. The key to success is communicating clearly with your teammates. Working together to strategize and outmaneuver your opponents makes victory all the sweeter. The collaborative aspect of WhirlyBall also fosters camaraderie and strengthens team bonds.
The real beauty of WhirlyBall, though, lies in its accessibility. The rules are easy to understand, meaning players of all ages and abilities can pick up the game. It’s also not physically demanding to the point where there’s a barrier to people joining in. And previous sports experience won’t give much of an advantage, so casual players can compete against seasoned athletes. WhirlyBall provides a challenging but enjoyable experience for everyone.
Refuel At Perquod’s Pizza After Your Next Game
After an intense and exhilarating game of WhirlyBall, you’ll need to refuel, and there’s no better place than Pequod’s Pizza. Pequod’s Pizza is renowned for its deep-dish pizza with a caramelized crust, making it the perfect reward after an energetic game. Also, with ample seating and a menu that caters to groups, it’s an ideal spot for team celebrations and post-game camaraderie. Its convenient location near WhirlyBall Chicago makes it an easy and accessible choice to grab a meal without going out of your way. Combine the thrill of WhirlyBall with the satisfaction of a meal at Pequod’s Pizza for an unforgettable day in Chicago.
Image courtesy of Flickr