American Croquet A Leisurely Game Of Skill And Social Charm

Whenever you hear balls and hoops, basketball is likely the first thing that comes to mind. But did you know that there’s another little-known sport that also involves putting balls in hoops, but with more flair and sophistication? 

Enter American Croquet. Admittedly, croquet was something that fascinated us from afar for many years. Call it a reaction to the Regencycore craze inspired by Bridgerton and Jane Austen’s upcoming 250th birthday, but we were recently inspired to give it a try. Turns out, this game is perfect for even the most casual garden gathering, plus we've found it can spark creativity! 

In an embrace of spirit of lawn games and garden lounging, guests at The Ferns can now enjoy a set and a cool drink in the back gardens. If it’s your first time hearing about it or you’re curious how it works, this guide covers a sport that blends social charm, leisurely fun, and gentlemanly sportsmanship. 

The thing to remember is this: it’s more fun that even the most discerning player may expect. If you’re visiting The Ville anytime soon, check to see if we have a game scheduled - we’d love to see you on the back lawn!  

The Origins of Croquet

Croquet is a lawn game believed to have originated in France during the 17th century. The early version, known as paille-maille or "pall-mall," involved hitting balls through hoops using a mallet. It eventually made its way to England, where it evolved into the more recognizable form played today. This is the version of the game you see in shows like Bridgerton. By the mid-19th century, croquet gained popularity among the British upper class for its elegance and social appeal. 

Unlike cricket, which involves bats, balls, and running between wickets, croquet is slower-paced and focuses more on precision than athleticism. It’s cricket vs croquet—with a completely different vibe. 

In the United States, croquet gained traction in the 1860s. American families enjoyed it as a fashionable and relaxing pastime, perfect for garden parties and backyard gatherings. By the late 1800s, croquet sets were widely available across the country. 

American Croquet and English Croquet

American croquet differs slightly from the European version. In the US, croquet often features multiple balls, a larger playing field, and an emphasis on skillful shot-making and tactics. Players typically enjoy either six wicket croquet or nine-wicket croquet. Both involve maneuvering balls through a series of wickets in a specific order to scoring points. Standard American croquet uses nine wickets, while the six wicket variation uses fewer. Wondering how many wickets in croquet? It depends on the version you’re playing. 

English croquet tends to have a more formal structure with precise, controlled shots on smaller courts and more refined rules.

Croquet in the United States Today

So, is croquet a sport? Absolutely. While it may seem like a garden game at first glance, croquet is a sport governed by skill, timing, and strategy—especially at the competitive level. Croquet in the US now enjoys a niche but passionate following. It’s both a casual backyard game and a serious competitive sport. Regional and national tournament play are becoming more popular. 

The United States Croquet Association (USCA), established in 1977, oversees over 400 member clubs and approximately 3,500 members nationwide. The organization maintains the official USCA rules used in formal matches.

In Texas, croquet continues to grow, with clubs like the Houston Croquet Association leading the way. Many Americans play informal matches based on backyard croquet rules passed down through generations. For competitive games, players follow the official croquet rules outlined by the USCA. 

Croquet is more than a pastime—it’s a game of skill, tradition, and connection. Whether you're playing competitively or setting up for a leisurely backyard game, it offers a timeless way to unwind and engage.  -The Ferns

Cultural Relevance of Croquet 

Croquet also fosters social gatherings and community building. Conversations flow alongside gameplay. The croquet sport is inclusive, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels. 

Its renewed popularity reflects a larger movement toward rediscovering vintage and outdoor pastimes. Nostalgic images and short clips of croquet game frequently appear on social media. As with many traditional sports, court etiquette plays an important role, promoting respect and smooth gameplay. 

Now, for the moment you’ve been waiting for: 

How to play — below we share simple croquet rules, including how to setup the proper croquet game layout, how many balls in croquet, and a few croquet customs.  

And, if you’re so inspired to see croquet, check out The United State Croquet Association for upcoming games in the US.

How to Play Croquet

Still wondering: what is croquet? Yes, it’s a leisurely pastime and a sport with mallet and ball that blends strategic thinking with outdoor fun. It’s also a fun and easy way to get people together for a social gathering -outside- to share stories, have a few laughs, and make new memories. 

Often described as a game where you hit balls through arches, croquet is simpler to learn than you might expect—but rich with nuance once you begin to master it. 

Game Objective

Players aim to score by hitting their designated balls through a series of wickets—also called arches—in a set sequence before striking the central peg to complete the game. The player or team that completes the course first wins. 

Croquet Equipment with Rack

Croquet Equipment

• Balls: Casual matches typically use four colored balls—red, blue, yellow, and black.   

• Mallets: Each player uses a wooden or composite mallet to strike their ball.   

• Wickets: Nine U-shaped brackets --aka, wickets-- are arranged in a specific pattern, depending on the game variation. At The Ferns, we enjoy the more casual Backyard, 9-wicket version of croquet.   

• Peg: The final target to complete the round. This is usually a striped stake.

Common Layout of Backyard Croquet [source: Oakley Woods]

Croquet Field Setup

• Croquet Court Dimensions: A standard court is usually 100 feet by 50 feet for American croquet, though casual games may use a smaller lawn area. 
  

• Wicket Layout: Wickets are arranged in a double-diamond pattern for nine-wicket play or a more compact format for Six-Wicket Croquet, often used in competitive matches. 
  

• Players: Two to four players, each with a unique ball. 
  

• Starting Position: Balls begin near a designated stake. 

Turn Order 

Players take turns in a preset order—often determined by coin toss. In doubles, teams alternate strokes. Double banking may be used when two games share one court, with etiquette ensuring smooth play for all. 

Basic Gameplay 

Players take turns using their mallet to hit their striker ball through the wickets in the correct order. Each successful pass earns a point, contributing to scoring wickets. After passing through all wickets, the final goal is to hit the peg. If a player hits another ball, known as a croquet, it allows for a croquet shot followed by a continuation shot—enabling a run of plays, also known as a break. A skilled player may aim for an all round break, planning several consecutive scoring opportunities in a single turn. 

Scoring in Croquet

• Wickets: One point per successfully completed wicket in order. 
  

• Pegging Out: One point for hitting the central peg after all wickets are completed. 
  

• Extra Turns: Earned after a successful roquet or clearing a wicket. 

Advanced Scoring Elements

• Bisques: In handicap play, players may receive bisques—bonus strokes used to level the playing field. 
  

• Deadness: A player becomes "dead" on a ball they’ve already roqueted until clearing the next wicket. 
  

• Deadness Board: Used in tournaments to track which balls each player is currently dead on. 

Types of Croquet Shots

Different shots make the game dynamic and tactical. Here are the basics: 

• Standard Shot: A regular strike to move the ball forward. 

  
  

• Roquet: Hitting another player’s ball (a legal move under croquet rules hitting another ball), earning an extra shot. 

  
  

• Croquet Shot: Following a roquet, the striker places their ball next to the other and hits both. 

  
  

• Continuation Shot: A bonus shot awarded after a successful roquet.

Common Fouls and Violations

Knowing the rules helps keep the game fair and fun. Here are a few common missteps: 

• Wrong Ball: Hitting an opponent’s ball instead of your own results in a lost turn. 

  
  

• Wrong Wicket: Going through the wrong wicket means returning to the last correct one. 

  
  

• Missed Shot: A missed attempt forfeits the turn. 

  
  

• Double Hit: Hitting the ball twice in one stroke is a fault and ends the turn.

• Out of Bounds: Knocking a ball out of bounds also results in forfeiting the turn. 

Winning the Game

A player or team wins by passing all wickets in the correct order and striking the central peg. In team games, both players must complete the croquet course before claiming victory.

Croquet Strategy

Croquet strategy is where elegance meets intellect. It’s more than hitting a ball—it’s about understanding the rhythm of play and planning several strokes ahead. Each turn offers a chance to build a break, a sequence of smart moves that keep you in control. 

• Positioning: Place your ball strategically to line up the next wicket or disrupt your opponent’s path.  

  
  

• Clearing: Knock away your opponent’s ball to deny them easy access.  

  
  

• Blocking Wicket: Use your ball to shield the hoop and delay your opponent.  

  
  

• Defensive Tactics: Sometimes, the smartest move is a defensive one—placing your ball where it disrupts others without advancing your own score.  

  
  

• Offensive Tactics: Aggressive play can result in a successful all round break, where a skilled player scores multiple scoring wickets in one fluid turn.

• Double Banking Considerations: In tournament or club settings, double banking—two games sharing a court—adds an extra layer of awareness and strategy, requiring players to respect timing and space. 

  
  

Whether you're playing Six-Wicket Croquet or casual backyard nine-wicket, success relies on tactical thinking. Balancing risk with opportunity, knowing when to strike and when to wait, separates casual players from seasoned ones. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Croquet 

Where can I find a croquet rules PDF?

Download official rules from the or recreational sites for simplified versions United States Croquet Association (USCA)  

What does a six wicket croquet court diagram look like? 

A six wicket court diagram shows a smaller layout used in competitive play. Visual references are available on the USCA website.  

Is there a croquet set up diagram?

Yes, there are many variation on how to setup your croquet court. Basic diagrams are available online and show how to arrange wickets, balls, and the central peg. 

We've found this layout by Oakley Woods to be a good start.

Also, this layout by Midwest Croquet is most helpful with measuring, if you choose to follow standard spacing.

How many croquet balls are used in croquet?

Most casual games use four—red, blue, yellow, and black. Other versions may use more. 

How many croquet wickets are there?

American croquet uses nine wickets; six- wicket croquet uses six. The number depends on the variation.  

Why are there rules in croquet?

Croquet rules keep the game fair, consistent, and fun—especially important in tournament settings. Also, it's a way to earn bragging rights!