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The Rise of Croquet: A Sport for Everyone

by Tom Tyler | Feb 27, 2025 | Croquet

Croquet: A Growing Phenomenon

Croquet is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, drawing players of all ages and skill levels. Unlike many other sports, croquet is both competitive and social, offering a unique blend of strategy and accessibility. Whether for friendly backyard matches, competitive tournaments, or a leisurely game at Burlingame’s well-kept lawns, croquet provides an enjoyable way to socialize while engaging in an outdoor activity.

A Sport for Everyone

One of croquet’s greatest strengths is its inclusivity. Unlike many sports that require intense physical exertion, croquet is accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Men and women compete on equal footing, and the game’s social nature makes it a favorite for gatherings, from family-friendly matches to organized club play. The lack of physical barriers allows players to focus on skill and strategy rather than athleticism, making it a game that truly anyone can enjoy.

Croquet is also known for fostering a sense of community. Many clubs and social groups revolve around the sport, providing opportunities for new friendships and meaningful connections. Whether played recreationally or in a competitive setting, croquet promotes camaraderie, patience, and good sportsmanship. Additionally, its relaxed pace allows for conversation and interaction, making it an ideal activity for social events. Many communities, such as Burlingame, have embraced croquet as a way to bring people together, and organizations like Community Finder have recognized its increasing appeal by listing Burlingame Country Club among the top master-planned communities with USCA regulation croquet lawns.

The History of Croquet

Croquet’s roots trace back to 13th-century France, where individuals fashioned mallets and wooden balls to play a primitive version of the game. By the 19th century, croquet had evolved into a structured pastime, first gaining traction in Ireland before making its way to England in the 1850s. A sporting goods manufacturer, John Jaques, helped popularize the game by producing and selling croquet sets, leading to its widespread adoption among the British upper class.

As croquet spread across British colonies and beyond, it became a favored social activity, particularly among young Victorian women who enjoyed the opportunity to mingle away from chaperones. Though its popularity waned with the rise of lawn tennis, croquet found renewed interest in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States. The game has since grown into a recognized competitive sport, with professional-grade equipment and governing organizations such as the United States Croquet Association overseeing tournaments. Today, croquet is played in over 20 countries, and its competitive scene continues to expand.

Learning How to Play Croquet

While there are multiple variations of croquet, the most common forms include nine-wicket backyard croquet and the more competitive six-wicket version. Players take turns hitting their ball through a set course of wickets, aiming to score points while also strategically blocking opponents. The game is easy to grasp but requires precision and strategy to master, making it appealing for both casual and competitive players.

For those looking to advance their skills, six-wicket croquet offers a more structured, competitive experience. Played on a regulation lawn with precise wickets and weighted balls, this version emphasizes strategic shot placement and defensive play. Whether enjoying a relaxed match with friends or competing in an organized event, croquet offers a rewarding experience for players of all levels.

Golf Croquet is yet another version of croquet. The equipment is the same, the order of wickets is the same, but only one ball goes through any one wicket, earning its shooter one point. The players advance to the next wicket, with a winning score usually being the first player or team to achieve seven points. Many clubs teach this form of the game first. Players can play immediately and think more about shot-making than the more complex game of Six Wickets.

Croquet’s combination of strategy, accessibility, and social appeal makes it a standout pastime. From casual backyard play to high-level competition, the game continues to capture the interest of players worldwide. As more communities recognize its value, croquet is sure to remain a beloved sport for years to come.

Burlingame: The Place to Play Croquet

As croquet continues to grow in popularity, more communities are incorporating dedicated playing areas. Burlingame Country Club, for example, boasts well-maintained croquet lawns that provide residents and visitors with a perfect setting to enjoy the game. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn, a casual player enjoying a friendly match, or a seasoned competitor seeking a challenge, Burlingame Country Club provides an exceptional venue for croquet.

Bring your best game to our meticulously manicured, regulation-size croquet lawn. Enjoy interclub play, take a lesson, compete in a tournament, or root on your friends. Click here to learn more and join us at Burlingame Country Club for your next winning croquet game!

Mastering Pickleball: 7 Game-Changing Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Play

by Jennifer Webb | Feb 5, 2025 | Pickelball

Unlock Your Potential on the Court

Pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a strategic and dynamic sport that requires skill, precision, and smart decision-making, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than at Burlingame. Whether you’re a beginner looking to level up or an experienced player refining your technique, improving your game takes dedication and the right approach. Here are seven essential tips that helped transform my skills from a 3.0 to a 3.5 player, and they can do the same for you.

1. Prioritize Drills Over Games

While playing full matches is undoubtedly more fun, true improvement comes from drilling. The best players dedicate 80-90% of their court time to practice drills, only playing games for the remaining 10-20%. Drilling allows you to focus on repetition and muscle memory, ensuring you master key shots like the third-shot drop much faster than you would in a standard match.

To keep things engaging, turn drills into friendly competitions with your partner by keeping score or setting challenge-based goals. This adds a game-like intensity to your practice while honing essential techniques.

2. Hit with Purpose

Instead of reacting aimlessly, every shot you take should have intention behind it. Before hitting, ask yourself:

Am I targeting my opponent’s weakness, like their backhand dink?
Can I strategically move them around the court?
What’s my highest-percentage shot in this moment?

Training yourself to think ahead will enhance your shot accuracy and decision-making, giving you the upper hand during competitive play.

3. Use Wall Drills for Solo Practice

If you don’t have a practice partner, a simple wall can be your best training tool. Mark a line at about 34-36 inches high and use it as a target for your shots. Start with backhand volleys, focusing on clean contact in the center of your paddle, then switch to forehands.

This drill may seem straightforward, but it’s more challenging than it looks. Maintaining a steady rhythm while keeping the ball in play will push your coordination and reaction time to the next level.

4. Keep Your Eye on the Ball

Many players rely on peripheral vision when hitting, which often results in mishits. Instead, train yourself to track the ball all the way to the point of contact. The ‘sweet spot’ at the center of your paddle offers the best control and power, creating a trampoline effect for a stronger shot.

Losing sight of the ball can lead to errors like hitting too close to the paddle’s edge or missing entirely. Focus, and your precision will dramatically improve.

5. Perfect Your Grip

The right grip makes all the difference. Most players use the ‘continental’ grip, also known as the ‘handshake grip,’ as it offers stability and flexibility for various shots. To achieve this grip, hold your paddle with your non-dominant hand and shake hands with it as if greeting someone. Imagine holding a hammer, and you’ll naturally fall into the proper positioning.

6. Stay Low and Ready

Pickleball is all about quick reflexes and strong defensive positioning. To stay agile, maintain an athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and a slight bend in your knees.

When at the net, lower yourself into a squat to reach those crucial dink shots and prevent the ball from bouncing. If your opponent is preparing for an overhead smash, take a step back, lower your body, and get your paddle into a defensive position to return low shots effectively.

7. Play Smart: High-Percentage Shots Win Games

Pickleball isn’t about flashy, low-percentage shots—it’s about consistency and patience. A solid player only takes shots they can reliably make at least 80% of the time.

Even professional players avoid risky shots unless they’ve mastered them in drills. A lower-rated player can defeat a stronger opponent simply by making fewer mistakes and maintaining a steady, calculated approach.

Take Your Skills to the Next Level at Burlingame Country Club

At Burlingame Country Club, you have the perfect opportunity to put these game-changing pickleball tips into action on our four premier courts. Whether you’re drilling to refine your technique, practicing wall shots for improved control, or honing your grip and stance, these strategies will help you elevate your game. Use these expert-approved techniques to enhance your precision, speed, and decision-mak

Experience Pickleball Excellence at Burlingame Country Club

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, play for fun, or compete in tournaments, Burlingame Country Club offers the perfect setting to enjoy pickleball. With four state-of-the-art courts, you can rally with friends, challenge yourself in competitions, or refine your game with personalized lessons from our experienced Lawn Sports Professional. Click here to learn more and join us and take your pickleball journey to the next level!