How to Play Tramp-Ball

Invented over a decade ago and currently played worldwide by about 7 people, tramp-ball is proving to be a late bloomer in the arena of popular sports. Its lack of renown is surprising considering the game is fun for all ages, requires minimal coordination and is played exclusively on a trampoline. The rules are similar to those of beach volleyball, except you won't get covered in sand and you likely won't find Iceman or Maverick playing it in cut-off denim.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A large trampoline (rectangle or circular)
• A climbing rope
• A mini-basketball
• 2 competitors

1. Suspend the rope around 9 feet above the trampoline so that it divides the trampoline in half. The height of the rope will be dependent on the size of the players; no one should be able to stand on the trampoline and touch the rope, however, when bouncing, each player should be able to reach over the rope easily. Suspending the rope can be done by attaching it to nearby trees or by installing hooks in the side of a house.
2. Choose which side of the trampoline each player will defend. Only 2 players can play at a time but tournaments are encouraged.
3. Decide how many points you want to play to. 5 points is a great place to start.
4. Once the 2 competitors are on their respective sides, begin to jump in unison. Both players will count out 3 synchronized bounces and the game begins.
5. One player lobs the ball over the rope. The receiver must catch the ball and throw it back over before touching the trampoline.
6. Earn points by forcing your opponent to touch the trampoline while holding the ball or by causing the ball to touch the trampoline on your opponent's side.
7. Once a point has been earned, the players begin the synchronized jump again and the ball is put back into play.

Tips & Warnings

• Spiking is not allowed, however, you can drop the ball just over the rope.
• You can bounce your opponent by landing directly before him on the trampoline, this can cause him to either miss his grab at the ball or send him sailing into the yard.
• Misdirection is a great trick to utilize during tramp-ball. If you have enough time in the air with the ball, pump-fake in one direction and then throw it to the other side.
• Jumping on a trampoline brings with it an inherent risk of injury. Always stay away from the springs, and never jump off.
• Always take the rope down when done playing tramp-ball; it's easy to catch a limb and get tangled.
• Stretch your back before playing, constantly looking up while bouncing is hard on your neck and back.