How to Make a Tether Ball Court

Some versions of tether ball play like dodge ball, tagging or dodging other team players. In order to play, a solid tetherball court is necessary to keep your energetic throws stable and safe. Not many tether ball courts are around anymore, but you can start a trend in your neighborhood by making your own tetherball court and hosting a game in your own backyard.

Things You'll Need

• 10- to12-foot long, 2" diameter, steel pipe
• 2-foot long (and slightly wider than 2" diameter) steel pipe
• Eyebolt with nut
• Drill and bit (made for drilling through metal)
• Concrete mix
• Tether ball, with rope

Instructions

1. Drill a hole through the pole. Use a drill capable of penetrating metal, and drill a hole about 4 inches from the top of the pole. Put the eyebolt in this hole.

2. Dig a hole in your backyard. Choose a spot with plenty of space, and find a spot with shade if possible. Dig a hole in your yard about 2 ½ feet deep, with at least a 2-foot diameter so the pole can fit in the hole. If you live in a windy area, dig a hole 3 feet instead of 2 ½ feet.

3. Set your tether ball base. Pour 6 inches of concrete into your hole. Let this settle a bit. Put your 2-foot long pipe in the center of the hole. Use your level to make sure the pipe is parallel to the ground. Add concrete to fill the remaining hole and around the pipe. You will need to find a way to hold the pipe in a level position until the concrete dries.

4. Slide the 10 to 12 foot pole into your tether ball base once the concrete dries. The tether ball pole should be a tight fit into your tether ball base pipe.

5. Attach the rope and ball. Tie the rope in the eyebolt and attach the rope to the latch on the ball. The tether ball comes with its own latch to hook to attach the rope.

Tips & Warnings

• Use 10" rope for taller players or the 12" rope for smaller players. Step back at least the length of the rope, when playing so the ball will not hit you.

• The pole is easy to take down if necessary.

• Play tether ball anytime of the year, under the shade in the summer, or bundled up warm in the winter.

• Be sure to understand the rules of the game. Different versions of tether ball may involve the ball hitting the player, similar to tag or dodge ball. If you do not want to participate in that version, ask your teammates to play another one.

• Be careful playing tether ball in wet weather. Be sure to wear good shoes with solid, gripping soles.

• Wear gloves when applying concrete to your tether ball base.