Eton Fives
Eton Fives is a quick, skilful doubles game where players take it in turns to hit a small hard ball against a wall using a gloved hand. The game was invented in the 19th century by schoolboys at Eton College who played it whilst waiting to go into the Chapel. It has similarities to handball and squash and is played on a three-sided court but uniquely the court includes hazards such as ledges, a buttress and a step which players must hit around.
Teams must alternate hitting the ball above a ledge on the front wall (similar to squash). Players can volley, spin, slice or hit the ball with power to ensure the ball does not bounce more than once. This continues until one team make a mistake and lose the rally. Teams win a set when they get 12 points. One of the great features of the game is that the ball can bounce off the ledges and walls and ping off in many directions. It is great for training your hand eye coordination skills and makes the game very exciting.
A unique aspect of Eton Fives is the fact that the game is played with no umpire or referee, even at the highest level of the game. It encourages honesty, good sportsmanship and integrity.
Original court
Today this fun unisex sport for all ages is reaching new audiences. It is a very social sport, played in pairs which makes it very popular among groups of friends. It is a game for people of all backgrounds, a game of smart tactics and quick hands and it also provides a good workout.
There are 40 centres where Eton Fives is played in the UK, many with clubs you can join attached. If you’d like to find out if there is one in your are please see the link : https://www.etonfives.com/the-game/etonplaying or contact us at info@etonfives.com. It is very easy to learn and pick up. You can even start to practice with a tennis ball against a wall (as long as you have permission to play there!).
With thanks to Eton Fives Association for the use of imagery and video in this article.
