Shuffleboard Tables – Game of Family Fun

Usually when we think about shuffleboard, it is the game that is played on cruise ships known as deck shuffleboard. However, the original game was played on a table beginning in 16th century England. It was a favorite for both young and old members of the family. As its popularity grew, it became a favorite of sailors, soldiers, and movie stars.

The early game of table shuffleboard was called “shrove groat” or “slide groat.” The groat was a large British coin worth about four pence. Later, the groat became a silver penny and the name changed to “shoe penny” or “shovel-penny.” Initially, it was thought that this was a game of chance but it was determined that it is a game of skill.

The modern version of shuffleboard on a table uses metal-and-plastic weighted pucks pushed down a long, smooth wooden table into the scoring area by hand. Shuffleboard tables are kept level but the manufacturer may create a slight slope which adds an extra challenge to the game. To decrease friction, shuffleboard tables are periodically sprinkled with tiny, sand-like beads of silicone.

The challenge is in scoring. Each player in a one-on-one game is given four pucks in an assigned color. The players take turns pushing their pucks or “weights” down the table into a scoring area. The key is to keep their puck from a bump-off and to bump opposing pucks from the board. If a puck does not pass the foul line closest to the player, it is removed from the round.

The rules are simple, but the game is challenging. It is not always easy to score or bump-off opponents. There are a number of organizations that regulate tournament play and rules may vary by country. Table Shuffleboard can be played one-on-one or by teams. The rules may vary for single play and team play.

It is important that your shuffleboard table be one that has been manufactured specifically for the game. Before purchasing your table, make sure you have the space required in an area suited for good game play.

Playing shuffleboard on a table is a game that family and friends will enjoy.