Patent Application
20210299549
The instant disclosure relates to an inline skating sports game. In one embodiment, the instant disclosure relates to an inline skating sports game with a field of play, a ball, and goals.
Inline skating has been around since the late 1970s, with significant increases in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. Soccer (i.e., football outside the United States) has been around for at least hundreds of years and football (i.e., American football) and basketball have also been around for over 100 years. Soccer usually has a rectangular goal (of various sizes, depending on the size of the field). Soccer also has a discipline system that involves yellow and red cards being given to players for the commission of fouls and serious fouls. Basketball involves a round ball that can be dribbled and passed with the hands. Football has versions of the game (i.e., “touch” football) where tackling involves removing a flag from a belt (or similar device) instead of physically tackling. Basketball and football both can have a shot clock in some versions of the game.
The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate the present field and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.
The instant disclosure relates to a method comprising A) providing a field of play, wherein the field of play includes a first goal net, a first goal area proximate the first goal net, a first goal pad inside the first goal area and proximate the first goal net, a second goal net, a second goal area proximate the second goal net, a second goal pad inside the second goal area and proximate the second goal net, a game ball, a safety zone marking adjacent a perimeter of the field of play, B) placing, in the field of play, a first goalie with a first team proximate the first goal net and wearing shoes, three forwards with the first team, each of the forwards wearing a flag belt of a first color and inline skates or roller skates, three defenders with the first team, each of the defenders wearing a flag belt of a first color and inline skates or roller skates, a second goalie with a second team proximate the second goal net, three forwards with the second team, each of the forwards wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates or roller skates, three defenders with the second team, each of the defenders wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates or roller skates, and C) moving, in the field of play the three forwards and the three defenders of the first team and the three forwards and the three defenders of the second team, where the game ball is possessed by the first team or the second team, where the defender or the forward of the first team or the defender or the forward of the second team can possess the game ball, causing the first team or the second team to an offensive team and the other team without the game ball to be a defensive team, where the offensive team attempts to score a goal by causing the game ball to pass into the first or the second goal net and the defensive team attempts to prevent the goal by defending the first or the second goal net, where the offensive team may move the game ball by pass between the forwards and the defenders in any combination or where the defender or the forward with the game ball may skate while dribbling the game ball.
In one embodiment, a method of playing a game with a game ball, the game comprises the steps of (a) providing a playing surface that is generally rectangular with rounded corners having a length dimension of approximately 200 feet or less and a width dimension of approximately 85 feet or less; (b) providing a pair of opposing goal nets, each associated with one of the ends of the playing surface such that each goal net defines a scoring area above said playing surface; (c) providing a first team and a second team of players, each team alternatively having possession of the game ball and having an objective to score points by throwing or kicking the game ball into the goal net; (d) providing the first team and the second team each include six players and a goalie, where each of the six players wear inline skates and each of the goalies does not wear inline skates; and (e) providing a barrier around the playing surface for deflecting the game ball toward the playing surface where players from the first team and the second team are free to collect the game ball after deflecting off the barrier.
In another embodiment, a goal apparatus for an inline skating sports game, the goal apparatus comprises a rectangular goal net and an opening perpendicular to a field of play; a first plurality of secondary goal nets, wherein the first plurality of secondary goal nets are within the rectangular goal net; and a second plurality of secondary goal nets, wherein the second plurality of secondary goal nets are not within the rectangular goal net.
The foregoing and other aspects, features, details, utilities, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from reading the following description and claims, and from reviewing the accompanying drawings.
Several embodiments an inline skating sports game and methods of play are disclosed herein. In general, the inline skating game is an ultra-fast inline skating game with dynamic and multifaceted scoring opportunities, inventive and endless ball passing possibilities, and a free-wheeling inline skating sports showcase of unparalleled athletic skills. Details of the various embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with specific reference to the figures.
The inline skating sports game achieves the fast pace and high levels of action three primary ways: (1) establishment of Code of Conduct rules designed to prohibit defensive players from physically impeding offensive players; (2) elimination of Floor Line rules and Gameplay rules that stop/limit offensive play-making; (3) establishment of a series of Quick Re-Start rules (QRS) after very event that triggers a Change of Possession (COP) between teams, in order to facilitate a continuous state of play at all times. These QRS rules initiate an immediate restart in play after goals, penalties, rules violations, tag turnovers (i.e., T/TO—Tag/Turn-Over rules—see below for more information) and for those instances when the game ball (e.g., ball) goes out of play into the stands or into the player's bench.
(1) Some of the rules that are in place in the inline skating sports game herein include that defensive players are not permitted to physically tackle, grab, check, push, hold, trip, shove etc. the offensive players and the prohibition of a zone defense in order to prohibit the defensive team from intentionally arranging themselves in front of their own goal net, thereby effectively creating a human wall in an effort to prevent the offensive team from scoring (see below for more information on these rules).
(2) Other rules that some popular games include that are not part of the rules of the inline skating sports game include various Floor Lines rules and Gameplay rules that effectively hinder the offensive team's objective of scoring goals: offsides—which prevents the offensive players from getting down the rink towards the opposing goal net faster than the defensive players (hockey, soccer, American football); icing—which prevents the offensive team from passing the puck all the way down the ice towards the other teams goal net (hockey), three-second lane violation rule, five second inbounds rule, eight second backcourt rule, over and back half court rule (all basketball rules)—all of these Floor Line and Gameplay rules are designed to help the defensive team prevent the offensive team from scoring.
(2) Other rules that are common in popular sports game that are not part of the rules of the inline skating sports game include various rules that limit the use of certain body parts that players are allowed to use in order to facilitate game play. In basketball, players are not allowed to use their legs or feet to pass the ball or score goals. In hockey and soccer, players are not allowed to use their hands or arms to pass the ball or score goals. There are no such limitations in this inline skating sports game and players are free to use all of their hands, feet, legs, chest, head, shoulders and any other body parts to facilitate game play.
(2) All of these rules mentioned above are very common in the most popular sports leagues in the United States such as the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL), and the National Football League (NFL) Major League Soccer (MLS), and the National Football League (NFL).
(2) The results of all these very common Floor Line rules and Gameplay rules mentioned above is that there are constant stoppages to the game. In the NBA the average amount of game stoppages is over 40 times per game just for fouls, plus additional stoppages for other rules violations and for the ball going out of bounds. In the NHL, game stoppages occur on the average 81 times per game. In the MLS, there is an average of 75 stoppages per game. In the NFL there is a game stoppage after every single play in order to allow both teams to reset their players plus additional stoppages for penalties, out of bound plays, and touchdowns.
By eliminating these cumbersome rules you get a sport that is much faster, has high scoring, has creative ball passing, and ultimately is a much more exciting sports game than any other sport in existence.
(3) A third feature of the inline skating sports game that promotes fast and continuous gameplay is the Change of Possession (COP) rules and the correlating Quick Re-Start rules (QRS). The COP rules and QSR rules are instrumental in effecting every facet of the game in order to achieve the desired result of the fastest and most exciting sports game ever invented with the least amount of game stoppages possible. (COP and QRS are described in much greater detail further on.)
(3) In addition to the Floor Lines rules and Gameplay rules previously mentioned above, today's sports have 3 additional very common situations that combine to create even more stoppages in play. (1) a goal is scored, (2) the enforcement of the penalties and rule violations, and (3) the Game Ball goes out of bounds . In scenarios (1 & 2) the stoppage in play creates a situation in which gameplay is typically resumed only after the orchestration of a set play that is administered by the game officials and that is “neutral in nature” in that it gives both teams an equal opportunity of gaining possession of the ball. In scenario (3) gameplay is typically resumed by the orchestration of a set play by the offensive team from the out of bounds location.
(3) In this inline skating game there are 3 different QRSs that are initiated immediately following a COP that allows for continuous gameplay throughout the entire duration of the competition. (1) Scoring a Goal is similar to basketball in that the Goalie acts as the inbounds passer to facilitate the continuous gameplay. (2) When there are penalties and rule violations continuous gameplay is accomplished by the Tag/Turnover rules (T/TO) which allows requires the player that is in possession of the ball at the time of penalty or rules violation to immediately roll the ball into the nearest corner, toss the ball directly straight up into the air, or give it to the referee who immediately gives the ball to the nearest defensive player. (3) When the game ball goes out of bounds or into the players' bench, continuous gameplay is accomplished by the referee immediately inbounding the ball to the nearest defensive player.
The Change of Possession (COP) rules combined with the correlating QRS rules system is the most dynamic in game management system ever designed to facilitate continuous gameplay in a team sports competition.
A floor surface 102 of the field of play 100 can include any surface suitable for inline skating such as concrete, asphalt, wood, or other surface such as ICECOURT™ which is specially designed for inline skating and used nationally and internationally for roller hockey. The floor surface 102 can include various floor surface markings or indicators (e.g., lines (painted or lights (in the floor surface or projected onto the floor surface))to indicate different areas on the floor surface 102 related to the inline sports game. For example, a border marking area 106 can be yellow (e.g., yellow paint on the floor surface 102) in color and adjacent to the dasher boards 104 around the perimeter of the field of play 100. The border marking area 106 can be a fixed width (e.g., 3 ft.). The border marking area 106 can indicate, for example, a zone or area on the field of play 100 where players cannot perform certain actions without incurring a penalty. The border marking area 106 can be used to increase player safety with respect to possible injuries related to the dasher boards 104. While players are inside or near the border marking area 106, referees will be extra cautious for the safety of the players and will therefore have a much lower tolerance for physical play and can be more likely to issue yellow and red cards to offending players (see below for more information on penalties). The border marking area 106 can be indicated, for example, by the use of floor tape, floor paint, or lighted floor markings (e.g., LED lights embedded in the playing surface, or projected onto the playing surface.
The goal area 108 can also comprise a goal mat (i.e., goal pad) 118 on the floor surface 102 in front of a goal net 120. The goal pad 118 can be a padded material where a goalie can roam to protect the goal net 120 where the goal mat 118 provides cushion to the goalie when making saves to block a ball from entering the goal net 120. The goal mat 118 can be, for example, approximately 15-25 ft. in length and approximately 5-10 ft. in width (with the long side closest to the goal net 120). The goal mat 118 can be approximately 1-2 in. thick made from any suitable material. An exemplary type of material for the goal mat can include a gymnastics tumbling mat or similar gym mat. Only the goalie defending the goal net 120 (without inline skates) is allowed on the goal mat 118. The goal mat 118 can be a different color from the goal area 108 to help identify the goal mat 118.
An offensive player with or without possession of the ball going onto the goal mat 18 results in a change of possession. This also applies if the offensive player's momentum carries him onto the goal mat 118 (even after scoring a goal.) This rule is to protect the goalie. The referee, at their discretion, may issue a yellow card if the offending player's action of going onto the goal mat 118 seemed intentional or careless. If the referee deems the offensive player's entry onto the goal mat 118 as intentional a red card can be issued.
There is somewhat more latitude for a defensive player to step on their own goal mat 118 if it is deemed, by the referee, to be inadvertent (e.g., while moving in defensive coverage of an offensive player, avoiding a collision, etc.). However, the combination of stepping onto the goal mat 118, while blocking a shot, or stealing the ball, or “tagging” an offensive player, results in a yellow card to the defender.
The goal net 120 can include one or more special goal nets 122 within the goal net (i.e., a smaller net inside the goal net 120). For example each corner of the goal net 120 can include a special goal net 122A that is worth two points for scoring. Another special goal net 122B can be located at the top center area of the goal net 120 below a top crossbar where a goal scored in the special goal net 122B is worth three points. The special goal nets 122 can be any suitable shape, including circular (e.g., a quarter of a circle), triangular, square, etc.). Other locations/configurations of special goal nets 122 are possible, including different shapes, sizes, orientations, and locations within the goal net 120 where the various special goal nets 122 can have different point values for scoring.
The goal area 208 can be polygonal in shape (e.g., half of an octagon; half a hexagon, sometimes referred to as “the hexagon” or “the hex”) with a boundary that includes an end line 210 (i.e., goal line) perpendicular to the long side of the rink (i.e., parallel to the end of the rink) and approximately 60-70 ft. long, a side line 212 that projects approximately 30 ft. from the end line 210 towards the center of the field of play 200, then angled lines 214 (i.e., left angled line and right angled line) approximately 15 ft. that are angled from each of the side lines 212 towards the center of the field of play 200, with a top line 216 of approximately 25 ft. that is parallel to the end line 210 and connects with each of the angled lines 214. The top line 216 can be approximately 40 ft. from the goal line (as measured by a line perpendicular to the end line 210 and the top line 216).
The goal area 208 can also comprise a goal mat (i.e., goal pad) 218 on the floor surface 202 in front of a goal net 220. The goal pad 218 can be a padded material where a goalie can roam to protect the goal net 220 where the goal mat 218 provides cushion to the goalie when making saves to block a ball from entering the goal net 220. The goal mat 218 can be, for example, approximately 25 ft. in length and approximately 10 ft. in width (with the long side closest to the goal net 220). The goal mat 218 can be approximately 1-2 in. thick made from any suitable material. An exemplary type of material for the goal mat can include a gymnastics tumbling mat or similar gym mat. Only the goalie defending the goal net 120 (without inline skates) is allowed on the goal mat 218. The goal mat 218 can be a different color from the goal area 208 to help identify the goal mat 218.
The goal net 220 can include one or more special goal nets 222 (i.e., secondary goal nets; four corner goal (4CG); goal compartments, etc.) within the goal net 220 (i.e., a smaller net inside the goal net 220). The special goal nets 222 can be indicated by a pipe that is a smaller size than the frame of the second goal net 220. For example each corner of the goal net 220 can include the special goal net 222A that is worth two points for scoring. Similar to the FBP and the VCBG described below, shots on goal headed towards any of the four corners of the goal net 220 that get past the goalie and would typically be a certain goal if using a common goal net, now may strike the piping of the 4CG and ricochet wildly in any direction.
Another special goal net 222B1 (i.e., the secondary vertical goal net; see VCBG discussion below) can incorporated into a top crossbar of the goal net 220 where a goal scored in the special goal net 222B1 is worth three points. Additionally, there can be another special goal net 222B2 that is mounted above the special goal net 222B1.
For example, the special goal net 222B2 (i.e., the secondary horizontal goal net) can be approximately two feet above the special goal net 222B1. In some embodiments, the special goal net 222B2 can have a frame with an opening that is parallel to the floor (e.g., like the rim of a basketball hoop). The special goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 can be a different shape compared to the special goal nets 222B. For example, the special goal nets 222B can be circular (e.g., a quarter of a circle) and the special goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 can be squares/rectangles. For special goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 that are non-circular shapes the orientation can be varied as desired (e.g., tilted rotated, angled, etc.). Other locations/configurations of special goal nets 222 are possible, including different shapes, sizes, and locations within the goal net xx where the various special goal nets 222 can have different point values for scoring.
Special goal net 222B2 can be similar to a basketball hoop in orientation and its height above the playing surface can be, for example, approximately 9 feet. Other heights are possible (10 feet, 12 feet, etc.). Shots taken by the offensive team from outside of the goal area 108 (i.e., beyond the line of the hexagon) can score 3 points (similar to a 3-point shot in basketball). When a goal is scored through the special goal net 222B2, the team scoring the goal does not have to retreat out of the goal area 108 (i.e., beyond the perimeter of the hexagon).
A unique feature of the goal net is that it includes a piece of frontal bottom piping (FBP) 124 (
Most common sports have traditional goal nets that have a goal line that is painted on the floor/field surface and serves the purpose of determining if the game ball has crossed the threshold of the goal frame and thereby is declared a goal. Once a shot on goal has gotten past the goalie the path to the goal net it is completely unobstructed and a resulting goal is assured to players and spectators alike.
The FBP 124/224 design feature adds an entirely new and exciting scenario to the world of sports, in that shots on goal that get past the goalie and would otherwise be a clear cut goal by rolling or bouncing across the uninhibited goal line, may now actually strike the FBP 124/224 and not go in the goal net 120/220 but instead bounce away from the goal net 120/220 in any multitude of directions. Additionally, airborne shots on goal that, by nature, come through the air may strike the FBP 124/224 and ricochet wildly in any possible direction.
Another unique design characteristic of the goal net is the vertical cross bar goal (VCBG). Most traditional common sports goal nets have an uninterrupted front crossbar that goes across the top of the goal net. (hockey, soccer, water polo) that simply acts as a support beam for the goal net as a whole. The VCBG feature adds the same new and exciting scenarios to shots on goal that the FBP (described above) does. Shots taken towards the middle of the goal that get past the goalie and that would surely be a goal if using a common goal net, might now strike the VCBG and ricochet wildly in any possible direction.
Shots on goal are an exciting component of any sports competition. The features of this goal net (FBP, VCBG, 4CG) increase that excitement level, to players and spectators alike, to a whole new unprecedented level.
Each team can consist of 11 players:
three forwards,
three defenders,
one goalie,
three substitutes,
one backup goalie.
The 11 players of the team can be any mix of players and players can play multiple positions. For example, a team could include two goalies, four forwards (that only play forward) and five defenders (that only play defense). Another possibility could include two goalies, three forwards, four defenders, and two utility players (that can play forward or defender). Numerous other combinations exist.
The players can wear various equipment while playing the inline skating sports game including, but not limited to, inline skates or roller skates or other forms of wheeled footwear (including, for example, motors or other methods of propulsion), flag belt with approximately 4-6 flags per player or a Lighted Touch Sensor Belt (LTSB), helmet, eye goggles (e.g., eye shield), elbow pads, knee pads, shin pads, shoulder pads, hip pads (i.e. breezers/pants), mouth piece (i.e., mouth guard), and any other related padded body shields and/or girdles to protect the players as needed. Any combination of these equipment pieces can be used (e.g., some games may not require shoulder pads, or shin pads, etc.).
In the versions of the inline skating sports game where players wear the LTSB around their waist the LTSB is approximately 4 inches wide and wraps all the way around the waist of the players. Other sizes and configurations of the LTSB are possible (e.g., narrower straps, different strap configurations, etc.). The LTSB can include one or more sensors capable of detecting a touch by another player.
The LTSB can also be synced to another light of each player (e.g., built into the helmets and/or LTSB of each player). This can assist with visibility for the spectator fans in the stands and those spectators watching the game on media devices. The belt sensors can be designed to trigger the light (e.g., a bright RED light; a tag light) when they are “tagged/touched” by another player (e.g., when a defensive player tags an offensive player with the game ball).
The LTSB can glow or flash for a period of time (e.g., approximately two seconds) and then reset itself (i.e., turn off the light). During the time the LTSB is activated it is the responsibility of the referees to signal whether or not the “tag” results in the offensive team giving up possession of the ball to the defensive team. The reason for this is because if the dribbling rules are in effect when the “tag” is applied to an offensive player (see below for more information regarding dribbling), it does not facilitate a turnover (i.e., change of possession). Likewise if an offensive player has already released possession of the ball by passing, kicking or shooting the ball, before the “tag” was applied, then the “tag” does not facilitate a turnover of possession.
The short duration (e.g., two seconds) of the LTSB is necessary to accommodate these false “tags”. Because game play will continue through the false “tag” and only through a quick reset of the LTSB can the defensive team once again stop the offensive player with the ball who is either blading or has entered the goal area (i.e., hexagon) while dribbling.
In some versions of the game the players may wear a flag belt around their waist with a number of flags (e.g., six) evenly spaced around the belt.
The goalies do not wear inline skates or roller skates. Instead, the goalies wear shoes/sneakers to protect the feet and ankles. Additionally, the goalies wear goalie gloves to protect the fingers and hands. The goalies can also wear any or all of the equipment the other players wear.
The inline skating sports game can use a game ball. The ball can be similar to a standard volleyball or beach volleyball with a circumference of approximately 25-27 inches, a weight of approximately 9-10 ounces, an internally pressure of approximately 2.0-5.0 PSI. The game ball can be any suitable color, including a bright color (e.g., pink, yellow, orange) to increase visibility of the ball for players, referees, and spectators.
The game ball should have an even and consistent bounce to promote control of the game ball when a player is dribbling the game ball on the playing surface. The game ball should also have a non-slip surface/texture that allows the players to be able to dribble, pass, hold, catch, and shoot the game ball. The material used for the game ball should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of the inline skating sport when used during a game played on a hard surface (e.g., wood, cement/concrete, asphalt, ICECOURT™, etc.).
Goals are scored by throwing or kicking (or through contact with any part of the body, including the chest or head) the ball into the opposing teams goal net (i.e., team 1 scores by throwing or kicking the ball into the team 2's goal net and team 2 scores by throwing or kicking the ball into team 1's goal net).
The special goal nets (e.g., the special goal nets 122B1/22B1 and 122B2/222B2 of the goal net 120 and the second goal net 220) can have an indicator that indicates when a goal is scored in the special goal nets (i.e., a 2-point goal, or a 3-point goal, etc.). For example, an indicator light can light when a goal is scored in the special goal nets and each special goal net can have a different indicator light (e.g., different color, different type of light, etc.). Different indicators can be used for the various goals (1 point goal, 2 point goal, or 3 point goal) to help the players, spectators, and referees know the type of goal scored. The goals can be determined by some type of sensor or other similar device and/or technology. The goal net piping that frames the special goal nets can have different color framing that sets the 2 point goals apart from the 3 point goals and furthermore sets the special goal nets apart from the main goal frame that constitutes a 1 point goal. The netting for the different goal compartments can correlate to their respective pipe frame colors to further identify, clarify, and differentiate the different goal net compartments.
Offensive play includes play by players with possession the ball (and/or teammates of the player with possession of the ball). The offensive player with the ball may be blading (skating), dribbling, or stationary. Offensive players may pass, throw, shoot, and/or kick the ball towards their teammates (except their own goalie), the opposing goal, or an open area of the playing surface.
Blading (skating) refers to offensive players skating while holding onto the ball. Players may blade (skate) anytime/anywhere on the playing surface (except on the goal mat).
Blading invokes the flag capture rules (FCR). FCR permits the defensive team to stop the offensive player in possession of the ball by taking one or more flags from a flag belt (e.g., removing one flag does the job and counts as a stop). The flag belt with approximately 4-6 flags per player or a Lighted Touch Sensor Belt (LTSB) can be used for stopping an offensive player. Removing a flag from the ball-possessing offensive player's flag belt or touching a LTSB (and triggering the LTSB light(s)) results in an immediate turnover (i.e., change of possession) of the ball from the offensive team to the defensive team via the T/TO rules. An offensive player may not go from blading to dribbling in order to prevent their flag from being captured under FCR.
Dribbling refers to the offensive player skating while bouncing the ball. Offensive players may dribble the ball anytime/anywhere on the playing surface (except on the goal mat). The FCR does not apply when an offensive player is dribbling the ball, with one major exception: Offensive Players that are dribbling the ball are not protected by the Dribbling Rules once they enter the hexagon area of the goal area. Once inside the hexagon area the Dribbling Player becomes “hot” and is subject to the same FCR as a blading player. The “hot” player stays “hot” even after leaving the goal (i.e., hexagon) area until they give up possession of the ball. The Dribbling Rules allows the offensive players to advance the ball towards the opposing goal and facilitate “set plays” while in possession of the ball, but at the same time the nuance of FCR being triggered once the offensive player enters the goal area (hexagon), prevents the offensive team from dribbling the ball unabated right up to the opposing team's goal net for an uncontested shot on goal. An offensive player may not go from blading to dribbling in order to prevent their flag from being captured under FCR. An offensive player that has started to dribble the ball may not stop and then restart their dribble (i.e., double dribble). A double dribble results in a turnover of the ball to the other team via T/TO.
sStationary Position Rules (SPR)
SPR refers to an offensive player that is stationary while holding the ball. Whatever rules were in effect (blading or dribbling) prior to the player becoming stationary, those rules continue to be in effect. If an offensive player receives the ball while in the stationary position, the player may either: (1) remain stationary, (2) blade, or (3) dribble.
The Tag Turnover Rules (T/TO) as described below are a major component of the Change of Possession rules. They are a major component because the T/TO applies not just to player tags, but also to incidents that include player penalties and rule violations.
When a defensive player applies a tag (e.g., pulls one of the flags from the flag belt, touches the LTSB, etc.) to an offensive player while the offensive player is blading with the game ball or dribbling with the game ball inside the goal area 108, the offensive player has three options in which to give the game ball over to the defensive team: (1) roll the game ball to the nearest corner of the playing surface; (2) toss the game ball straight into the air; or (3) give the game ball to the nearest referee who will then give the game ball to the nearest defensive player to restart play. T/TO facilitates continuous play because each of the teams can quickly switch naturally from offensive to defensive and vice versa without the need for any formal stoppage in play. T/TO is the primary QRS method used to give possession of the game ball to the other team after an event that triggers as a COP.
Defensive players may defend their goal against the offensive players by body positioning (e.g., placing their body between the offensive player and their defensive goal), stealing the game ball from the offensive player (e.g., while an offensive player is dribbling the game ball or holding onto the game ball), intercepting a pass (e.g., between two offensive players), blocking shots by offensive players, and tagging offensive players with the game ball under the FCR.
Body positioning where the defensive player places his/her body between the offensive player and the defensive player's goal is permitted as long as the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.
Defensive players may attempt to steal the ball (i.e., knock the ball away) from an offensive player while the offensive player is dribbling the ball or holding onto the ball. This is allowable anytime/anywhere on the player surface as long as the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.
Intercepting the ball is when a defensive player intercepts a pass between two offensive players and is allowable anytime/anywhere on the player surface as long as the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.
Shot Blocking is when a defensive player blocks a shot by an offensive player. This is allowable anytime/anywhere on the player surface as long as the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.
In order to maximize the offensive play of the inline skating sports game, defensive players are prohibited from impeding the skating, scoring, passing, and overall team play of the offensive team. Defensive players are not allowed to tackle, grab, check, or otherwise foul the offensive players (see additional information related to penalties herein). Defensive teams also cannot play a zone defense (e.g., each defensive player protects an area of the defensive zone, rather than guarding an individual offensive player (i.e., “man-to-man” defense). This results in a yellow card penalty to the defending player.
A goal can be scored when the game ball enters into the goal net 120/220 (i.e., main goal), including one of the special goal nets 122/222 (i.e., four corner goal compartments), including 122B1/222B1 (i.e., lower middle crossbar goal compartment), and 122B2/222B2 (i.e., the upper middle crossbar goal compartment).
After a goal is scored the goal scoring team is allowed time for a short celebration. Afterwards all the players from the goal scoring team must withdraw to a position outside of the goal area 108 (i.e., outside of the hexagon). This allows the goalie to retrieve the game ball from the goal net and quickly restart the game by passing (i.e., “inbounding”) the game ball to one of his own players anywhere on the playing surface 102/202. (QRS)
Even though the goalie could conceivably pass the game ball to any teammate, the retreat of the goal scoring team outside of the goal area 108/208 (i.e., behind the hexagon lines), allows for the goalie's teammates to make themselves available for an uncontested “inbounds pass” from their goalie anywhere inside the goal area 108/208 (i.e., inside the hexagon) and thus facilitates a quick restart to the game (QRS).
However, as noted above, if a goal is scored through the special goal net 122B2/222B2 the team scoring the goal does not have to retreat out of the goal area 108/208 (i.e., beyond the perimeter of the hexagon). This allows the goal scoring team to defend against the “inbounds pass” similar to the game of basketball. The goal scoring team may “pressure” the goalie's inbounds pass at its discretion. The goal scoring team may implement a full court press (basketball) in an attempt to steal the inbounds pass directly from the goalie to his teammate. It may elect to “trap” the player that receives the inbounds pass in an effort to force that player into an errant pass to their teammate or the “trap” may be used to prevent the offensive team from quickly proceeding up the court with the ball and thereby take time of the shot clock, leaving the offensive team less time to score a goal.
The goalie at their own discretion, instead of quickly inbounding the ball to their teammate (basketball), may choose to hold onto the game ball like a football quarterback and look for an open downfield teammate/receiver to pass the ball too (long bomb). This allows the offensive team the time to run complex passing routes (American football) as part of their offensive strategy. Ultimately the trade-off for the offensive team is that the shot clock (see below for more info) will start counting down while the goalie is holding the ball leaving them less time to score a goal before a change of possession.
The goalie's primary responsibility is to keep the ball from going into his team's goal and thus prevent the opposing team from accruing points by scoring goals. Another responsibility of the goalie is to inbound the ball to his teammates after making a save or after a goal is scored by the opposing team. A third responsibility of the goalie is to come off his goal mat area and into the Hexagon (but not outside the Hexagon) to break up “long bomb” passes by the opposing team into his Hexagon goal area (similar to the position of free safety in the game of American football). Another responsibility of the goalie is to remove himself from the field of play by going to his player's bench, and being substituted for by a skating player in order for his team to increase their opportunity of scoring a goal. Once the goalie is pulled from the game, the goalie position must remain vacant for the remainder of the contest.
The goalie may accomplish his primary objective of keeping the ball out of his goal by using any part of his body to catch, block, or otherwise deflect shots on goal away from his goal net.
The goalie may inbounds/pass the ball to his teammate after a save or retrieving a goal by using any part of their body to pass or direct the ball towards their teammate. The goalie is not allowed to come off of their goal mat to inbounds/pass the ball to their teammate. Doing so results in a yellow card penalty to be served by the offensive player closest to the goalie.
The goalie may come off their goal mat to knock away a loose ball inside their goal area, but the goalie cannot grab or take possession of the ball when they are off of their goal mat. This is very similar to the position of a soccer goalie.
Unlike the game of traditional basketball in which defensive players are not allowed to block shots that are about to go into the basketball hoop and also are not allowed to swat away shots that are still bouncing on or above the basketball rim, in this game goalies are allowed to use their hands to block shots that are about to go into the basketball hoop and shots that are bouncing in and around the overhanging 3 point goal. This is known as the Goaltending Freedom Rule.
The significance of this rule is that (1) it adds to the physical prowess requirements of the goalie position, (2) it creates an added element of excitement to the 3 point shot while it is in the air, knowing that the shot can be blocked at the rim by the goalie, (3) it creates a level of skilled marksmanship for 3 point shooters that is unprecedented in other sports in that the opening of 3 point overhead goal net only allows for an absolutely “perfect shot” that is inside the width of the goal rim but outside the reach of the goalie, to go through the rim and count for 3 points, and (4) it creates a possible scenario in which the goalie may actually place himself out of position of the main goal net by attempting to block a 3 point shot and not being able to control the rebound and thus leaving his goal net open for the offensive team to score an open net goal upon getting an offensive rebound.
Note: At this time there is no provision to allow for shots taken inside the Hexagon into the 3 point overhang to be counted for as 2 point goals like in the game of basketball.
The offensive team (i.e., the team in possession of the ball) has a set period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) starting at the time that they obtain possession of the ball, to either (1) take a shot that either hits the opposing team's goalie or hits any part of the frame of the goal net 120/220 or (2) score a goal. If the offensive team does not do one of the two previous actions then possession changes to the opposing team. The shot clock resets for a short period of time (e.g., 10 seconds) after the offensive team recovers their own rebound (e.g., a shot that deflects off the goalie or part of the goal net) and for every subsequent offensive rebound.
Any time the game ball goes out of play (e.g., either over the glass/dasher boards 104 or into the players' bench, the defensive team (the team that did not last have possession of the game ball) is awarded possession for the restart.
A QRS is initiated by the referees. Each referee can carry an extra game ball secured by a ball holding apparatus. The referee will quickly restart the game by passing a new game ball to the defensive player who is credited with last touching the ball. The referee is essentially acting as the “inbounder” of the ball to quickly restart the game.
The inline skating sports game can include one or more referees to officiate the game to enforce rules and protect the players. There can be from two to four referees officiating a game, although games taking place on smaller playing surfaces could have only one referee. Each referee can carry an extra game ball in a game ball holding apparatus (not shown). Extra game balls can also be located on the back (i.e., anywhere outside the field of play and outside of the net of the goal) of each goal net. Additional game balls can also be located with a scorer/clock operator, or additional designated ball retrievers/providers (similar to a soccer match) around the playing surface.
The penalty system for this inline skating sports game is the most dynamic game management system ever devised for a team sports competition. Whereas, most common sports' penalty systems bog down the gameplay with constant stoppages in play, this penalty system actually ignites the action with an immediate burst of offensive gameplay the moment a penalty is called. This is accomplished by using the T/TO rules described previously.
A inline skating sports game can include a penalty system. The penalty system can help promote player safety along with providing a fast, high-scoring, and exciting game. In generally, intentional body contact between players is prohibited. The penalty system also addresses poor behavior by the players.
The penalty system can include issuing of a first yellow card, a second yellow card, and/or a red card. If a player is issued a yellow card their team loses a player for the duration of a penalty time (e.g., two minutes). Offending players do not have to serve time for their penalty in a penalty box but they must immediately return to their players' team bench.
(If a penalized player that is heading to their bench intentionally interferes with game play they are issued a red card penalty.)
During the course of time that the penalty is in effect, the penalized player is allowed re-enter the game as soon his team regains possession of the ball by using the normal method of player substitution. The permission of allowing the penalized player to return to the game does not terminate the penalty. It just simply allows the penalized player to return to action as one of the shorthanded skaters for his team.
The penalized player's team (e.g., team 1 above) is required to play one player short for the entire penalty time (e.g., two minutes). In some versions of the inline skating sports game, scoring a goal by team 2 does not release/end the penalty to team 1. In other versions of the inline skating sports game, scoring a goal by the non-penalized team can end the penalty of the penalized team and cause the player serving the penalty to return to the game. The penalty time starts when the penalized player reaches their bench.
A player that has received a first yellow card can receive a second yellow card for subsequent penalty. Receiving a second yellow card is the equivalent of receiving a red card (see below) and causes the offending player to be removed from play for the rest of the game and the player must leave the playing field and players' bench and return to the locker room.
A player can also receive a red card for serious penalties that results in an immediate ejection from the game. The player receiving the red card is removed from play for the rest of the game and the player must leave the playing field and players' bench and return to the locker room. The team of the player receiving a red card also receives a penalty that must be served by a different player from that team (e.g., player B1 of team 2 receives a red card and is ejected from the game; player B2 serves a penalty (e.g., two minutes) resulting in one fewer player for team 2 for two minutes).
In versions of the game where players are wearing LTSB, a referee can indicate a recipient of a yellow card penalty or red card penalty by remotely activating the LTSB of the player receiving the yellow or red card. For example, if triggered, the LTSB and/or the helmet light can be triggered to emit a yellow light and the player receiving the yellow card can make his/her way to the players' bench. This can avoid requiring the referee to stop play to issue the yellow card. NOTE: Red card penalties by their nature require a stoppage in play. However the LTSB can still be used to signify a red card penalty.
All the following actions by a player will result in either a yellow card or a red card: A yellow card always results in player penalty and continuous gameplay facilitated by the Change of Possession and Quick Re-Start rules. A red card always results in the immediate stoppage of play and the offending player being removed from the game.
fighting—red card
shoving/pushing—red card
tackling—red card
checking—red card
elbowing—red card
tripping—red card
holding—yellow card
grabbing—yellow card
fouling—yellow card
There are a number of penalties that can be committed by an offensive player:
1. A blading offensive player cannot intentionally pass (using hand or foot or any body part) the game ball to themselves off a teammate, opposing players, or game officials to avoid flag capture/LSTB contact. A violation results in a yellow card.
2. A blading offensive player cannot intentionally pass the game ball off the dasher boards, plexiglass, or goal net apparatus to themselves to avoid flag capture/LSTB contact. A violation results in a yellow card. Note: a dribbling offensive player is allowed to pass the ball to themselves off the dasher boards, plexiglass, and goal net apparatus to avoid a defensive player. However a “hot” offensive dribbler cannot.
3. An offensive player cannot pass the game ball to his own goalie. A violation results in a yellow card.
4. A stationary offensive player cannot use the dasher boards, plexiglass, or goal net apparatus to pass the game ball to themselves to avoid an defensive player and start their blading or dribbling. A violation results in a yellow card.
5. If an offensive player throws, kicks the game ball either directly or on a bounce into the stands without the ball being touched by a defensive Player or any part of the goal net, this results in a yellow card penalty (and a QRS). The yellow card does not apply to good faith passes to teammates that are deflected out of bounds off the hands of the teammate or to passes that go into the players' bench area. Instead the referee will initiate a quick restart (i.e., ball goes to the nearest defensive player).
Additionally, if a player (offensive or defensive) receives a penalty that player must immediately return to their team's player bench. If the penalized player that is heading to their bench intentionally interferes with game play (e.g., after a QRS) they can be issued a red card penalty.
There are no timeouts for the teams. Only referees can call an official timeout and stop play for player safety (e.g., an injury) or other game related issued.
There are only four substitute players available on the bench which also include the backup goalie. These players may all be rotated in and out of the game at any time while the game is in play (i.e., “on the fly”) or also during a stoppage in play. The substitute player(s) cannot leave the bench and come onto the playing surface until they are tagged by the teammate they are replacing.
Game play shall consist of three periods: Each period begins with the home team goalie inbounding the ball to his teammate.
Period 1—30 minutes
Period 2—20 minutes
Period 3—10 minutes
Overtime (when the score is tied at the end of period 3)—5 minutes
Intermissions (time between each period)—approximately 5-10 minutes.
During the last two minutes of every period, the FCR will apply to all players at all times. Offensive players will not be protected by dribbling the ball (i.e., FCR apply to all players—even a player dribbling the ball). This rule should promote a frenzy of all out skating by both teams leading up to the end of the period.
The inline skating sports game can use a progressive playoff format that is designed so that every game starting with the third playoff game is a possible elimination game, thereby making every playoff game relevant.
Game 1
Game 2
Game 3
Game 4
Game 5
Game 6
Game 7
Although several embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the present teachings. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.
Various embodiments are described herein of various apparatuses, systems, and methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details.
In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended claims.
Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or the like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation.
Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.
