Mastering Crokinole: NCA Rules – (Part 8: Other)

Basic Rules of Play

In the previous installment of this series, we explored Rule 7: Shooting, one of the most detailed and physically demanding sections of the National Crokinole Association (NCA) rules. We looked at posture, chair contact, finger use, distractions, and the many ways a shot can be deemed illegal. Rule 7 reminds us that competitive crokinole is not just about skill, but also about discipline, consistency, and respect for the playing environment.

In this final installment, we turn our attention to Rule 8: Other. At first glance, this section may seem like a collection of miscellaneous rules. In reality, it addresses several edge cases and tournament-specific situations that can significantly affect the outcome of a match. These rules exist to ensure fairness, consistency, and clarity when unusual situations arise.

NCA Rule 8: Other

a)

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

Shuffleboard Wax and Lubricants

The NCA allows granular shuffleboard wax to be placed in the ditch only, giving players the option to lightly coat their discs before shooting. This is an important distinction: players may rub their discs in the wax, but wax is not freely applied by players to the playing surface.

Playing Wax

Only tournament officials may apply wax directly to the board, and only if, in their judgment, playing conditions warrant it (for example, humidity or unusually slow surfaces). No other lubricants are allowed under any circumstances.

This rule ensures that:

• All players compete under the same surface conditions
• Boards are protected from damage caused by improper substances
• Players cannot gain an unfair advantage through unauthorized materials

When Time Runs Out

In a timed match, if the clock expires and the number of shots taken by each side is uneven, the player or team with fewer shots is allowed one additional shot. This rule exists solely to equalize the number of turns and maintain competitive fairness.

QRCC Clock

It does not grant extra rounds or additional strategic opportunities, just balance.

Out-of-Play Discs

If a disc touches or crosses the outer boundary line, it is considered out of play (subject to the spinning disc exception covered later).

Out-of-Play Discs

Once a disc is out of play:

• It must be placed in the ditch
• It stays there until the end of the round
• It does not score, regardless of where it originally came to rest
• This keeps the board clear and prevents confusion during scoring.

The Spinning Disc Rule

One of the most misunderstood rules in competitive crokinole.

If a disc:

• Touches or crosses the outer boundary line
• Does not strike anything other than the playing surface 
• Returns to the playing surface under its own momentum

…it is considered still in play.

This rule recognizes the physics of spinning discs and prevents players from being unfairly penalized for dramatic, but legal, shots.

The Damage Stays Rule

This rule often surprises newer competitive players.

Damage Rule

If a disc:

• Touches or crosses the outer boundary line
• Strikes the backboard or any out-of-play discs
• Then re-enters the playing surface

That disc itself is out of play. However:

• Any discs it moved remain where they end up
• Any 20s made as a result still count
• Only the offending disc is removed

In short, the disc is gone, but the damage stays.

This rule reinforces accountability for aggressive shots while preserving the natural consequences of disc movement.

Final Thoughts

Rule 8 may be titled “Other,” but it plays a crucial role in competitive crokinole. These rules address the realities of tournament play, time limits, spinning discs, surface conditions, and unpredictable outcomes. Together, they ensure that matches are decided by skill and strategy rather than confusion or dispute.

With this installment, we conclude our detailed walkthrough of the NCA Rules of Crokinole. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament player, a club organizer, or someone looking to deepen your understanding of the game, knowing these rules enhances both your confidence and appreciation for crokinole as a competitive sport.

As always, play fair, play with respect, and most importantly, keep your shots clean.

Source:

All rules in this article are taken from the NCA Rules (Feb 9, 2011). Download the full document at the

National Crokinole Association website

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