The Seattle Traveler

Have a Ball at WhirlyBall

by Mary Jo on February 19th, 2008

While it’s been a nice 3-day weekend here in Seattle, we all know that the Groundhog saw his shadow so we’re not yet out of the woods on our weather problems.

When it’s cold and rainy, it’s often hard to find the motivation to go outdoors for a little activity.  It’s equally hard to find the motivation to find an indoor activity that captures our interest and is also fun.

Well, how about a little WhirlyBall?

WhirlyBall is called “the world’s only totally mechanized team sport” and is played in a small electrically powered car very similar to a bumper car.  The car is called a WhirlyBug, and is quicker and more maneuverable than traditional bumper cars.

The game consists of 10 WhirlyBugs (two teams of five) on a 4,000 square foot court.  Each player has a jai alai-style plastic scoop, and players toss around a softball-sized wiffle ball while traversing the court to score.   Skill, and laughter, comes in the maneuvering of the WhirlyBug and in the tossing of the ball back and forth as players try to get the ball through the 15-inch hole in the backboard.

This isn’t a free-for-all, however, the rules are enforced by a referee sitting in an elevated booth above the court, who keeps scores, assesses penalties, and enforces safety regulations.

It’s become a little addicting, and WhirlyBall lovers have formed competitive leagues.  Sign up information is available on the website.  It’s a fun activity for parties (birthday parties, girls and/or guys night out), and businesses have used it as a company retreat and team building exercise. 

Location:  23401 Highway 99, Edmonds (map it)

Hours:  Monday - Saturday, noon - midnight; Sunday, noon - 10 pm.  The center will open anytime, however, with an advance reservation.

Cost:  The court can be reserved for as little as 1 hour ($270) or as long as 10 hours ($1,800), and accommodate 10-40 people.  A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking; major credit cards accepted.

Reservations:  Required for private parties, and can be made with as little as one hour notice if a court is available.  Registration required for league play.  Tuesday night, 6:25 - 10:30 pm is “Singles Night” and drop ins are welcome.

Phone:  (425) 672-3332

Food and beverages are available on site, including beer and wine.  No outside food may be brought in.

You must be 8 years of age or older to play WhirlyBall due to height and size restrictions.

Photo credit:  flickr

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POSTED IN: Family Fun, Great Places to Unwind, Just a Bit Weird - Fun & Quirky Places, People - Interesting Local People, Sports & Recreation