High Score Competition Recipe

Reserve and staff

Reserve The Yard for a 90-minute block (to allow 15 minutes setup, 60 minutes play, 15 minutes teardown). Assign one event coordinator/host to run the event, manage the scoreboard, and answer rules questions.

Form teams

Confirm number of teams (recommended 4–8). Balance teams to 3–5 players each. Record team names and assign each team a row on the scoreboard.

Set up scoreboard and timer

Place the scoreboard in a visible location. Set a visible countdown timer for the 60-minute competition time. Provide pens/markers for score updates.

Select games

Choose up to six available redemption-style games. Place them around The Yard so teams can rotate between stations without crowding. Ensure each game has a staff attendant or clear rules posted.

Distribute tokens / credits

Provide each team with an equal allotment of game tokens or credits at the start (suggested: ~60–100 tokens per team depending on number of games). Track remaining tokens to ensure fair play.

Explain scoring

Explain how each game awards points (e.g., skee-ball rings = 10–50 points, basketball = 20 points per basket, ring toss = 15–40 points). Establish that the objective is highest total points across games. Announce any bonus multipliers or house rules.

Assign station attendants / rules

Ensure each game has a staff member or posted rules indicating turn length, retry rules, and how to claim points. Staff should verify scores and sign off on the scoreboard after each update.

Starting the competition

Gather teams at the starting area. At start time, start the 60-minute countdown. Teams disperse to games of their choosing. Encourage an initial 5-minute scouting period so teams can decide strategy and which games to play first.

Turns and rotations

Establish per-turn limits (suggested: 2–5 minutes or a fixed number of attempts per player) to keep lines moving. Teams rotate between stations voluntarily or on a pre-set rotation schedule to ensure each team can access high-value games.

Scorekeeping and verification

After each play, the game attendant or team captain records points on the central scoreboard. Attendants initial or sign each entry. Encourage teams to self-monitor for fairness and report disputes to the host immediately.

Midpoint announcements

At 30 minutes remaining, the host announces the current standings and any time or token reminders. Offer a 2–3 minute break if needed for hydration or quick strategy huddles.

Final warning and last plays

At 5 minutes remaining, announce a final call for last plays. Teams should finish their current game or queue and return to the scoreboard for final verification.

Tally and verify scores

When time expires, the host collects final scores and has attendants verify totals. Resolve any disputes by reviewing attendant initials and game logs. The host makes the final ruling if needed.

Declare winners and distribute prizes

Announce the top three teams and award prizes from the prize table. Provide smaller consolation prizes or swag for participation if available. Take photos and record results for future events.

Teardown and feedback

Allow 15 minutes for teardown of games and venue cleanup. Ask teams to provide quick feedback about game balance and event flow to improve future High Score competitions.

Comfort and rules signage

Place water and refreshments near the central area. Display signage with rules, safety reminders, and emergency procedures.

First aid and incident reporting

Keep the first aid kit accessible and designate a staff member to handle any incidents. Record and report any injuries according to venue policy.