Sam Powers | Managing Photo Editor

Mudd Field will close on May 13 and will not open until Fall 2028. While the first-years will have their senior year to utilize the space, this semester is every grade’s last opportunity to play on Mudd Field as WashU undergraduates. That being said, we must use the large green space to our advantage before the clock runs out. Below are some unique sports that people can play on the field to add an extra memory to their WashU memory bank.

Spikeball:

This beach volleyball spinoff is the perfect game to play on Mudd Field. It only requires a three-inch ball and a trampoline-like net. Spikeball requires two teams of two, with the goal of the ball never hitting the ground and only the net. While the game may seem like a walk in the park, there are critical moves players can make, which cause their opponents to run great distances to keep the ball in play. With only three touches allowed, get used to diving and quick movements if you plan to win this vigorous game. 

Kickball:

It’s a classic in itself. This leg-dominated game is excellent if you want to play with friends or meet new people who pass by. With the same setup as baseball and softball, kickball involves two teams, each consisting of a kicker, pitcher, baseman, infielders, and outfielders. The teams switch between being behind the base kicking and in the outfield trying to get the opponent out with a ball catch. With three strikes, the teams switch positions by catching the ball or tagging the player before reaching the base. Whoever has the most runs after seven innings is the winner.

Cornhole:

If you consider cornhole a sport, then listen up. This game requires two elevated boards placed 27 feet apart with holes and eight bags each for the participating players. The objective is tossing your bag underhand into your opponent’s hole while remaining beside your board. You alternate back and forth until all the bags are gone. Remember, you can use the bag you throw to move one of your bags on the board near the hole. The player gains three points for getting the bag in the hole and one point if it lands on the board. The goal is to be the first to reach 21 points.

Ultimate Frisbee:

If you want to play a game similar to football but without the contact part, ultimate frisbee is the game for you. There are two teams of seven players, each trying to catch a disk in the opposing team’s endzone. The thrower cannot move when making a pass, and the defensive team can get possession if the pass is incomplete or if the team scores. With only 40 minutes of playing time divided into 20-minute halves, team communication is necessary to reach the 15-goal mark to win the game.

Gaga Ball:

Last but not least, Gaga ball. This dodgeball-style game involves a pit or octagonal boundary and a moderate-sized ball. A boundary can be made from loose netting, and poles burrowed into the field. The game begins with one player’s hand touching the outer edge of the pit, and a referee will throw in a ball for the battle to begin. It is every person for themselves. You aim to hit a ball with your hands and try to contact your opponent’s lower body. This includes from the feet to just below the hips. The ball cannot be thrown; it must be whacked. The walls can be used to elevate your legs. The last player standing is the winner.

Hopefully, you will enjoy playing these games with friends and the WashU community before Mudd Field’s construction begins. Before the year comes to a close, appreciate the green grass and the dirt on your sneakers. Have a muddy time!