LOTS OF HAPPY FEEDBACK

Shuffleboard (Shovillaborde) existed in England over 500 years ago. It is an exciting variant of Shov-Ha'Penny. Henry VIII was very fond of the game. The Royal Expenses for 1532 show a payment from the Privy Purse of nine pounds:

"Paided to my lord Wylliam for that he wanne of the Kinges grace at shovillaborde"

The game was made illegal as early as 1542. It had become a popular form of gambling. Played in taverns it was feared that it might keep the lower classes from work.

Attempts to ban the game were never completely effective. It was simply too popular. Even after Cromwell came to power, when it was listed with other diversions as immoral, the game continued to thrive.

During the early part of the twentieth century 'Sjoelbak' a Dutch variation of the game emerged. A standard specification for the board and discs was introduced in 1966 in response to the growth of club and tournament play.

Today shuffleboard (sjoelbak) is played across the UK. The most popular event is the 'Team Tournament'. Each team has three players who compete against all other teams at the contest. Taking part in a shuffleboard tournament brings this typical response:

"Thank you very much for yesterday. I am getting lots and lots of very happy feedback from the evening, which was thoroughly enjoyed. Hopefully we can book you again soon". Cecily Bartram, Donnington Hall.

Bona-Fide Registered Charities, Clubs or Business organisations can take advantage of our offer to help you organise a Shuffleboard Tournament - go to our FREE HIRE page. If you prefer, you can contact Adrian Williams. Tel. 01273 564375