Spud

Quick Pitch

Spud is a fast-paced outdoor game where players throw a ball between each other while one player (starting in the middle) attempts to intercept it.

Equipment Needed

A ball is helpful. Spud traditionally requires a soft ball (volleyball, utility ball, or similar). However, the game can technically be played without physical equipment by using a rolled-up object or imaginary ball.

Setup

• Gather players in an open outdoor space
• Assign each player a number (1, 2, 3, etc.)
• Players should memorize their number
• Players spread out in an open area
• Choose one player to start in the middle
• Have a ball (soft ball works best) ready
• Establish boundaries of the play area

Rules

Objective

Throw the ball between players while the middle player tries to intercept. Players accumulate "SPUD" letters for being caught and becoming the middle player. First player to spell "SPUD" (4 letters) is out.

Gameplay

Starting the Game:

• The middle player throws the ball to any player on the field
• The receiving player catches the ball and throws it to another player
• Players throw the ball rapidly between themselves
• The goal is to prevent the middle player from catching it

The Middle Player:

• The middle player's job is to catch the ball or force a dropped ball
• The middle player can position themselves anywhere in the play area
• If the middle player catches the ball, or the ball is dropped, play stops

When Ball is Caught (by middle player):

• All other players (except the one who threw the ball to the middle player) freeze in place
• The middle player who caught the ball calls out a number
• The player with that number must run to where the ball is
• All other players run away
• The numbered player must pick up the ball and throw it at another player (running away)
• If hit successfully, that player gets a "SPUD" letter and becomes the new middle player
• If the throw misses, the throwing player gets the letter instead

When Ball is Dropped:

• If someone drops the ball, that player gets a "SPUD" letter
• The player who dropped it becomes the new middle player (or the player who threw it, depending on rules)

Accumulating Letters:

• First player to get S = has one letter
• Second infraction = gets U
• Third infraction = gets D
• Fourth infraction = spells SPUD and is OUT of the game
• Player is eliminated from active play

Game Continuation:

• Play continues until one player remains (last player wins)
• Alternatively, play for a set time or number of rounds

Numbering with Fewer Players:

• If players drop out, remaining players keep their original numbers
• Numbers are called as players accumulate letters

Scoring

• Last player remaining wins
• Can track rounds won across multiple games