OFFICIAL SABAKIBALL RULE BOOK

The information contained in this rule book is theproperty of Sabakiball international and protected

by patent us 7,935,010 with all rights reserved.copyright by sabakiball international, llc 2012.

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Rule Book Cover.pdf 1 1/30/12 2:37 PM

Official Sabakiball Rule bOOk cOacheS editiOn

available excluSively thROugh:

Written and Prepared by Michael L. CerpokAll Rights Reserved

No portion of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including

photocopy, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without expressed written permission from Sabakiball

International, LLC.

A Short History of Sabakiball

The ball game method of Sabakiball was created in August 2008, and while the sport itself has become well known for its

fast-paced non-stop action, its founder has lived an equally endurance oriented life.

As a career martial artist, author, and public speaker, Michael Cerpok had offered inspiration and motivation to thousands

of people since the early 1980s. In July of 2006 he was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and after his

diagnosis, and at the prompting of his doctor, he started to plan for his retirement from teaching the martial arts. In late

2008, just a few months before closing his school in Arizona, he was working with a group of children in traditional sports

who were attending a sports and recreation camp he was hosting. As he watched them compete he recognized that there

was a great deal of “down” time in sports and that even when a ball was in play, the play was usually dictated by one or

two dominant players. He also became aware that some of the less athletic players became frustrated, and even angry, as

they were being excluded from the action.

Being the developer of many innovative classes and school programs since 1989, Mr. Cerpok decided that it was time to

develop a brand new sport that, by rule, dictated that all of the players were involved all of the time and that there was

never any time when a ball was not in play. Further, he wanted to make sure that no one player could dominate the game,

no matter how athletically gifted that player might be.

But, not only did he come up with a new sport, he invented a sport that is so completely unique that in the spring of 2011,

he received a United States Intellectual Property Patent on the game method of the sport. By then, schools state-wide in

Arizona had started incorporating Sabakiball into their Physical Education programs, saying that they had never seen such

a non-stop, endurance oriented, cardio game that grabs and holds the attention of athletic and non-athletic students alike.

Teachers and parents would constantly tell him how students that had never before been interested in team sports were

now enthusiastically participating in P.E. games and local leagues.

After hearing about Sabakiball from a Mesa High School athletic director whose students were participating in Sabakiball

in P.E., Gopher Sport, a leading supplier of sports equipment, immediately saw the potential of this fast-pace, non-stop

new sport. Gopher Sport now offers Sabakiball equipment nationwide and featured Sabakiball on the cover of their Fall

2011 catalog. Rough Edge Software also recognized the marketability of this truly new and unique sport, and has entered

into a licensing agreement to develop a Sabakiball video game for worldwide distribution.

In November of 2011, Major League Baseball player Scott Hairston became a part owner of Sabakiball International,

believing that Sabakiball truly had the potential to be the next American born professional sport. As of December 2011,

Sabakiball had been played by over 25,000 people in Arizona and was being played by tens of thousands more in Florida,

Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Maine, North Carolina, Michigan, and parts of Canada. As the sport of Sabakiball continues to

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Basic Introduction to SabakiballThe ball game method termed Sabakiball is protected by PATENT NO. US 7,935,010 WITH ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Sabakiball International, LLC, must license any revenue generating activities. The BakiBoard backboard system and the BakiPin goal pin are patent-pending as of this publication.

The word Sabaki is a Japanese word meaning movement. Sabakiball was created by Michael Cerpok (chair-pok) of

Arizona in 2008. Entering its fourth year Sabakiball had been played by nearly 100,000 adults and children. One of

the reasons for its rapid growth is the non-stop action of the sport and it is strongly encouraged that schools and league

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The Equipment The BakiBall is small and soft. It is made this way so that it can be gripped and manipulated easily by even young

children, and so that it doesn’t hurt as much as when you get hit with other types of balls.

The BakiPin goal-pin is also soft and has a carefully measured sandbag bottom to keep it standing and to ensure that,

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The BakiBoard backboard is an important part of the sport. Because it is easy to protect the BakiPin from direct attempts

to knock it down, the BakiBoard allows players to utilize “bank-shots” in order to score more often. This also increases a

player’s hand-eye coordination and makes the sport a higher scoring game. The BakiBoard is a precision piece of sports

equipment. It is not made to lean on, fall into, or jump over. At no time should a player touch any part of the BakiBoard

while playing. In fact, the “PIN TIPPING” rule states that if any player touches the BakiBoard during a game, with their

hands or feet, they receive a two minute minor penalty where they must sit out of the game during those two minutes.

The Basic RulesThe following basic UXOHV�DUH�WKH�IXQGDPHQWDO�HOHPHQWV�RI�WKH�VSRUW��DQG�ZLOO�VXI¿FH�IRU�PRVW�JDPHV�EHLQJ�SOD\HG�E\�youth organizations. The complete rule book can be found in a later chapter of this Rule Book.

The object of the sport. Score goals by striking the BakiPin with the BakiBall. You can strike the pin directly or by

re-bounding the ball off of the BakiBoard. Under the goal pin is a small red circle. A team is awarded one point if the

goal pin is knocked down, knocked off of the red circle or knocked back into the BakiBoard. So, the goal pin does not

necessarily need to be all the way down for a goal to be awarded.

Starting and stopping the game. The game starts out with a tip-off at center court, like in basketball. Players may either

grab or tip the ball to their teammates. On subsequent stops in play, the referee will point to the goalie that starts with the

ball. The goalie has three seconds to retrieve a new ball from behind the BakiBoard and step into their goalie box. The

referee now blows the whistle to start play, giving the

goalie three seconds to release the ball. Don’t chase after balls that go out of bounds. Sabakiball is a non-stop action sport!

Three Pass Rule. A team must complete three consecutive passes before attempting a shot on goal. If the ball hits the

ground for any reason, or if the other team gains possession of the ball, you must start your three passes all over again. It

is important to remember that, while you can move the ball up the court in any way you wish; running, dribbling, passing,

if the ball touches the ground you start your three passes over again.

Three Second Rule. Once you gain possession of the ball, you have just three seconds to get rid of it; either by passing

the ball to another player, taking a shot, or otherwise releasing the ball. Dribbling the ball, or throwing it above your head

and catching it again, does restart your three seconds, but it also restarts your three passes. Goalies may not restart their

three seconds while in their goalie box. The Three Second Rule should not be confused with the three steps allowed in

Team Handball or Ultimate Frisbee. In Sabakiball your feet should ALWAYS be moving.

Goalie Box. In front of each BakiBoard is a clearly marked Goalie Box. Players other than the goalie cannot reach in, step

in, or run through the Goalie Box. In fact, when a player takes a shot on goal, their arm cannot go over the Goalie Box

line as they release the ball. Entering the Goalie Box results in the ball being given to the other team at mid-court and a

warning is issued. After a third warning, a two minute penalty is assessed and the team has to play short-handed.

No-Shot Zone. Extending all the way across the court, along the front of the Goalie Box, is the No-Shot Zone. Players

CAN go into the No-Shot Zone, but can NOT score a goal from the No-Shot Zone. Sometimes players DO take their

shot from inside the No-Shot Zone. KEEP PLAYING! If the pin goes down because of a shot from the No-Shot Zone the

goal is disallowed. A Jump Shot is where a player jumps into the No-Shot Zone and as long as the ball leaves your hand

BEFORE your foot hits the ground, you are not considered to be in the No-Shot Zone and a goal resulting from a Jump

Shot WILL be allowed.

IMPORTANT NOTES. In many sports that use a goalie, the goalie waits while their team is on offense. NOT IN

SABAKIBALL! This is one of the hardest things to get used to for new players. When the goalie’s team has the ball, the

goalie advances to mid-court to become part of the offense. This is called “playing the point.” Goals can be scored from

the point. More importantly, if the team has no clear shot and no one open for a pass, they can utilize their goalie.

Sabakiball is a NON-CONTACT sport! You cannot knock people off of the ball and you cannot strip the ball away. Block

the ball, intercept the ball, if the ball is on the ground (called a scrum) go and get it. But, watch the contact!

5HPHPEHU�WR�NHHS�PRYLQJ��,Q�RUGHU�WR�¿QG�DQ�RSHQ�UHFHLYHU�ZLWKLQ�WKUHH�VHFRQGV��DQG�WR�FRPSOHWH�\RXU�WKUHH�SDVVHV�allowing for a shot on goal, all of the players must be continuously moving into open spaces on the court.

Court Layout and Terms

Shooting Lane

Shooting Lane

Slot

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No-Shot Zone

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No-Shot Zone

No-Shot Zone

No-Shot Zone

Tip O!Circle

Mid CourtLine

Sabakiball Field Set Up

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$Q�RI¿FLDO�¿HOG�IRU�OHDJXH�SOD\�LV����IHHW�ORQJ�E\����IHHW�ZLGH�10 feet from the Back-Court boundary line to the Goal Line,

6 feet from the Goal Line to the No-Shot line,

29 feet from the No-Shot line to the Mid-Court line.

A “marker” should be placed half way between the No-Shot line and the Mid-Court line.

The front edge of the BakiBoard base should be on the Goal-Line.

It is recommended that tall cones be used for the Back-Court corners, the No-Shot lines, and the Mid-Court line. Flat

cones can be used for the Back-Court boundary lines, the Goal-Lines, and the “markers.”

The easiest set up method - Sabakiball is made to be played on your basketball court! Simply place the front edge of the

BakiBoard two paces back from the “free throw” line, and place tall “No-Shot Zone” cones on each side of the court, even

with the “free throw” line. Done!

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Start by determining the width of the Sabakiball court.

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NOTE! ALWAYS MOVE AND PLACE YOUR BAKIBOARD WHILE IN THE CLOSED POSITION! MOVING YOUR BAKIBOARD WHILE IN THE OPEN POSITION CAN DAMAGE THE UNIT! IT IS STONGLY SUGGESTED THAT THE UNIT REMAIN CLOSED UNTIL READY FOR USE.

Starting with your heal at the center of the front edge of your BakiBoard, continue 8 paces toward the opposite side of the

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Now determine the length of your court.

Starting with your heal at the center of the front edge of your BakiBoard, face forward and walk away from the board 24

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Starting with your heal at the center of the front edge of your BakiBoard, walk 8 paces toward your sideline and place a

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Line!

From here it is easy.

The Back-Court corners are 3 paces back from the Goal-Line cones.

The No-Shot cone is placed 2 paces forward from Goal-Line cones.

Mid-Court cones are placed 12 paces from the Goal-Line cones.

Flat cone “markers” should be placed half way between the No-Shot line and the Mid-Court line.

Goalie Box is 9 feet wide by 6 feet deep:

Starting with your heal at the center of the front edge of your BakiBoard, go 2 paces and pivot to face the opposite side

RI�WKH�FRXUW��DQG�SODFH�D�ÀDW�FRQH�DW�WKH�PLGSRLQW�EHWZHHQ�\RXU�IHHW��DORQJ�WKH�*RDO�/LQH���5HWXUQ�WR�WKH�%DNL%RDUG�DQG�repeat in the opposite direction. Then take two paces forward from this cone towards the opposite side of the court to

make the front corners of your box.

DONE!

Basic Drills for Coaches

Endurance Drills:

Blood RunsHave players line up across a “No-Shot” line. Be sure that players are well spaced apart. Upon the whistle, they sprint

forward until even with the mid-court cone. They then turn and sprint back to the “No-Shot” line. Turning, they sprint to

the far “No-Shot” line and then return. This is a good warm-up drill upon arrival.

Ball SprintsLine up the balls along the mid-court line, well spaced apart. Each player stands in front of a ball. Upon the whistle, the

players run toward the back-court line. Each time the whistle is blown, they reverse direction. At some point, blow the

whistle 3 times quickly. This is their signal to quickly run back to their ball, pick it up, run to the no-shot line, take a shot,

retrieve their ball, and return it to the mid-court line. You can repeat this several times.

If you have too many players, do not use the balls. Simply have them start at one goal line, sprint towards the opposite

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Circle SprintsStarting from center court, each player (in turn) runs WIDE around the BakiBoard being sure not to enter the goalie box.

As the player comes around from the back-court, the coach throws them a ball, which the player then must return to the

coach as fast as possible. This drill can be used as an advanced passing drill, with the players taking turns throwing the

pass. Be sure that they are leading the runners with the passes, so that the runners must catch-up to the ball.

Passing Drills:

Push-Pass DrillPlayers form two lines, facing each other. Each pair of players has a ball. Start out by having each pair practice 20 reps

of “pushing” the ball towards the chest of their partner. Then divide the pairs into two groups, with each group having

only one ball. The groups now practice their push-passing between players. After a couple of minutes, combine the groups

and practice push-passing using only one ball. After 3 reps, add a second ball at the opposite end of the line. Players are

not only practicing this quick release method of passing, but they are also developing the alertness and focus needed in

Sabakiball.

Cycling Drill+DYH�¿YH�SOD\HUV�VWDUW�RXW�³LQ�SRVLWLRQ´�LQFOXGLQJ�WKH�JRDOWHQGHU�DW�WKH�SRLQW�SRVLWLRQ��VHH�*RDO�7HQGHU�'ULOOV���2QH�SOD\HU�starts with the ball. This player passes to any other player. The receiving player and the passing player switch positions,

with the receiving player passing to a different player as he arrives in his new position. Note: only a player in the HIGH

SHOOTING LANE position should utilize the goaltender, as the goaltender may not cross the mid-court line. Each player

must be utilized before starting the sequence again.

9DULDWLRQ� Z Cycle is when the player in the right HIGH SHOOTING LANE moves to the left HIGH SHOOTING

LANE, then to the right Back Court, then to the left Back Court, and then returns to the right HIGH SHOOTING LANE.

Pass goes to the person in the position you are headed toward.

The Bomb

Place several balls in front of the goalie box. One player stands in the LOW SLOT position with a ball. The rest of the

SOD\HUV�OLQH�XS�DORQJ�RQH�VLGHOLQH��8SRQ�WKH�ZKLVWOH��WKH�¿UVW�SOD\HU�VSULQWV�XS�WKH�FRXUW��$V�WKDW�SOD\HU�SDVVHV�WKH�0LG�Court line, the player with the ball throws a high arc pass. Be sure to have the passing player try to “lead” the receiver.

The passer now goes to the end of the receiver line, and the receiver becomes the next passer. As they get better at this,

you can move the passer towards the same sideline as the receivers until the passer is standing side-by-side with the

receiver.

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the players retrieve the ball before returning to the original starting zone.

Shooting Drills

Around the WorldJust like the Basketball drill. Have the players form a line at the “No-Shot” cone along one sideline. No Goalie! Each

player takes a shot at the pin from this corner position. If they miss, they run as fast as they can to get the ball they just

threw and get back in line. If they are able to knock the pin down or off of the goal spot, they then move two steps in

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the opposite side line. It is a good idea to also use this drill mandating that the shot must utilize the BakiBoard so that

players become adept at bank-shots.

Beginner Variation; the player moves across after each shot even if they miss. They can usually go two or three times

across in a short time.

Advanced Variation; starting from the right side line they shoot with their RIGHT hand until the pass the middle of the

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Jump Shot Drill

Players run in toward the right side of the BakiBoard and jump into the No-Shot Zone. The must take their shot while in

the air, with the ball leaving their hand before their foot hits the ground. Start out at a slow jog so that players can get used

WR�WKLV�GLI¿FXOW�VKRW��2QFH�WKH\�JHW�WKH�KDQJ�RI�LW��KDYH�WKHP�WU\�RSSRVLWH�VLGH�KDQG�-XPS�6KRWV�DV�ZHOO�DV�FURVVLQJ�SDWWHUQ�Jump Shots. Note! Be sure that the players are not jumping into the Goalie-Box!

Shoot-Out Drill

Players start at the Center Court tip-off area. Once you blow the whistle, the player can “roam” towards the goalie (they

can not move back towards the center line). Once the player passes the side marker they have three seconds to take the

shot. Encourage creativity as this is a fun drill, but also useful in league play. Behind the back shots, spinning shots, back-

hand shots, and jump shots are some ideas. However, players should become adept at running down the sideline and using

bank-shots from the shooting lanes, as these are high percentage scoring opportunities.

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“The Wall” - Zone Defense

Shooting Lane

Shooting Lane

Slot

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No-Shot Zone

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No-Shot Zone

No-Shot Zone

No-Shot Zone

Tip O!Circle

Mid CourtLine

This very basic defense is used to conserve the energy of the defensive players. By placing one player in each of the two

VKRRWLQJ�ODQHV��DQG�WZR�PRUH�GHIHQVLYH�SOD\HUV�LQ�WKH�VORW��PRVW�VKRWV�FDQ�EH�EORFNHG�RU�GHÀHFWHG�SULRU�WR�UHDFKLQJ�WKH�goalie. A variation of this defense is to have one of the slot defensive players pressure the offensive player in possession of

the ball, thus disrupting quality passes. All defensive players in “The Wall” must be ready to jump on loose balls after the

shot has been taken.

Break Out Play

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No-Shot Zone

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No-Shot Zone

On the whistle, and upon being awarded possession of the ball, The Wall separates into Break Out positions. As the goalie

returns to the goalie box, and the whistle is blown to resume play, one of the shooting lane defenders moves into a back-

court corner. Another player moves to the same side sideline, between the goal-line and the marker and takes the “wing”

SRVLWLRQ��$V�WKH�¿UVW�SDVV�PRYHV�IURP�WKH�JRDOLH�WR�WKH�EDFN�FRXUW�SOD\HU��D�WKLUG�SOD\HU�WDNHV�WKH�³FHQWHU´�SRVLWLRQ�DQG�begins moving up the court. Simultaneous with the back-court player’s pass up the sideline to the wing, the opposite side

“wing” sprints up court. The third pass can go from the wing to the center or from the wing to the sprinting opposite side

wing. The goalie should be sure to follow the play to mid-court taking the “point” position.

Fast Break Offense

The Fast Break offense can be used to push the defense back on their heels. The goalie sprints toward the Mid-Court line

rather than passing the ball in from the goalie box. Because there have been no passes yet, the goalie may want to bounce

the ball once or twice in order to arrive at the Mid-Court Line without having used any of the Three Second time. As the

goalie moves forward, the rest of the offense sprints up court gaining the offensive zone before the defense has had time to

set up their positions.

Mid Court Start

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When awarded a Mid-Court start due to a warning or penalty being called, it is important to take advantage of the

immediate access to the offensive zone. Have players spread out as this opportunity should result in three or four quick

passes and a shot on goal. Also, the same type of movement (but continuous) as shown here is an excellent way to conduct

your 3RZHU�3OD\ or “man advantage” when the opposing team has been issued a penalty.

Penalty Kill

When a team has been given a Penalty, they play “short-handed” while the penalized player sits out of the game. Playing

short-handed requires the penalized team to attempt to kill off the time being played without their usual number of

players. Usually it is best to play a zone defense while also being attentive to trying to recover any loose balls. A basic

zone defense for the Penalty Kill is similar The Wall defense with only one player in the slot while the other two forward

players occupying the shooting lanes. It is very important to note that once the penalized team has gained control of

the ball, they should try to keep it away from the attacking team rather than focusing on moving the ball up the court.

Remember, you are trying to “kill” time until your penalized player can return to play!

Fore-Checking

Fore-Checking is the term used when a defensive player attacks whichever offensive player has the ball, trying to cause

a disruption in ball movement between offensive players. Doing so often results in errant passes, which can then be

recovered by the defensive team. The major drawback to fore-checking is that it is extremely tiring and requires a great

deal of endurance. It is best to use the fore-check before the offensive team has crossed mid-court, after which the fore-

checking player may want to take their place in The Wall defense.

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Section 1; Court Dimensions

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1.2 Center Line is clearly marked 45 feet from the back of each back boundary line.

1.3 A BakiBoard back-stop should be placed 9 feet from each back boundary line and utilized to allow for *bank-shots*

and to assist in keeping the ball in play. The front of the BakiBoard base becomes the basis for the Goal Line.

1.4 No-Shot Zone should be clearly marked and extend six feet forward from the Goal Line and extend the width of the

court.

1.5 A Goalie Box, 9 feet wide and 6 feet deep, should be clearly marked.

1.6 BakiPin goal pin is placed on the pin placement circle on the BakiBoard base.

1.7 A tip-off circle should be clearly marked at center court and should be 10 feet in circumference.

Section 2; To Play

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2.2 Game and each subsequent period begin with a tip off. Only one player from each team may occupy the tip-off circle

during the tip-off.

����(DFK�RI�WKUHH�3HULRGV�ODVWV�WZHQW\�PLQXWHV�ZLWK�D�¿YH�PLQXWH�LQWHUPLVVLRQ�EHWZHHQ�3HULRGV���<RXWK�JDPHV�W\SLFDOO\�run 15 min periods.) Teams switch defensive zones each period.

2.4 Each team is allowed three 30 second time-outs per period, and must be in possession of the ball to call a time-

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2.5 One point is awarded for “knocking” opposing team’s pin with the ball, when no infraction is committed. Pin is

considered “knocked” when:

2.5.1 the goal-pin falls over.

2.5.2 the goal-pin bounces off of the back-stop or goalie as a result of a shot.

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2.6 Team in possession must complete at least three consecutive passes before attempting a shot.

2.7 No player may be in possession of the ball for more than three seconds before attempting a pass.

2.8 A player’s foot may not land into the No-Shot Zone before shooting. A player receiving the ball while occupying the

No-Shot Zone must exit the zone completely before attempting a shot on goal. A goal made while the player taking a shot

is in the No-Shot Zone will be disallowed.

2.9 No player, other than a team’s designated goalie can occupy the Goalie Box, nor attempt to retrieve a ball that lies

ZLWKLQ�WKH�ER[��%UHDNLQJ�WKH�³SODQH´�RI�WKH�*RDOLH�%R[�LV�FRQVLGHUHG�DQ�LQIUDFWLRQ��5HIHUHH�PXVW�EH�QRWL¿HG�EHIRUH�“switching” goalies.

2.10 When play is started from the Goalie Box, the three second time begins with the referee’s whistle. Goalie is not

allowed to dribble or otherwise attempt to restart the three second time while in the Goalie Box.

2.11 A player may re-start their three second time by intentionally dropping the ball (dribbling) or throwing the ball up in

the air (so long as the ball achieves a height higher than the player’s own head). While such a maneuver does restart the

Three Second Rule, it also negates any previous passes. Bouncing the ball off of another player restarts the Three Second

Rule without negating previous passes.

2.12 If a goal-pin appears to be knocked such that the referee calls a time out in order to verify the goal, the team who has

grabbed possession of the ball when time was called will maintain possession and start play from their goalie box in the

event that no goal is awarded. If a goal is awarded, the team having been scored upon starts play.

Section 3; Change of Possession

Play will be stopped and a change of possession will be called by either the Referee or the Timer in the following

instances:

3.1 A defensive player takes, or knocks free, a ball already in possession of the opposing team. The opposing team is

allowed to maintain possession. A delayed whistle is used! Play is not stopped if the opposing team immediately regains

possession of the ball. If play is stopped, the goalie must start play from their Goalie Box.

3.2 A warning or penalty is called. A delayed whistle is used! A stoppage in play caused by a warning or penalty occurs

after the offending team takes control of the ball. Any player on the non-offending team may take possession of the ball at

center court.

3.3 The ball is deemed to be “out of bounds” by the Referee or Timer. Play starts in the Goalie Box.

3.4 A team’s designated goalie is “off-side” by crossing the center line. (See Section 7)

3.5 A goal has been scored. Play starts in the Goalie Box.

3.6 A center court tip off will be called when play is stopped due to opposing players having equal possession of the ball

for more than three seconds.

3.7 Opposing goalie takes possession of the ball when a shot is blocked out of bounds. Play starts in the Goalie Box.

3.8 Goalie may not attempt to kill 3 second rule while in Goalie Box.

Section 4; Penalties

Play is stopped when the team to be penalized has gained possession of the ball. The referee will indicate that a Warning is

imminent by raising their bare arm and will indicate a Penalty is imminent by raising their “banded” arm. See 7.2.

4.1 A penalized player remains in a designated neutral area near the judge while their team plays “short handed” for the

duration of the penalty or until the stated number of “power play” goals are scored.

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4.1b. When a team has a permanent designated goalie, penalties assessed to the goalie may be served by any player on the

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4.2 The Referee may choose to give a warning to a player for entering the goalie box (Goalie Interference), Incidental

Contact, or Pin-Tipping. Any player receiving three warnings in a single game will be issued a mandatory Minor Penalty

upon the next infraction.

4.3 Minor Penalty

Two Minutes. Penalty ends if opposing teams scores a goal.

4.4 Major Penalty

Five Minutes. Penalty ends if opposing teams scores two goals.

4.5 Misconduct

Ten Minutes. Penalty ends if opposing teams scores four goals. Any player receiving a second Misconduct Penalty in any

one game will immediately receive a Game Misconduct.

4.6 Game Misconduct

Ten Minute penalty is served by alternate team member, ejection from the game, must leave the area of play.

4.7 Penalty Shot

'XULQJ�D�3HQDOW\�6KRW��DOO�SOD\HUV�PXVW�H[LW�WKH�¿HOG��3OD\HU�DZDUGHG�ZLWK�WKH�3HQDOW\�VKRW�VWDUWV�DW�PLG�FRXUW��5HIHUHH�takes a position half way between mid-court and the Goal Line. Player has three seconds from the time they pass the

referee to take their shot. No-Shot Zone restrictions apply. After the shot, defending goalie takes possession of the ball in

their Goalie Box.

A Penalty Shot (in addition to the penalty time) will be made mandatory when any player who has committed more than

three Minor Penalties or two Major Penalties in a single game receives subsequent penalties. After three Penalty Shots

have been levied against a single player, said player will receive a Game Misconduct Penalty upon the fourth infraction.

A penalty shot is also awarded, at the referee’s discretion, for Pin-Tipping when facing an unobstructed shot or “break-

away.”

Section 5; Infractions

5.1 Players on both teams have an equal right to a loose ball. Incidental contact is allowed, and is called non-incidental at

the referee’s discretion. No player may use his or her body to attempt to knock the ball loose from another player.

5.2 A player in possession of the ball has the right to move with the ball in any direction, however, a defensive player also

has the right to remain in their position. If contact occurs between two players due to the exercise of these rights, it is left

to the referee’s discretion as to whether or not contact was incidental.

5.3 Minor Penalties will be issued for the following infractions:

*Charging (excessive incidental contact)

*Roughing (non-incidental contact)

*Elbowing an opposing player

*Goalie Interference

*Holding an opposing player

*Pin Tipping (players may not touch any part of the BakiBoard or BakiPin,

whether purposeful or not)

*Tripping opposing player

*Unsportsmanlike conduct

*Too Many Players on the Field

5.4 Major Penalties will be issued for the following infractions:

*Kicking an opposing player

*Excessive non-incidental contact

*Unsportsmanlike conduct by a coach

5.5 Misconduct Penalties will be issued for the following infractions:

*Gross unsportsmanlike conduct by coach or player

5.6 Game Misconduct will be issued for the following infractions:

*Intent to injure another player

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Section 6; Time-Out

6.1 Each team is allowed THREE thirty second time-outs per period. A team must be in possession of the ball to call

time-out. The game clock is stopped, unless playing with a “running clock.” At the end of thirty seconds, the Referee will

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����2QFH�WKH�UHIHUHH�KDV�JLYHQ�QRWLFH��UHIHUHH�ZLOO�VWDUW�SOD\�SURPSWO\�DIWHU�¿YH�VHFRQGV�E\�EORZLQJ�WKH�ZKLVWOH�WHETHER OR NOT TEAMS HAVE RETURNED TO THE FIELD. The sounding of the whistle will indicate the start

the three second rule.

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Section 7; Pulling the Goalie

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7.2 Non-offending team’s Goalie may cross the center line on a delayed Penalty.

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����$�WHDP�PD\�DSSRLQW�RQH�³FDSWDLQ´�DQG�RQH�³DOWHUQDWH´�FDSWDLQ��&DSWDLQV�DQG�$OWHUQDWHV�PD\�DVN�IRU�FODUL¿FDWLRQ�RQ�FDOOV�DQG�UXOHV�ZLWK�JDPH�RI¿FLDOV��KRZHYHU��LW�VKRXOG�EH�XQGHUVWRRG�WKDW�DUJXLQJ�FDOOV�PD\�UHVXOW�LQ�DQ�8QVSRUWVPDQOLNH�Conduct warning or penalty. The captain’s jersey must display a “C” and alternates jersey must display an “A” on the

front upper right chest.

Section 9; Switching Designated Goaltender

9.1 A team may switch their designated goaltender only during a stoppage in play, and by informing and gaining

acknowledgement from the referee.

Section 10; Tie Games

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regulation must be used in the sudden death period and shoot-out. Goalies may be utilized as shooters. Teams do not

switch sides of the court for overtime period unless the referee deems that an unfair advantage exists for one team, such as

sun, wind, etc. Both teams are awarded one point for the tie, with an extra point awarded to the winning team.

Section 11; Substitute Players

11.1 Teams may use substitute players to avoid forfeiture of a game, however, all subs must be registered players having

paid their registration fee (or pay their fee prior to the next scheduled game).

�����'XULQJ�WKH�FRXUVH�RI�D�JDPH��WHDPV�PD\�VXEVWLWXWH�SOD\HUV�RQ�WKH�¿HOG�ZLWK�WHDP�PHPEHUV�ZDLWLQJ�RQ�WKH�VLGHOLQH��7KH�VXEVWLWXWH�SOD\HU�PD\�QRW�HQWHU�WKH�¿HOG�RI�SOD\�XQWLO�DQRWKHU�SOD\HU�KDV�FRPSOHWHO\�OHIW�WKH�¿HOG�RI�SOD\��)DLOLQJ�WR�GR�so may result in a minor penalty for having Too Many Players on the Field.

�����6XEVWLWXWH�SOD\HUV�PXVW�HQWHU�DQG�H[LW�WKH�¿HOG�RI�SOD\�IURP�WKHLU�GHVLJQDWHG�VLGH�RI�WKH�0LG�&RXUW�/LQH��DQG�RQO\�from the sideline designated by the Referee at the start of the game.

2I¿FLDO�5XOHV�DUH�XSGDWHG�SHULRGLFDOO\�7R�EH�VXUH�WKDW�\RX�KDYH�WKH�PRVW�FXUUHQW�YHUVLRQ�RI�WKH�2I¿FLDO�5XOHV

please contact Sabakiball International at �������������RU�VDEDNLEDOO�FRP

Referee Hand SignalsGENERAL CALLS

TIME-OUT is indicated by crossing and uncrossing the arms above the head.

Delayed Penalty,

Warning, Change of

Possession.

Penalty; Wristband arm fully extended above the head.

:DUQLQJ�&KDQJH�RI�3RVVHVVLRQ: Bare arm fully

Extended above head.

Whistle blows when offending team gains possession.

To nullify a delayed change of possession, the referee

shall drop the arm to the side.

Goal scored A single point directed at the goal pin.

Wash out

A sweeping sideways motion of both arms across

the front of the body at shoulder level with palms

down used to signal no goal.

MINOR PENALTIES

Elbowing Tapping either elbow with the opposite hand.

HoldingClasping either wrist with the other hand in front

of the chest.

Interference

Interference is when a player keeps an opposing

Player from reaching a loose ball or moving freely

without the ball. Cross arms in front of the chest in

an “X” formation. Also used for Goal Box violations

(goaltender interference).

Kicking Slapping either knee with the palm of the hand.

Charging

Player initiates contact with opposing player while

not being in possession of the ball. Also if player

aggressively enters the goalie box. Rotate clenched

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Roughing

Initiating contact with hands or elbows extending

away from body or lowering shoulder into opponent

in order to obstruct movement. Fist placed on open

palm.

Hooking A chopping motion with the edge of one hand across

the opposite forearm.

Tripping Striking leg with either hand below the knee.

Unsportsmanlike

ConductUsing both hands to forma “T” in front of the chest.

MAJOR PENATIES

Misconduct Both hands on hips.

Penalty shot

Awarded when a player’s attempt to score, while

having no obstruction between the player and the

goalie, is kept from attempting their shot by a player

causing a penalty. Arm fully extended pointing to

the center court tip-off spot.

Glossary

Back Court The width of the court from the goal line to the back boundary line.

BakiPin Goal Pin used in Sabakiball. Striking the pin awards points.

BakiBall Ball used in the sport of Sabakiball.

BakiBoard Back-stop apparatus used in Sabakiball upon which goal pin is placed.

Break-Out Using a set play to advance the ball from the defensive zone.

Center Playing a position between the goalie box corners, the length of the court.

Cerpok Michael Cerpok (pronounced chair-pok), the inventor of Sabakiball.

Cycling Moving the ball between players who are trading their positions.

Defensive Zone The half of the court containing a team’s BakiPin.

Fore-Check Defensive player assertively pressures the ball carrier.

Goal Line Line that runs the width of the court across the front of the BakiBoard.

Goalie Box A marked 6’ X 9’ area directly in front of the BakiPin.

Goalie Player designated to occupy the goal box and protect the BakiPin.

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Jump Shot Jumping into the No-Shot Zone and releasing the ball before landing.

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Marker Marked spot on each side line between the No-Shot Line and Mid Court.

Mid Court Dividing line between the defensive and offensive zones.

Minor Penalty Penalty lasting duration of two minutes.

No-Shot Line Line designating start of No-Shot zone.

No-Shot Zone Area between No-Shot Line and back boundary line.

Offensive Zone The half of the court containing opposing team’s BakiPin.

Over-time Five minute sudden death period as a result of a tie game.

Penalty Kill Purposefully keeping the ball away from a team that has a man advantage.

Penalty Shot Result of an infraction; attempt to score on a goalie without obstruction.

Pin Tipping An infraction caused by a player moving or tipping the BakiPin goal pin.

Power Play Having a man advantage due to a penalty on opposing team.

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Sabaki Japanese word that translates: movement.

Shooting Lane Optimum area for bank shots extending from corners of Goalie Box.

Shoot-Out End of overtime; players attempt to score on a goalie without obstruction.

Short-Handed Playing without a full team due to penalty.

Slot Area between the Goalie Box corners extending the length of court.

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7LPHU� � 2I¿FLDO�UHVSRQVLEOH�IRU�FRXQWLQJ�SDVVHV�DQG�NHHSLQJ���6HFRQG�&ORFN�

Tip Off Two players jump for possession of a ball thrown by referee.

Wall Taking up a defensive position around one’s own goal box.

Wing Playing a position along the side line on the left or right side.

®

Michael Cerpok, creator of sabakiball,is a career martial artist with more thanthirty years of experience in sports andfitness program development. He is alsothe author of two books on Zen Philosophyand has lectured at universities across theunited states. as a professional speaker,his inspirational and motivational storiesblend effortlessly with humor and passionmaking him a highly sought after presenter.

To invite mr. cerpok to speak to your groupplease contact sabakiball international.

sabakiball international, llc islocated in fountain hills arizona.

mailing address is:13771 n fountain hills blvd., ste. 114-305fountain hills az 85268.

phone numer: 480-657-8695email: contactus@sabakiball.com

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Rule Book Back Cover.pdf 1 1/30/12 2:32 PM