In the quiet town of Tavistock, Ontario, a craftsman named Eckhardt Wettlaufer sought to create a special gift for his son’s fifth birthday. Drawing upon his woodwork skills, he crafted a circular wooden board with a central hole, surrounded by concentric scoring rings and small pegs acting as obstacles. This was in 1876, and little did he know, he was giving birth to a game that would flick its way into the hearts of many: Crokinole.
Crokinole, derived from the French word “croquignole,” meaning a flick or snap, is a dexterity game combining shuffleboard, curling, and carrom elements. Players take turns flicking wooden discs from the outer edge of the board, aiming to land them in higher-scoring regions or the central 20-point hole, all while attempting to knock their opponent’s discs into less favorable positions or off the board entirely. The simplicity of its rules, combined with the depth of strategy and skill required, has made it a timeless pastime.
Crokinole became a staple in Canadian households throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in rural communities. Families would gather around the board during long winter evenings, engaging in friendly competition and bonding over the satisfying clack of wooden discs. The game’s appeal wasn’t limited to Canada; it found its way into homes across the northern United States, becoming a beloved fixture at social gatherings and community events.
However, Crokinole’s prominence began to wane as the mid-20th century ushered in an era of mass-produced board games and electronic entertainment. Once a common sight, the handcrafted boards were replaced by flashy new games that dominated the market. Yet, like many cherished traditions, Crokinole never truly disappeared; it lay dormant, waiting for its moment to resurface.
In the 1990s, a renaissance of sorts began. A growing appreciation for analog games and tactile experiences led enthusiasts to rediscover the joys of Crokinole. Communities were formed, clubs established, and tournaments organized, all in the name of reviving this classic game. The World Crokinole Championship (WCC) was inaugurated in 1999 in Tavistock, paying homage to the game’s origins. This annual event attracts participants from across Canada, the United States, and even as far as Germany, Australia, and the UK, all vying for the world champion title.
The resurgence wasn’t confined to competitive play. The rise of online platforms and social media allowed enthusiasts to share their passion with a global audience. YouTube channels dedicated to Crokinole strategies, board craftsmanship, and tournament highlights garnered thousands of subscribers. Communities on platforms like Reddit buzzed with discussions, tips, and shared experiences, further fueling interest.
This renewed interest led to a demand for quality boards, prompting artisans to craft bespoke, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces. Companies like Tracey Boards emerged, offering handcrafted boards that became the centerpiece of many a game night. The tactile pleasure of flicking a well-crafted wooden disc on a polished surface provided a sensory satisfaction that digital games couldn’t replicate.
Another factor in its enduring appeal is the game’s accessibility. Suitable for players aged five to 105, Crokinole’s straightforward rules make learning easy, yet its depth ensures mastery requires practice and strategy. Whether at family gatherings, local pubs, or international tournaments, Crokinole fosters a sense of community and friendly competition. A very good friend of mine illustrates this resurgence. William’s journey mirrors this global resurgence. Introduced to the game a few years ago, he was captivated by its blend of skill and strategy. His family, recognizing his passion, gifted him a board for Christmas. What started as a casual interest evolved into a fervent pursuit. He immersed himself in the game’s nuances, practicing diligently and absorbing strategies from online tutorials. His dedication bore fruit as he began traveling to participate in tournaments, connecting with fellow enthusiasts and experiencing firsthand the camaraderie that Crokinole fosters.
Not content with merely playing, William sought to share his passion with his local community. He founded a Crokinole club, inviting novices and seasoned players to gather, play, and appreciate the game’s rich heritage. Through his efforts, a new generation is discovering the joy of flicking discs across a wooden board, ensuring the tradition continues.
William’s story is not unique. Across the globe, individuals are rediscovering Crokinole, drawn by its simplicity, depth, and the human connection it fosters. In an age dominated by screens and digital interactions, the game’s tactile nature offers a refreshing respite. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest games provide the most profound joys.
As Crokinole continues its international journey, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional games. From a handcrafted board in 1876 to global tournaments and local clubs today, the game’s flickering path illuminates the timeless human desire for connection, competition, and camaraderie.
So, to William and all the enthusiasts out there, flick on. You’re part of a rich legacy celebrating skill, strategy, and the simple joy of play
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