Zhubál - 4-Square for Grownups?

In answer to the question: "What're the main differences between Zhubál and 4-square?" Andrew Carpenter, Zhubál Commissioner, replies:

"Well besides the fact that if you call if '4 Square' during a tournament you get penalized, Zhubál is much different. The only similarity is the Grid and a ball. During a research period, we found that 4-Square is based upon hitting a ball TO someone and hoping for a error. Zhubál is based on a philosophy similar to Tennis and Volleyball. Hit it where someone can't hit it back.

Zhubál is a game about adapting to your environment. Respect for the Rules and fair play are at the core of its essence. Those who have no respect for the rules have no respect for the game. There are only 2 ways to learn to play Zhubál.

1: Read the Zhubál Instructional Compendium at www.zhubal.com

or

2: Negative Reinforcement: Zhubál is built for Adults.... 4 Square is for Kindergarten Kids."

Reading through the Instructional Compendium resolved all my issues about its 4-square-likeness (though knowing how kids play 4-square is very useful for the novice Zhubállist). For me, the most significant and welcome difference is the wholesale adoption of the idea of the "Spirit of the Game" as so well-voiced by the Ultimate Players' Association:

"2. Spirit of the Game

Zhubál relies upon a spirit of sportsmanship which places the responsibility for fair play on the players. Referees are not necessary due to the high integrity that the players exhibit in the use and recognition of the rules. Highly competitive play is required, but never at the expense of the bond of mutual respect between players, adherence to the agreed upon rules of the game, or the basic joy of play. Such actions as taunting of opposing players are allowed but never to the degree of harshness. All 'good' play needs to be respected and rewarded by all players and with a high degree of appreciation."

Yes, and again, yes. New games, like Zhubál, are constantly needed, because they are invitations to play. Sports may pay their players millions of dollars, but if that comes at the expense of fun, it's just not worth it. For anyone.