Washer Pitch

Name and Purpose

Washer Pitch is a relaxed outdoor tossing game that works for all skill levels.
Players practise aim, patience, and light strategy in a small-group setting. It travels easily on away trips and fits into transition time.

a.k.a.

Washer Pitching, Texas Horseshoes
Note: some regions call this Polish Horseshoes or Redneck Horseshoes. Those names have been replaced here with the more neutral Washer Pitch.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 2-8 players (1v1 or 2v2) | 15-30 minutes | Flat outdoor area; short grass or firm surface preferred

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Set boards 10 feet apart, rope handles facing away from the throwing end.
Player 1 throws all 3 washers at the far board; Player 2 throws from the same spot.
Score: closest hole 1 pt, middle hole 3 pts, far hole 5 pts. Washers that match cancel out.
The team or player who scored last throws first in the next round.
First to exactly 21 wins. Going over reduces your score by what you threw that round.

Setup and Boundaries

Place boards 10 feet apart (front edge to front edge) on flat, even ground.
Mark a throwing line at the front edge of each board; feet stay behind this line.
Signal: facilitator raises a hand to pause play.
Check area for tripping hazards; keep bystanders clear of the throwing lane.

How to Play

In 1v1: both players throw from the same end; then walk to the far board, tally scores, and throw back.
In 2v2: teammates stand at opposite boards and throw toward each other’s end.
Each player throws 3 washers per turn. A full round = both players (or both pairs) throwing.
Scoring: closest hole = 1 point; middle hole = 3 points; farthest hole = 5 points. A washer must drop fully into the hole to count. If a thrown washer knocks an opponent’s washer into a hole, that opponent scores the hole’s value.
Cancellation: matching hole scores between the two sides cancel each other out. Only the net difference counts.
The team or player who scored in the previous round throws first in the next.
First to exactly 21 wins. Going over means your score drops back to your total before that round, minus the points that broke 21.
Skunk rule (optional, agree before play): if one side reaches 11+ points while the other has zero, the game ends.

I-OPt Options

Start: A (Active) – throw washers and compete. S (Support) – keep score and track cancellations. Q (Quiet) – practise throws informally before the scored round. O (Observer) – watch one round to learn before joining.
Mid: A – adjust aim and try different throwing styles. S – call out scores and celebrate good throws. Q – throw at a relaxed pace; reduce to 2 washers if preferred. O – take over scorekeeper role from a tired supporter.
Late: A – push for exactly 21. S – help verify scores and resolve disputes calmly. Q – continue at their pace. O – join as a 2v2 partner for the last few rounds.
End: A – celebrate the winner. S – pack away equipment. Q – share one thing they noticed about aim or technique. O – try one throw just for fun before packing up.

Inclusion Adaptations

Reduce board distance to 6 feet for younger or less experienced players.
Use a seated throwing position for players who need it; adapt the foul line accordingly.

Stewardship Moment

Boards and washers are reusable for years; store in a dry place to extend lifespan.
Reflection: “This set can go with you anywhere. How does taking care of camp equipment help everyone?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game involves tossing heavy metal washers. Keep bystanders clear of the throwing lane at all times. For those not ready to throw, Scorekeeper is just as important a role.”
Mid-game check: After first round, check in. “Everyone comfortable with the distance and weight?”
Opt-out/re-entry: Step back to Scorekeeper or Observer at any time. Rejoin as a thrower at the start of the next round.

Risks and Mitigation

Washer leaving the play area: mark a clear side boundary; bystanders stay outside.
Tripping over boards: ensure boards are flat and stable before play.
Heavy washers on bare feet: enforce footwear; closed-toe shoes recommended.
Disagreements on cancellations: agree on scoring rules before play; one designated scorekeeper helps.

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Underhand Lob”: each player tosses a beanbag or ball underhand into a hoop 5 feet away to warm up aim.
“Distance Guess”: players estimate how far apart the boards are without measuring, then check with the rope.

Debrief Questions

What? “What adjustments did you make to improve your aim during the game?”
So What? “What is the difference between luck and technique in this game?”
Now What? “What other skill at camp improves when you slow down and focus on technique rather than power?”

Cleanup and Reset

Collect all 6 washers and store with the boards.
Coil and store the measuring rope.
Stack boards in a dry location.
For those not comfortable with any part of this activity, observing or taking a different role is another option.