crossnet

Crossnet is a hybrid sport that blends elements of volleyball and four-square. The game is played on a court divided into four equal quadrants by a central net, with one player typically occupying each quadrant in the standard four-player format. A volleyball or similar ball is used, and play can take place indoors or outdoors on a suitably surface and a portable or permanent net setup.

The objective is to be the last player remaining through rounds of serve-and-return play. A round usually begins with a serve from one quadrant into the diagonally opposite quadrant. Players must return the ball over the net and try to land it in a way that keeps it in play, with chances to direct the ball to any quadrant. If the ball lands out of bounds, or a player fails to return it, that player’s quadrant is eliminated and a substitute from behind that quadrant enters the action. The round continues with the surviving players until only one competitor remains, who wins the round. In many competitions, rounds are used to determine points toward a match, and some formats allow teams of two to occupy quadrants instead of individuals.

Equipment includes a portable crossnet setup and a ball appropriate for the sport, along with court mats or lines to delineate the four quadrants. The sport has grown through organized leagues, tournaments, and a community of enthusiasts, with official rules and branding used in many events.

Crossnet is related to volleyball and to four-square as a court-based, fast-paced, skill-focused activity, and it continues to evolve with new formats and regional competitions.