Rules - Eye-to-Eye Initiative Determination

A common form of determining initiative in 2 Ball Beirut (Beer Pong) is the method known as eye-to-eye shooting.

Eye-to-Eye Process

To begin, each team is given one ball and must choose a player to shoot eye-to-eye against the other team. The two opposing players may then line up their shot, but may not shoot. After both players are ready, they must make eye contact with each other. While maintaining eye contact with each other, they must count to three and then shoot.

If only one player sinks their shot, then their team will be awarded the initiative. At this point, they will be given both balls and standard play begins.

If both, or neither player sinks their shot, then the other player on each team repeats the process. The process is repeated until only one player sinks their shot.

Eye-to-Eye Drawbacks

While the eye-to-eye method is widely used, it is not a good process for use in tournament or league competition. By giving initiative to the team that hits a cup by this method, the team is in essence given a minimum of three shots in a row. This gives too great an advantage to one team, by increasing their chance of running the table. During tournament or league competition it is better to determine initiative using a random draw method, such as a coin flip.

Eye-to-Eye Rule

Eye-to-eye can be a fun method, and can add some drama to the first game of the night. Subsequent games usually give initiative to the team that one the previous game. For those that would like to use the eye-to-eye method, substitute the following rule.

  7  Order of Play

7.1  Initiative [Variation]

Prior to the start of play, the teams shall decide who shall have the initiative using the eye-to-eye determination method. Each team shall be given one ball and must choose either player to shoot eye-to-eye against the opposing team. The two opposing players may then line up their shot, but may not shoot. After both players are ready, they shall make eye contact with each other. While maintaining eye contact with each other, they shall count to three and then shoot.

If only one player sinks their shot, then their team shall be awarded the initiative. This team shall receive both balls and play shall begin following the standard shooting order.

If both, or neither player sinks their shot, then the other player on each team shall repeat the process. The process shall be repeated indefinitely until only one player sinks their shot during a turn.

© Copyright 2003-2011 Beirut-Guide.com, All Rights Reserved	BACK TO TOP
Disclaimer: Beirut (beer pong) can be played with alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, or no beverage at all. If you choose to play beirut (beer pong) with alcoholic beverages, you should be of legal drinking age and drink responsibly.