If you have never played a tournament, you are really missing out on a good time. Traditionally, tournaments have one of three types of games that are played. The first, a kick-back to that childhood game played by all, Capture the Flag. The second is center flag. Third is a newer game called X-ball. For all types, a few key strategies can make a huge difference in the outcome of your game. Read on to learn how.



If you can, remember back to the good old days of recess or camp. Capture the Flag consists of capturing the opposing team's flag and returning it to your own team's flag station. In paintball play, this format is often used in woodsball play. Teams may also receive extra points for eliminating opponents and by having players remaining at the end of the game. For tournaments, teams may be composed of various sizes from 3 to 20. The event will be termed a 5-man or 10-man or other-man team, dependent upon the amount of players allowed for each team. Most tournaments now consist of smaller teams on a grass field with bunkers. Center Flag is very similar to Capture the Flag.

In Center Flag, a single flag is placed at a neutral or center position on the field. For a team to achieve victory, it must capture this flag and take it to a designated area. The area for the win is usually the opponent's starting point. Center Flag is also commonly played in 3-man, 5-man and 7-man formats. X-Ball is a multiple round match of Center Flag involving two teams playing against each other until game time runs out. Scoring is as follows, one point per team for each game of center flag they win, and at the end of the 50 minute match, the team with the most points wins. Each match is split into two halves and only 5 players may play in any game. Players may be substituted after each point scored.

Strategies for Effective Tournament Play...

To be a good tournament team, teams should return fire on enemy positions with as much force as possible. Attack your opponent; don't wait for them to attack your team. If you rush the other team and return fire ferociously, they can be shocked still and their ability to move around will be limited. This will be your first successful step to beating the opponent.

During tournament play, you should yell to your other teammates constantly. Your teammates should be continually updated on your location and the location of the enemy. Your fire and movements should be coordinated amongst the team.

If your teammate is going to make a move, be sure to give him good cover fire. Distract the opposing team. These directions can be vocalized, especially if your cover has already been blown. At that point, there's no need to keep quiet. By providing good cover, your enemy will be made to keep his head down and his sights off you. The moving player should also provide cover for himself.

Finally, to become a great tournament player, learn how to shoot with either hand. This ability allows for firing out of either side of the bunker without having to reposition yourself or make yourself a target. Good luck and have fun!