Local Rules or Customs

[rotationslim]

In a recent conversation with a buddy that runs a church league in Dearborn Michigan (world HQ Ford Motor) he said they play "Ford Rules" I asked what that was, and it was awarding points on shooting fouls instead of shooting free throws. Not particularly uncommon in rec style ball, and I asked why it was called "Ford Rules" he said that is the way the Ford Company recreation leagues play, so that is how they play.

It left me thinking about unique rules, customs or oddities in different areas. I thought of a couple:

* Years ago in talking with a scout who watched Detroit Public School League players he said all outside shooters from the PSL had flat shots. I asked why, he said (at that time) many Detroit High School gyms all had running tracks suspended over the court, so if they dribbled down into the corner their shots would hit the track if they put a high arc on it. Not sure if that was an urban legend, but that is what they guy told me.

* A local Church youth league has a great end of the year tourney, they get all teams in the gym on a Sat morning, then play a round robin round where every team plays every other team in mini games, usually 6 minutes. They then seat top 4 teams and do a semi-final round (6 minute quarters) and then a final, full length championship game. It is a lot of fun getting everyone in the gym at once and playing everyone else.

What are some other local rules, customs or oddities that you have run across...