Racquetball is a sport where competitors use a small racquet to hit a small rubber ball around a walled court. The rules and scoring system are similar to that of squash and handball.

Racquetball was invented in the 1950's as a fast-paced, easy to learn sport. As a result, the number of players and courts grew quickly. Played on a rectangular court with high walls, players use racquets to hit a small rubber ball in such a way that opponents can't return it. Players can play the ball off any wall and the ceiling, and can only score points when serving. Amateurs usually play two 15-points games, with an 11-point tie-breaking game.

Score more points than the opposition by hitting a small rubber ball around a walled court.

Racquetball is played on a 40-foot by 20-foot rectangular court with 20-foot high walls. Red lines are marked on the floor, which define the ball service and reception areas. Play starts with one player serving the ball by bouncing it on the floor and striking it against the front wall. The serve must pass beyond the short line and strike the floor. The server is allowed two attempts to legally serve. Once the ball is in play, players alternate hitting the ball against the front wall. The ball can be hit on the fly or bounce once before being returned. The ball can touch the ceiling or any wall, so long as it strikes the front wall before it hits the floor. Points are scored when the ball isn't properly returned after being hit. Only the serving player can score points. Amateurs usually play two 15-point games, with an 11-point tie-breaking game. Professionals play best-of-five 11-point games, requiring a two-point margin for victory.

Racquetball was invented in New York by Joe Sobek. Its rules and procedures were developed around the idea of a fast-paced sport that was easy to learn and play. In 1952 the sport's first official rules were printed. In 1969 the International Racquetball Association was established as the sport's governing body. Throughout the rest of the 20th century, the popularity of racquetball steadily grew. Today there are an estimated 5.6 million players around the world.

Ball
Goggles
Racquet

Racquetball is a relatively safe sport due to a lack of contact between players. Common injuries include mild ligament and muscle strains.

Racquetball players must possess great agility, timing, aim and hand-eye coordination. Agility can be improved through yoga and aerobic exercise. Timing, aim and coordination can be developed through practice and experience with over racquet sports like tennis or squash.

Hinder - when the defensive player obstructs a shot for the offensive player; results in a redo of the rally

Screen - when the offensive player obstructs the vision of the defensive player, limiting their ability to return a shot

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racquetball