Run the round

How to play Lob-and-Close Count

Step 1

The defending side starts pinned back and scores only sequences where a clean lob buys time and lets the pair close forward into net position. Most clean closes wins.

Step 2

Judge the close result against the scoring rule before anyone resets.

Step 3

Reset the close setup, rotate evenly, and stop at the agreed finish condition.

Guide details

Run it cleanly

Scoring

How the result works

4 players, about 15-30 min at Social Court. Pick turns, keep padel scoring visible, stop at target.

Example: The defending side starts pinned back and scores only sequences where a clean lob buys time and lets the pair close forward into net position. Most clean closes wins.

Host tip

Keep it clean

Changing the target or serve rule mid-round. Keep one standard for every player.

Safety: Keep waiting players clear of the active area, retrieve loose padel balls before the next start, and protect each player's swing space.

Best for

Who it fits

4 who want a 15-30 min round.

Energy

Pace

Medium

Board Padel

Category Padel

Best for 4 who want a 15-30 min round.

Players 4

Time 15-30 min

Gear Padel rackets, ball, and court

Space Padel court

Energy Medium

Setup Start from Padel Board and tell the group the activity is Lob-and-Close Count.

Twist it

Variations to try

Quick mode: play one short timer round, record the result, then decide rematch or switch.
Team mode: split into two teams and rotate turns so mixed skill stays playable.

Moment fit

Use it in these hubs

Lob-and-Close Count also fits these setup-first pages when the group starts from the situation instead of the board.

Hangout games Basketball court games

Group share

Send the setup

We're playing Lob-and-Close Count from Studboards. The defending side starts pinned back and scores only sequences where a clean lob buys time and lets the pair close forward into net position. Most clean closes wins. Fits: Players: 4 | Time: 15-30 min | Gear: Padel rackets, ball, and court Safety: Keep waiting players clear of the active area, retrieve loose padel balls before the next start, and protect each player's swing space. View Idea: https://www.studboards.com/sports/padel/padel-lob-and-close-count.html

Lob-and-Close Count

Quick start.