Rules

Match Format

All matches are 2v2 grass volleyball, best of 3 sets. Sets 1 and 2 go to 21 (cap 25). Set 3 goes to 15 (cap 20). Win by 2. Players self-officiate. At least one player per match must bring a net.

Scheduling

There's no fixed schedule. You play when and where you want.

You can challenge a specific player directly through the app, or post an open match proposal to your skill level for anyone to accept. Either way, you and your opponent agree on the date, time, and location. Partners are flexible — you can play with someone different every match.

Skill Points

Every player carries an individual Skill Points (SP) rating. When you play a 2v2, your team's rating is the average of both players' individual scores. After the match, each player's SP adjusts based on the outcome and the strength of the opposing team.

Starting SP by skill level: Open/AA at 1500, A at 1200, BB at 900. New players use a higher K-factor (40) for faster calibration. After 20 matches, it drops to 20. A 2-0 sweep earns a 1.2× bonus on your SP change. Cross-level partnering is allowed — the math handles the difference.

Seasons

Each season runs 10 weeks. You need at least 5 matches to qualify for end-of-season playoffs. Playoffs are single elimination — you register as a fixed duo, seeded by combined SP. Your rating carries over between seasons. Seasons end November 1.

Scores

Either player submits the score after a match. Your opponent confirms it before ratings update. If there's a disagreement, the match gets flagged for admin review.

Forfeits

A no-show or same-day cancel counts as a loss with a −50 SP penalty. If you're 15+ minutes late, your opponent can claim the forfeit. Cancelling with less than 24 hours notice gives your opponent the same right. Three forfeits in one season and you're out — no refund.

Inactivity

If you go 3+ weeks without a match, you're hidden from the active rankings. Your rating stays — just play a match and you're back.

Divisions

The Founder's League runs Men's and Women's divisions. Coed is coming in Season 2.

Terms

By signing up, you agree to the following:

1. Sportsmanship. Treat everyone with respect. Harassment or abusive behavior gets you removed.
2. Play at your own risk. Volleyball is physical. Sideout is not liable for injuries during league play.
3. Honest reporting. Submit accurate scores. Manipulation or match-fixing is a permanent ban.
4. No refunds once the season starts. Removal for conduct or forfeits doesn't change that.
5. One account per player. Keep your credentials secure.
6. Admin discretion. We reserve the right to resolve disputes, adjust ratings if something looks off, and remove players who aren't playing in the spirit of the league.
7. Privacy. Your name, photo, rating, and match history are visible to other players. We don't sell your information.

Support

Questions or issues? Email support@playsideout.co or reach out to any league admin in the app.