How To Play Kan Jam: Rules And Strategies For Beginners

Kan Jam is a fun, outdoor game that can be played by people of all ages.

It was invented in the 1990s by Charles Sciandra and Paul Swisher in Buffalo, North America.

Since then, it has become a popular backyard game and is played all over the world.

And it’s super easy to learn how to play for all ages.

Basics of Kan Jam

The game is played with two teams, each consisting of two players.

Partners stand behind their respective kans, which are placed 50 feet apart for recreational and competitive play.

The objective of the game is to be the first team to reach an exact score of 21 points.

To start the game, one player from each team throws the disc towards their partner’s kan.

The partner then attempts to deflect the disc into the kan.

Points are scored based on where the disc lands and how it enters the kan.

There are different ways to score points in Kan Jam:

• Instant Win: If the disc goes through the slot opening on top of the kan, the team instantly wins the game.
• Dinger: If the disc hits the kan without being deflected by the partner, the team scores one point.
• Bucket: If the disc is deflected and lands inside the kan, the team scores two points.
• Deuce: If the disc is deflected and hits the kan, the team scores three points.

It is important to note that if a team goes over 21 points, they are bumped down to 15 points.

The game continues until one team reaches an exact score of 21 points.

Kan Jam is a great game to play with friends and family cause it’s easy to learn and can be played anywhere with enough space.

Setting Up the Game

Before you start playing Kan Jam, you need to set up the game. Here’s what you need to do:

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Goals

The Kan Jam game comes with two goals, which are also known as “cans” or “kans.”

Each goal has a slot on the front that is used to score points.

To set up the goals, insert the three tab ends into the slotted openings.

Insert the tabs from the outside to the inside of the container.

The goals should be positioned 50 feet apart from each other, but this distance can be adjusted for different age and skill levels.

Playing Area

The playing area should be a flat surface, such as a lawn or a beach.

The regulation play area is a circle with a diameter of 20 feet, but you can adjust the size of the circle to fit your playing area.

The circle should be marked with a rope or chalk.

Goal Bin

The goal bin is the container that holds the disc.

It should be placed behind the goals, equidistant from each goal.

The goal bin should be positioned so that it is easily accessible by both teams.

Once you have set up the goals, playing area, and goal bin, you are ready to start playing Kan Jam.

Mastering the Rules

To become a Kan Jam master, you need to know the rules inside and out.

Here are the most important rules to keep in mind:

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The Basics

Kan Jam is a game played with two teams of two players each.

The objective is to be the first team to reach an exact score of 21 points.

The game is played with two Kans, which are placed 50 feet apart for recreational and competitive play.

Each team member stands behind the Kans on opposite sides of the field.

The team members alternate throwing and deflecting the flying disc.

Scoring

Points are scored based on where the disc lands and how it is deflected.

The following are the different ways to score points:

• Instant Win: If a player throws the disc directly into the slot on the Kan without any deflection from the other team, the game is immediately over, and that team wins.
• 3 Points: If a player throws the disc directly into the Kan without any deflection, the team scores 3 points.
• 2 Points: If a player throws the disc, and it is deflected by the other team into the Kan, the team scores 2 points.
• 1 Point: If a player throws the disc, and it is deflected by the other team and hits the Kan, the team scores 1 point.

Turns

Each team takes turns throwing and deflecting the disc.

The team that scored the last point throws first. If no points were scored in the previous round, the team that threw last goes first.

If the disc hits the ground or goes out of bounds, the other team takes possession of the disc and starts their turn.

Tie

If the game is tied at 21 points, the game goes into overtime.

Overtime

In the overtime round, the first team to score two points wins the game.

If neither team scores two points after three rounds, the game goes into sudden death. In sudden death, the first team to score a point wins the game.

Penalty

There is a penalty for crossing the front edge of the Kan during a throw.

If a player crosses the front edge of the Kan during a throw, the other team gets one point, and they get to keep possession of the disc.

Learning the Scoring System

Now that you know how to set up your Kan Jam game and choose your teams, it’s time to learn about the scoring system.

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The objective of the game is to be the first team to reach an exact score of 21 points.

Here’s how you can score points:

Scoring Points

• Instant Win: If a player throws the disc directly into the goal slot without any help from their teammate, it’s an instant win and the game is over.
• Dinger: If a player throws the disc and hits the side of the goal, it’s a dinger and worth 2 points.
• Bucket: If a player throws the disc and it goes into the goal slot with the help of their teammate, it’s a bucket and worth 3 points.
• Deflection: If a player deflects the disc into the goal slot with the help of their teammate, it’s worth 1 point.

Winning the Game

The game ends when a team scores exactly 21 points or an instant win is scored.

However, if both teams reach 21 points in the same round, the game goes into overtime.

In overtime, the first team to score 2 points more than their opponent wins the game.

It’s important to keep track of your score during the game to avoid any confusion.

You can use a scorekeeper or keep track of the score yourself.

Remember, communication is key when playing Kan Jam, so make sure to discuss strategies with your teammate and work together to score points.

Perfecting the Throwing Techniques

When it comes to Kan Jam, perfecting your throwing technique is crucial to achieving victory.

The thrower must aim to get the disc into the Kan or hit the Kan for their teammate to deflect it in.

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Here are a few tips to help you perfect your throwing technique:

• Find Your Power: It’s important to find the right balance between power and accuracy. Too much power can lead to the disc flying past the Kan, while too little power can cause the disc to fall short. Experiment with different throwing styles and find what works best for you.
• Use Two Hands: Contrary to some home rules, you are allowed to use both hands to throw the disc. Using both hands can give you more control over the disc and help you achieve better accuracy.
• Line Up Your Shot: Before throwing the disc, make sure you are lined up with the Kan and your teammate. This will help you aim more accurately and give your teammate a better chance to deflect the disc.
• Mind the Throwing Line: Make sure you are throwing from behind the designated throwing line. Stepping over the line can result in a penalty and potentially cost you the game.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice your throwing technique, the better you will become. Take some time to practice your throws before the game, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques.

Developing Deflection Skills

As a deflector in Kan Jam, your role is crucial to the success of your team.

You must be able to quickly react to your partner’s throw and accurately deflect the disc towards the kan.

Here are some tips to help you develop your deflection skills and become a Kan Jam pro:

• Positioning is key: Make sure you are standing in the right position to effectively deflect the disc. You should be standing directly behind the kan, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
• Watch the dinger: The dinger is the term used for the disc in Kan Jam. Keep your eyes on the dinger at all times, so you can react quickly to your partner’s throw.
• Use your hands and body: To deflect the dinger, use your hands to push or pull the disc towards the kan. You can also use your body to help guide the dinger towards the kan.
• Practice your tipping skills: Tipping is when you deflect the dinger with the edge of your hand instead of your palm. This technique can be useful in certain situations, such as when the dinger is coming in at an awkward angle. Practice tipping the dinger with both hands to improve your deflection skills.
• Communicate with your partner: Communication is key in Kan Jam. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page and have a plan for each throw. Let your partner know if you need them to adjust their throw or if you are having trouble with a particular deflection.

Understanding the Role of Kans and Jams

When it comes to playing Kan Jam, understanding the role of Kans and Jams is crucial.

Kans, which are also known as goals, are the two cylindrical plastic containers that are placed 50 feet apart from each other.

The objective of the game is to throw a frisbee and score points by hitting the Kan or by having your teammate deflect the frisbee into the Kan.

Jams, on the other hand, are the act of deflecting the frisbee into the Kan.

This is done by using your hand to redirect the frisbee towards the Kan.

It’s important to note that only the teammate who is not throwing the frisbee can jam.

The game also involves a move called the Dunk.

This is when a player throws the frisbee and it hits the Kan but does not go through the top slot.

The teammate can then attempt to dunk the frisbee into the Kan by using one hand to guide the frisbee through the top slot.

This move is worth two points and can be a game-changer in close matches.

Implementing Strategies for Winning

To win at Kan Jam, it’s important to have a solid strategy in place.

The team aspect of the game is what sets it apart from other backyard games like horseshoes and cornhole.

So, being on the same page with your partner and executing your strategy on each throw is crucial to success.

As a thrower, it’s important to communicate with the deflector what you’re aiming for.

This can be done through hand signals or verbal cues.

The deflector should also be aware of their surroundings and position themselves in a way that gives them the best chance of deflecting the disc towards the goal.

One popular strategy is to aim for the side of the goal, rather than the front or back.

This gives the deflector more room to redirect the disc towards the goal.

Another strategy is to aim for the top of the goal, where the instant win slot is located.

This can be risky, but if executed correctly, can lead to a quick victory.

It’s also important to take advantage of your opponent’s weaknesses.

If you notice that they are struggling to deflect the disc in a certain direction, try to exploit that weakness.

Similarly, if you notice that they are consistently aiming for a certain area of the goal, adjust your strategy accordingly.

In addition to having a solid strategy, it’s important to stay focused and avoid distractions.

This means staying sober and avoiding any unnecessary chatter or distractions during gameplay.

A clear head and focused mindset can give you an advantage over your opponents.

While there is no such thing as a “perfect game” in Kan Jam, implementing a solid strategy and staying focused can increase your chances of winning.

So, communicate with your partner, take advantage of your opponent’s weaknesses, and stay focused on the goal.

Knowing the Different Types of Plays

To become a Kan Jam master, you need to be familiar with the different types of plays.

Here are some of the most common plays that you should know:

The Deuce

The Deuce is the most basic play in Kan Jam.

It involves throwing the disc and having your partner deflect it into the top of the Kan for 2 points.

This play is a great way to get started and build up your confidence.

The Hammer

The Hammer is a more advanced play that requires some practice to master.

It involves throwing the disc with a lot of force and having your partner slam it into the Kan for 3 points.

This play is a great way to show off your skills and impress your opponents.

The Bucket

The Bucket is a tricky play that requires precision and accuracy.

It involves throwing the disc and having your partner guide it into the side of the Kan for 1 point.

This play is a great way to score points when your opponents are playing strong defense.

The Perfect Set

The Perfect Set is a combination of the Deuce and the Hammer.

It involves throwing the disc and having your partner deflect it into the top of the Kan for 2 points, followed by slamming it into the Kan for an additional 3 points.

This play is a great way to score big and show off your teamwork.

Exploring the Benefits of Playing Kan Jam

Kan Jam is one of the most exciting and fun backyard games that anyone can play.

It doesn’t require any prior experience, so you can jump right in and start playing.

The game is fast-paced and will keep you entertained for hours. Here are some of the benefits of playing Kan Jam:

1. Exercise

Kan Jam is a great way to get some exercise while having fun.

The game involves throwing and deflecting a frisbee, which requires a lot of movement.

You will be running, jumping, and twisting to catch the frisbee and score points.

This will help improve your cardiovascular health and burn calories.

2. Coordination

Playing Kan Jam requires a lot of coordination and hand-eye coordination.

You need to be able to catch the frisbee and throw it accurately to your partner.

This will help improve your coordination and reflexes.

3. Socializing

Kan Jam is a great way to socialize with friends and family.

The game is easy to learn, so anyone can join in.

You can play with two or four players, so it’s a great game for small or large groups. It’s also a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

4. Backyard Fun

Kan Jam is a perfect game for backyard fun. You can set up the game in your backyard, at the park, or on the beach.

It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air.

You can also customize the game by adding your own rules or variations.

Participating in Kan Jam Tournaments

If you’re a Kan Jam enthusiast looking to take your game to the next level, participating in Kan Jam tournaments can be a great way to do so.

There are many tournaments held throughout the year, including the World Championship and the Klassic.

Last update on 2024-04-30 / Affiliate disclosure / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Valid prices are those listed on Amazon.com

To participate in a tournament, you’ll need to register and pay a fee.

The fee will vary depending on the tournament, so make sure to check the registration details beforehand.

Once you’re registered, you’ll need to show up on the day of the tournament with your own Kan Jam set.

In a tournament, you’ll be placed on a team with a partner.

You’ll compete against other teams in a bracket-style tournament, with the winner advancing to the next round.

The World Championship and Klassic tournaments are particularly intense, with top-level players from around the world competing for the title.

To succeed in a tournament, you’ll need to bring your A-game.

Practice your throwing and deflecting skills beforehand, and make sure to communicate effectively with your partner during the game.

It’s also important to stay focused and not get too caught up in the excitement of the tournament.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you play Kan Jam with 2 players?

Yes, Kan Jam can be played with just 2 players.

In this case, each player will throw and deflect the disc on their own.

The game will be played as normal, with each player taking turns throwing and deflecting until one player reaches the winning score.

What are the rules for KanJam?

The rules of Kan Jam are fairly straightforward.

Each team consists of 2 players who stand on opposite sides of the playing field.

The objective of the game is to score points by throwing or deflecting the flying disc and hitting or entering the goal.

The game is won when one team reaches 21 points or when an “instant win” occurs.

How do I get better at KanJam?

The best way to get better at Kan Jam is to practice.

Try to work on your throwing accuracy and your ability to deflect the disc.

It can also be helpful to watch videos of more experienced players to see how they approach the game.

How do you play KanJam with 4 players?

Kan Jam is typically played with 4 players, with 2 players on each team.

The game is played in the same way as with 2 players, with each team taking turns throwing and deflecting the disc.

What are the Kan Jam scoring rules?

In Kan Jam, points are scored in the following ways:

• 1 point for hitting the kan with the disc
• 2 points for having your teammate deflect the disc into the kan
• 3 points for throwing the disc through the front slot of the kan
• Instant win if the disc is thrown through the top slot of the kan

What are the Kan Jam rebuttal rules?

If both teams reach the winning score in the same round, the game goes into “rebuttal.”

In rebuttal, the first team to score 2 points more than the other team wins the game.

If neither team scores 2 points more, the game continues with alternating turns until one team scores 2 points more than the other.