The coaches at Can/Am were kind enough to involve us in a wonderful game called
Crud. Combat Crud, for lack of a better explanation, is a full-contact version
of pool played without sticks. Except for the lack of sticks, we find it
strangely like the game of hockey.
In researching its origins, I've found a few rumors about Crud's origins.
Of course I can't substantiate any of them but I offer them here because
the story is almost as amusing as the game itself.
Crud apparently began in Canada during WWII by RCAF personnel.
It is attributed to bored pilots waiting in Gander, Newfoundland for
their flights to the UK.
Apparently there's a "gentleman's" version of Crud (with no checking),
although our mentors did not subject us to such silliness.
Crud is sometimes frowned upon by pool table/bar owners.
We're told it has spread to armed forces of varying nationalities and is
now enjoyed the world over.
These links will open new windows and leave this window intact. A Canadian "diversions" page which had the most
complete summary of all the rules and rumors.
Canadian air cadet's page with team rules, different terminology, etc. The rules we used, simplified
for newbies and those who are intoxicated.
We have short videos (you gotta see Manny!) of the final moments of one
game in the videos page.
