The Hillsdale Croquet Society kicked off the year with its first tournament in honor of the great-grandmother of the society’s founder.

The first annual Cathleen Hinkle Memorial Croquet Tournament took place Sept. 16 on the quad. Hinkle was an “avid croquet connoisseur,” according to a poster advertising the event, but also gave her life to educating and serving others.

“We were going to do croquet anyway, but it’s always nice to have a figure to look to,” said graduate student Sam Musser, president of the society and great-grandson of Hinkle.

Including time for the beginning arguments, the tournament lasted three hours.

“Part of the spirit of croquet is arguing about rules in an elegant fashion,” Musser said.

Classical music played from a speaker, and some of the attendees played in suit coats.

The society is a recent addition to Hillsdale College’s clubs and organizations. Musser started it last fall.

College President Larry Arnn joined the fun when the society put up a table in the union.

Musser said the society has had its struggles. Only 12 people signed up to play compared to more than 30 who signed up for the tournaments last spring.

“We need more artistic influence in our social media and fliers and general marketing,” Musser said.

Musser said the club has struggled with its outreach to women on campus. Still, Musser said croquet is a lifestyle that everyone can enjoy.

“It’s strategic, kind of athletic, and allows all to participate,” Musser said. “It’s refreshingly egalitarian.” 

Luke Hollister, vice president of the club, said croquet brings together all sides of campus. 

“Croquet is where professors in loafers, grad students in sneakers, and women in hoop skirts come together,” Hollister said.

The next tournament will be later this fall as a duo’s competition with a cash prize.