Franklin's tetherball manual lays out a 20-foot-diameter court and places the bottom of its ball about 2 feet above the ground. Its instructions use a ground sleeve, while portable tripods are a separate design; follow the exact set manual because measurements and installation differ by model.
Tetherball setup depends on the pole design and the space around it. An in-ground sleeve creates a fixed play location; a portable base trades that permanence for the option to move the set. The dimensions below are from Franklin’s model-specific instructions, not a universal court standard.
Start with the set manual
| Franklin 13131 instruction | Measurement or direction |
|---|---|
| Court circle | 20 ft diameter |
| Playing zones | 2 halves |
| Ball bottom above ground | About 2 ft |
| Pole connection | Sections lock into a ground sleeve |
The Franklin manual says the ground should be soft and clear of obstructions before its sleeve is placed. It describes a more permanent sleeve installation as a separate option and says not to hang from or pull on the pole. Use the supplied instructions for any installation, anchoring and storage decisions; do not transfer another brand’s measurements to your equipment.
Fixed sleeve or portable tripod
| Setup | Better fit when | Check before setup |
|---|---|---|
| In-ground sleeve | You have a dedicated court location | Sleeve depth, locking parts, surface and the manual’s installation method |
| Portable tripod | You want to move or store the pole | Approved surface, stake placement, assembled height and packed dimensions |
Park & Sun’s portable set instructions specify firm soil and a tripod whose three ground stakes are placed in the base. That differs from the Franklin sleeve setup. A removable sleeve can also allow the pole to come out while the sleeve stays installed, depending on the model. Confirm the manufacturer’s exact base style and instructions before comparing portability.
Mark the playing space
Use the court diameter listed in the manual and divide the circle into two equal playing areas. Leave clear room beyond the boundary for movement, and place the court away from garden edges, hard obstacles and other play equipment. The Franklin instruction sheet also recommends storing the ball indoors after play.
For other net-based yard choices, compare the badminton and volleyball combo-set guide and roundnet set requirements. Browse net and yard sports for more setups.
Sources
Common questions
How big is a tetherball court?
Franklin's manual for its 13131 set shows a 20-foot-diameter circle divided into two playing zones. Follow the manual for the exact set you own.
How high should a tetherball hang?
Franklin's 13131 instructions say the ball should hang about 2 feet above the ground. Other sets can differ, so use their supplied instructions.
Should I choose an in-ground or portable tetherball pole?
An in-ground sleeve suits a more fixed location; a portable tripod can be moved and must be used on the surface specified by its manufacturer.
Can players hang from a tetherball pole?
Franklin warns against hanging from or pulling on its pole because that can cause permanent damage. Check and follow the instructions for your model.