etiquette

Buying the Game:

There are two ways a player can enter the roda to play a game. If you aren't sure which way is most appropriate, watch what other people are doing, or ask a higher cord(belt).

The first way is when two players come to kneel at the foot of the lead berimbau, shake hands and au (cartwheel) into the roda. When their game is over, they shake hands again and back quickly out of the roda. It is important to note here that you should never turn your back to the roda, whether you are standing on the perimeter, or especially when you are leaving the roda after a game. This is a safety issue - other players may not notice that you haven't completely left the roda before they start throwing kicks and flips. And from the other perspective, be conscious of the players who are leaving the roda before you enter.

The other way to enter the roda is to buy the game. At this point, you must pay attention to the hierarchy of the cords. During a roda, only cords higher than orange may buy. At times we will train practice rodas in which all players buy in. A lower cord may not buy out a higher cord unless the Mestre in charge of the roda gives permission. When you enter the game in this way, the most important thing is to make sure both players can see you. Go in from the side, and be assertive. There is an etiquette to buying the roda that is difficult to explain. Observe the higher cords, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

(reproduced from Mestre Boneco's website)