- This article is about the sport. For the episode, see Buffer (episode)
Buffer is a sport unique to Tower Prep. It is the most popular (and perhaps only) sport played at the school, and buffer matches are broadcast through the school's closed circuit television system, with Dan Maxwell and Suki Sato serving as the announcers.
Rules[]
Buffer seems to be similar to street hockey, played on rollerblades in an indoor arena. Apparently, three teams play at once, and players use implements similar to Lacrosse sticks to move a ball called the "rock" to vertically-mounted goal targets on the edges of the court. In the center of the court is the Combat Zone, a circular area that seems to indicate that full-on fighting is allowed in this area. In fact, tackling, punching, and committing other physical contact to other players seems to be allowed during the game.
The game is said to involve shifting alliances, which possibly suggests that two of the teams can temporarily ally against the third. A "double loss" apparently occurs to the team that has the lowest score of all three teams.
Coaches[]
Each buffer team is coached by a teacher. Being a buffer coach is a sought-after privilege, and teachers can lose that privilege if their team loses too many games. It's not clear if Coach himself could lose his position as a coach, but it is something of a moot point since his Gold team is the most successful. Buffer coaches regularly receive scouting reports on the abilities of new students, information that apparently is not given to all teachers.
Other buffer coaches include Coach Wood Shop and Coach Debate, although their teams have not been shown.
Teams[]
- Gold team
The Gold team is coached by Coach. It is widely known as the most successful team, and its star player is Cal Rice.
- Red team
The Red team is coached by History. Ian joins this team to fight his rival Cal Rice and to investigate Coach History. Because the Red team lost in the playoffs, its season is over, and History might no longer be its coach. ("Buffer") Ian still has his buffer equipment in his room, suggesting he might still be involved in the sport. ("Phone Home")
- White team
The White team was also involved in matches against the other teams. The White team coach was shown briefly but not identified. The team is apparently very unsuccessful, as it was shown to have terrible scores and a player was heard saying that he didn't think they would ever win a game. ("Buffer")
