There are two ways to become a superior flip cup player: Flip huge cups made from lead for 14 hours a day, or read these tips from our expert flip cup player, a guy who was on the winning team of the 2013 World Series of Flip Cup -- a tourney they've won seven times.
1. Have a beer
Our flip cup svengali Dave says you should have a little bit of beer before a big tourney. He recommends a beer or two to loosen up/be able to look people in the face without flinching.
2. Team up
Unlike in beer pong, where choosing a tall teammate is critical, in flip cup, selecting a ripped dude who's 6'6" doesn't necessarily help you, as you have to bend down and get closer to the table anyways when the game begins. Dave says to find someone with a "competitive spirit", but not an American Spirit, as they'll just be wheezing and coughing a lot.
3. Everyone in their right place
The position your best player should be in at the table depends on if you're playing in a tourney or at a house party. If it's in a tourney, Dave recommends putting the best flipper first to intimidate the other team. For a party, he says to stick 'em in the middle, especially if your house rules state that the lineup must shift from game to game (aka the first person in line for the 1st game must go last in the 2nd). Basically, you want them to play as often as possible.
4. Be prepared
Here's how Dave sets himself up to flip (and remember, he's a pro): he stands about 6" from the table with his left foot forward, right foot back, and knees bent. When the person before him is flipping, he has his hand around the cup, but not touching it (because that's cheating!!!).