Kick volleyball, a sport that moves so fast it’s often compared to a martial arts performance, is captivating spectators worldwide. Originating from the Chinese military game Cujju, where players kicked a leather ball to keep feathers afloat, kick volleyball has taken on a modernized form. In Malaysia, in 1960, it was transformed into a formalized sport that has gained immense popularity.
Hollywood has found a new favorite pastime in a game that may have gotten its name from a dog. American businessman Joel Pritchard, possibly inspired by his family dog Pickle, named this racket paddle game. It involves two or four players hitting a perforated hollow plastic ball with paddles over a net, aiming to prevent the opposing team from returning the ball. This game is now the official state sport of Washington.
Imagine playing polo with a stick that has a horse’s head on it. Well, this quirky sport is a reality. Players gallop around the field, mimicking the act of riding a horse, while scoring goals carrying a fake horse. This game originated in 1998 as a satirical way to mock the German upper class but has now become popular among people from different backgrounds.
Adding a twist of athleticism and artistry, dancesport is being debated whether it should be classified as a sport. Many believe it should be, as it requires core strength, flexibility, focus, grace, precision, timing, and flair. Couples showcase ballroom dance styles like cha-cha, samba, waltzes, foxtrot, and jive. It’s a true test of energy and technique, with couples not knowing their music until the competition begins. Since 1995, it has been recognized by the International Olympic Committee, and since 2010, it has been a medal sport in the Asian Games.
Cane ball is a non-competitive sport that has been entertaining people for 1500 years. With simple rules, six players form a group and move in a circle, attempting to keep the ball from hitting the ground using only their feet. Originally created to entertain Burmese royalty, cane ball has become the national sport of Myanmar.
Lacrosse, a sport that Americans love showcasing in movies and TV shows, has a history dating back to at least the 12th century. It started as a brutal game among various indigenous peoples of North America and has evolved into a modern version played with a stick that uses its head to carry, pass, catch, and shoot the ball into the goal. Different versions of the sport exist, each with a distinct set of rules. It remains popular in the US, Canada, and Australia.
Russian wrestling gave birth to a sport that makes rugby look tame. Regball, invented 30 years ago, requires a team of seven to hit the ball into the opposing team’s ring. Anything goes except for foot pegs, shocks in the back, and clear provocation for collision. The Russian Regball Federation lauds the game for its violent power struggle combined with dynamic action, making it highly entertaining and exciting.
Considered by some as much ado about nothing, Ultimate Frisbee garners a lot of attention. Players toss the flying disc to their teammates and aim to score goals. It’s a simple game that is inclusive and allows for three main throws: the hammer, backhand, and forehand. The game has now been rebranded as Ultimate to encompass other flying disc brands.
In Brazil, an inventive blend of volleyball, football, gymnastics, and music has gained a strong following. Played on an inflatable court with a trampoline on each side of the net, this game requires teams of four players. It has become a crowd favorite and even has its own World Cup, although it has not been held since 2016.
These thrilling international sports are captivating players and spectators alike, offering unique experiences and adrenaline-filled action. From kick volleyball’s lightning-fast moves to the artistry and athleticism of dancesport, each sport brings its own excitement to the global stage. Whether it’s the ancient classics like cane ball and lacrosse or the modern innovations like Ultimate Frisbee and inflatable court games, the world of sports continues to evolve and captivate. So, are you ready to join the excitement?
