Ball in folk games of European countries
Europe has a diverse culture with many folk games preserved for many generations. Among them, the ball is a familiar element, appearing in many folk games in different countries. These games are not only entertaining but also show the spirit of solidarity and community culture. Below are some folk games using balls in European countries.
1. Game Jeu de Paume (France)
Jeu de Paume is an ancient French ball game, the forerunner of modern tennis. This game originated in the 11th century. Initially, players did not use rackets but used their hands to hit the ball back and forth on a small field. Jeu de Paume gradually gained popularity and became an important part of French sporting culture, with rules and playing equipment gradually being developed.
How to play:
- Players stand at either end of a small court, using their hands or rackets to hit the ball back and forth.
- The ball must be hit over the net or over the prescribed boundary line.
Jeu de Paume antagonistic but still creates a happy atmosphere, contributing to community cohesion.
2. Games Calcio Storico (IDEA)
Calcio Storico is a classic Italian folk game, especially popular in the city of Florence. This game has a long history dating back to the 16th century and combines football, wrestling and rugby. The playing team will compete for the ball to score points by putting the ball into the opponent’s goal. Calcio Storico Held every year as part of traditional festivals in Italy, attracting large audiences.
How to play:
- Two teams play head-to-head to compete for the ball and try to put the ball into the opponent’s goal.
- There is no limit to the number of players, so the game is often very exciting and highly competitive.
Calcio Storico is not just a game but also a cultural event, demonstrating the strong community spirit of the Italian people.
3. Games Handball (Virtue)
Handballalso known as handball, is a popular folk game in Germany and many other countries in Europe. This game originated in Germany and is considered an important part of the country’s sports culture. Players will use their hands to throw the ball into the opponent’s goal to score points.
How to play:
- Two teams play on a field with goals at both ends.
- Players are only allowed to use their hands to throw and pass the ball.
- The winning team is the team with the most goals after the specified playing time.
Handball is a game that requires smooth coordination and high team spirit, and is one of the popular sports in Germany.
4. Games Rugby (Older brother)
Rugby is a popular sport in England and originated from the country’s folk ball game. This game combines rugby and soccer, requiring players to have good ball control skills and strong teamwork.
How to play:
- Two teams compete to put the football into the opponent’s goal area.
- Players can use their hands or feet to control the ball, depending on the match situation.
Rugby are held during major sporting events and are an integral part of British sporting culture.
Folk games
Ball is not only an entertainment element but also an important part of folk games in many European countries. These games not only help preserve traditional culture but also demonstrate community cohesion and sportsmanship. Each ball game in European countries has its own characteristics, contributing to enriching the cultural and sports heritage of this region.
