Lesser-Known Sports
Outside of what Americans know and love, the world of sport is far larger than just football, basketball, tennis, and baseball. Across different countries and communities, there are many lesser-known sports that have developed loyal followings! Here are just five to name a few.
1. Sepak Takraw
A bit of a mouthful to say if you've never heard of it before, sepak takraw is a fast-paced sport played mainly in Southeast Asia. If we had to describe it, it looks a little like volleyball played with the feet! Players use their feet, knees, chest, and head to send a rattan or synthetic ball over a net.
2. Kabaddi
Kabaddi is especially popular in South Asia and combines teamwork, strategy, and very direct physical contact. Sounds like something that'd be popular in America, right? It's played by having one player, called a raider, enter the opposing team’s half and try to tag defenders before returning safely.
3. Bandy
This winter sport is popular in countries like Sweden, Russia, and Finland. It's played on the ice with sticks and a ball, with two teams trying to score by sending the ball into the opposing goal. While it may sound familiar at first, its speed, scale, and traditions give it a character all its own.
4. Teqball
Teqball is a newer sport that blends football skills with a curved table and a strict limit on touches. Players use any part of the body except the hands and arms to return the ball over the table. It's like modern soccer but with a unique spin!
5. Bossaball
Bossaball is a team sport that combines volleyball-style play with elements of football and gymnastics. The fun part is, it's played on an inflatable court with trampolines near the net, which allows players to jump high before striking the ball.
