Sepaktakraw

It is generally believed that sepaktakraw was played as early as the 9^th Century. Traditionally a game of the Malays in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, sepaktakraw is also played in other Southeast Asian countries -- Philippines, Thailand, Burma and Laos.

It is known by different names - sepak raga, sipa, takraw, ching loong or kator. Modern SepakTakraw began in Malaysia. It combines elements of Soccer, Volleyball, Baseball, Badminton, Gymnastics and the ancient sport of Sepak Raga. Balls woven of rattan stems have primarily been replaced by woven synthetic balls, which are much safer and more durable.

Sepaktakraw is played on a court with a hand-woven ball (takraw) by teams made up of two or three people on each side. Points are scored by hitting the ball above the net and into the court (about the size of a badminton court) as the opposing players attempt to "block".In separktakraw games, the players can use the feet, legs, shoulders and head to keep the ball in play, but they can't use their hands.Separktakraw became an official Asian Games sport in 11^th Asian Games, Beijing, in 1990.