the apparently universal language of footbag

In Laos, the boys play a game that looks like a cross between footbag and volleyball. They kick a small wicker ball back and forth over a real or imagined net, performing various tricks. The main rules are, you can’t touch the ball with your hands, and you can’t let it hit the ground.

In Vietnam, young people play a game that looks even more like footbag. They form a circle and kick a small cork-shaped object with a feather poking out of the top. They pass it to each other in the air and perform various tricks. The main rules are, you can’t touch it with your hands, and you can’t let it hit the ground.

2 Replies to “the apparently universal language of footbag

  1. The game you’ve described first is called sepak takraw. It’s played in Singapore as well, though obviously not as popular as other sports here. It’s quite popular in Malaysia and up North, as you’ve seen and is a competitive sport with representation in the SEA Games.

    The other game is called ‘chaptei’ I think… More of a recreational village game.

    Discovered your blog via a link from somewhere else and am enjoying reading your adventures. Keep it coming (and photos too!)

    Cheers!

  2. Thanks for the comment and the bit of education. As for photos, I’ve taken hundreds on this trip, but I forgot to bring my USB cable, so I’ll have to wait until I return to Singapore before I can upload them.

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