Sports Around the World: Play, Culture & Connection
This exciting 8-week unit takes students on a global tour through the lens of sport. Each week introduces a unique game or athletic tradition from a different country or culture—some wildly competitive, others joyfully strange. Through hands-on activities, cultural exploration, and friendly challenges, students will not only move their bodies but also open their minds to how sport brings people together across the world.
Whether balancing on beams, jumping over canals, or racing in handcrafted carts, students will experience the creativity, teamwork, and tradition woven into every game.
WEEKLY BREAKDOWN
Week 1: Bo-Taoshi (Japan)
This intense and strategic Japanese game combines capture-the-flag with teamwork and controlled chaos. Students will break down the mechanics of offensive and defensive roles and participate in a modified version emphasizing balance, cooperation, and strategy.
Week 2: Fierljeppen (Netherlands)
Known as “canal vaulting,” this sport challenges participants to pole-vault across waterways. Students explore Dutch geography and engineering while trying balance and jumping games inspired by the sport.
Week 3: Pickleball (USA)
This rapidly growing sport blends tennis, ping pong, and badminton. Students learn basic rules and develop hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and communication while playing mini-tournaments.
Week 4: Picigin (Croatia)
Played in shallow water with a small ball, this Croatian beach sport focuses on agility and cooperation rather than winning. Students enjoy a high-energy, low-competition version on land while learning about coastal life and leisure culture.
Week 5: Cricket (UK/India/Worldwide)
A worldwide classic with deep cultural roots, cricket teaches patience, strategy, and skill. Students learn simplified rules, batting, and bowling techniques and explore the sport’s impact across the British Commonwealth.
Week 6: Goat Racing (Tobago)
Yes—real goat racing! Originating in the Caribbean, this fun and fast-paced event showcases creativity and community celebration. Students will design “goat” races using props or relays, emphasizing creativity, rhythm, and joyful competition.
Week 7: Beikou (China)
Also known as Chinese field hockey, Beikou is rooted in northern China’s traditions. Students try a simplified version of the game, combining physical skills with a look into regional history and rural life.
Week 8: Soapbox Racing (Worldwide)
Capping off the unit, students dive into the engineering-meets-adrenaline world of soapbox racing. They’ll work in teams to design and race small, non-motorized vehicles or models, focusing on creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.