SEPAK TAKRAW By: Jef Fluevog

HISTORY OF SEPAK TAKRAW -Sepaktakraw has long remained one of Asia’s best- kept secrets. -Sepak Takraw was created by the royal family of Malaysia approximately 500 years ago. -The name is derived from two different languages. -Sepak is “kick” in Malay. -While Takraw is “the ball” in Thai.

WHAT IS SEPAK TAKRAW -Sepak Takraw is a blend of volleyball, football, martial arts and gymnastics all in one sport. -Some people might even add that it is one of the most difficult sports played today. -It requires its players to be very explosive, with lighting fast reflexes, and great mobility. -The ball used is a spherical ball, usually constructed out of synthetic fiber or a single woven layer.

Rules Consists of two team with three players on each team (Left inside, right inside and back) The court is very similar to a badminton court with its dimensions Play begins when the server is tossed the ball from a teammate. The server must maintain one foot in the service circle The server must kick the ball over the net After the serve, its very similar to volleyball rules, except for the fact you cannot use your arms or hands Each team is allowed a total of three hits The first team to 15 or 21, depending on the rules enforced, wins The first team to win two sets is the winning team

Court regulations

Video of Sepak Takraw

Conclusion Sepak Takraw is one of the most underrated sports and has amazed me with the skill that is needed to play The most elite players have to combine power, great hand- eye coordination, quickness, and great acrobatic skills After researching this topic, I would definitely agree that this seems like the most difficult sport played inside and outside of the United States If more people knew about this sport, I think it could even be played in the Physical Education setting