Knattleikr

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Knattleikr is an ancient ball game played by the Vikings of Iceland.

1 How the game was played
2 Knattleikr Today
3 See also
4 References
5 External links

[edit] How the game was played

Today no one knows the game's exact rules but there is some information.^[1]

We know that:

Players were divided into teams.
A hard ball was hit by a stick.
The players could also use their hands.
Body contact was allowed in the fight for the ball where the strongest had the best chance to win.
It was a spectator game, with tournaments drawing huge crowds from all over Iceland.
Intimidation was a vital ingredient, several war of words have been recorded in the old sagas.
The game demanded so much time that it was played from morning to night.
There was a captain on each team.
There were penalties and a penalty box.
The playing field was lined, usually played on a flat ice surface.
The Vikings used tar and sand under the soles of their boots for traction.

[edit] Knattleikr Today

Today, knattleikr is often reinacted at medieval faires and by Norse culture enthusiasts. It is also played on some college campuses. Brandeis University, Clark University, Providence College, and Yale University in particular are known for their teams. The first of what will hopefully become annual Regional University Championships will be played on Saturday, April 7, 2007 at Clark University between Clark's team and Brandeis.

Players are encouraged to moderate the level of violence to a level that their individual participants are comfortable with. However, should the match become uncomfortable for any player they are solely responsible for their own safety. Players are encouraged to step out at any time. If a player chooses to step out then they must be allowed to do so with out any criticism. These principles are essential for respectful and safe play. They also encorage the more timid to try out this excellent sport.

[edit] See also

La Soule, played by the Norsemen of Normandy and Brittany.
Broomball, Modern Canadian version.
Harpastum A Roman ball game, a word probably derived from 'harpago', to snatch or take by violence.