IRLF for SCHOOLS,CLUBS,& BY A. ALEXANDER. LATE Or? "TOR OF THE LIVERPOOL uYiJ LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA. . Class //, 2-c L ^7<7>*'9~=> ~TC^ \j NEW GAMES & SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, CLUBS, & GYMNASIA, WITH AND WITHOUT APPARA TUS. BY A. ALEXANDER, F.R.G.S., F.I.lNST., DIRECTOR OF THE LIVERPOOL GYMNASIUM, PRINCIPAL OF THE SOUTHPORT PHYSICAL TRAINING COLLEGE FOR TEACHERS, HON. SECRETARY OF THE NATIONAL PHYSICAL RECREATION SOCIETY. AUTHOR OF Drill /or the Standards" " Healthful Exercises for Girls," " Modern Gymnastic Exercises, " Physical Drill o/ all Nations," &>c., &>c. WITH AN INTRODUCTORY LETTER BY LORD CHARLES BERESFORD, R.N. AND 48 ILLUSTRATIONS BY B. W. TAPLIN. LONDON : GEORGE PHILIP & SON, 32 FLEET STREET, E.G. LIVERPOOL: 45 TO 51, SOUTH CASTLE STREET. All Rights Reserved.} [Ent. at Sta. Hall. C To LORD CHARLES BERESFORD, R.N., WHO BV PUBLIC UTTERANCES AND PERSONAL EXAMPLE HAS DONE SO MDCH TO FOSTER THE SPIRIT OF MANLINESS AND LOVE OF PHYSICAL TRAINING AMONGST THE YOUNG MEN OF OUR COUNTRY, THIS BOOK IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, BY HIS FAITHFUL SERVANT AND ADMIRER, THE AUTHOR. 142624 " ROYAL DOCKYARD, CHATHAM, "February 14th, 1895. "MY DEAR MR. ALEXANDER, "I heartily wish you every success with your new book ' New Games for Schools.' " You have done so much already to further the cause of Physical Education, that I am certain the youth of this country will study with interest anything that you may publish. " Physical training is absolutely necessary for those who compete in our healthy outdoor games, provided they wish to have a reasonable chance of winning; and the fact of training must encourage habits of discipline and self-reliance. Training also imbues a man with that delightful feeling of vigorous health without which it is impossible to undertake duties, or even pleasures, with complete satisfaction. "Too much brain work detracts from the power of individuals to develop energetic physical capabilities in a sudden or unexpected manner. "It might not be unwise for our teachers to ponder over the passing events between China and Japan. I regard the complete and utter demoralisation of the Chinese as the unsatisfactory result of 2000 (two thousand) years of Competitive Examinations. Let us have Com- petitive Examinations by all means, but do not make them of so stringent a character that those preparing for them have either to give up healthy exercises or run the risk of failure. " Yours very truly, " CHARLES BEBESFORD." CONTENTS. GAMES WITHOUT APPARATUS. ['AGE 1. A RUSTIC DANCE . . 3 2. RUNNING DRILL . . 7 3. THE TOURNAMENT . .9 4. MAGIC CIRCLE . . 13 5. PRISONERS OF WAR . .15 6. LEAP FROG RACE 17 GAMES WITH APPARATUS. 1. THROW BALL . . .21 2. GIANT ROUNDERS ... 23 3. SKIPPING GAME . . 25 4. TALL TENNIS . 27 5. BASKET BALL . .29 6. GOAL BALL . . 33 7. SERPENTINE RACE .... 8. THE PEDESTAL . . 42 9. ATALANTA RACE . . . . .45 10. DUMB-BELL RACE ..... 48 11. LEAPING THE BARRIER . . . .52 12. UNDER AND OVER RACE .... 54 13. THROWING THE SPEAR . . .* .56 14. SCALING THE HEIGHTS . . 59 15. CLIMBING RACE . . . .61 16. NOVEL TUGS OP WAR . 63 17. MOUNTED RACE . . . . .65 18. THE FLAG RACE 68 19. THE GLOBE . ... 71 20. BALLOON RACE ..... 74 21. BALLOON GOAL . . .76 22. STILT TOURNAMENT 78 Extract from Revised Instruction 1 ! to Her Majesty's Inspectors (1895). " It may be laid down that whenever circumstances permit, the best form of Physical Exercise is a healthy game which will satisfy the con- ditions of the Code, and in country Schools such games are almost always possible." NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, &c. (3) A RUSTIC DANCE. This game is very suitable for girls, and has the advan- tage of requiring no apparatus, and affording recreation for a large number at one time. I will describe it as being played by about forty girls, though any number can play, providing there is sufficient space at command. Assuming we have a square playground, we form the girls into two lines of twenty each, with their backs turned to the side walls of the ground, and the lines themselves facing each other. The girls will now catch hold of each other's hands, and keeping straight lines, will advance towards each other, dancing or tripping as they come forward. When within a short distance of each other, and at a signal from the teacher, the lines bow, and retreat tripping backwards. At another signal they again advance, this time with raised arms, the joined hands thus forming a series of apexes. When within a close distance the right hand line stoop, release hands, and pass under the apexes formed by the raised arms of the left line. Again joining hands, the lines continue dancing until the sides of the playground are reached ; here they pivot around and dance towards each other again. When they meet in the centre, the left line will stoop and pass under the raised arms of the right line, continuing dancing until the sides of the ground are once more reached ; here, pivoting, they again face inwards. The two centre girls of each line should now remain stationary, while the others dance forwards until the ends of the right line meet those of the left, thus forming a 4 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. diamond-shaped figure. He treating backwards, they next advance forwards until the end girls of each line catch hold of each other's hands, and thus form two independent circles. After dancing around about three times each way, they loose hands at the ends of the lines, and retreat back- wards towards the walls. From this position the right line advance a short distance forwards, and the end girls once more join hands and create a circle in the centre. While the right line are dancing a circle in the centre, the left line advance, and forming a circle outside the inner circle, dance around in the contrary direction. At a signal the directions are reversed. The inner circle must contract a little, and the outer circle extend hands as much as possible, while these reverse circles are being danced. At a signal the outer circle raise the arms, and the inner circle, loosing hands, pass backwards under the upraised arms. Once through, they join hands, and the left line being now inside, reverse circles are once more danced. At a signal the end girls of the right line loose hands, and the two centre girls remaining stationary, the others retreat backwards until they are in a parallel line with the sides of the ground. As soon as possible the left line also perform a similar manoeuvre, until the two lines are facing and close to each other. The right and left lines now for the first time catch hold of each other's hands, and raising them above the head, form an archway. Underneath this, one end of each line, linking arms, enters, being immediately followed by the others, also linking arms. As soon as they are out of the avenue, the pairs must immediately raise arms in order to prolong this movement. Upon the conclusion of this figure, the lines, retaining the A RUSTIC DANCE. 5 arms linked, trip off. In learning these movements the figures should first be walked, and the changes made by an agreed-upon signal from the teacher. When the figures are thoroughly acquired, and the signals understood, they should be gone through dancing or trip- ping the whole of the time. Nursery rhymes can also be very appropriately sung by the children as a chorus during the dance. (7) A RUNNING DRILL. When boys emerge from the school-room, and its neces- sarily strained positions, into the playground, there is nothing so good for them as a run ; it not only restores the circulatory system, but vitalizes the respiratory organs and oxidizes the blood. A run however, in itself, is "slow work " to most boys, and I therefore propose to relieve the monotony by making it combined and interesting. At a signal from the teacher the boys will form into one line, single file, behind each other, and placing their hands upon their hips, will trot, at a slow pace, once round the ground. On coming to the centre and top of the play- ground they will form into " twos," i.e., numbers one and two, three and four, five and six, and so on, will form into pairs, and come down the centre of the ground in couples. Each will raise and join the inside hands above the head, the other and outside hands remaining upon the hips. When they reach the bottom of the playground they will divide off by " twos," i.e., the first couple will turn to the right, and trot round the playground until they reach the centre at the top. The second pair will simultaneously trot round to the left, and join the first pair at the top. The remaining couples will follow suit, and all together come down in " Fours," clasping hands with each other, and raising arms above the head as before. o When the front of the playground is reached, tho order " Mark time " should be given. The boys would then mark time with their feet, and while in this position, the striking 8 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. movement i.e., striking the arms alternately backwards and forwards from the chest might be performed simultaneously with the marking time of the feet. At the word " Trot " the lines should divide right and left, and join each other at the top ; next coming down in lines of eight. All should, at a signal from the teacher, hold their hands above the head palms of the hands being to the front. When they reach the front they should again mark tirna While marking time, the hands should be brought to the chest, then upwards above the head, then to the chest, and afterwards to the side. These movements to be performed simultaneously with the marking time. The squad now make a "Right turn;" the lirst line trotting off, followed by the other lines in order, until all are in a single line again. They should now perform some " Follow the leader " exercises, at the discretion of the teacher, who might ap- propriately introduce some arm movements simultaneously with the running. (9) Fig 1. THE TOURNAMENT. Although the title of this pastime sounds formidable, and suggests " Belted knight, armed cap-a-pie" there will be no wounded knights, no broken lances, no love-sick maidens to weep over the vanquished. It is indeed possible to get a scraped nose or shin, but this even is not very probable. The quality most desirable in this game is nirnbleness, not, as apparent at first sight, weight and strength. The SINGLE TOURNAMENT should be contested in a circle about ten feet in diameter. The OBJECT OF THE GAME is for two boys to enter the circle, and whoever succeeds in pushing the other out of the ring is hailed the victor. There are several methods of doing this, but in every case it should first be mutually arranged which rule is to govern the contest. The " carrying out " rule means, as its name implies, that one should be carried out of the circle by the other. This is no easy matter, for when one competitor is stooping to pick up the other, the tables are often turned upon him by himself being snatched up and carried out in triumph. Before commencing, it should be stipulated and insisted 10 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. . 2. on that the face, neck, and stomach should not be touched. This necesssary rule is to prevent scratches or undue violence, and its observance will make the game more acceptable. " PUSHING or PULLING " is another phase of the game, the conditions being that the competitors must be either pushed or pulled out by their opponents. Perhaps the most difficult method, and requiring the most activity and skill, is the " ONE LEG." In this the competi- tors must stand upon one foot only, catching hold of the other with their hand, see Fig. 1. The pushing, pulling, or carrying to be done by the remaining arm only. Plenty of feinting is possible in this phase of the game, and a nimble competitor may often induce an opponent to run at him, and then, hopping on one side, avoid the attack, and turning quickly around, give a gentle push, which generally is effectual in sending his assailant over the line. The "COMBINED TOURNAMENT" is best contested in a space, about twenty to forty feet square ; the competitors being eight, twelve, or twenty a side. The latter number makes a very good contest. In commencing, they should occupy opposite sides of the square, and then open proceed- ings by invading each other's territory, capturing a prisoner THE TOURNAMENT. ] 1 and sending him out of the square ; or one side may clasp arms, forming a single line, and come down upon the enemy en masse, endeavouring to drive them bodily out. The assailed in this case would probably endeavour to break the opposing line, and then, getting in the rear, a " scrim- mage," or general " tackle," would take place, as shewn in Fig. 2. This would soon decide the contest. The captain of each team should watch his vantage, and seize every opportunity or weak place which suggested a rallying or combined attack. The uniforms of the opposing teams should be different, in order to readily distinguish friend from foe. (13) MAGIC CIRCLE. Magic Circle is a good round game for girls, more suitable for the summer, perhaps, than the colder months. It appeals largely to the intelligence, and is full of fun and innocent recreation to the participants. It may be played by any number, but I will describe it as being played by about forty girls. Having formed themselves into a large ring, clasping hands and facing inwards, one of the girls, whom I shall call the Queen, will consent to stand in the centre of the ring. The circle, dancing, but without removing from their ground, should fix their eyes on the queen, who, looking around her, will eventually name one of the girls. On this all of the girls raise their joined hands until level with their shoulders, extending the ring as much as possible. The girl who has been named will meanwhile turn to her left, and, running in and out, interlace all the girls, until she arrives back to her place. Simultaneously, the girl to her right hand should, on her left hand neighbour being named, run and interlace all the girls to her right hand, until she arrives at her place. The queen having given her command for the girls to run, should herself run and occupy one of the vacant places ; the girl who is last in reaching the place will pay the penalty by becoming the queen in the centre of the ring, when the process of re-naming will be gone through. To make the game more difficult and perplexing, the ring should suddenly, at a signal from the queen, loose hands, face outwards, and then join hands again, doing this as often as the signal is given ; or at the words " Odd turn," the ring may turn alternately, one facing inwards, the next out- wards, and so on, as seen in the illustration. (15) PRISONERS OF WAR. This game is similar in character to Prisoners' Base. I think, however, it will be found more interesting, and capable of employing a greater number of boys simulta- neously, thus asserting its usefulness over the former game. Assuming that we have an ordinary playground at our disposal, we must mark a small portion off at each end as bases for the " prisoners " to be confined in. The rest of the ground will serve as the battle-field. The school will divide into two halves, there being an equal number on each side. We will now describe the simplest form of the game. This is called "Touch shoulder." It consists of the com- batants going forth from the bases and meeting on the battle-field. A prisoner is not taken unless he be touched on the right shoulder by an opponent. As soon as he is captured he is taken to the enemy's base, and there confined. He himself must make no effort at escape, but he may be rescued by one of his side running in and touching him on the right shoulder, after which he and his rescuer are allowed to go scot free to their own lines. Whichever side have in their possession the greatest number of prisoners when time is called are the winners. A good amount of skill and dexterity can be shewn by the players turning and twisting their right shoulder away from their opponents. Another phase of the game is for the players to take forcible possession of each other either by the hands, arm, or waist ; on no account should the legs be grasped, or the head, face, or neck be touched, nor should the clothes be 16 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. caught or interfered with. When an opponent is caught by the hands, arm, or waist, and being taken away, he may resist by pulling in an opposite direction, but no tripping or falling down is permitted, nor must the struggling pair be interfered with by the other players. A rescue, however, may be attempted by another of the same side encircling the captive by placing his arms around his waist, and thus preventing him from being hauled away. The other side may also be clasped around the waist and assisted in their capture. When the prisoner is in the base he can only be rescued by his side catching him by the hands, arm, or body, and breaking through the enemy's lines, he and his rescuers being, of course, liable to be themselves caught in their attempt to recover their comrade. (17) Fig. 1. LEAP-FROG RACE. To " Leap-frog " over any object comes as natural to any boy as eating tarts, even though disaster be the end of it. This is probably accounted for, in the case of Frog-leap at least, as being primarily the initial object over which our boys and future legislators "o'erleap their vaulting ambition." Many of us can remember, the writer certainly can, our first stumble at frog-leaping ; then our promotion to going over the baker's boy ; then barking our knees going over the post-office pillar. One of the best items I ever saw at a school sports was a FROG-LEAP CONTEST. Various obstacles small boys, big boys, teachers standing up were safely negotiated by several of the competitors. The committee were in despair for a new "object" when one suddenly appeared in the majestic bearing of the village policeman. For a considera- tion, Justice, on this occasion, allowed itself to be humbled and "sat upon" by various tall, lean, lanky, and in one instance by a very fat boy. Only one little chap cleared, 18 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. Fig. 2. amidst great applause, the " limb of the law," and the writer hopes he may be pardoned for introducing himself as the youngster. It was his first athletic victory. A FROG-LEAP RACE is very interesting. It requires, how- ever, plenty of boys to pose as the obstacles. Assuming, however, that this is possible, we will arrange the race to take place in the playground. If there are six competitors, there should also be arranged six rows of obstacles for them to leap over, and when stools, forms, &c., are not available in sufficient quantities, nothing better can be arranged than five or six boys for each row. These obstacles should all keep, or stoop to the same height, and the first should be a little lower than the others, the rest gradually increasing in height until the last (if a boy) stands erect with head bent forward. The leapers should then toe the mark (see Fig. 1), and on the signal being given, should dash away, the leaper who clears his obstacles, and reaches the tape first, being the winner. Another good race is the TEAM FROG-LEAP RACE. In this race there should be an equal number of leapers for the purpose of description say six a side. They should be arranged in exact parallel lines with each other, and assume the position of obstacles. The last in each team should toe the mark, see Fig. 2, LEAP-FROG RACE. 19 and on the signal being given, should leap over his obstacles and pass the winning post as soon as possible. The next last obstacle should then, as soon as he has himself been cleared, run off and do likewise; then the next should follow suit, until all have cleared their obstacles. The first boys, having nothing to clear, should make off for the winning tape. The team who all reach the tape first, or the larger proportion of whom reach it first, to be the winners. (21) THROW BALL. This is a very simple game, but it contains plenty of exer- cise and excitement, and the more players available the better the game. An ordinary football field, with Association posts, makes a very good ground for the game, but if this is not available, a large sized playground would probably answer as well. The players divide into equal halves, and the object of the game is to throw with the hands the ball under the bar of the opposite side's goal. No running with, or kicking, or holding of the ball is permitted. All play must be done with the hands, which may be open or closed. Thus the ball is beaten to and fro, from side to side, until a simple knock succeeds in eluding the defenders, and bringing about the downfall of the opposite goal. If the ball should by any chance be allowed to touch the floor, the side allowing it to do so must give a "free throw" to their opponents, and fall back five yards while they attempt a shy at goal. The side allowing the ball to pass out of play must also give their opponents a "free throw" in like manner. A throw behind the goal is treated as in foot- ball, and penalizes the side causing it to go behind; the penalty being a "corner throw" for the attacking party, and a " throw off " from the front of the goal for the de- fenders. The players must not hold, grasp, or charge each other, the ball only being allowed to be touched. (23) GIANT ROUNDERS. This game is somewhat similar to the ordinary game of Rounders, but it has many advantages. Being played with an ordinary Association football, the ball is better seen by players and onlookers. Its readiness to bounce makes it more easily stopped, and its size enables it to be more quickly caught ; thus runs are more difficult to get. Throw- ing at the player to put him out is a little more difficult, and produces much merriment. The ball is struck by the hand only. The game can be played by any number, and either in a field or playground. The bases should be arranged rather closer than in ordinary rounders, and equal sides arranged. After tossing for choice of " going in," the winning side will go in, arranging themselves in single file behind each other. The leader, and in fact all of the players, should try and knock the ball downwards towards the ground, other- wise it will easily be caught and the whole side thrown out. On the other hand, the bowler should send such balls as will probably lead to its being caught. The player must strike or run, in any case, within the limit of three bowls at him. If all but one of the batsmen should be knocked out, the remaining batsman may get in his side if he succeeds in knocking the ball to such a distance as will enable him to run the round of the four bases before the ball is returned to the wicket. (25) SKIPPING GAME. A rope is a very useful article for recreative purposes simple and inexpensive ; it serves plenty of objects, such as Climbing, Tug of War, Skipping ; and it is in the latter case that we propose to point out its usefulness. First, we may have Skipping Races, in which the runners skip and turn the rope themselves, or run with others turn- ing it. This race is generally run in pairs, but has the disadvantage of being liable to collision, the several ropes taking up so much space. A good race is obtained by four ropes being held parallel, and behind each other, across the playground ; the race con- sisting of the competitors running to the first rope, skipping twice, and then running on to the second rope and doing the same, passing to the third, skipping, and then to the fourth, and also skipping the winners being those who perform it in the quickest time. This race can also be run in pairs, which necessitates very good time being kept. A test of endurance, and very good exercise, is for teams of twenty to each have a rope. Each team will send in four girls, who, at a signal, will all skip together. As soon as one set get thrown out, by stopping the rope, their place must be taken by another four from their side. The side whose players are exhausted first, by missing the rope, are the losers ; the winners being those who have most players left in at the conclusion of the game. (27) TALL TENNIS. This is a very good game, suitable for any number of players, so long as the number is equal, and affords plenty of opportunity for strength, skill, activity, and endur- ance. If the game is desired for a large number of players, it is best to suspend a line about seven feet high from the ground, and running horizontally across the centre of the ground. The players should be equally divided, an Associ- ation Football obtained, and after each side has been care- fully distributed over the ground, the side winning the toss should make a long throw over to their opponent's ground. The ball must not be allowed to touch the ground ; each player, if he cannot knock the ball back over the line into his opponent's ground, should endeavour to pass it to one of his own side, who in his turn will either re-pass or send the ball over the line. In passing, the ball must not be held in the hands. If the ball should touch the ground, it counts one point against those allowing it to do so ; or if a side pass the ball under instead of over the line, it also counts a point against them. There is rare exercise in this game for any amount of players. A more scientific game is " Tall Tennis." In this a net, seven feet high, must be stretched across an ordinary tennis court. The space at each side of the net should be divided into four courts. A tennis ball about twice the size of the 28 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. ordinary tennis ball should be used, with the ordinary tennis racquet. There are four players at each side of the net, one at the back line of each court. The object of the players is to keep the ball from falling into their respective courts, and to send it into their oppo- nent's courts. The divisions of the courts should be of different values that nearest to the net on the right counting twenty, the court on the left fifteen, the two back ones five and ten respectively. The side first scoring sixty wins the game. A penalty of ten points to the opposite side is conceded by the side knocking the ball out of play. (29 ) Fig. 1. THE GAME OF BASKET BALL. The game of Basket Ball has become so popular in America, and with those who have played it, that I propose to briefly describe it here, in the hope that it may be more generally played by the thousands of boys who may desire a change from Football, with its attendant scratches and bruises. The game has many advantages over Football, and as a Physical Exercise is decidedly superior. It can be played by any number of players, from two or three up to fifty, or even one hundred a side, all depending upon the size of the room or field ; for it is an indoor as well as an outdoor game. Taking an ordinary Football field, about fifty a side could easily play, and this is important, for a weak point in our national games is the fact that we have more onlookers than players. I will first describe the game as it may be played under modified rules and circumstances. 30 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. Let us therefore choose for our " Field " a Schoolroom, Hall, or Gymnasium, with all apparatus cleared away, and the decks ready for action. Hang a waste-paper Basket at each end of the room, from twelve to twenty feet high, according to your accommodation. Obtain an Association Football, and we are quite ready. Until the game is under- stood, it is better to play with a small number a side. Let there be, however, a Goal-keeper and a couple of Full- backs. The rest may play Forward. When the sides are ready, place the ball in the centre. The object of the game is for one side to place the ball in their opponent's basket. To do this, however, the ball must not be kicked or carried, but passed or thrown by the hands in any direction. The player may however run, not more than three steps, in order to give opportunity for dodging an opponent or passing to his own side. In this way the ball is caught, passed, and re-passed, until finally a good throw is made, and it lands into one of the baskets this constituting a Goal. Perhaps I had now better suggest a few rules for the guidance of the players, which, however, must be subject to the modifications and alterations which small or large space will necessitate. RULES OF THE GAME. 1. The game of Basket Ball shall be played by an even number of players a side. 2. The formation of the players should consist of Goal- keeper, two Full-backs, three Half-backs, and Forwards. 3. An Association ball to be used. The Goals to con- sist of two baskets, about two feet deep, and BASKET BALL. 31 Fig. 2. about 18 inches in diameter; or an iron hoop, covered with small netting at the back, may be used. One to be suspended at each end of the room or field, at about a height of from twelve to twenty feet. 4 A Goal is obtained by the ball being thrown by the hands into the basket. 5. The ball must not be carried or kicked. A player may, however, if he has the opportunity, run not more than three steps. 6. A player must not retain possession of the ball after being held or touched on the shoulder by an oppo- nent. The ball may also be taken or knocked from his hands by the opposite side. 7. A player may run with the ball by throwing the ball upwards and forwards, re-catching it, and repeating the throw; or by bouncing or striking the ball against the ground, re-catching it, and repeating the movement. See Fig. 2. 8. When the ball is out of play, it shall be thrown in with both hands by a player of the side entitled to the throw in, and may be thrown in any direction. 32 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. 9. The penalty for any infringement of the rules is a "free throw" for the non-offending side. The throw to be made with both hands, and from the spot where the infringement took place. The offending side to stand back five yards while the throw takes place. I think the foregoing rules will be sufficient to govern the game, and I have no doubt that all who try will like it, not only for the excitement it affords, but for the splendid exercise which it gives to every muscle of the body. (33). FiR. I- GOAL-BALL. I know of no 'game, with the exception of Cricket, that can compare with Goal-ball for the interest which it excites in the player and the onlooker. It requires more activity than cricket, more skill than football; it is more exciting than lacrosse, and more discernible than hockey. It lacks the slowness of cricket and the danger of football it can be better seen than lacrosse or hockey. It is, in fact, a game with all the pleasant features of the above pastimes, and their defective and objective elements removed. It can be played indoors, in the Schoolroom or Gymnasium, or in the ordinary Football or Cricket field. I will first describe it as played on a football ground. The APPARATUS REQUIRED are Association goal-posts, an Association football, and each player must be provided with a racquet made of stout cane, the handle being about a yard long, the ring which carries the ball 12 inches long by 9 inches wide. The cane used should be about five-eighths of D 34 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. an inch in diameter. The long handle is to enable the player to throw the ball a great distance, and to dribble without stopping. The ring or hole at the end of the racquet enables the player to catch the ball with great accuracy, it not being made large enough to allow the ball to pass entirely through. Having provided ourselves with the necessary apparatus, let us now proceed to DESCRIBE THE GAME. At starting, the players should be arranged as in Association Football, viz., Goal-keeper, two Full-backs, three Half-backs, and five Forwards. The whistle having been sounded, whoever has won the toss should dribble off the ball, and when tackled by the opposing forwards, pass to one of his wing forwards. This can either be done by a quick stroke, as in hockey, or by tilting it up and throwing it as in lacrosse. The wing forwards should now dribble the ball until tackled by the opposing half-backs, who must be passed either by dribbling and passing to each other, or tilting it over their heads, and then, rushing around them, catching it on the rebound. Here the full-backs are encountered, and perhaps a shy at goal might now be attempted. The ball will roll easily into the ring of the racquet, and a quick powerful " underthrow " or " shoulder-throw " will be very difficult to stop. If the ball passes underneath the cross-bar, a goal is registered by those scoring. I have assumed that the attacking team hav had it all their own way, overcoming all obstacles, and winding up by securing a goal. This reads very satisfactory on paper, but I fear in actual practice some hard work will first be neces- sary. The defending team may turn the tables. At this point, perhaps, I had better insert a few rules which will help to govern the game. GOAL-BALL. 35 RULES OF THE GAME. 1. A "Goal-Ball" team shall, unless otherwise agreed by the respective Captains, consist of eleven players, viz. : 5 Forwards, 3 Half-backs, 2 Full- backs, and Goal-keeper. 2. The ground shall be 100 yards long, and 50 yards wide; the longer sides to be called the "Side Lines," and the shorter sides the " Goal Lines." -3. The goals used shall be those of the Association or Rugby game, at the discretion of the Captain. 4. The average circumference of the ball shall not be less than 27 inches, or more than 28 inches ; the racquet shall not exceed 4 ft. in its entire length ; the throwing end shall not exceed 12 in. long and 9 in. wide. 5. The objects of the game are for each team to obtain as many goals as possible, by placing the ball through their opponent's goal ; the duration of the game being 1 hour and 10 minutes, divided into two halves of 35 minutes each. <). The ball may be dribbled, passed, or thrown, but not carried by the racquet, see Fig. 1. If it gets fastened in the racquet, it must be immediately disengaged, and must not, under any circum- stances, be played with the hands, feet, head, or any part of the body, and any goal obtained in this manner will not be allowed. 7. No player must attempt to strike the ball across the player having possession of the ball ; such an offence being deemed " Off-side." 8. No player, with his racquet or otherwise, shall hold 36 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. Fig- 2 or trip another, nor push with the hand ; nor shall any player deliberately charge, shoulder, or endea- vour to throw an opponent. 9. In starting the game, the winner of the toss for sides shall start the ball from the centre of the field. At this time the players of his own side must not be in advance of him, while none of the players on the opposite side must be nearer than five yards of the ball. 10. A player who attempts to place the ball through his opponent's goal, unless there were three players of the opposite side between him and the goal when he first played the ball, shall be deemed "Off-side." 11. In the event of a player playing the ball over the Side-lines, a throw-in, in any direction, will be given to the opposite side ; and in the event of a player passing the ball over the Goal-lines, a corner throw-in i.e., from the angles of the Side Goal-lines will be given to the opposite "side. When these throw-ins are made, no player must approach within five yards of the thrower-in. GOAL-BALL. 37 12. In the event of a player infringing any of the above rules, a free " shy at goal," see Fig. 2, will be allowed to his opponents from the place where the infringement took place, the usual five yards rule being observed. 13. The Captains of the respective sides shall either agree upon an Umpire, or themselves decide upon any differences arising in the game, and shall decide upon any modifications of the ground, players, or game considered under special circum- stances to be necessary. I feel sure that if a trial is given to Goal -ball, it will prove a most fascinating and satisfactory game, full of interest to players and spectators, and suitable for Boys' or Girls' Schools, Clubs, or Gymnasia. (38) Fig. 1. THE SERPENTINE RACE. It is all very well running straight ahead we can all do it if we are sound of limb and wind ; but, after all, it is a question of quantity rather than quality. Now the race I am about to endeavour to describe is one which partakes more of quality than quantity. Not a bad reversion, I sometimes think, and applicable to many matters besides athletics. To describe a new race, requiring not only speed, but agility, and skill, and coolness a race that will rouse as much enthusiasm as any level " hundred " or " half mile," and one on the winning of which any athlete may justly congratulate himself as a " hard-earned win " what appa- ratus shall we require ? Well, if the race is to be run outdoors, we shall require about ten flag-staffs, each about THE SERPENTINE RACE. 3D four -feet high, pointed at one end, and with a small flag, about twelve inches square, at the top. These flag-staffs should be stuck into the ground, in a horizontal line, at distances of about ten feet apart. Thus, if the race is a " hundred yards," and this is the best dis- tance for this race the first flag should 'be placed ten yards away from the starting point ; the second, another ten yards away ; and an additional ten yards between each flag-staff. This will allow a run of ten! yards at the com- mencement, and ten yards at the finish, of the race. If circumstances require it to be run in the Schoolroom or Gymnasium, holes, very small ones, will have to be bored in the floor to receive the points of the staffs. If this is not possible, then small squares of soft pine-wood, about twelve inches diameter, and an inch thick, bored in the centre, will make very satisfactory stands. Now for the OBJECTS OF THE RACE. Unless the Sports Committee will provide three or four sets of flag-staffs, in which case three or four competitors could start off to- gether, the competitor will have to run singly, and be timed. The time-keeper, seconds watch in hand, should stand at the winning tape, and on the start being given, should count and mark the time exactly from start to finish. But to make the race a perfect success, at least two or three sets of flag-staffs should be used, thus allowing the spectators an opportunity of judging of the relative merits of the athletes. Now for the MANNER OF RUNNING. Supposing the run- ners to have toed the starting line with their left foot, the left knee should be bent, the body inclined forward, and the right hand raised above the level of the right shoulder. When the start is given, bring the right arm smartly down ; it will give you an impetus to make off. Pass the first staff 40 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. on your left side, the second on your right, the third on your left, the fourth on your right, the fifth on your left, the sixth on your right, the seventh on your left, the eighth on your right, the ninth on your left, and finally, the tenth on your right. From here make the best of your time in getting to the winning post (see Fig. 1). This finishes the ordinary Serpentine race. Upon its basis, however, a number of other races can be run, two or three of which I will briefly describe. The next is called "The Rotary Serpentine Race," the object of which is to make a complete circle around each flag-staff. This, performed in an ordinary way, would make you giddy a thing to be avoided. Observe, there- fore, the directions which I lay down, and the result will be, instead, a pleasurable one. Start as before, passing the first staff on the left ; encircle it by passing to the front of it, then, retreating backwards, pass it on the left again. Running diagonally across, pass the second staff on the right ; encircle around it by retreating backwards ; when at the front again, run across to the third staff, and pass it on the left, encircling the staff backwards as before, and then run across to the fourth staff, pass it on the right. Follow out these directions with the remaining flaof-staffs, takiii"- o o * o care to encircle each backwards, and, in addition to the above directions, passing the fifth staff on the left side, the sixth on the right, the seventh on the left, the eighth on the right, the ninth on the left, the tenth and last on the right. Then sprint to the winning post. Another good race, though rather severe, is the " Hopping Serpentine Race." In this race the rules of either of the two preceding races can be observed, with this difference THE SERPENTINE RACE. 41 the race must be hopped on one foot. Either foot will do, but it must not be changed during the progress of the race. Care should be taken in turning the corners not to collide against the flag-staffs with the raised leg, or they will prob- ably be knocked down, in which case the " hopper " should stop and refix it, then resume the race. Perhaps one of the best races of this kind is the " Chain Serpentine Race." In this, eight, twelve, twenty, or even thirty boys can compete at each set of flag-staffs. The leader of each chain toes the mark as usual. The second boy catches hold of his leader's belt at the back, the third boy hold of the second boy's, and so on, until the chain is complete. The race must be run without the chain being broken, and without the flag-staffs being knocked down the race being over when the last boy on the chain passes the winning post. (42) Fig. 1. THE PEDESTAL, One day, while examining the statue of " Discobylus," or the " Quoit Thrower," in the British Museum, I overheard a conversation between two learned gentlemen as to the correct position adopted by the artist in his conception. They both agreed that the statue was neither artistic or correct in its pose. This is not the first time the statue in question has come under criticism. It was either Thackeray or Tom Hood who complained of its resemblance to a man in the agonies of gout or rheumatism. This is quite true as far as it goes : the statue is ungraceful. But I am not quite so sure about the correctness of the attitude. I will just remark, if the artist intended to portray the athlete in the act of throwing, he is probably correct. I ruminated, however, on the athlete himself, and won- dered how far, if endowed with a " Galatea existence," he THE PEDESTAL. 43 could throw the quoit. This idea made me insert it as a competitive trial at my next tournament. It proved a most popular item, the prize being won by a. very fine athlete, John Riddock, of the Liverpool Police Athletic Club. Its success upon that occasion makes me now recommend it as an athletic item in School Sports. THE OBJECT OF THE GAME is, viz. : To mount a pedestal and throw a disc or quoit the greatest distance, without losing your balance or coming off the pedestal. First let us secure the quoit. This should be the shape of an ordinary one, only much heavier. If, however, the game is to take place indoors, then a bag of peas or beans may be substituted. An ordinary schoolmaster's stool will suit very well for the pedestal ; or in the case of youngsters, perhaps a chair would do. If the contest is out-of-doors, let the markers have several small pointed sticks to place in the ground where the " throw " falls. Now for the BEST METHOD OF THROWING. Mount the pedes- tal, and forget all about the statue and position of Disco- bylus ; keep the quoit resting in the left hand until you are quite ready for action. Now place the left foot forward, pointing slightly to the left, with the right foot to the rear, the feet being almost at right angles with each other. Now hold the quoit, edge to the front, with both hands close to the chest, and suddenly extending the arms in front, loose with the left hand, swinging the quoit backwards, passing the right side, until it is well to the rear, see Fig. 1. On its return to the front, bend both knees and lean the body forward. As the quoit leaves the hand, assist the effort by straightening the knees and body. When the quoit has left the hand, lean well back on the right leg to 44 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. prevent losing your balance. You must wait on the pedes- tal until the judge has marked your throw. This contest can either be made an individual competition, where each competitor has his " throw " marked, or a "team contest/' In this latter case, a team consisting of say six a side compete. A boy from each team would go on alter- nately, and after all had made their throws, the record of each would be added together, the team gaining the greatest aggregate distance being the winners. A variety in the competition is afforded, especially if it be indoors, by throwing the bag over the head backwards. The quoit had better be discarded in favour of the bag, as, since you cannot see where you are throwing, it might go perpen- dicularly upwards, and downwards on your own head ; or you might throw amongst your friends, and cause a stam- pede. Let it be the bag, then. The best way to throw this is to hold the bag by the sides, then, placing your feet well apart, not behind each other, stoop to the front, bending both knees as the bag passes slightly through the legs. Then, in the return swing, suddenly raise the body upright, and throw the bag over the head, see Fig. 2. As the bag leaves the hand, counteract the inclination to fall backwards by pro- jecting both knees well to the front. Retain your balance until the throw lias been registered. This style can also be competed for individually or in teams. Fig. 2. (45) Fig. 1. THE ATALANTA RACE. " The Atalanta Race/' which was suggested to me by the fable of " Atalanta and the Golden Apple," is an admirable and picturesque race. I have used it for both boys and girls with great success, and can confidently recommend its inclusion in either an outdoor sports, or indoor enter- tainment. Used as an individual race, with, for example, six com- peting, it will be necessary to provide six real, or imitation apples. These should be of fair size, with a leafy twig attached, so that they may be better seen by the spectators. A distance of one hundred yards is best to show off the " picking up," which is the feature of the race. After providing a couple of officials to hold the winning tape, let the competitors get into position at the starting point. Care should be observed in obtaining a graceful attitude here. I suggest that the competitors should toe the starting mark with the left foot; bend the advanced knee, and incline the body forward ; lift up the right hand to 46 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. '" ~ } Fig. 2. the rear, see Fig. 1. When the apples are placed in parallel lines in the centre of the ground, give the start, when the runners should dash off. Their "start " or " gefc off" will be assisted by bringing the right arm smartly downwards, and pushing with the right foot. Run to the left side of the apple, and as you approach it gradually stoop, bringing the right hand down to the side. As you pass the apple, extend the fingers and pick it up, continuing your run until the winning tape is reached. If by any mischance the apple should be "muffed" or dropped, the competitor must pick it up before returning to the end of the race. This " picking up " should be specially practised, as it requires great skill to do it to a nicety and at full speed. But if you confine your efforts first to a walk, then a gentle run, and finally at a quicker rate, you will soon master the awkwardness of the movement, and be able to pick it up at top speed. After the first race, the same apples will of course be replaced for the next and suc- ceeding heats. Another and much more difficult aspect of the race is shewn in Fig. 2. It is called " The Ring and Apple Race." Six small hoops, made of cardboard, cane, or anything which is discernible to the spectators, and being about nine inches in diameter, should be laid fiat down on the centre of the THE ATALANTA RACE. 47 ground, and in the places previously occupied by the apples. The runners toe the line as before, see Fig. 2. They should, however, each hold an apple in their right hand. When the start is given they run off, keeping to the left side of their ring. As they approach the ring they gradually stoop down, and, as they pass, place the apple in the ring with the right hand. Then continue running until the end of the course is reached. If in a schoolroom, the wall must be touched ; then suddenly turning around, they must continue running, making for the left side of the ring. As they approach the ring, gradually stoop, and as they re-pass the ring, they must pick up the apple, and take it to their original starting place, which in this case will be the winning post also. This is a most skilful race, full of difficulty in laying down and picking up the apple. Plenty of " muffing," as a rule, takes place, either with the apple rolling out of the ring when being placed there, or in picking it up on the return journey. In each case the conditions should be rigidly enforced, and the competitor obliged to return and perform the task correctly. Special practice should be given to the various points, such as "stooping," "picking up," and " turning," when I have no doubt but that you will, as well as the spectators, be well pleased with this skilful and exciting race. (48) <>>. ao QC J&O Fig. 1. THE DUMB-BELL RACE. The " DUMB-BELL RACE " was suggested to me by the old game of " picking up stones." It is so full of exercise, speed, activity, and coolness, that I think it ought to have a place here. It makes, too, an admirable item in the School Sports full of interest and excitement, and suitable for both sexes and all ages. The apparatus required will be six Baskets and six rows of Dumb-bells, about three pairs for each competitor. Place the baskets behind the competitors at the starting line ; then place six rows of dumb-bells in front, at about ten yards apart if a hundred yards race, and at shorter intervals if in a shorter race ; then let the competitors take up their positions, see Fig. 1. THE OBJECT OF THE RACE is, that each competitor should run and collect up the dumb-bells placed on his or her line, and return with them to the basket ; whoever does so first will be the winner. NOW as to THE MANNER OF PICKING THEM UP. At the word " Off," the competitors should run to the first dumb- THE DUMB-BELL RACE. 4D Fig. 2. bell, pick it up, run back and place it in the basket, without losing any time ; run off again and bring back number two dumb-bell, and place it in the basket ; off once more and bring back number three, then number four, then five, and, finally, the sixth and last dumb-bell. Thus all the dumb- bells will have been collected alternately and placed in the basket belonging to each competitor. If the dumb-bells should by any chance not go in, or be missed being placed there properly, the runner must make good the default by putting it in correctly, or otherwise be disqualified. Sometimes the option of picking up any dumb-bell, in any order they please, is asked for, some runners being able to collect them better in this way. If this is agreed to, the. runners may run and collect whichever dumb-bell they prefer first, see Fig. 2 ; but in every case only one must be collected at a time, and each run be made separately to and from the basket. For effect, we think the first plan looks the best, although it may be a little slower than the optional method. There are several methods of varying this race. One is, to " PLACE THE DUMB-BELLS DOWN." In this case all the dumb-bells belonging to each line are collected and placed in their respective baskets. In their places are laid down small rings or hoops, about nine inches in diameter. The 50 NEW GAMES AND SPORTS FOR SCHOOLS, ETC. object of this game is to take the dumb-bells separately out of the basket and place them in the rings, whoever succeed- ing in the task first to be hailed the winner. The runners must, of course, observe the same rule as before, and only place one dumb-bell down at a time, returning for the remainder separately until all are placed. This race and the first plan can be performed conjointly, but it is very severe. In this case the "placing down" would be performed first, and the " picking up " secondly ; "and to prevent confusion as to the carrying out of the rules, the option of picking up any dumb-bell should not be allowed. Another variety of the race is to first run through the the knee, and then take a turn of the leg around it, and " biting " or securing it by pressing the foot of the other leg on the rope as it crosses the instep. Be careful of the friction which may occur while coming down the rCKBURN, EM]., Chairman Leeds School Bound. /''or further particulars apply to the Principals, at CASTLE MOUNT, SOUTHPORT, LANCASHIRE. APPARATUS DESIGNED TO ACCOMPANY THE GAMES, ETC., IN THIS BOOK. GOAL-BALL IMPLEMENTS. s. d. RACKETS, each 5s. 6d. ; superior bound handle, each . 6 6 BALLS, ordinary, each 7s. 6d. ; superior, each . .90 GOAL POSTS for outside use, per set . . . 40 SPEARS, 5 feet long, wood handle, with steel tip (see page 56) . . . . each 2 6 JAVELINS (see page 57) . 30 TUG OF WAR ROPES, best Manilla, 50 feet long . 17 6 Shorter lengths in proportion. FLAGS for Flag Race Union Jacks or Royal Stan- dards with short handles, per dozen . .40 GLOBE, as described on page 71, 24-inch diameter 4 5 30-inch 5 5 BALLOON BLADDERS, extra strong, each . STILTS, per pair Apparatus supplied for every description of Musical Drill and Calisthenics. Price List on application. GEORGE PHILIP & SON, 32 FLEET STREET, LONDON. PHILIP, SON & NEPHEW, 45 TO 51 SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL. 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