How to Play a Unique Sport: Sideways Football
Imagine a game of football that’s unlike any other–one where players stand sideways, rather than facing each other. Welcome to the world of Sideways Football! This sport has been around since the late 1800s and has been gaining popularity over the years, as a fun and unique way to play the game we all know and love.
Played on a standard sized football field, the field is divided into four distinct quadrants. There are two teams of seven players each, set up in the north and south sides of the field. Players are arranged sideways relative to each other, each occupying the left and right sides of either the north or south half. The players are roughly two yards apart from each other, creating four lines of players.
The object of the game is to move the ball from one quadrant to another using only feet, hands or other means considered legal in the sport. The first team to move the ball from each of its respective quadrants to the opposite quadrant wins the game.
Before the game begins, each team will organize themselves into a formation. As you can imagine, since each half of the pitch is narrow and players are standing sideways, each team’s formation must be creative, with players in each line providing protection and passing passes to teammates. Then, the match will kick off, with the offensive team passing the ball down the pitch.
There are a few key passing techniques that are unique to Sideways Football. One of these is “balancing passing”, where players need to use their feet and hands to balance the ball as they pass it from one quadrant to another. Passes must also be done between players on the same side, meaning a pass from the left side of the south quadrant to the right side of the north quadrant won’t be allowed.
It sounds easy, right? Think again! Sideways Football is a very challenging and competitive sport. With players spread out, it’s easy for one side to overpower the other and teams need to use their game strategy to gain an advantage over their opponents. For example, instead of passing the ball up the pitch, teams often opt to pass it backwards to give themselves a better offensive position.
In addition to strategy, there are also rules specific to be aware of while playing Sideways Football. Only seven players can be on the field at a time, with subs allowed on the pitching at halftime. Teams are also not allowed to make contact with each other’s players, since this is a non-contact sport. Lastly, each team is only allowed three passes before the ball must be handed off to another player or returned to the starting position.
If you’re looking for a new and unique way to play football, Sideways Football may be for you. It’s a great way to mix up the traditional game, which can quickly become tedious. Plus, Sideways Football is a great form of exercise and a great way to build team relationships and camaraderie. So, get ready to stand sideways and tackle a whole new challenge on the football field, with Sideways Football.