Hacky Sack is back
Kids playing Hacky Sack on a break at Rock Canyon High School.
What goes around really does come around. For those who remember the footbag or Hacky Sack craze in the 1970s and 80s, you may not be surprised to see teenagers playing the game today.
Versions of footbag began centuries ago in China and Japan. In 1972, the American version began in Oregon when two men created a small, bean-filled bag to kick between players for coordination, exercise and fun. They named and trademarked the “Hacky Sack.” The name was bought by toy company Wham-O in 1983.
Fifty years ago, the Hacky Sack became a symbol of alternative youth culture seen in high schools and college campuses. What naturally followed was competitions and tournaments. In the 1990s, Hacky Sacks became popular at musical festivals, beaches and in the snowboarder scene.
The Hacky Sack measures a little over two inches in diameter. The outer shell is crocheted cotton, synthetic suede or woven material. The bag is usually filled with plastic pellets, rice or small seeds. The game is played when two or more people stand in a circle and kick, knee, or sometimes even head butt the Hacky Sack, with the goal to keep it from hitting the ground. It is a freestyle sport that requires acrobatics, timing and balance.
Recent Rock Canyon High School graduate and Green Briar resident Brody Hamilton said the Hacky Sack created shared experiences as high school came to an end. “I think the game has made a resurgence because of its simplicity and how it brings people together,” shared Brody. “My favorite thing is how you can play in groups and just try new things with new people.”
To see some cool stunts with local kids playing Hacky Sack, visit rc.sackzz on Instagram.
Photo courtesy of Amazon
By Hollen Wheeler; courtesy photos
