As the temperature rises and the sun comes out for summertime, spikeball has once again proved to be a prevalent part of Archie Williams’ student culture. Daily, students come together to bond and hone their skills by playing on the quad and in the corridors. Provided by physical education (P.E.) teachers, students in freshman and sophomore years have access to the spike ball equipment, turning it into a community activity.
A Japanese toy company first created the game in 1989, since becoming a fast-growing and popular sport. Not only a fun and accessible way to stay active and exercise, the game also fosters a sense of community, encouraging playful social interaction. Whether played competitively or casually with friends, spikeball is rapidly gaining popularity at Archie Williams.
Also known as “round net,” the game is played by two teams of two, with the goal being to bounce a ball off a net between the teams. The objective is to prevent the opposing team from successfully saving and returning the ball, ultimately scoring a point for the team.
Spikeball’s popularity continues to grow due to its inclusive nature and ability to bridge the gender divide in sports. Teachers throughout Archie Williams, especially P.E. teachers, have noticed this unification and how it differs from other sports students play during their classes. Over the years, Archie Williams P.E. teacher Rene Ayala has observed how this low-stakes sport has brought students together in unique ways.
“What I like about spikeball is that it’s one of the few things that I’ve noticed that we provide where boys and girls kind of play together, and it’s not weird, not awkward. I guess it’s sort of the nature of the game and somehow tackles that issue,” Ayala said.
The majority of sports, when played professionally, are separated by gender, and Archie Williams P.E. teachers are constantly trying to bridge the divide for class sports. While students often continue to flock to groups of their gender, spike ball has shown the rare ability to build bonds between all students.
Archie Williams sophomore Paige Kelly, an avid P.E. spikeball player, believes that spikeball is an important part of school culture, as it helps students come out of their shells and socialize with new people.
“[Spikeball] is very inclusive, and it helps bond, especially in P.E. when we have opportunities to play. It’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy a fun sport,” Paige said.
She believes that, although the sport may seem intimidating, it is easy to pick up.
“It’s really important to encourage people, especially your peers, to get out there and play, because I feel like once you get over that first time, it’s a lot better, and it’s a lot of fun,” Paige said.
According to treendly.com, spikeball is one of the fastest-growing sports due to its ability to bring both casual players and competitive athletes into one game. This fast-paced and energetic game is easy for just about anyone to pick up. Not only is it simple to learn, but it can be “a thrilling and addictive sport.”
Archie Williams junior Fiona O’Connor feels that playing spikeball has become a significant part of her time at Archie Williams and that it has grown in popularity over the years.
“It definitely became more popular when I was a sophomore, playing all the time in P.E. It’s the perfect game for being competitive without getting too serious. It’s one of those games that’s always around, easy to play, and everyone enjoys it,” Fiona said.
Walking around the Archie Williams campus during any P.E. class period, there are dozens of pairs of students gathered around on the lawn, waiting for their turn at a spike ball net. This straightforward yet incredibly dynamic game is growing rapidly in popularity at Archie Williams, as well as nationwide.
