for the love of the game

physical education teacher monty has introduced a new kind of competition to our middle-schoolers.

Tchoukball is definitely a different kind of game. Invented by Swiss biologist Hermann Brandt in the 1970s, the sport combines elements of handball, volleyball, and squash, while focusing on inclusivity and minimizing aggression and physical contact on the court. Teams of seven (comprised of all genders) need to concentrate and work together to move the ball down the court and bounce it against the trampoline-like “frames” on either end without the opposing team taking possession of the ball. Interceptions are not allowed. For that matter, neither is physical contact of any sort.

It was for just those reasons that Lower School PE Teacher Monty Joyce knew it would be a great fit for Friends when he joined us at 250 Valencia this past summer.

“I love that it focuses on the positive aspects of team sports: passing, communication, and strategy. Because the defense is placed on the ball rather than the offensive player, students can focus on helping each other be successful and not have anxiety about participating,” says Monty.

Tchoukball also provides a safe space for kids who might not think of themselves as typical athletes to get in the game, another point that Monty appreciates: “It can be played by a range of abilities and is very accessible and inclusive for all learners. Which is part of my teaching philosophy.”

“The objective of human physical activities is not to make champions, but to make a contribution to building a harmonious society.” – Dr. Hermann Brandt

It seems to be a philosophy shared by educators and coaches worldwide, who are increasingly introducing their student-athletes to the benefits of tchoukball, which can improve hand-eye coordination and encourages players to be alert, focused, and team-oriented. For Monty, having students participate and feel good about themselves when they leave the gym is key. “My philosophy or goal is to have more student participation and investment in team sports, while also developing their physical literacy. Students should walk away from the gymnasium

feeling positive about their experience and maybe develop a love of team sports.” If the enthusiasm of the 5th Grade Friends playing tchoukball on a chilly afternoon in December are any indivation, this new part of the physical education curriculum at SFFS seems to be a great step in that direction. •

FAST FACTS ABOUT TCHOUKBALL:

• Invented in 1970 by Swiss biologist Hermann Brandt

• Brandt developed tchoukball to reduce aggression and injuries in sports

• Now played around the world, from Senegal to Taiwan, and governed by the International

Tchoukball Federation (FITB)

• Teams are comprised of 12 players; only seven may be on the court at one time

• Tchoukball can be played on either a court or a beach

• Player positions in tchoukball include shooters, defenders, and centers

• Tchoukball is sometimes referred to as “the sport for all”