SIPA – Here are some facts about this traditional Filipino sport and the procedure for how to play it.
Sipa, which translates to “kick” in Filipino, is a traditional sport in the Philippines, known for its simplicity and focus on skill. Though the official national sport title has shifted to Arnis, kick remains a popular game that people of all ages enjoy, especially children in both cities and rural areas.
Played mostly outdoors, its simple setup makes it accessible to everyone, and with just a small ball or washer, players can jump right into the action, aiming to keep the object in the air as long as possible.
History and Origin
Sipa dates back to the pre-colonial 15th century, long before the Philippines was influenced by foreign sports. The game has roots in traditional martial arts and physical exercises, where agility, balance, and coordination were highly required.
Over time, it evolved into a fun pastime and became especially popular among children and young adults.
The primary goal of this game is to keep the ball off the ground! This can be done using any part of the body below the knee. The key challenge is to make as many continuous kicks as possible without letting the ball touch the ground. It’s a test of control, balance, and endurance, and each successful kick earns a point.
Game Procedure
In Sipa, players can choose between different versions of the game, usually played with either a metal washer with strips or a woven rattan ball. Here’s how the game is played:
- In casual play, players keep track of their uninterrupted kicks to score points.
- In more formal matches, particularly with the rattan ball, teams kick the ball back and forth over a net, similar to volleyball.
- Points are scored when the ball lands on the opponent’s side of the court.
It is comparable to games like Sepak Takraw and Hacky Sack, as well as Chinese Jianzi. Each version brings a unique twist, but the essence remains: keep the ball in the air as long as you can.