Soccer Origins – Who Invented The Popular Sport Of Football
With soccer (known in the rest of the world as football) widely believed to be one of the world’s most popular sports, many wonder who invented soccer, and how the game as we know it came into being. Just as watching a soccer game is interesting, so are the explanations of who invented soccer. Many cultures claim the game as their own invention, and there are few definitive answers to help us decide who is right.
Origins Of Soccer In China
There are many accounts of early forms of soccer in ancient China. While it not known who invented the soccer game in China, there are accounts of a similar game being played in China in as early as 2 BC.
This early form of the game involved kicking a leather ball into a net. A similar game is believed to have been played in ancient Japan, as well as being played by Native Americans. Many believe that these early forms of soccer, though, are not what influenced the game we play today (but some argue that point as well).
Soccer In Europe
Early forms of soccer were played in Europe as well. Much like the games that were played in China and Japan, it’s not known who invented this soccer game, but it is much like the game that is played today, and is widely thought of to be the origin of the sport. Soccer was played during the Middle Ages, with neighboring villages playing games against each other. These soccer games resembled the type of games we see now on elementary school playgrounds, with unlimited players on each team, and various types of balls being used. The players worked together to move the ball towards a landmark, rather than a goal, but was starting to show signs of the game we play today.
Others Who Played A Role
There were some individuals who helped to invent the soccer game as we now know it. Richard Mulcaster was a student at Eton College during the 16th century, and did extensive writing on the sport. Many believe that it is his writings that set up the organized rules of the game. J.C. Thring also had a hand in the evolution of the game, and helped to set up rules at the school where he was a master. These rules, called the Uppingham Rules, standardized the game (each school had been playing with its own rules), and Thring is considered one of the individuals who invented modern soccer.
By Sports Editor
