Episkyros

High school (ages 12+)
Sports & Games

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/episkyros

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the sport classification?Ancient Greek team ball sport characterized by full contact and hand usage
2. What is the player configuration?Teams typically consisted of 12 to 14 players each
3. How many players were on each team in Episkyros?Each side had between 12 and 14 players, making it a large and energetic team sport.
4. Why was Episkyros especially popular in Sparta?Sparta played a very aggressive version during city festivals, using the game to train for battle and show their discipline.

Episkyros (ἐπίσκυρος): An ancient Greek team ball game involving throwing, catching, and physical contact.
Harpastum: The Roman adaptation of Episkyros, derived from the Greek word for 'snatch'.
Phainínda (Φαινίνδα): Another ancient Greek ball game, possibly similar to Episkyros, known for deceptive play.