Fireball (football)

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Fireball is a dangerous variation of soccer, where the ball is in flames. Different variations are commonly played around the world.

1 History
2 Rules
3 Equipment
4 References

[edit] History

Fireball is thought to have first originated in Indonesia, where the game has one of its largest followings today. However, it has also independently began in many other countries.

[edit] Rules

The rules of fireball vary around the world, from the most common approach of just kicking the ball from player to player, to the Indonesian approach which more closely follows the rules of soccer. Here, the playing field consists of two teams, of 5-7 players each. Each end of the field is marked by a small goal, normally 2-3 feet in length. The rules are similar to the rules of soccer, with the exception of there being no goal keepers, throw ins, free kicks, or penalties.

[edit] Equipment

The goals posts are normally marked with stone or bamboo, but any objects may be used. There are many variations of the ball used worldwide, each is designed to stay in flames for long period of time, made with locally available materials. In Indonesia the fireball made of coconut skin called "sawut" or "sabut". Before the game the sawut is soaked in gasoline for an hour or two. Before the kick-off of the game, an elder acting as a referee, give prayers to god for the players safety. The elder put precious gems called "jimat" into the ball and set fire to it. Then the game is started. Another method for making the ball is to use rags and cloth. Here, the cloth is cut into strips, wrapped around each other, and tied into a ball shape. Steel wire can also be used to wrap around the ball to improve its shape, and also to improve safety. The wire prevents the cloth from separating and possibly wrapping around a players leg. The ball is them doused in gasoline and set alight. Rolls of toliet paper can also be used, but is less effective.