When you walked around campus the past two weeks, you probably saw kids in groups playing with a small bean-bag-like ball, trying to get as many “kick-ups” in a row. This game, called footbag, has been everywhere recently and has taken over free periods at Wooster. Commonly known as Hacky Sack, the Wham-O product name, it first gained popularity in the 80s.
This “new” trend, although it has been around for a very long time, started getting popular with the younger generation when a video went viral on TikTok, showcasing people kicking it around and doing tricks.
Even in between classes, kids are kicking it around, captivated by the reemerging trend.
“Hacky Sack isn't just a sport, it's a time where friends come together and have fun,” Milo '29 said.
Kids at Wooster are always playing games such as Spikeball or football, but this game has suddenly taken over campus.
“It is a revelation to see kids on campus playing the games we used to play as kids, and collaborating with each other,” said Mr. Sacco.
The most common way, and the way kids at Wooster have been playing, is called circle kicking, but there are many other ways to play. Freestyle footbag is a style of play where the objective is to do tricks with the bag. This solo sport even has annual world championships, with an expert level of skill.
Now, many schools have a Hacky Sack account on social media, where kids show off their best moves and tricks. There are even "national rankings” of schools, where schools can send in clips to be ranked. There are also leagues, where schools compete against other schools.
The game has brought students together and kept them active while also creating lasting friendships.
“Hacky has strengthened my friendship with the upperclassmen and has bonded us together,” Bowen '29 said.
Yiorgos '27
Journalism Student
