🎉 Ever heard of “knappan”? Forget rugby – this ancient Welsh sport was the real deal! Direct from the heart of south Wales, knappan was not for the faint-hearted. Picture this: hundreds, sometimes thousands, of men going all out across fields with rocks and sticks, often barefoot or even on horseback. And yes, they stripped down to avoid ruining their clothes! 😲
But knappan wasn’t just a game; it was a way to settle scores. Local vendettas and disputes were often played out on this brutal field. Injuries? A given. Deaths? Probably. 😬
Players would go head-to-head, aiming to get a small wooden ball to the goal, with scrums involving 400 or more players. Imagine getting dragged into action if you stood too close – talk about getting caught up in the moment! 🏇💥
According to Brendan Murphy, author of “The Game That Would Be King,” knappan’s chaotic scenes were woven into the cultural fabric of south Wales. It was mainly played around Pembrokeshire and was often marked by festive atmospheres with crowds drinking wine and merchants selling their wares.
Think rugby with a twist – a side of history dating back to the 1500s, possibly influenced by Britons, Normans, and Flemish settlers. This game gradually faded out by the 1700s but left a legacy as captivating as a good sesh at the local pub. 🍻
If you’re fascinated by sports history, Brendan’s book is a must-read! 🏉📚
#WelshHistory #CaughtInTheGame #AncientSports #Knappan #BrutalBallGame