Introduction
As part of our “Soft Skills Development and Empowerment of Youth in ABE Centers in the Hirshabelle,” we are committed to ensuring quality outdoor recreational opportunities for youth in Hirshabelle. Funded by the USAID Bar ama Baro program, SOYVDA, in close partnership with Creative Associates International, organized the Inter-school tug of war game competitions for girls in ABE centers. Since football and basketball for girls are quite complicated due to many cultural beliefs, tug-of-war games are becoming popular among school girls, promoting physical strength, teamwork, strategy, and school spirit. These events provide a platform for students to engage in a fun, competitive, and collaborative environment.
Objectives
The main purpose of organizing intra-school tug-of-war competitions among school girls includes:
- Encouraging physical fitness and strength.
- Promoting teamwork and cooperative strategies.
- Providing a fun and engaging extracurricular activity.
Participant Profile
Around 44 girls from six schools participated in the competition. The tug-of-war game was the first of its kind conducted in Mahas and Moqokori.
Overall Organization and Methodology Used During the Competition
With support from the district education authorities in Mahas and Moqokori, The competition was organized by SOYVDA. The overall structure of the competition included the following elements:
The Rope: The game involved the usage of a single rope. There was a red mark made in the middle of the rope. This red mark on the rope needs to be at a perpendicular angle to the exact center point on the ground, before the commencement of the game. A white mark is made exactly 13 feet from the red mark on either side of the rope. The game is won when either side with this white mark crosses the center point.
Teams: According to the rules of tug of war, each team can accommodate a maximum of 8 members. But for our case, we used 5 members in each team in Mahas and 6 members in Moqokori. However, the combined weight of these members should not exceed the weight determined for the particular category.
Field and Marking: The game was played on a flat land. A line referred to as a center line was marked on the playing zone and the rope was placed in a manner that its center mark and aligned the center mark on the ground. On either side of the rope at the distance of 4 m from the center line, 2 more marks need to be made. This is the point where the first member of each team will stand.
How to Play: As soon as the referee blows the whistle, each team can start pulling the rope into their territory. The objective of the game was for each team to pull the rope along with the members of the opposition team to their side. As soon as the second mark on the rope from the center red mark crosses over to the center line, the team to pull the rope to their area wins the game.
Competition: The tug-of-war competition requires a judge. There are 3 different commands that the judge gives to the players. The judge first announces “Pick up the rope”, he then says “Take the string”, and finally he tells the players to “Pull”. Once the pull command is said out the teams start pulling the rope. If a member of the team falls down that member is given a caution. Each team is allowed two cautions before getting disqualified.
Fouls: Some technique needs to be applied while playing this game, if not then there will be a foul which can call in for disqualification. For example, lowering your elbow below the knee level while pulling the rope is considered to be a foul and is called ‘locking’. Touching the ground for a longer period is also considered a foul.
Execution
The competition was held over one day in each district. The following were the key aspects of execution:
- Venue Preparation: The playground was prepared with clear markings for the tug-of-war matches.
- Equipment: A rope of appropriate length and thickness was used
- Supervision: Referees and judges oversee the matches to ensure fair play and adherence to rules.
Participation and Engagement
The event sees enthusiastic participation from school girls, with many looking forward to the competition. The excitement and energy are palpable, with students often engaging in friendly banter and cheering for their teams.
Benefits and Impact
- Physical Fitness: Participants got the advantage from the physical exertion involved in a tug of war, improving their strength and endurance.
- Teamwork: The competition highlighted the importance of working together, strategizing, and supporting each other.
- School Spirit: The event encouraged a sense of unity and pride among students, enhancing the overall school spirit.
- Skill Development: Students learn valuable leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
Conclusion
Intra-school tug-of-war competitions among school girls are a highly beneficial and enjoyable activity that promotes physical health, teamwork, and school spirit. With proper organization and attention to safety, these competitions can be a highlight of the school year, providing lasting positive impacts on the students.
