What do you think when you think Hacky sack? Just a bunch of friends having a good time in the park? Well… it is that but also more!

Hacky sack also know also known as Footbag became popular in the 70’s by Mike Marshall and John Stalberger two friends from Oregon who coined the name “Hacky Sack”. Since then, the game has evolved with many forms of playing just not back and forth with a friend. It’s become rather competitive both in a team sport and singular freestyle.

Hacky Sack although you may not hear about it that often or only see people playing in your local park it holds it is still practiced professionally. At the 2010 winter Olympics held in Vancouver a video of Alex Venis on Granville street showing off his skills which gathered and amazed a crowd.

Hacky Sack is still popular around the world with many cities having their own Footbag association. British Columbia has 4 clubs 2 of which are apart of the International Footbag Players Association (IFPA). One of the official IFPA is located right here in Kitsilano and the other one is in Victoria.

Kitsilano Footbag association has been an active club since 1986 and became a non-profit society since 1994. Run by Leanne Makcrow and Jim Derrico they run the club all year-round rain or shine, sleet or snow offering meet-ups. In the summer they offer a social camp for those who are very new.

Stay tuned and look out for this summers Vancouver Open Footbag Net Tournament!

If you or someone is interested in the world of Hacky sack head over to Kitsilano footbag association Facebook page or check out Footbag.org for more clubs and tournaments near you.