If you’ve walked onto Jig Pat in the past week and narrowly avoided getting hit by a small, flying beanbag, congratulations: you’ve witnessed the rapid and slightly concerning rise of hacky-sack culture. A current craze, a future afternoon Ex, what once began as a few soccer kids “just kicking something around” has now escalated to a full-on, all-consuming lifestyle. Circles are forming at all hours of the day. People are skipping practice. Cancelling plans. Stepping away from the Human Geo food-packing event to get extra reps. The hottest spots on campus include Lincoln Lobby, Mac Quad, and Jig Pat. In case you find yourself suddenly caught in one of these intense rounds, don’t freak out. Just put your backpack and phone down, and here’s everything you need to know.
The rules are simple: don’t let it drop, don’t use your hands, and don’t be a buzzkill. By that, we mean that not everybody has to be as talented and shifty as Alex Calabro or Fields DeShaw, but don’t be the one guy who ruins the rally. But the best and most talked-about part of this sport is its inclusivity. From Varsity starters to Thirds benchwarmers, any passersby are invited to join. If you lack techy foot skills, you can account for your shortcomings through crucial communication, detailed videography, or just vibes.
According to ancient primary sources (Mr. Taylor), hacky sack has actually graced the Taft pavements for decades, and he actually used to be quite the star himself. But not all teams are created equal: each week, high schools across the country are ranked on the “NEPSACK” league social media accounts. The ultimate goal – dominate the week’s list, or at least get a sick highlight reel featuring your newly mastered trick shot.
The league has established its legitimacy through the creation of an official rulebook, banning certain trick shots. Most recently, one source has Taft ranked at number 13 nationally, while Hotchkiss is ranked sixth. Of course, we’re proud of our team, but it’s time to bring our game to the next level. Extra practice will be held on the lower turf daily at 5:30 am. No shoes, no shirt, no problem…just be sure to hydrate. They’re not working this hard in Lakeville.
In an era where Taft students spend an alarming amount of time on screens and bear the pressures of academic and social life, hacky sack is just the thing our community needs. Hackysack is an outlet for unique groups to connect, laugh, be outside, and build their calf muscles. #SpreadSackNotHate
Photo courtesy of TikTok
