Pitz

Time Period: Originated as early as 2,500 B.C.

Description: Pitz, perhaps Maya's most famous game, was used to settle disputes between cities without war. The losing team, or captured kings or high lords, were used as sacrifices to the gods once the game was over. The playing arena was in the shape of an I with high platforms on either side of the court, allowing for large numbers of spectators.

How it was played: The game was played with a rubber ball about the size of a soccer ball or softball. Players would attempt to bounce the ball without using their hands into stone hoops attached to the sides of the ball court. Players wore protective gear (leather or wood straps) around their torsos, knees, and elbows to prevent injury. Large headdresses were also worn to channel their "inner animal".

The game had a great religious significance, as the Mayans believed that the reborn Maize gods (who were avid players of the ballgame) were reborn on the ball court for humans to honor them.

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