History
(Laila)
(Laila)
'Sepak Raga' was the name of an ancient game played in the Malay states and in the neighboring countries of Singapore and Brunei. 'Sepak' is Malay for "kick" and 'Raga' is the "rattan ball" used in the game, which involved players standing in a circle keeping the 'Raga' in the air for as long as possible without using their hands. Sepak Takraw, also known as kick volleyball, originated in Malaysia, Southeast Asia. Its origin traces back to a traditional Chinese military exercise. Sepak is known in Malay as Kick and Takraw (raga) is known as rattan ball. Originally, the game wasn't intended as a competitive sport, but rather as a fun and engaging way for individuals to stay physically active and enhance their agility.
Sepak Takraw was introduced to the United States in the 1980s, when Lao and Hmong immigrants settled in states such as Minnesota and Northern California. The sport gained traction within these communities, and in 1996, the USA Takraw Association was founded in California. This marked a significant turning point, as Takraw began to be taken more seriously in the United States, paving the way for its growth and recognition as a competitive sport.
After Sepak Takraw was showcased during the Silver Jubilee celebration of King George V, the game gained significant popularity and attention, particularly in Negeri Sembilan, a state in Malaysia. Its appeal quickly spread beyond Malaysia's borders, especially after the country hosted the 1965 Southeast Asia Peninsular Games. As interest grew, more countries began participating in the sport, and Takraw continued to gain a strong following across Southeast Asia and various countries.
Sepak Takraw is played across several U.S. states, including Texas, California, Oregon, Wisconsin, Arizona, Nevada, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Indiana, and Kentucky. While the sport is still growing in popularity, it is steadily gaining traction. The U.S. team has even achieved notable success, winning multiple medals at the prestigious King’s Cup Sepak Takraw Championship, showcasing the country's rising presence in the sport. People who are most likely to play Sepak are people who have a Southeast Asia Heritage coming from either the Lao or Hmong communities.