Social and Cultural Elements
(Laila)
(Laila)
Governed by the International Sepak takraw Federation which oversees the rules for Sepak and organizes the competitions.
One of the biggest and most current issues facing Sepak Takraw is the lack of recognition of the sport. The sport is dying, due to recognition of the sport and the lack of funding. Due to lack of funds there is not enough money for equipment to play the game.
The game is significant for the cultural value in Southeast Asia countries because it honors their traditions and preserves their heritage. It also created lasting bonds between the communities and is bringing people together with friendly competition.
Players perform a pre-match ritual before the games in order to seek protection, good fortune, victory, and blessings. They do this by offering flowers or incents to therir temples and shrines before the game. Additionally people in Thailand perform Wai Kru in which they pay their respects to their ancestors and coaches before the game.
Media coverage in Southeast Asia is strong and regularly broadcasted on channels such as Astro Arena (Malaysia), TV3 (Thailand), and RTM also a Malaysian Tv Channel. Lots of the matches can be watched on stremming platforms such as facebook live and youtube. However, in other parts of the world, Sepak Takraw is limited in media coverage, but is growing in popularity in the website world.
Formal : The rules of the game, such as the team containing three players, game ending at 21 points, touching the ball only three times per side, what ball to use, and what players must wear.
Informal: In Southeast Asian countires such as Thailand and Malyasia the younger players of the game show respect to their elders and coaches. Additionally the teams shake each others hands before and after the game. One of the biggest informal norms is if the players want to play in a more casual setting rather than competitive then they may modify the rules of the game. Finally, teams may avoid wearing certain numbers on their jerseys because it could bring bad luck.
Although Sepak Takraw is mainly male dominated as far as it being competitve, however it is growing and is becoming a game for anyone to play especially in a casual setting.
There have been advancements in the equipment used in the game such as the ball which was once a rattan ball is now a modern synthetic one. Additionally the sportswear technology has led to improvements in gear, such as breathable jerseys and ankle supports. There is now digital scorekeeping used as well.
When it comes to broadcasting, social media and other platforms have opened up more opportunities for the sport to be watched around the world, increasing the popularity.
Once a traditional sport, Speak Takraw has become a competitive sport and has its own international leagues.
The expansion of the game is also present due to the migration and culture exchange, Sepak Takraw has spread to places like the U.S and Canada.
Gender norms have changed as well seeing as Sepak Takraw was a male dominated sport, it has now created it's own women leagues, and even created mixed gender teams creating more inclusion.