Skeitta

Skeitta is a team sport played on an enclosed, rectangular court that blends inline skating with ball handling. Players use lightweight inline skates, a curved stick or paddle, and a soft ball designed for controlled passing and shooting. The objective is to score by getting the ball into the opponent’s goal, which is guarded by a goalkeeper. The sport emphasizes speed, balance, and ball control on skates.

Origins and development: Skeitta emerged in the early 2010s in Northern Europe as a street activity that formalized into a structured game. It spread through urban and university communities and gained formal governance and standardized equipment through the late 2010s. The sport has since grown in various regions, with local leagues and youth programs contributing to its global footprint. There is no single universal rulebook, and national associations may adapt rules to fit local venues and safety standards.

Rules and play: Matches are typically played between two teams with a set number of on-court players and substitutes. The game is played in halves or quarters with a running clock, subject to stoppages for fouls, injuries, or referee decisions. Contact between skaters is restricted to prevent injuries, and precise stick handling is required to maintain ball control. Fouls result in free plays or penalties, depending on severity and location.

Equipment and venue: The ball is soft and easy to handle on skates. Sticks are short and curved to facilitate quick passes and shots. Courts can be indoor or outdoor, with smooth surfaces and boards to keep the ball in play; lighting and safety padding are common.

Competitive scene: National leagues exist in several countries, with regional and international exhibitions. The Skeitta International Association administers world-level events, establishes basic safety guidelines, and coordinates cross-border competitions.