The Mayans played an ancient ball game that correlated with the harvest. The goal of it was to hit a ball through a vertical hoop on the side of the court.
They used a rubber ball, about 20 inches. The court had walls that were slopping inwards and hanging from the walls, were the hoops. ( picture attached). The goal of the game was to pass the ball around, without having it touch your hands, and then get the ball to pass through one of the rings. Since the rings were so high and players were not allowed to use their hands, it was extremely difficult to get the ball through a ring!!
It was a solemn experience, filled with ritual importance. Religious leaders attended, as did most chiefs and other government leaders. Sacred songs were sung and played. It was believed that the winner of the game, went to the underworld and return with a prosperous harvest. He was considered a hero. In fact, there are several carvings on the walls, representing the warrior being decapitated after winning the ball game. .
