Swamp Soccer World Championships - Finland

Swamp Soccer

Article by: © Michael J. Rosen 2010

"Imagine Playing Soccer...on a Sponge Cake."

- an anonymous and soggy swamp soccer player

For centuries, no one complained about a lack of balls in mud wrestling. Recently, however, Finnish cross-country skiers, during summer-training in swamps, added one to the mix and made up swamp soccer, like their very own mud pie.

Though many are the fans of soccer, few relish the idea of yellow fever, so this game isn't played in an actual swamp but, rather, on a dirt field supersaturated with water. While basic soccer rules apply-except for the fact that corner kicks, free kicks, and penalty kicks are taken by punting-players must adhere to a strict uniform code. "Players on each time should wear the same color tops. Fancy dress is allowed," the rule book reads. To some men, this means skirts and tube tops; to selected women, full tuxedos. Another uniform rule: Players aren't allowed to change their shoes during the game.

While mud wrestling may still win a popularity contest among guys, Finland's first 13-team swamp soccer tournament has grown into an annual competition with over 250 teams. And every play is a dirty one.

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Swamp Soccer World Championships - Finland Dates, Location and Further Information

The Swamp Soccer World Championships are held annually each July in Ukkohalla, Finland. For all the dirty details, check out www.suopotkupallo.fi.