The NFL changed the football in 1935 to make it shorter and lighter. In 1935, the short axis of the football was 21-1/4 in., while the long axis was about 28-1/2 in. This change has helped the players become great pocket passers, as well as continue pushing the ball down the field. The NFL uses a ball that has a 12.5 to 13.5 psi air capacity. Those changes have improved the game and made it easier for players to throw and catch.
Origins
There is no one single definitive origin for football, but there are many ancient games that could be considered its precursors. One such game dates back to the second or third century BC. It was originally known as Tsu’ Chu and involved players kicking a leather ball filled with feathers and hair through a small opening into a net fixed to bamboo canes. Unlike modern football, players could use their hands to control the ball.
Origins in Britain
The origins of modern football can be traced back to Britain. The ancient Romans brought their ball games with them when they invaded Britain in the fifth century. The English began to adopt new ball games that were less violent and more structured, and these new games would eventually develop into what we know as football. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that football began to be codified.
Origins in Australia
Although Australians were initially hostile to the idea of ethnic groups, over time, the Australian Bureau of Statistics added measures of ethnicity, including the ethnic group of a person’s male ancestor who emigrated to the country. In the 1954 census, people were asked to indicate the place of birth, the year of arrival, and religious affiliation, while in the 1971 and 1986 censuses, people were asked about their ancestry.
Origins in the United States
The origins of football in the United States can be traced back to ancient Ireland. The game is often compared to rugby, which was popular in the 19th century. Older American universities cultivated traditions of student football, which resembled a cross between rugby and mob football. However, the rules were not as specific as those in soccer. In some places, the sport was outlawed for violence.
Origins in Europe
Origins of football in Europe explores the history of football and the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the sport. It also explores the role of football in international relations. The game is an ancient form of recreation and its origins are relatively obscure. The modern game of football developed in the late nineteenth century in America, but the game had its origins in Europe. Early games involved large numbers of players, chaotic rules, and physical contact. This led to significant injuries.
Origins in other parts of the world
Origins of football are difficult to trace, but many attribute the sport to the Chinese Han Dynasty, around 200 C.E. This game involved kicking a stitched ball into goals, and was soon copied around the world. Similar ball games spread throughout Europe, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. Football has also been practiced in Central and South America for centuries.
Variants
Variants of football include games with different rules and structure. These variations of football are played all over the world. Some of these games have a more formal structure than others. Some of these games are adapted for different types of players. For example, Indoor soccer and Paralympic football were developed to enable athletes with disabilities to compete in the sport. There are also variations of football played on sand, such as beach football.
