Almost everyone has seen a game of volleyball played, but very few people are familiar with volleyball history. Volleyball was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan and originally called Mintonette. It was designed as a game which included the athletic nature of basketball but with a less intense dynamic so that older players could enjoy it.

The game became known as volleyball in 1896 and it quickly became popular at YMCAs around the country. In 1900, the first official volleyball was made, but it wasn't until 1916 that the sport introduced more athletic moves such as the spike. The rules were also modified at this time. The game gained notoriety outside the United States after the American Expeditionary Forces gave 16,000 volleyballs to American troops and American allies in 1919. Volleyball was featured at the 1924 Olympics but it did not become an official Olympic sport until1964. Estimates are that one in every six people in the world watches or plays volleyball.

The Date Activity

A volleyball game is a great activity to partake in on a date. You can gather up a group of friends or you can play one on one as well. Volleyball can be played at the beach, in a pool, out at the park, or even in your own backyard. There are many places to play indoor volleyball as well. Even if your date is a beginner, you will still have fun as the game can be as physically demanding as you make it.

On Your Own / With Friends

Volleyball is best when played in groups, however. A large group of people can all play volleyball at the same time. You can make the teams as large or as small as you need to accommodate your group. Many public beaches have volleyball nets set up in the sand, but you can buy inexpensive volleyball nets which are easy to set up and transport. Some public swimming pools also offer times when water volleyball can be played. Of course, you can find many places to play land based volleyball as well. There are many volleyball leagues and clubs available which will give you opponents to play with anytime you need them.

Volleyball is a great sport for people of all ages and it can be played in a relaxed, friendly manner or an extremely competitive one. The best part about volleyball is that it does not require a lot of equipment. Whether you are out with a group of friends or hitting the beach with your date, volleyball can be an exciting way to spend some time in the sun.