Introduction
‘Fives’ is the English name for what is known in the rest of the world as handball. It is a game of speed, reaction and skill.
Fives is similar to squash or tennis, but gloved hands are used to strike the ball. The walls of the court have ledges and buttresses around it to make a fast game of reactions. Handball is played in almost every country in some shape or form. It is especially well known in the US and is the highest participation sport in New York (and was rated the top sport for all-round cardiovascular fitness in an American government report). Like squash or tennis, the aim of the game is to make the ball bounce twice before your opponent can get it back into play.
A section of Eton College Chapel (see picture) was the blue print for the game we play today! This “court” area made such an exciting game for boys waiting to go to chapel in the 1800’s, that official court specifications were drawn up, and the game rapidly spread.
Fives in England enjoys a wide array of competitive opportunities as you would expect in any sport. County championships, four Adult league divisions, a national ladder, national and regional championships from school level to adults and ladies nationals, mixed, fathers and sons… the list goes!
Fives at Westway
Westway is community-based and committed to introducing local people to fives. We run programmes for all ages and abilities and aim to ensure that we are open to all. Now is the perfect time to come and have a go at this exciting and fast court game.
The centre caters for individuals and groups. We actively encourage the use of the facilities by schools, youth and community groups and people with special needs. We also cater for birthday parties as well as corporate functions.
At Westway we offer sessions for both experienced players and beginners keen to “have a go” Come and try this ‘new’ (actually ancient) sport, you have nothing to lose.
For more information please call Simon Thomas- Fives Development Manager : 07790 736 719.
A Community Facility
Westway is community-based and committed to introducing local people to fives. We run programmes for all ages and abilities and aim to ensure that we are open to all. Now is the perfect time to come and have a go at this exciting and fast court game.
The centre caters for individuals and groups. We actively encourage the use of the facilities by schools, youth and community groups and people with special needs. We also cater for birthday parties as well as corporate functions.
At Westway we offer sessions for both experienced players and beginners keen to have a go’. Come and try this ‘new’ (actually ancient) sport, you have nothing to lose.
Beginner’s sessions are purely aimed at having fun and perhaps letting off steam. Youngsters are of course most welcome. Eight is the ideal minimum age for handball, but much younger children are welcome to come over to the courts as well – we’ll make sure that everyone is entertained!
