Football through the Years

The history of football can be traced back to the 19^th century in England. It was said that a frustrated soccer player started it all. Manipulating the ball with his feet proved to be exasperating for him, that he decided to just pick it up and ran with it. This was definitely against the rules of the game but somehow people found it appealing. Soon enough it became a new way of playing ball. Thus, the game of rugby came to be.

This new sport became a resounding success all over the world and the United States is no exception. It found its way during the middle part of 1800s and became an integral part of many northeastern colleges. In 1876, the rules of the game were formalized as it gained popularity in Yale University and Harvard University.

However, a few alterations were made. An egg shape ball was utilized instead of the traditional rounded ball. Apart from that, the name was changed from rugby to football. After three years, Walter Camp, a renowned player from Yale University was able to convince the International Football Association to make a few changes on the series of the game’s rules.

Over the years, college football has transcended and became a more mature sport. From being a league played in universities it became a part of the then newly instituted NCAA (National College Athletic Association) making the rules more professional based on the guidelines of the collegiate organization.

In 1920, over ten professional teams were in existence throughout the United States. After some time, organizers decided to meet and formed the APFA (American Professional Football Association) which later on renamed as the NFL (National Football League). Soon enough the game became established as an all American past time.

As the sport continued to gain popularity, the public at large were caught on it. Football became a well loved sport and then several leagues ensued.

Football of Today

These days, football is one of the top sports in America. From a game being played by rebel college students who wanted to play a different game, it sure has come a long way. Together with the introduction of television, football games now have the prestige of being a household sport that is watch in almost every family room across America.

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