Not many have heard of the sport tchoukball (pronounced chook-ball), at least not here in Singapore.

Even the computer thinks it does not exist.

And so, many might be surprised to know that Singapore actually ranks second in the world for the sport.

Ranked consistently at the top

The Singaporean team has achieved consecutive number two rankings in the world and finished consistently at the top three at regional competitions.

Singapore currently holds the world number two rank for the Men's team and the world number three rank for the Women's team.

The national Under-18 boys' team was also world youth champions in 2016 after beating out Chinese Taipei, the reigning world champion.

In the recent 8th Asia-Pacific Tchoukball Championship held in Singapore from 6th to 8th July, the Singapore Women's team finished second to win silver, while the Men's team managed to beat Malaysia to win bronze.

What's Tchoukball?

Tchoukball is a Swiss game that combines volleyball and squash, and is typically played between two teams of seven players in a basketball court.

It was invented in the 1960s by Swiss biologist Dr. Hermann Brandt who wanted a non-aggressive game that would reduce the risk of injuries and accidents for the players.

To maintain its fair play, tchoukball has a no-contact rule which bars players from touching their opponents.

Tchoukball players can also score at both ends, unlike many other sports. To score, you have to bounce the ball off a rebound frame and ensure that the ball is not caught by the opposing team. Given that points can be scored at both ends of the court, players are therefore required to follow dynamic defensive and attack strategies.

If you're interested in the sport, you can find out more here.

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Top image via Tchoukball Association of Singapore's Facebook page

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