This children’s article, A kids’ guide to cuju: the world’s first game of football, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and explore the history of football from its earliest beginnings to the global game we know today. Written by Mark Pulley, an experienced teacher and writer.
The origins of cuju
Cuju is the earliest recorded game that resembles modern football. It began in China more than 2,000 years ago, during the Han Dynasty. The name “cuju” means “kick ball,” and it was originally played to train soldiers, but it quickly became a popular sport for people of all ages.
The game was often played during festivals and special events. It was not just a fun activity; players also had to show skill, teamwork, and precision to score goals.
What were the rules of cuju?
Cuju had simple, clear rules. Players kicked a ball through a small hole in a piece of cloth hung between two posts. There were no goalkeepers, and the number of players could vary depending on the match.
The ball was made from leather and stuffed with feathers, making it light enough to kick long distances. The pitch was usually rectangular, but the size could change depending on where the game was played. Accuracy and control of the ball were more important than strength.
From cuju to modern football
Although cuju is the first recorded game of kicking a ball, football as we know it today began much later, in the 19th century, in England. The Football Association (FA) was founded in 1863 to create standard rules for matches, and the sport soon spread around the world.
Over time, teams, referees, and leagues were added, and football grew into the global game it is today. Modern football is still about kicking a ball to score goals, but now it has stadiums, millions of fans, and international tournaments.
The legacy of cuju
Cuju shows that football has been loved for thousands of years. It reminds us that games can bring people together, teach teamwork, and inspire new ideas. Even though the rules and equipment have changed, the spirit of cuju lives on in every kick of a football today.
Article vocabulary list
- Cuju – the earliest recorded game of football from ancient China
- Han Dynasty – a period in Chinese history over 2,000 years ago
- Pitch – the area or field where a game is played
- Leather – material made from animal skin, used for the Cuju ball
- Feathers – light material used to stuff early Cuju balls
- Referee – the person who makes sure players follow the rules
- League – a group of teams that compete against each other
- Global – worldwide; across the whole world
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. What does the name “cuju” mean?
a) Kick ball
b) Head ball
c) Run fast
Answer: a) Kick ball
2. When did cuju first appear?
a) About 500 years ago
b) Over 2,000 years ago
c) In the 19th century
Answer: b) Over 2,000 years ago
3. What was the cuju ball made from?
a) Plastic and air
b) Leather stuffed with feathers
c) Wood
Answer: b) Leather stuffed with feathers
4. How did players score in cuju?
a) By kicking the ball through a hole in a cloth
b) By throwing the ball over a line
c) By running with the ball into a goal
Answer: a) By kicking the ball through a hole in a cloth
5. When did modern football begin to take shape?
a) In ancient China
b) In the 19th century in England
c) In the 20th century in Brazil
Answer: b) In the 19th century in England
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
