Palin: Mapuche Partner Hockey

An ancient game of the Mapuche people of Chile and Argentina, also known as chueca: two teams push a ball with curved sticks until it crosses the opponents' end line on a long, narrow field. Each player is paired with one fixed opponent. Students work on stick handling, marking, and respect for opponents.

How to play

1. Mark two 30 x 10 yard fields. Form 4 teams of 6 (one with 7) and pair each player with an opponent of similar skill (3 min).
2. The ball starts in the center. One pair stands face to face and, on the signal, tries to move it toward their side with the stick.
3. The ball is dribbled and passed along the ground. Each player may only challenge their own paired opponent.
4. A 'raya' (line) is scored when the ball rolls over the other end line; restart in the center with a new pair.
5. Play to 4 rayas or 8 minutes, then switch opponents and pairs (16 min).
6. Finish with a respectful greeting between partners, as in Mapuche palin (1 min).

Rules

• The stick never goes above the knee, whether hitting or receiving.
• No feet, no hands, and no hitting sticks.
• If another player takes the ball, give it back.
• Always play on your feet.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student uses a longer stick, and their partner may only challenge while standing still.
• Autism or shyness: keep the same pairs all lesson.
• Skill level: pair students of similar ability.

Learning goals

• Dribble and pass the ball with a stick while keeping it on the ground.
• Mark a direct opponent respectfully and without dangerous contact.
• Learn about palin as part of the culture and ceremonies of the Mapuche people.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hockey sticks: 25
• soft balls: 3
• cones: 16
• pinnies: 13

Teacher tip

For the Mapuche, palin has ceremonial meaning and was used to settle disputes; present it with respect. Stop play the moment a stick is raised.

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