Objective of the Game

While supporting himself on the ground with one hand only, the athlete has to kick or touch a target suspended at a pre-determined height, with one foot, in an overhead position. He has to land on the kicking foot and demonstrate clear bal­ance and control. To make the task even more difficult, the athlete has to grasp the opposite foot with his non-supporting hand, and he may not let go of it at any time while executing the kick. This body position makes maintaining the proper balance and body control very difficult.

As is the case with many of the games described in this book, the Alaskan High Kick requires very little equipment and can be played in just about any space available. The athlete does not use a run-up, and the space required need not be larger than the equivalent of a full body length in diameter or extension.

As the name indicates, the Alaskan High Kick originated among, and was re­introduced by people from the Alaskan side. From here, the game was distributed across the Arctic.

Equipment

1. A target in the shape of a seal. It is made of sealskin that is stuffed with a soft material. In the old days, moss was often used. The skin is cut and sewn to represent a seal. The seal should be about 10-12 cm (4-5 in) long, and about 5-7.5 cm (2-3 in) wide, so that it can be seen easily.
2. A stand, made from wood or metal. This is the same kickstand that is also used in the One-Foot and Two-Foot High Kicks. It should be adjustable to allow the target seal to be suspended at heights ranging from I0 m (3 ft) to almost 2.4 m (8 ft). If no kickstand is available, the seal can be suspended from just about anything.
3. A piece of string, used to suspend the target seal from the stand.
4. A nylon rope may be used to close off the playing area and keep it free of spectators.
5. A tape measure, used to control and adjust the height of the target seal.

Playing Area

The Alaskan High Kick is an indoor game that can be played in a very small area. The athlete makes the kick from a stationary position, and no area for a run-up is required. The playing area need not be larger in size or diameter than perhaps 3 m.

Teams and Competitors

Traditionally, this game was played by young men at the annual gatherings.

At the Arctic Winter Games, both junior and senior men and women compete in the Alaskan High Kick.

Safety Considerations

Successful execution of the Alaskan High Kick make the risk of injury greatest in the shoulder area of the supporting arm and the hamstrings of the pulled-up leg. Therefore, specific stretching and warm-up routines must develop the flexi­bility of the hamstrings, and of the shoulder and torso muscles. In addition, increased maximal strength and strength endurance in the shoulder and torso muscles on the supporting side also reduces the risk of sprains.

The playing area can be roped off to keep it free of spectators. Only competi­tors and judges should be allowed inside the playing area.

The area should be kept clean. If the surface is smooth, such as a gym floors, any moisture has to be removed to prevent slippage.