Caneball courts connect Karen community

THE Bendigo Karen community has a permanent place to play their national sport, caneball, at the Eaglehawk Tennis Club on Crowther Street.

Also known as sepak takraw or kick volleyball, the sport uses a woven rattan ball, elevated net and specific line marking.

The Bendigo Karen Youth Network worked alongside the City of Greater Bendigo, Sports Focus, and the Eaglehawk Tennis Club to include two free-to-use caneball courts as part of a facility redevelopment, which included new surfacing, fencing and line marking.

BKYN committee member Nay Chee Aung said they have been advocating for a permanent court for many years.

“It’s fantastic, it’s almost unbelievable because we know across the state our community has been trying to find a place to play caneball, and haven’t been successful,” he said.

“It feels like it’s a privilege to get this opportunity for young people.”

Caneball is one of the three most popular sports in south Asia alongside soccer and volleyball and is the national sport of Myanmar.

Mr Aung said being able to play the sport whenever they want will help connect Karen refugees with an important part of their identity.

“Caneball is one of the sports that makes you feel like you’re home and now that we have a permanent court it’ll definitely make us feel like we’re settled and at home,” he said.

“It provides an opportunity for young people to come together, not just in Bendigo where we have a lot of young Karen people but also from across Victoria, to come along, visit our beautiful city and at the same time participate in the sport.

“We can host events whenever it’s appropriate so we can continue to encourage and engage with young people.

“It reflects on the city being sport inclusive and I think that’s fantastic. We get to showcase what caneball is to the broader community and encourage people to give it a go.”

On Saturday, 16 July at 2pm a come and try day will be held at the courts for anyone who wants to experience the sport.