The term literally translates to "they gather to play ball with the foot" and was described by Roger Williams.[1]
There are records that show it was played in the 17th century, especially among Powhatan and Algonquin groups. The game was played on beaches or clearings with goals about a half-mile-wide and set one mile apart.[citation needed] Up to 500 people usually played pasuckuakohowog at one time, while many games had up to 1,000 players.[citation needed]
Pasuckuakohowog was a dangerous game and was played almost like a war.[citation needed] Players would often have to quit due to broken bones or other serious injuries.[citation needed] This is because no rules existed to minimize physical contact as the game was played in a very aggressive and violent manner. Pasuckuakohowog players wore ornaments and war paint to disguise themselves from retaliation after the game.[citation needed] The game would often last for hours and sometimes carry over to the next day.[citation needed] After each match there would be a large celebratory feast, including both teams.[citation needed]
The only equipment used in pasuckuakohowog was a tightly bound ball made of animal hides or leather.[2]
