Sport is a vital part of the life of English men and women. It provides for entertainment, recreation and bonding activity. A number of our favorite sports originated in England such as rugby union, rugby league, football, cricket, tennis and badminton.

Football, cricket and rugby remains to be the most watched and played sports in the country. England also features most of Union of European Football Association (UEFA) 5-4 star sports ground or stadiums. Such stadiums host the UEFA cup which is watched by avid fans all over the world. Its capacity ranges from 30,000 (4-star) and 50,000 (5-star). It is also in England where one can find the greatest sport clubs. These include the Aston Villa, Liverpol FC, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.

Cricket is the officially recognized national sport of England. The sport’s modern form originates in the country. The first documented cricket game was held in Coxheath, Kent in 1646. The main objective of the game is to make as much runs as possible, similar to that of baseball. Cricket involves two teams which comprises of a bowler, batsman and fielder. England’s county season starts from April to September.

Football is without a doubt, the most popular sport in England. Thus far, there are about 92 amazing club in the country’s Football League. The modern form of football was codified after the establishment of The Football Association in 1863. Football is governed by the International Federation of Association of Football (FIFA). Of all the tournaments, the most anticipated in the World Cup which is held once every four years. England also has one of the best football team in the world. It is ranked 11 in the FIFA and 8th by World Football Elo rating. Nonetheless in the recent World Cup, England’s football team was not able to qualify for the major soccer championship.

England also exemplified in terms of the rugby union, a sport similar to football where players can score through a goal or try. The difference is that in rugby, the players can touch the ball with their hands. The sport is thought to have originated in the Rugby school in Warwickshire. The England national rugby union team won the 2003 Rugby World Cup. The other rugby union clubs in the country like the London Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints participates in the Heineken Cup.

Tennis is another sought-after sport in England. Also being an avid fan, I watch the Wimbledon tournament. Such tournament started off as a tennis game played in a small club in south London during the nineteenth century. Tennis’ popularity rose tremendously through the years, with many tournaments held every season. Thus Wimbledon is watched by million of people in the world. The Wimbledon tournament is held every June.

Netball is the largest team sports in England. The sport is similar to basketball where players score by netting the netball.

Considered to be the sports of the kings, horse racing is participated by a lot of people across the country. The Grand National recognized as the hardest horse race worldwide started off in England. There are also completive horse races held at Ascot, Newmarket, Goodwood and Epsom.

Polo, another sport played by the rich and famous is often played in England. The sport involves two teams of four horsemen competing to hit the ball with a large wooden stick towards the other team’s goal.

Badminton takes it name from the home of the Duke of Beaufort named Badminton House, Gloucestershire. It is a racquet sport enjoyed by adults and children alike. The goal of the sport is to strike the shuttlecock with the racquet so that it passes the net and lands into the opponent’s court.