What Sports Have 8 Players in a Team? Surprising and Exciting Options!
Exploring the World of 8-player Team Sports
Well, you might think that most sports have teams with 11 players or 5, right? But actually, there are several sports where the team consists of exactly 8 players. Some of them are relatively popular, while others are a bit more niche, but trust me, they’re just as thrilling to watch or play. So, what exactly are these sports?
In this article, I'll walk you through a few sports that feature 8 players per team. Some you’ve probably heard of, others might be a little more surprising. Let's dive into it!
1. Rugby Sevens (Rugby Union variant)
The Fast-paced Version of Rugby
Okay, so most people know rugby has teams of 15 players, but did you know there’s a faster version of it with just 7 players on each side? Now, here’s where it gets interesting: Rugby Sevens, when played at the club or amateur level, sometimes features 8 players on the field, especially if there’s a specific league setup or tournament variation that allows it. It’s like rugby, but it’s faster, with more open space for thrilling plays.
I remember watching my first Rugby Sevens match a few years ago, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. The game was so intense, and because there were fewer players, the action was constant. The 8-player teams—depending on the league—still have that same high-octane excitement, and it’s a blast.
2. Ice Hockey (Minor Leagues)
A Thrilling Twist to the Classic Game
Okay, here’s a twist. In professional ice hockey, we typically see teams of 6 players on the ice, right? But in some minor leagues or specific formats, you’ll find that the game is played with 8 players on each team. This isn’t the standard, but it's still part of the sport in certain regional competitions or unique setups, like youth leagues or friendly matches.
What’s fascinating about this version of ice hockey is that it allows for even faster play and often creates more scoring opportunities, making the games thrilling. I went to an 8-player ice hockey game once and, let me tell you, it was intense! The smaller number of players on the ice led to more rapid line changes and faster puck movement, which kept me on the edge of my seat.
3. Indoor Volleyball
The Unique Format of 8-Player Volleyball
Indoor volleyball usually has 6 players per team, but if you’ve ever heard of 8-player volleyball, you’re probably thinking of a specific variation. In certain tournaments or recreational settings, volleyball is played with 8 players on each side. This version of volleyball is particularly popular in mixed-gender leagues or as a fun variation during team-building activities.
I actually played a few matches with 8 players on each team during a summer league, and it was a totally different vibe compared to regular volleyball. Having extra players allowed for more complex strategies, and the energy was definitely higher with all the constant movement and team coordination.
4. Water Polo (Club or Friendly Matches)
Water Polo’s Exciting Team Format
Water polo is usually played with 7 players per team, but in certain club matches or during informal tournaments, teams may have 8 players. This format can make the game feel a bit more balanced or even more competitive, especially in leagues where players are evenly matched. It’s still the same water polo you love—intense, high-speed, and action-packed—just with an extra player in the mix.
I remember the first time I watched water polo in person. The intensity in the pool, the way the teams communicated in the water... it’s like nothing else. Adding that 8th player sometimes brings a tactical edge to the game, making it more interesting to watch.
5. Lacrosse (Box Lacrosse)
A Fast-Paced Sport with an Extra Player
Lacrosse typically features teams of 6 players (indoor) or 10 players (outdoor), but in some box lacrosse leagues, 8 players per team is the norm. Box lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-contact version of the sport played indoors, and the addition of that extra player can make the game more intense and exciting. It’s like the rollercoaster of team sports with players darting across the field, constantly moving and shooting at lightning speed.
I watched my first box lacrosse game a few years ago, and it was wild. The speed of the game with 8 players on the field made every possession feel like it could be the game-changer.
Conclusion: Why 8 Players?
Honestly, the choice to have 8 players on a team in these sports brings a balance of strategy and energy. Whether it’s rugby, ice hockey, or water polo, having a slightly larger team can change the dynamics of the game, creating more opportunities for creativity and team coordination. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend checking out one of these sports with 8 players—it’s a whole different experience!
Have you ever played or watched one of these sports? How did the extra player impact the game for you?
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| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
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