In the southern region of Xinjiang, particularly in Uqtan County of Hetian, a traditional sport known as hockey is thriving. Locally referred to as “Qumak” or “Meireqi,” it bears a resemblance to modern hockey.
During matches, players wield a wooden stick, approximately 80 centimeters long with a curved head, to strike a ball made of yarn or a gnarled ball crafted from willow tree knots. This sport is quite flexible, requiring only a level playing surface and an equal number of players, allowing for games to commence at any time and place.
Recently, I had the opportunity to observe a lively hockey match in Xiwule Township of Uqtan County, where 72-year-old traditional hockey expert Tohuti Rouzi was serving as the referee. Before the game kicked off, Tohuti shared the rules and techniques with the participants.
As the game commenced, the players displayed remarkable enthusiasm; cheers and shouts filled the air, creating an atmosphere of excitement. “In our community, hockey is an important leisure activity,” Tohuti noted.
Participants spanned various ages, including those above 40 and even some older players who showcased impressive skills. Among them, 75-year-old Maimitiming Tohanti displayed remarkable talent when he sent the ball directly into the opposing goal, prompting applause and cheers from the audience.
Local resident Ablaiti Ibrayin shared, “This game is very engaging and has captured the interest of many young people.” Tohuti emphasized, “Hockey is beloved by the community, serving not only as a leisure activity but also as a significant part of our traditional culture.” The game can be played during the day and even at night.
During daytime matches, the ball is made by wrapping a piece of fabric with yarn in red, green, black, and white, while nighttime games utilize a “fireball”—a hard round ball made from tree galls found on willows. These galls emit a faint glow in the dark, adding a thrilling element to the game.
Tohuti has been involved in hockey since he was eight, having learned from his father over 60 years ago. “I enjoyed playing since childhood, often gathering friends from the village during the off-season to play, sometimes forgetting to eat,” he reminisced.
“In those days, we had to craft our sticks from naturally bent trees found in the fields—those with straight, sturdy trunks,” he explained.
He also recalled how the matches once began with just ten people and a flat patch of grass or open ground.
In recent years, there has been a strong push in the Hetian region to protect and preserve intangible cultural heritage. Authorities are promoting the integration of sports with agriculture, culture, and tourism to aid rural revitalization.
Currently, efforts are underway to document and standardize hockey culture, including the establishment of official hockey fields and dedicated preservation teams.
Despite being over 70, Tohuti remains energetic and is often seen at hockey matches. “We must ensure that traditional sports are passed down through generations so that more people can partake,” he emphasized.
In Uqtan County, it’s not just the older population that enjoys this sport; young people are actively getting involved. Schools and youth organizations have begun offering hockey training, and annual matches are held, particularly in rural areas.
“The introduction of hockey has enriched cultural life in rural communities, fostering camaraderie among farmers and promoting harmony and unity,” stated Kanshan Maitikuerban, head of the cultural, sports, radio, television, and tourism bureau in Uqtan County.
