If you think soccer is tough, consider battling for the ball in the mud. Swamp soccer is a sport for those not afraid to get their hands dirty and other body parts! It is held every summer at the Ukkohalla Swamp Rock Arena in Hyrynsalmi. The Swamp Soccer World Championship is a one-of-a-kind event that is anything but boring. This is a great challenge and fun for hundreds of teams from a dozen different countries.
Swamp Soccer Games
Swamp Soccer offers various series catering to everyone who relishes the joy of camaraderie. Companies, friend groups, sports clubs, or football teams are welcome to gather at Vuorisuo each year. Throughout the competition, nearly 1,000 games are played. The size of a field is 90x160 feet (30x60 m). Swamp Soccer follows football rules but with its own special variations. The field is soft and muddy, making it tougher to play. Referees are there mainly to keep players safe on the tricky terrain. Each game has two periods, lasting for 10 minutes. A team has to have a goalkeeper and five field players.
Swamp Rock
The games are usually followed by parties and various activities at the Ukkohalla ski and sports resort, where most players stay during the event. One of the highlights is the Swamp Rock event, featuring performances by acclaimed artists like Steve 'n' Seagulls, Kymppilinja, The Bilebändi, and DJ Tinge.
Location & Price
All the games take place over 20 fields in Hyrynsalmi (Vuorisuo). The Ukkohalla ski & sport resort serves as the accommodation hub for players and hosts the Swamp Rock event alongside the games. The tournament fee stands at €250 per team. For just 59 euros, you can get a two-day advance pass to Swamp Rock 2024. The Suopassi VIP 2024 pass for 149 euros includes Swamp Rock entry for two days, meals at Ukkohalla, VIP sauna access at Swamp, entry to Sauna World at Ukkohalla, and transportation to the tournament venue.
History of Suojalkapallo
In 1998, the idea of combining swamp terrain and football gave birth to Swamp Soccer in Hyrynsalmi, Finland. Since its inception in 1998 with 13 teams, the competition has grown exponentially. Since 2000, Vuorisuo has been the venue for the World Championship, attracting nearly 200 teams and over 2,000 players from around the world. Swamp Soccer has gone global with tournaments held in countries like Germany, Iceland, Scotland, India, and beyond.
Practical info
Where is Finland's Ukkohalla Swamp Rock Arena situated?
The Swamp Soccer Championship event happens in the Ukkohalla Swamp Rock Arena located in the Vuorisuo swamp area surrounding the lakes and rivers in Hyrynsalmi town in Finland. People worldwide come to experience and even participate in the championship event. Moreover, the place also offers several other activities for visitors like hiking, skiing, and various other outdoor activities. Show more
How many teams and players usually participate in the Swamp Soccer World Championship?
Since inception in 1998, over 300 teams with no less than 4,000 professional and amateur players, have featured in the Swamp Soccer World Championship. The competition showcases teams from up to 250 swamp soccer teams worldwide. The championship hosts both professional and amateur athletes and creates an excellent opportunity for team bonding and social interaction. Participants can gain substantial knowledge of other players' game techniques and skills to enhance their gameplay. Show more
Is it possible to take part in the championship competition without being a professional athlete?
The Swamp Soccer Championship is not exclusively for professional athletes. Regardless of whether you are a professional, you can still sign up for the championship's amateur league division. The organizers highly encourage anyone interested in participating in either, forming their teams or joining an already established one. The Championship targets improving various participants' fitness levels, offering a unique experience of meeting new people with different cultures and backgrounds while sharing a passion for the sport. Show more
What additional events or activities does the Swamp Soccer Championship weekend hold?
There are several exciting events and activities during the Swamp Soccer Championship weekend beyond the main event. One can participate in outdoor activities such as camping, bird watching, and fishing, and enjoy the scenic beauty view of the Vuorisuo swamp area. The event takes place at the Ukkohalla ski & sport resort, where visitors can also ski, hike or bike. Besides the outdoor activities, visitors can participate in concerts, parties, and contests that accompany the events. Show more
