In an era where screens dominate and social isolation is on the rise, a simple game with a circular net is making waves across Arizona’s campuses and parks. Spikeball — also known as roundnet — is a fast-paced two-on-two sport that’s emerging as an unlikely hero in the battle against teen loneliness, screen addiction and inactivity.
The scene is becoming familiar: a group of teenagers gathered around a small, circular net, diving and leaping to keep a ball in play. Laughter and friendly trash talk fill the air as players foster real-world connections in a digital age.
“It’s a really social activity, and that’s the best part,” high school senior Luc Knox said. “Just being outside and in the sun — especially on a nice day playing with friends — brings everyone together.”
The appeal lies in the game’s simplicity and inclusivity. With just a net and a ball, any space can transform into a playing field. There are no benchwarmers and no star players — everyone is constantly involved.
“We started playing in the basement, and it was literally addicting,” high school senior Caleb Jarrett said. “We played every day for hours. We’d be sweating in the basement until my mom got mad.”
Recent studies show alarming increases in screen addiction, anxiety and depression among teenagers. According to the CDC, nearly 44% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. At the same time, physical activity — a key factor in reducing these issues — is on the decline.
Games like roundnet offer a solution by combining the competitive thrill of sports with the social intimacy of a small-group activity. It’s not just about getting teens moving; it’s about helping them connect in a meaningful way.
High school sophomore Elana Owens, a roundnet enthusiast, said the game has made it easier for her to connect with people she doesn’t usually hang out with.
Schools across Arizona and the nation are incorporating roundnet into physical education curricula, while local parks are seeing an uptick in spontaneous pickup games. Tournaments are popping up, drawing players from different schools and neighborhoods, further expanding social circles.
As the sun set recently at a local park, a group of teens was still engrossed in a match. The phones lying forgotten in a pile nearby told a story of their own — for these young people, the digital world had taken a backseat to real-life connection. “Find Your Circle” is a promise to help teens discover a sense of belonging, build confidence and enjoy the simple yet profound joy of playing together.
In the digital age, the most meaningful connections often come from the simplest joys: a ball, a net and a circle of friends.
Whether it’s a pickup game at the park, a school tournament or an afternoon in the backyard, roundnet is proving that even in today’s screen-obsessed world, teens can still find connection, community, and fun. Sometimes, the antidote to modern-day isolation is as simple as playing a game.
Editor’s note: Chris Kneeland is chief marketing officer for Spikeball Inc. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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