Sigue: a Traditional Game

Sigue is one of the traditional team games deeply rooted in Hassani society, mostly played by women with the participation of men. The joint involvement of both genders in this game and its associated rituals represents the finest aspects of sophistication within the local community. The game is played between two teams, each consisting of two or four players. In the case of several players, a board is set up, resembling a chessboard, and containing sixteen holes or more. Sigue reflects the relationship between humans and their natural environment, as it traditionally used locally available materials for its practice. With societal changes, such as the shift from tents and nomadic life to urban living, the game has evolved, gradually replacing sand, sticks, and other tools with a wooden structure adoed with geometric decorations, standing on skillfully crafted wooden supports. The scoring system is rather peculiar, as each successful hit or throw of sticks corresponds to a number of points named after animals. For instance, bagra (cow) is worth eight points, whereas farwa (tanned goatskin) is worth four points. Played in a spirited, competitive, and entertaining atmosphere, Sigue is accompanied by other rituals such as making tea and singing Hassani songs. This lively atmosphere strengthens bonds among players and provides an excellent leaing environment for children, allowing them to observe Sigue games and gradually lea its rules and scoring system.