top of page

SUMO-FUN 101

Sumo-Fun 101 is a unique educational program that complements the Sumokids Initiative, covering topics from The History of Sumo to Creating a Shikona (Sumo Wrestler name) to all about the Sumo Basho (tournament).  
The program is designed to be used by students approximately in grades 5-8, but it can be adjusted to accommodate various age levels.

Each lesson is accompanied by a written assignment that, along with 2 crossword puzzles that are provided, helps students to learn the many various terms involved with the sport.  In addition to learning terminology, students will complete assignments to learn about past and present Sumo champions, create their own personalized Shikona (Sumo name), learn about the Dohyo (wrestling area), and learn the various aspects involved with a Sumo Basho (tournament).

FROM ANCIENT LEGEND TO WORLDWIDE SPORT

Explore the ancient beginnings of this often misunderstood sport, 
​and learn about the characteristics of a typical wrestler,
​and the strict lifestyle and rigorous training that these powerful competitors must adhere to in order to be successful in Sumo.

*Sumo-Fun 101 also provides information on an optional Journal that students can keep as they progress through the various lessons of the program, and a Term Project in which students imagine that they are 'newscasters' at a Sumo Basho, reporting on a wide variety of occurrences that may take place.

                                     LESSON TOPICS:

1.  The History of Sumo - Part 1

2.  The History of Sumo - Part 2; Present Day Sumo

3.  Daily Life of the Rikishi

4.  Creating a Name (The Shikona)

5.  Rules of Sumo and The Dohyo

6.  The Sumo Basho - Background Information

7.  The Sumo Basho - Shikiri Rituals

8.  The Sumo Basho - The Dohyo-iri

9.  The Sumo Basho - The Bout, and Sponsors

10.  The Sumo Basho - Special Awards; Rikishi Retirement

Sumo-Fun 101 was created by Derek Becher

bottom of page