The word “hockey” is generally thought to have originated from the French word hoquet, which translates to “shepherd’s crook.” It is likely derived from stick-and-ball games, such as hurley and shinty, brought by immigrants to the North American colonies. 

Best known for its popularity in North America, baseball dates back to early 18th century England and evolved from a combination of two other games: rounders and cricket. Since the mid-1800s, Americans have claimed baseball as their own, and it is enjoyed by young and old alike.

Although there has been much debate, it is generally agreed that the modern game of golf originated on the eastern coast of Scotland, not far from Edinburgh. In its early days, the sport involved hitting a pebble over sand dunes with the use of a curved stick. King James IV of Scotland famously became a player of the game in the 16th century, and after this royal endorsement, golf became an official sport, similar to the game played today. 

The game of curling is generally thought to have started in the 16th century and in the cold Northern European winters. Brought by early settlers to North America in the 18th century, this grassroots game helped provide a pastime during long winters. It has since evolved into a modern international sport, and although it is played at the Olympic level, curling is fun at all levels of play!