Rockford High School students are embracing a new, high‑energy activity as the school’s first Spikeball (also known internationally as roundnet) club opens its doors for the 2026‑27 school year. Juniors Christian Reintges and Jonah Mendez, the club’s founders, said they wanted to bring a sport that blends elements of volleyball with a ground‑level net to their classmates.
How the game works
Spikeball is played with four players on two teams. A small, circular net sits on the ground, and teams take turns striking a ball onto the net so it ricochets back to them. The fast‑paced rallies demand quick reflexes, good hand‑eye coordination and solid teamwork—skills that Reintges and Mendez say are both challenging and rewarding.
Student enthusiasm
“It’s just so fun. All the sets and the passing and the teamwork that’s involved,” Mendez explained. He added that the sport offers a casual way to hang out with friends while staying active, especially during the summer months. Reintges noted that newcomers can pick up the basics quickly, even if they lack prior experience: “We’ve had new people come in. Some people are gifted and some aren’t, but you can start it right off the bat most of the time.”
Club leadership and future goals
Club adviser Allison Sanders helped the students launch the organization and expressed optimism about its growth. “I would love it if this could turn into something bigger where they could potentially play against other schools or join some weekend tournaments,” Sanders said. The students share that vision. Reintges hopes the club will eventually compete against other schools, while Mendez dreams of seeing the sport become a varsity offering at Rockford High.
Growing popularity of roundnet
Spikeball, created in 1989, has surged in popularity across the United States and abroad. The sport held its first world championships in 2019 and is now a common sight at beaches, parks and schoolyards. “It’s around everywhere lately. It’s starting to get bigger, especially at the beach,” Mendez observed. He expects that trend to continue in Rockford, with more students—especially girls—joining the club.
Community impact
The club provides a low‑cost, inclusive activity that encourages physical fitness, cooperation and school spirit. By offering a new outlet for recreation, the Spikeball club aligns with Rockford High School’s broader mission to support well‑rounded development for its students. Sanders hopes other local schools will follow suit, expanding opportunities for youth athletics throughout the region.
Any Rockford High School student may join the club, and members are eager to welcome newcomers of all skill levels. As the sport continues to gain traction nationwide, the Rockford Spikeball Club aims to be a model of student‑led initiative, teamwork and healthy competition.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
