Kronum Expands, Evolves in 2012

The Delaware County Daily Times in Pennsylvania reports the creator of the sport called kronum wants the sport to evolve. Bill Gibson was originally from Upper Darby, Pa., and graduated from Penn in 1993. He was interviewed by the newspaper in January ahead of the Kronum League's championship game.

He said he wanted the sport to change over time just like any sport does. Dr. James Naismith's original 13 rules of basketball formed the basis for the popular sport, but over time basketball has become more advanced. Kronum is the same way.

For instance, the game is usually played outdoors on fields 70 yards wide. Yet for the 2011 league championship (played in 2012), the final was held indoors in the cold winter months.

There were six teams in the the league this year for 10-person teams. Kronum has four goals and four ways to score either with the hands or by kicking a ball lightweight like a volleyball. The game is compact, fun, fast and furious. There are three 20-minute periods just like hockey. But there aren't many stoppages. The action moves quickly as teams switch from offense to defense.

The finals were won by the Nimble Jacks for the third year in a row. The final score was 132-115 over the Urban Legends. The game was close until the third period when the Nimble Jacks pulled away.

The game's popularity in Pennsylvania may be taking off. Gibson plans on having 16 high school club teams in the spring and a dozen recreational teams beyond the die-hard league teams. The key will be sending out players already in the kronum league to spread the word to friends. It's almost like a dispersal draft to seed other teams to guide expansion.

Having a sport evolve quickly will be the key to early success and expansion. Kronum already has a dedicated group of loyal followers. All it takes is some spreading of the word and some accessible leagues with some coaches. The best way to have coaches spread to different teams is to get your most experienced players out there to become the coaches of the new rec leagues. Once other people catch on, then it's time for players to go back to playing.

Kronum doesn't just look exciting, it feels exciting. The adrenaline rush and intense workout are evident by the athleticism of the players. Hopefully the sport of kronum will spread so leagues and tournaments will eventually make their way out of Pennsylvania.