Hoover-Ball challenge issued to 2016 presidential candidates

CEDAR RAPIDS - The 2016 presidential candidates, who are already getting a workout on the campaign trail, are being challenged to show their stamina for the long campaign ahead by playing a round of Hoover-Ball - the physical conditioning game developed by GOP President Herbert Hoover.

Regardless of political persuasion, the candidates are invited 'show the world they are (physically) fit for the long road ahead,” said Jerry Fleagle, executive director of the Hoover Presidential Foundation at West Branch, Hoover's birthplace.

'Being a successful president involves strong leadership, building a strong team around you and being competitive - all the traits of a successful Hoover-Ball team,” he said.

The game, which involves passing a four-pound ball, is 'not pink tea stuff,” according to a 1931 news account of the game Hoover played daily with cabinet members, Supreme Court justices and others.

Originally played with a six-pound ball, the game involves a server throwing the ball over an eight-foot net and the opponent must catch it on the fly and immediately return it.

The Hoover-Ball National Championship will take place Aug. 8 in West Branch during Hoover's Hometown Days.

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