It was interfering with archery practice

With a weak monarchy, powerful nobles and a constant threat of invasion, military training was compulsory for all males over 12. However, instead of practicing archery, ordinary people preferred to spend their leisure time playing golf and football.

People often played in enclosed public spaces, such as streets and churchyards. This was considered dangerous and a nuisance, as well as 'unprofitable'.



Golf and football were so widespread and popular that Parliament considered them a problem serious enough for legislation.