The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

A ball game played by African-American Children

Hello, hello, hello sir
how are you today sir?
fine sir
yes sir

Submitter comment: This game is played by one or more players. The player(s)
bounces a ball to each word of the rhyme. When the word "sir"
is said the player must cross his/her leg over the ball.
Rhythm is very important in that the ball and the rhyme and
the leg crossing must all be together in timing. A missed
cross, or lost of control of the ball constitutes elimination
and turning the ball over to the next player.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT ; other children in the community