Its that time of the year again when schools draw inexorably to a long-awaited close and long, lazy summer afternoons spiral away in a haze of sunshine and restlessness. This year, instead of just sitting in front of the TV in an air-conditioned room, rummage in your closet for those forgotten football studs, dust off those tennis racquets and squeeze into that old swimming costume, because summer’s the time for fun.

Make a splash

Few sports are as much fun in summer as paddling around in a big blue pool, completely unmindful of the heat. Swimming is probably the most fun way to relax and keep fit at the same time. For those who can’t swim, this is as good a time as any to start. Almost all sports clubs and swimming pools hold summer camps where you can learn different styles of swimming and even diving. So make that your summer resolution, grab that float and resolutely march to the nearest pool.

Bowled over

With World Cup fever at its pitch, it’s almost impossible to not be tempted to pick up a cricket bat and head for the nearest ground. For those disinclined to go jogging, cricket provides an invigorating alternative. It’s a good time to relive that forgotten childhood and rediscover the adrenalin of playing real cricket. Cricket camps are a dime a dozen now, with almost every school having at least one in summer and the World Cup enthusiasm is sure to bring the kids to these in droves.

Grand slam

Another sport that’s fast gaining popularity thanks to its glamorous proponents is tennis. A heady combination of aggression and skill, it’s a terrific way to keep fit. The satisfying thump of the ball on the racquet, the thrill of returning that sudden volley, the rush of that unexpected drop shot; it’s an adrenalin junkie’s delight. Also it’s an excellent opportunity to go shopping for accessories, clothes and shoes, since looking the part is half the battle won.

Reach your goal

If your idea of a fun evening involves a lot of legwork and head butting, you’re definitely a soccer fan. Gather your long-lost FIFA World Cup buddies, dust off those college football studs and with a little war cry, jump into the fray. Give the game a little twist—drive to the nearest beach and play a spot of beach football, or give your legs a break and head to the nearest foosball table and let the little wooden players do all the work for you.

Hoops

Dribble, pass and shoot , in the style of Mr Magic himself. You don't need a team behind you, you don't even need to be of a minimum required height, as long as you've got the spirit for the game just pick up your basketball and go shoot some hoops. You earn extra points for everytime you come close to a slam dunk! The best part of playing on your own - you get to keep your score!

Do the Hockey-Pockey

It's the national game of India, and that is reason enough to go out and give it a try. If you have never tired field hockey then now is the time to pick up a stick, gather all your friends and pass the puck! You can even get more adventurous with the game...try playing hockey with roller skates, or how about some ice hockey?

... And Stay Out

There are a million and one things to you could do to get the most out of this summer- Cycling, golfing, soccer, trekking, skiing, the list goes on and on. So don't just stay home and laze this summer, make the most of your time and heed that inner sportsperson in you.