There were no sides or opposing parties. Probably the most exciting and to many the most important game among many of the tribes, aside from those of the Mountain Indians, is that of Ball-playing or Racket. This is distinctly a man’s game as opposed to double-ball and some other forms commonly played by women. There are instances however of this having been played by women, and among the Santee Sioux it is at times played by both sexes together. This game has been divided into two principal classes, those of the single and those of the double racket or bat; the latter is more especially peculiar to the southern tribes.[38] The racket may be likewise termed a throwing stick as it is used to pick up and throw the ball rather than for the purpose of hitting. The ball is either of wood or of buckskin stuffed with hair,[39] and the usual size is about two and one-half inches in diameter. Various kinds of rackets are used by the players, some preferring long and some short handles. Among the Oto of Oklahoma, one measured was forty inches in length.[40] Catlin[41] gives an excellent description of this game among the Iowa Indians. His details concerning the goals and byes and various points connected with the different features, make this sketch one of the most complete we have.[42] As among all tribes east and west, north and south, the Iowa were given to their numerous dances, many of which were of the highest importance. Mention is made here, only of several of the more common or necessary dances, inasmuch as the subject is one if it were treated fully would occupy a volume in itself. This is a peculiar dance given in honor of one or more strangers whom [Sidenote: +The Welcome Dance+] the tribe may decide to welcome to their village. The musicians as well as spectators, out of respect, all rise to their feet while it is being performed. The song which accompanies it is at first one of lament, but ends in a gay and lively manner. The most exciting as well as the longest and most tiresome of all [Sidenote: +The War Dance+] dances. It is usually divided into three parts, _i. e._, Eh-Ros-Ka—The Warriors Dance—usually given after a party had returned from war as a boast and was ofttimes given as an amusement. The song used at this time entitled Wa-Sissica—The War Song—appeared to be addressed to the body of an enemy, from the name Eh-Ros-Ka, meaning tribe, war party or body.[43] The most spirited part of this greatest of all dances was called the [Sidenote: +Approaching Dance+] in which the dancers by their gestures exhibited the methods of advancing on an enemy. The song in this portion is also similar to that above mentioned.[44]