Once an Ancient Toy, Yo-Yoing is Now a World Sport Enjoyed by All Ages
Middlefield, OH – (June 5, 2020) – Duncan® Toys, one of the oldest and best-known toymakers, celebrates National Yo-Yo Day on June 6th, 2020. From Ancient Greece in 440 B.C. to Nasa Space Missions, the yo-yo has traveled through time and transformed from a leisure toy and science instrument to a global sport. First popularized in the U.S. by Donald Duncan during the Great Depression, the story of the yo-yo is unique: one full of curiosity and invention that could only be fueled by the entrepreneurial spirit of America. In recognition of Donald Duncan's contribution to American history, his birthday of June 6th has been designated as National Yo-Yo Day.
Believed to have originated in Greece in 440 B.C., yo-yos can be traced throughout history. From artifacts in Egyptian temples, to photographs of King Louis XVII to historical documents from the French Revolution, and Napoleon. The yo-yo then continued its journey to America and eventually into space aboard the 1985 Space Shuttle Discovery.
However, Yo-yos are not just fun or something to past the time with, they have become a tool of expressionism that fuels everyone’s creativity. Today, thanks to the design innovation by Generation X, Generation Y and Millennials now enjoy yo-yoing as a sport. Originally made from wood and plastic, yo-yos have evolved into high-tech ball bearing, precision air crafted aluminum versions.
“From schoolyard demonstrators selling hand-carved wooden yo-yos, to modern champions touring the globe, the way we play is always changing, but the reasons we play are not,” says Michael Burke, Duncan Toys National Sales and Marketing Manager. We are committed to developing high-quality precision-crafted yo-yos that allow children of all ages to enjoy this both as a toy and as a sport.”
(L-R: 1980’s Roller Skating Yo-Yo Players, Generation Y Yo-Yo Player, Millennial Yo-Yo Player)
As one of the few multi-generational toys, the yo-yo continues to provide hours of fun, laughter, and memories passing from one generation to the next. Ultimately, bringing people together no matter their age, where they are from or what language they speak to enjoy this unique subculture and sport.
About Duncan Toys Company:
Duncan® is one of the oldest and best-known toy makers. Founded during the Great Depression, the story of Duncan® Toys is unique: one full of curiosity and invention that could only be fueled by the uniquely entrepreneurial spirit of America.
For over 90 years, we have crafted classic skill toys for every generation. From schoolyard demonstrators selling hand-carved wooden yo-yos, to current champions touring the globe, the way we play is always changing, but the reasons we play are not. We are committed to engaging children of all ages and all generations with top quality toys. Whether you are shopping for your child or your inner child, we believe that our toys will help you find your inner fun.
About the Author
Jennifer Baybrook, a World Yo-Yo Champion and our youth program presenter has performed and presented Yo-Yo programs in 32 states and throughout 15 countries. Born and raised in a small town in Vermont, Jennifer’s professional yo-yo career began at the age of only eight. Through years of regular practice, determination and passion for excellence, Jennifer was quick to rise to be one of the top yo-yo professionals and was recognized by both the Vermont State Senate and Hawaii State Senate for being a positive role model to youth.
At the age of 17, she was the first girl to win the World Yo-Yo Championship title and since has been featured as a special guest on various television shows and other venues including Good Morning America, Fox Kids, Euro Disney & Universal Studios.