Naismith's upbringing was modest; he grew up in Canada as an orphan llving with an aunt and uncle. He had many responsibilities as a child and
didn't do well in school, but he was always a leader in outdoor and athletic activities. The leadership Nalsmith demonstrated among his
childhood peers continued as he grew into adulthood.
Naismith came to the United States to teach at Springfield College in Massachusetts. While he was teaching there, the head of the
physical education department challenged him to dream up a game that could keep a class of rowdy young men active and engaged
throughout the cold winter months. Naismith had to think of something that would encourage everyone to play and keep them active
Without being too rough with each other.