Abstract: An arena, a process for manufacturing an arena and the use of an arena for a team ball game is described herein.

Abstract: A lightweight sports net frame assembly and anti-rebound system allowing straightforward assembly, enhanced rigidity, expedited replacement of the net and ease in retrieval of objects from the net frame assembly during usage of said assembly. The net frame assembly comprises substantially cylindrical cavities that allow for cables, rods or other tethering means to pass through said cavities and in turn securely fasten within the side frame members. The joints of the frame are comprised of various interlocking pieces, which provide a smooth outer surface at the joints, reinforce the rigidity of the frame and diminish rotational moments on individual segments. A frame stability system is incorporated.

Abstract: The invention provides a ball having a resilient higher density plastic outer cover layer over a lower density plastic core and a bat including a handle and a head, the head having a hitting surface and a back surface, the hitting surface having an elongate and substantially planar hitting surface and the back surface being similarly elongate and having a raised spine running along its elongate axis. The invention is characterised in that the bat is formed from plastic or composite material and has a central cavity, and a target article (set of stumps) includes a weighted base and a panel, the panel being formed from a flexible resilient material and the base including a slot into which the panel may be inserted and thereby retained in an upright position. The panel and slot are adapted such that when struck by an object the panel is free to vibrate.

Abstract: A ball tossing apparatus includes a support frame and a plurality of launch devices fixed to the support frame and arranged in a two-dimensional array. The launch devices include cylinders having a spring fixed therein, with a ball carrier fixed to the spring. The balls are retained in a loaded position (springs compressed) and then upon activation of the launch devices are launched vertically into the air to the sports player. In another embodiment, the launch devices include a rotating lever which is acted on by a biasing member to launch the ball vertically from the cylinder. A method for launching the balls includes the steps of loading the balls into a two dimensional array, and then launching the balls according to a launch sequence. An electronic control system for use with the ball tossing apparatus includes a launch module for launching the loaded balls in the plurality of launch devices according to a launch sequence.

Abstract: A movable frame may be positioned about a playing surface and defines a substantially straight pathway for a tool to follow while altering a playing surface, such as by cutting or marking the surface. A template that may be used to accurately define key positions of a playing surface, like a tennis court. Various pairs of the key positions may, in turn, be used to define each line that is to be marked or altered on the playing surface. Patterns of sensor circuits are defined for indentifying whether a ball impacts the tennis court at a position that is in play, or out of play.

Abstract: A leg glove, or leg mitten, having pockets for the hands of a lifter used when lifting a person who is jumping or being lifted, especially for lineouts in Rugby Union. The leg glove pockets have downward diagonal facing pocket openings. The simple, reusable, easy to use leg glove provides a level of effectiveness, comfort, convenience, and safety not provided by conventional methods. The leg glove is simply made from a single piece of flexible, elastic material, such as neoprene. A fold creates a base layer and a partially overlapping pocket layer. The pocket is secured and held open with a pocket attachment and base attachment forming pocket openings. The pocket openings are configured to face downward on a diagonal. An improved leg glove further comprises a non-elastic base strap. To use, leg gloves are applied to the legs of a jumper. When the jumper jumps, one or more lifters place their hands in the leg glove pockets.

Abstract: An artificial turf mat, including a backing and a plurality of protruding artificial grass blades divided into rows and connected to the backing. The mutual distance between successive blades in a row is substantially equal to the distance between adjacent rows and is at least 10 mm. The backing and the blades may be formed and mutually connected by weaving. A method for forming an artificial turf mat, including supplying a backing material, supplying an artificial turf material, forming a backing from the backing material, and connecting blades of the artificial turf material divided into rows to the backing. The blades may be connected to the backing such that their mutual spacing in a row is substantially equal to the mutual distance between adjacent rows and is at least 10 mm.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to articles of manufacture having at least a portion prepared using recycled material, including but not limited recycled rubber or other polymeric materials. The articles may incorporate the recycled materials in a granulated form. In specific embodiments, the article comprises an article of footwear (i.e., a shoe). Particularly, all or part of the shoe sole may be formed using the granulated material, the granules specifically being joined together using a binder material, such as a polyurethane, preferably a moisture cure, single component polyurethane binder. The invention further provides methods of preparing articles formed of granulated materials. The inventive methods are characterized by their excellent economic benefits, ease of use, and environmental benefits.

Abstract: Systems, methods and computer program products for determining a player rating for at least one tennis player enhances the tennis playing experience of by matching tennis players of comparable tennis skills. The methodology comprises assigning numerical player ratings generally corresponding to each player's individual tennis skill level. A competitive threshold is established, corresponding to a minimum number of games that a player must win in a match between players having the same player rating. A player is considered to be competitive within a rating level, regardless of whether the player wins or loses matches, provided the player wins at least the minimum number of games that corresponds to the established competitive threshold. Adjustments are made to a player's rating only if/when the player has a sustained record of “non-competitive” matches with similarly rated players.

Abstract: A device for calculating the speed of movement of a ball utilizing a sensing unit having an aperture at the surface of the ball and a receiving unit within the ball that measures reflected signals generated by the sensing unit. A distance measuring feature fixes a value for a particular distance of flight of the ball and a transducer receives a signal indicating the termination of the flight of the ball. A processor calculates the speed of the ball utilizing the absence of a reflected signal through the aperture and the beginning of a stop signal generated by the transducer as the basis for the time span of flight of the ball.

Abstract: A ball game kit is easily carried and readily assembled to facilitate play in recreational areas such as parks or beaches. The kit includes a container housing paddles, balls, and a unilateral court assembly appointed to be laid on a ground surface and secured thereto by way of securing mechanism to yield a playing field. The playing field is divided into two opposing player courts separated by a middle zone or dead zone. The court assembly includes a continuous rope or cord-like member. The court can be readily and accurately adjusted from a singles playing court to a doubles playing court by condensing and/or expanding the court assembly, without having to add sections or dismantle the court assembly. Glow in the dark properties may be provided to the court assembly, paddles, and/or balls for play in dimly lit or foggy conditions.

Abstract: A system is generally described which includes a sports system. The sports system includes a wind profile detector, a reference location, and a user interface device. Among other information the user interface device may provide information based on the wind profile from the wind profile detector and the reference location.

Abstract: A multi-purpose sports facility is provided with a common base structure comprising a plurality of areas, each of which constitutes a track, pitch or court for practicing a respective sports activity. The invention enables people to learn and practice sport, choosing from the activities most widely practiced the one that they prefer and is tracks, pitches or courts most suitable for their own physical and mental aptitudes.

Abstract: A method of playing a ball game in a body of water, such as a swimming pool, and equipment for the game are provided. The game includes a throwing a ball against a coping surface to generate a fly ball, and attempting, by a fielding team, to catch the fly ball without the fly ball first contacting a surface of the body of water. A strikepad may include a flat main body for lying on a surface adjacent the body of water; a downward extending surface; and a curved strike surface, which may be convex or concave, projecting from the downward extending surface and facing the body of water so as to provide a bouncing surface for the ball. A backstop that may be positioned adjacent the body of water behind the strikepad and including a net or a meshing for catching a ball is also provided.

Abstract: If an existing playground surface is unsatisfactory (for example, has a damaged surface or is too hard), the invention provides a remediation method including repair of any localised damage, then covering the surface with previously manufactured resilient modular mats, then adhering the mats side by side so that a continuous surface is formed. Preferred mats include internal voids that improve their impact properties. An extrusion enclosing the perimeter is fastened to a substrate and receives the outer edge of the array of mats within an inwardly directed groove. The grooves serve to hold the edges of the mats down against the ground, and allow for some shrinkage or expansion. The impact performance is thereby made acceptable and can be tested according to a relevant standard method.

Abstract: A sporting activity viewing, sensing, interpreting, and replaying system comprised of a detection equipped grass and turf blade apparatus, system, and method for viewing, sensing, interpreting, seeing, reviewing, and replaying the sporting action occurring, occurred, or replayed regarding the sporting activity. The apparatus may be positioned below, within, or level to the sporting activity surface. The apparatus may incorporate or use optical, fiber, wire, radiation/radiological, physical, sound, motion, reflective, refractive, electronic, smell, feel, computer, technological, digitized or non-digitized, transmitted, transferred, transported, pressure, temperature, mass, content, or other methods to view, sense, or interpret sport activities on grass, turf, soil, clay, silt, sand, concrete, wood, ice, asphalt, glass or plastic, rubber, ground, or components thereof, surfaces including artificial surfaces of these types.

Abstract: A portable, easy-to-use and transport sports box for display of real-time information at an athletic event is presented. A number of embodiments are presented. Each embodiment includes a display and a transport system. The transport system is used for easy transportation of the sports box to and from the athletic event; easy storage of the sports box when not in use; and easy use of the sports box during the athletic event. In some embodiments, a controller is used to allow an operator to input the information to a digital display. In other embodiments, a sensor is employed to determine distance information to be displayed. In yet still other embodiments both a controller and a sensor are used.

Abstract: A pitching rubber having a pad and a plurality of angled spikes connected to the pad and extending downwardly from the bottom surface of the pad for insertion into a surface, including artificial turf, carpeting and matting, so as to provide a stationary and portable pitching rubber for use both indoors and outdoors. Methods of making and using the portable pitching rubber of the present invention are also described.

Abstract: A multiplayer game, having rules with aspects of the games of Four Square and Volleyball, is played with an apparatus that can optionally be respectively disassembled and set up.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for conducting a more fair race around an oval track by having runners in each lane run equal arc angles. Such a configuration eliminates the disproportionate effect of centrifugal force on competitors running in different lanes. Embodiments of the invention provide for the addition of a straight section to a standard oval track extending from a curved section perpendicular to the existing straightaway section. Runners in each lane start at staggered locations on the straight section. The staggered starting locations are chosen such that each runner travels an equal distance from the starting location to a common finish line. A single straight section may be employed to conduct races covering the entire length and half the length of the oval track or two straight sections may be employed to allow finishes for both races at a common finish line.

Abstract: A ball game platform and a method to play a ball game on said platform are disclosed. The ball game platform comprising a rectangular surface divided into two sections with boundary lines and a middle line, and a duel pole set on one end of the middle line. The method of playing a ball game for two teams of players to play on one section of the platform comprising providing a soft ball being bounceable; setting a set of rules for the game, judging the score according to the rule, breaking tie score by using duel pole and declaring a winner. The rules for the game do not allow the player to touch the ball by hands except in the services and duels. The rules may include the rules of starting the gaming, serving the ball, shooting, and exchanging of field, as well as rules of violations.

Abstract: A sporting game in which a game ball that behaves differently from a conventional soccer ball is kicked from a starting point toward an end point for the purpose of getting the game ball in the end point in as few as strikes as possible and, if this is not accomplished in one kick, then the game ball is kicked one or more additional times until it is in the end point. However, unlike the direction of travel for a conventional ball, the game ball's direction of travel is to the right when a counterclockwise spin is applied at a point of contact with the player's foot, to the left when a clockwise spin is applied at the point of contact, and straight when a top spin is applied at the point of contact.

Abstract: A training aid for use with golf clubs has a coupler easily interchangeable from one club to another with an attached hand strap for wrapping about the golfer's hand to restrain the club against slipping from the user's grip while swinging the club, thereby to encourage a looser and more natural grip on the club.

Abstract: A sports simulation system includes a projectile tracking apparatus having a display surface on which a visually apparent three-dimensional sports scene is presented. The projectile tracking apparatus captures images of a projectile tracking region disposed in front of the display surface to detect a launched projectile traveling through the projectile tracking region towards the display surface. At least one processing stage communicates with the projectile tracking apparatus and is responsive to the image data to determine the three-dimensional positions, velocity and deceleration/acceleration of a detected projectile traveling through the projectile tracking region. The determined three-dimensional positions, velocity and deceleration/acceleration are used by the at least one processing stage to calculate a trajectory of the launched projectile into the visually apparent three-dimensional sports scene.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention described herein relate to sport game play procedures and rules, game arenas and/or equipment used for sports games. The game play method includes a face off procedure to begin a game by placing a ball between the shoulder blades of two players, each from an opposing team, and allowing each player to contest for the ball once signaled. The game play stick can be formed using a hollow tubular handle with a bottom and a top end the handle can be coupled to a base on the bottom end, and the top end of the handle can be connected to a ball receiving region.

Abstract: A quick release base system that includes a base platform and a removable base. The base platform includes a bottom platform surface and a top platform surface. The top platform surface is positioned above the bottom platform surface. The top platform surface includes platform prongs. The platform prongs are substantially perpendicular to the top platform surface and extend away from the top platform surface and away from the bottom platform surface. The removable base rests on top of the base platform, and the removable base includes an interior base surface. The interior base surface includes base prongs. The base prongs are substantially perpendicular to the interior base surface and extend away from the interior base, and the platform prongs interact with the base prongs to create a lateral restraining force between the base platform and the removable base.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automated play tracking sports play. A coordinating device receives first messages from player wireless sensors node carried by the players and a second message from a ball wireless sensor node carried by the ball. From these messages, the locations of the players and the ball are determined. From the relative locations of the players and the ball it is determined, which, if any, of the plurality of players possess the ball and a description of play is generated automatically. This description may be broadcast to subscribers via a network.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for detecting and tracking statistics of a game, and more particularly, to a system for detecting and tracking game statistics for a specific player or team of players while playing the game. The system may include a sports goal and sports ball for use in the game. The system may also include a sensor attached to a player to detect the sports ball when the sensor comes within a predetermined distance of the sports ball. A detector may be provided and coupled to the sports goal to detect the sports ball when the sports ball passes through the sports goal. A control unit may be provided to determine a game statistic corresponding to the player based on a signal received from the sensor attached to the player and a signal received from the detector when the sports ball passes through the sports goal.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling and officiating an athletic contest such as a hockey game. The official utilises a control unit removably mounted on his arm. A spring mounted button allows the official to signal time starting and time stoppage events. A keyboard allows the entry of further data relating to the time starting and time stoppage events such as a score or penalty. A bar code scanner allows the official to scan a bar code associated with each player to obtain information of that player. All data and time starting and time stopping events are transmitted wirelessly by the control unit to a receiver-processor located remotely from the control unit.

Abstract: A leg device with means for gripping, or handles, is used to aid in lifting a jumping player, especially for lineouts in Rugby Union. The simple, reusable, easy to use leg device provides a level of effectiveness, comfort, convenience, and safety not provided by conventional methods. In a leg sleeve embodiment, means for gripping include a thickened band or grip attached to a sleeve material. The means for gripping may be formed by attaching a semi-rigid material. The means for gripping may be formed by attaching extra layers in sections, in rolls, in folds. The means for gripping may be shaped to match the hand of a lifter. The means for gripping may comprise memory foam. The leg sleeve may further comprise a knee cutout or a hamstring cutout. To use, leg sleeves are applied to the legs of a jumper. Other embodiments of leg devices include leg glove or mitt and various leg straps. When the jumper jumps, one or more lifters grip the leg device.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a system and method for creating cooperation and gracious professionalism during a competition. According to one embodiment of the invention, a first participating player, team, or alliance is motivated to cooperate with a second participating player, team, or alliance by rewarding the first participating player, team, or alliance for assisting the second participating player, team, or alliance to achieve a higher score than might otherwise have been the attainable. One particular embodiment of this invention is to award the first participating player, team, or alliance that obtained the highest number of points during competition with a score comprised of the number of points obtained by the first participating player, team, or alliance plus twice the number of points obtained by the second participating player, team, or alliance.

Abstract: A leg strap with preferably horizontal handles attached at each end of each handle, is used to aid in lifting a jumping player, especially for lineouts in Rugby Union. The handles are preferably made of elastic bands with contract to provide a tight fit on the leg of the jumper and when jumping allow for secure grasp by lifters. The simple, reusable, easy to use leg straps provide a level of effectiveness, comfort, convenience, and safety not provided by conventional methods. To use, leg straps are applied to one or more legs of a jumper. When the jumper jumps, one or more lifters grip the leg device. The lifters lift the jumper higher, support the jumper in the jump while the jumper attempts to intercept a ball, and safely lower the jumper.

Abstract: A method of making a game ball having a carcass comprising a foamed intermediate layer and a plurality of raised seams made from an outer layer is disclosed. The foamed intermediate layer may be formed from two sheets of foamed material. The sheets are shaped to have leaves that can be folded into the shape of a hemisphere with no gaps between adjacent leaves. The sheets are placed around a bladder, an outer layer is placed around the sheets, and the combination is heat molded. The seams are not made from strips of seam material placed on the outer layer of the carcass.

Abstract: A recreational amusement takes the form a cooler having a toss-type game board integrated with the cooler's lid. The toss-type game board includes one or more cavities in the top of the lid. Provision is made for orienting the top of the lid in a sloping position for play of the game enabled by the game board. The cooler retains all conventional features of a beverage type cooler.

Abstract: A system for tracking balls in sports in which players kick, pass, bounce, strike or carry a ball. The ball is equipped with two beacons pulsing in the 5-10 Hz range at a frequency which is not attenuated by the body of the players. one beacon has a very short range of 40-120 cm and the other has a range of 1-5 metres. A data logger worn by the players includes a clock, location and speed sensors, a receiver for the beacon signals and a micro controller to record the data from all the sensors. The micro controller is able to record whether the player is in possession of the ball or is contesting the ball. The path of the ball from player to player is tracked relative to the playing field.

Abstract: The use of spot locations that are freely movable with respect to one another and that include different uses for each side is an improvement over the prior art. A basketball game includes at least one ball, a playing surface, a support structure, a backboard, a hoop, and a plurality of spot locations, and may further include a timekeeping device. Each spot location has a first surface with a first marking thereon and a second surface, in opposition to the first surface, with a second marking thereon. On at least one spot location, the first marking differs from the second marking. The different markings and the mobility of the spot locations relative to one another allow for a greater number of different, creative sets of rules using fewer spot locations. Additionally, a basketball game package and method of playing a basketball game utilize aspects of the basketball game.

Abstract: There are disclosed non-standard sport projectiles having a material with a high flexural modulus, and an axle at the axis of rotation. The axle extends through at least one linear through hole. Non-standard sport projectiles are disclosed with cushioned ends. A tee device is disclosed for driving the non-standard sport projectiles. Inflatable targets are disclosed for golf games with non-standard sport projectiles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of playing basketball and in particular to a method comprising providing a rectangular region defining a game play surface; providing a goal defined by a hoop located over each the in paint region; and scoring points during game play as follows: a player standing, within the in paint region, and shooting a ball through the goal scores one point; the player standing, within region between the in paint region and the three-point line, and shooting the ball through the goal scores two points; the player standing, within region between the three-point line and the four-point line, and shooting the ball through the goal scores three-points; and the player standing, within the four-point region, and shooting the ball through the goal scores four-points.

Abstract: Arena Baseball Game is disclosed, involving substantially the same rules as American baseball (e.g., MLB or NCAA) except that balls may be deflected back onto the playing field as a playable ball by a rebounding assembly that surrounds the arena infield. Apparatus for playing an indoor ball game derived from baseball comprises a netting backstop and monster home run wall. The arena has a playing area surrounded by wall means such as padded walls and spectator protective side netting. A baseball-like game played within an enclosed facility, wherein the game rules and facility are designed for fast paced action.

Abstract: The present specification describes sporting equipment methods and apparatus that may be used for ball play, and may be particularly useful for ball rebounding. One aspect of the novel sporting equipment described herein relates to the adjustability of a rebounder. Rebounders or rebound systems in accordance with principles of the present invention are strong, durable, and also adjustable. An adjustment mechanism in accordance with principles of the present invention may permit a user to change the angle of the rebound system to change the trajectory of rebounded balls to suit the needs of various players and situations. In contrast, conventional rebounders tend to be small, flimsy and are not adjustable.

Abstract: Provided are articles comprising targets useful in aiding persons desiring to improve their baseball pitching skills. An article according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a target area that corresponds substantially in size with the strike zone in American baseball, and the target area is divided into quadrants each of a contrasting color with respect to one another. A plurality of characters, such as numbers, are disposed about the periphery of the target area.

Abstract: A base structure for a ball court, and in particular a squash court, with a supporting structure resting on a base and a floor forming a playing surface resting on the supporting structure The floor comprises a plurality of safety glass panes laid adjacent each other and which are freely vertically movable relative to one another and whose surface forming the playing surface is provided with a plurality of rough areas. The supporting structure has an elastic layer beneath the safety glass panes.

Abstract: A ball game platform and a method to play a ball game on said platform are disclosed. The ball game platform comprising a rectangular surface divided into two sections with boundary lines and a middle line, and a dual pole set on one end of the middle line. The method of playing a ball game for two teams of players to play on one section of the platform comprising providing a soft ball being bouncable; setting a set of rules for the game, judging the score according to the rule, breaking tie score by using dual pole and declaring a winner. The rules for the game do not allow the player to touch the ball by hands except in the services and duels. The rules may include the rules of starting the gaming, serving the ball, shooting, and exchanging of field, as well as rules of violations.

Abstract: A device for teaching a baseball or softball pitcher includes a storage unit for holding a pre-marked tape measure, a pitching rubber, and a home plate along with fastening devices for securing the pitching rubber and home plate in their desired position.

Abstract: A method of operating a baseball league composed of a plurality of teams comprising scheduling a selected number of games between said teams and offering for sale the right to manage a selected number of said games.

Abstract: By providing a playing surface which is dimensioned for enabling a desired game to be played with all competitors positioned thereon, with the playing surface being rotated, a competitive game and/or playing system/environment is created which enables all individuals to compete equally and fairly regardless of their physical capabilities. In the preferred embodiment, the rotation of the playing surface is maintained at a constant rate of speed, although added dimensions and difficulties can be added to the game by altering the rotational speed of the playing surface during the competition. By providing a playing surface upon which any desired game can be played, particularly an action oriented game, with the playing surface being continuously rotated throughout the play of the game, forces previously unknown to each competitor are continuously imposed on each competitor, effectively rendering each competitor to possess equal capabilities, regardless of their strength, agility, proficiency, or size.

Abstract: A unique playing field and method of playing extreme baseball, a game of traditional baseball modified by rules to allow two teams to play at the same time on the same field, is disclosed.

Abstract: A multiplayer game, having rules with aspects of the games of Four Square and Volleyball, is played with an apparatus that can optionally be respectively disassembled and set up.

Abstract: A computer monitoring system includes a processor and sensors electrically thereto that are positioned beneath the playing surface directly below a boundary line. The sensors are connected in series to the processor such that each sensor is independently activated and generates an analog output signal when a predetermined weight limit is detected thereon. The sensors are positioned below a three-point and a free-throw line. An analog-to-digital converter is coupled to the processor and sensors that receives and converts the analog signals to digital signals. A memory includes programmable software instruction that cause the system to perform a series of operations. The processor generates and transmits audible and visual notification signals for each of the consecutive digital signals when the time span is greater than the threshold interval.

Abstract: A ball game system for training and/or play comprising one or more playing areas suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players, each playing area including adjacent surface areas forming a court and having distinctly different properties, such as a first surface suitable for bouncing a ball and a second surface comprised of a deformable elastic material. The system includes an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the court. Options include visual displays and/or audio outputs reflective of player performance, and payment-driven operation of the system components, including a means for adjusting the degree of rebound provided by the deformable elastic surface(s).