Abstract: A portable basketball training device and method for creating visual distractions adjacent to an elevated transparent basketball backboard in the vicinity of the rim to facilitate increasing a player's concentration, focus, skill and accuracy in goal shooting. The device includes a housing mounted on the backboard that contains a motorized reciprocating member, and a plurality of movable vision distracters disposed on a back side of the backboard suspended from the reciprocating member having body portions extending downwardly from the housing in the vicinity of the rim which swing or bounce from side behind the backboard in the vicinity of the rim. This motion tends to distract the player's attention and cause them to lose their concentration on making the shot. However, over time, a player will learn to increase their concentration and focus to overcome this distraction, and thereby enhance their skill and accuracy in goal shooting.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various inventive methods and apparatus related to an apparatus and method for teaching bunting techniques to baseball or softball players. A bunting mat may be provided that contains a plurality of lines that aide a player in better understanding bunting techniques, including aiding a player with appropriately positioning their feet for a bunt.

Abstract: A one player sports training apparatus which allows for the user to play multiple sports alone. The game is played between two telescoping poles and utilizes an elastic return system of which a ball is attached. Each pole has a bearing assembly on top that makes it stable and does not allow the game to tangle. The user hits the ball and has the ball return close to the original position because of the elastics stretching and retracting which creates velocity. The balls used are tennis ball, soccerball, football, hockey puck, Frisbee, golf ball, and rugby ball.

Abstract: The invention is intended for training and perfection of the technique and accuracy of striking motion in various kinds of sports: baseball, football, hockey, golf, tennis. The device contains frame 5, target 12 and the target reset block. The target reset block includes stick 1 one end of which is fixed on frame 5, and the second is connected to target 12. The stick is provided with roller stop blocks 9. The frame is cramp-like and is provided with the arc guides for the roller stop blocks. Shock absorbers 11 are located in the extreme positions of the stick travel. Bracing wire 8 and guides 7 for the bracing wire, made in the form of the rollers fixed on the perimeter of the frame, are introduced into the target reset block. The fastener assembly of frame 5 to post 16 is made in the form of metal fastening ring 15 provided with clips 6 for fastening on the post at the chosen height, and the carrying frame is provided with clips for fastening on the metal ring at the set angle.

Abstract: A visual target device includes a target object and a suspension member or cord. The visual target device can be suspended within a basketball rim to provide a point of focus for a basketball player while shooting. The target object is smaller than the basketball rim such that the shooter has a more precise target to aim at. The target object is typically suspended from the rim at or below the level of the rim such that the target object does not prevent the basketball from entering the rim. The target object can be suspended from the rim by an elastic cord or other elastic means such that the target object can be pushed aside as the basketball enters the rim. The suspension cord can include a vertical component for properly positioning the target object below the rim.

Abstract: A multi-purpose implement is provided, including a racquet, having a handle portion and a flexible planar area held under tension by a frame, and a ball basket attached to the racquet and adapted to lift a ball directly from a generally horizontal surface. A method of using the implement, without contacting the ball with one's hands, includes holding the handle portion in one or both hands, maneuvering the ball basket into contact with a ball lying on a generally horizontal surface, lifting the ball directly from the generally horizontal surface with the ball basket, tossing the ball from the ball basket into the air, and while the ball is in the air, striking the ball with the racquet.

Abstract: An apparatus for soccer kicking practice comprises a soccer ball having a hidden attachment point and means of removably attaching a tether to the ball wherein the tether comprises a handle connecting a cord and elastic strip to a soccer ball in a manner allowing the ball to freely rotate with respect to the cord and the handle providing kicking and spinning of the ball and return of the ball to the user in a controlled manner. The device is designed to be readily attached or detached from the soccer ball for training or play.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and products effective for ocular enhancement conditioning of users attempting to successfully hit or otherwise make contact with objects projected towards, away from or at angles by the users, and increasing efficacy in hitting and contact.

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: Baseball practice systems are provided. In this regard, a representative baseball practice system includes: a backstop; a ball; a suspension assembly operative to suspend the ball in a strike zone, the suspension assembly having a first cantilevered arm and a damping assembly, the damping assembly being operative to damp motions of the ball as the ball returns to a rest position after having been struck, the cantilevered arm supporting a portion of the damping assembly; and a tether assembly comprising at least one line operative to assist in establishing the rest position of the ball.

Abstract: A hockey shooting training device comprises an elongate track and a carriage having a puck shaped an engaging member supported thereon for engagement by a hockey stick to be displaced along the track with the carriage from a starting end to a target end. Wheels on the carriage have a resilient peripheral surface for rolling along the track. A tether coupled to the carriage is wound onto a spool at the starting end of the track. Constant frictional resistance is applied to the spool during displacement of the carriage towards the target end as the tether unwinds from the spool. A winding mechanism on the spool returns the carriage to the starting end. An illuminated indicator extends along the track to provide visual guidance of the path of the carriage. A further indicator may indicate an angular offset of the engaging member from a central position about an upright axis.

Abstract: A football center training aid comprises a box-like training device in the form of a framework, covered on its top and sides with open-mesh netting, which provides a guide to encourage accurate passing of a football by a center to a place-kick holder or quarterback, and which allows observation by a coach or trainer of the passing action of the center. The device encourages the preferred distance and alignment of the center in relation to the place-kick holder or quarterback. The device is readily portable, and may optionally be adjustable in both height and length to adapt the dimensions to players of differing ages, sizes, and to differing training objectives. The device allows the complete actions of passing the football by a center and catching by a place-kick holder or quarterback, and complete observation of the action, so that a complete and realistic assessment of the effectiveness of the passing action may be made by the coach or trainer, and corrective actions immediately taken and assessed.

Abstract: A baseball training aid is provided which includes an audio or visual pitch indicator for simulating a baseball pitcher's pitch. The training aid further includes an impact sensor, preferably in the form of a microphone, for detecting whether a practicing batter's swing is timely, premature or late. The audio signals produced by the microphone are processed by a processor to determine the timeliness of the batter's swing. The results are then communicated to the batter using an audio or visual feedback indicator.

Abstract: A method of practicing athletic skills is disclosed along with systems associated therewith. The method may include providing a ball drop system and an athlete in a first position. The ball drop system may drop a ball and may prompt the athlete to leave the first position and move their entire body at least one step length to a second position. The second position may be in contact with or proximate to the ball drop system or dropped ball.

Abstract: A frame for measuring a pitcher's circle includes a housing for engagement with a pitcher's plate, a measuring line and a guide rod. The measuring line is swivel connected to a centering member on the housing, with its free end connected to the guide rod. The measuring line has a predetermined length such that the tip of the guide rod represents the radial distance of the pitcher's circle when the measuring line is fully extended from the centering member. The pitcher's circle is marked out by simply walking the guide rod about the pitcher's plate. A leveling member is provided on the guide rod to ensure that the guide rod is kept at 90° vertical to prevent measuring inaccuracies.

Abstract: A T-ball training system helps batters develop focus during ball hitting as well as timing skills and uses a tee that shines a light out of the top of the tee. A ball has a light tunnel therein that has a 90-degree bend, so that when the light shines out of the top, the light enters the tunnel at one end and is issued out of the other end, visible to the batter. The light is activated for a certain time interval such that the batter is expected to hit the ball whenever the light is on. The control system of the light can be either directly on the tee or can be assisted by a wireless transmitter. A second light can be provided that also issues light out of the top of the tee, this second light issuing a different color than the first and being on whenever the first light is off and being off whenever the first light is on.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a baseball bat swing are disclosed. A system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an upper arm portion, a lower arm portion pivotably connected to the upper arm portion, and at least one releaseable attachment device carried by the upper arm portion and positioned to releasably attach to the user's arm. The system can further include an adjustment element operatively coupled to the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion, with the adjustment being manipulatable to control an angle between the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion. The system can be employed to train the user to achieve a consistent baseball bat swing.

Abstract: An athletic training apparatus for improving the stick and ball handling ability of an athlete and particularly an ice hockey player. The athletic training apparatus generally includes a body member having an upper surface, a flat bottom surface, and a generally circular side wall, wherein the body member is comprised of a cylindrical shape and at least one elongated attachment member extending below the bottom surface of the body member to affix the body member to an athletic training surface, such as a sheet of ice for ice hockey training. Pads may also be secured to the attachment member below the bottom surface of the body member for providing a gripping structure to secure the body member to a surface, such as a roller hockey playing surface. Alternate uses may be employed, such as use upon a court to improve ball handling skills and various other playing surfaces.

Abstract: The present application is directed to a throwing target. The throwing target comprises a baseball strike zone, one or more target zones located in the strike zone and one or more target zones located around the strike zone. The throwing target also comprises one or more non-target zones located in the strike zone. The total surface area of the target zones located around the strike zone is greater than the total surface area of the target zones located within the strike zone.

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 training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a ball control portion to help enhance accuracy when kicking a ball. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.

Abstract: A signal projecting device wearable on an athlete about to throw a projectile, such as shooting a basketball. The device incorporates a leveling sensor arranged to provide an input signal to the projecting device so that a signal indicative of a body part on which the projecting device is mounted being horizontal with respect to a floor or ground surface. The projecting device may project a generally cruciform light beam of one characteristic, such as color or light pattern, when the horizontal condition is sensed. A second light beam of a different characteristic may be projected when the horizontal condition is not sensed.

Abstract: A pneumatic practice tee and method of practicing the striking of a sports ball with a striking instrument using the tee. The tee includes a base, a housing, a fan and an inflatable sleeve. The base supports the practice tee upon a horizontal surface. The housing is supported by the base and has an air inlet and an air outlet. The fan is retained within the housing and for producing an air current, directed by the housing through the outlet. The inflatable sleeve is in fluid communication with the air outlet with the proximal longitudinal end attached to the housing and a nozzle provided in the longitudinal distal end.

Abstract: A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a shape correcting member to perform various types of skills including passing a ball. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and products effective for ocular enhancement conditioning of users attempting to successfully hit or otherwise make contact with objects projected towards, away from or at angles by the users, and increasing efficacy in hitting and contact.

Abstract: The problem of providing a training device and a training method with which it is possible to be able to train relatively complex game situations, in particular in handball and football, under consistent conditions and preferably in an actual playing environment is solved by the training device according to the invention, the training device comprising a plurality of ball receivers and ball providers, wherein the individual ball receivers and ball providers are designed as slave units in a local radio network in order to communicate with a master unit.

Abstract: A system and a method is provided for improving a baseball player's batting swing. Preferably, the system can be utilized to teach a player to swing with power and with a slight upstroke to increase the chances of getting a powerful line drive hit. The system includes a post upwardly extending from a support base. Preferably, the post is adjustable to increase or decreased in height to match the size of the player utilizing the system. A channel is attached at upper portion of the post and includes a means for providing resistance, such as bristles, that protrude generally upwardly from the channel base. A second similar channel with a resistance means is mounted above and facing the first channel such that there is a gap between the two resistance means.

Abstract: A soccer training system is used to condition soccer players to make shots at the goal with an improved likelihood of scoring by conditioning the soccer players to aim towards the areas of the goal where shots are more likely to score. Similarly disclosed is a novel method of conditioning soccer players to improve their ability to score goals.

Abstract: A pitching machine contains a pitching arm that vertically rotates at a speed of about 5 to 15 rpm, picks up a ball from the ball cradle at a pick-up point in its rotation, and then releases the ball at a release point in its rotation to provide a first velocity component to the ball. The pitching machine also contains a wheel that vertically rotates at a speed of about 300 to 3000 rpm. The wheel is positioned at the release point of the pitching arm to provide a second velocity component to the ball and to pitch the ball at an initial launch angle.

Abstract: A training bat includes an elongated handle, an elongated barrel and a locking mechanism. The handle and the barrel are coupled together in a longitudinally adjustable manner such that an overall length of the training bat as defined by the handle and the barrel is adjustable. The barrel including a hitting portion configured to contact a ball during use. The locking mechanism is configured to lock the handle in a longitudinal position relative to the barrel by twisting at least one of the handle and the barrel relative to the other of the handle and the barrel in a first direction and to unlock the handle by twisting the at least one of the handle and the barrel relative to the other of the handle and the barrel in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Abstract: A baseball hitter batting practice apparatus incorporates an unbalanced and potentially non-planar plurality of targets which are mounted onto a spindle. The spindle rotates about a central generally horizontal axle. The unbalanced targets in one embodiment are spaced at ninety-degree intervals from an adjacent target, thereby causing the spindle to first spin in one direction after a target has been struck, and then to oscillate or rock alternately clockwise and counterclockwise before finally coming to a rest. Striking selected targets in accord with the method of the invention teaches a batter to pull-the-trigger at the appropriate time. A novel support further enhances the utility of the spindle and targets by enabling the spindle to be coupled to many diverse supporting poles and structures.

Abstract: A screen apparatus for use in sports training or sports skills development, the screen apparatus including a plurality of screen members and a support means for supporting the screen members in a use condition, each of the screen members at least temporarily attached relative to the support means such that in use, the screen members define a screen until struck by an object at which time at least one of the screen members is at least partially dislodged to allow passage of the object in a substantially uninhibited manner.

Abstract: A training and coordination device including a projectile member such as a ball or sack secured to an elastic string is described. The first end of the elastic string is attached to a location and the second end is connected to the projectile member. At least an end portion of the elastic string secure to the projectile member comprises multiple strands of an odd number. The multiple strands of the elastic string in conjunction with the elasticity of the string generate a random motion of the sack when the sack moves relative to the string.

Abstract: Baseball swing training apparatus having elongate base member and forward stop member, step member and connecting member extending laterally therefrom. Pivot stop member extends rearward from connecting member. Baseball swing training apparatus having elongate base member with forward member and rear member slidably engaged thereto. A forward stop member and a step member extend laterally from the forward member. A connecting member extends laterally from the elongate base member. A pivot stop member extends rearward from the connecting member. Means such as pins, holes, latches and the like secure the forward member in longitudinal position and the connecting member in transverse position. A method of teaching a batter to swing a bat including providing an apparatus having elongate base member and forward stop member, step member and connecting member extending laterally therefrom is also disclosed.

Abstract: A ball-like target, which may be an actual ball used in playing a sport to be taught, for example in teaching batting to trainees, is attached to a rod, so that the trainer can precisely control the target's speed and attitude of the target during the entire course of presentation to a trainee. On the one hand, the target, rod and connecting mechanism are rigidly interconnected so that the trainer has complete control over the speed and trajectory of the presentation of the target. But on the other hand, the construction is such that the apparatus may be repeatedly struck by the trainee's bat at any speed, from slow to “full swing-away” without any substantial damage to the apparatus. In this manner the trainee can be quickly taught the eye-hand coordination and other skills needed to become an accomplished hitter.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device and method for training an athlete to throw a ball, and particularly to a device and method that provides guides for optimally positioning an athlete's throwing hand and elbow prior to initiation of the throwing phase for throwing a ball.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.

Abstract: The present invention includes devices, kits and methods for an automated ball feeding device for a ball throwing machine. The present invention provides an automatic ball feeding and throwing apparatus having a ball holding container with one or more sides and a bottom in communication with a propeller. The propeller is positioned to communicate with a rotatable support mast that has a ball channel and supports a ball ejection mechanism. The ball channel extends from the ball holding container to the ball ejection mechanism. The ball is fed by the propeller through the ball channel to the ball throwing apparatus regardless of the pivot angle or rotational angle of the ball ejection mechanism.

Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for training a person in slow motion to hit a ball at the sweet spot on a sports implement. The device includes a housing and a plate. The housing preferably comprises a tube; a rod slidably fitting within the tube; a stop affixed to the end of the rod; a compression spring surrounding the rod; and a ball on the rod at the end opposite the stop such that the end of the rod protrudes from the ball. The plate is affixed to the sports implement at its sweet spot and has a center hole of sufficient size to contain the end of the rod protruding from the ball. In the preferred method, a player swings the sports implement in slow motion towards the ball on the housing engaging the plate at the center hole over the protruding rod.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for practicing pitching a baseball. The apparatus can be configured to receive pitches thrown into a specific designated area of the strike zone and to reject pitches not thrown to the specific designated area. The apparatus alters the position of the strike zone to compensate for the positioning of a catcher behind home plate. The apparatus more accurately identifies the strike zone, and areas outside the strike zone, to which a pitcher should practice throwing pitches.

Abstract: A grip training device is used to teach a person the proper grip of a ball in usage. More specifically, the grip training device may take the form of a baseball having finger position indicia on it. The finger position indicia may be constituted in several different ways, including by depressions sized and arranged to receive the fingers. The arrangement of the indicia shows how to grip the baseball for throwing different pitches.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aid, put into practice by computers and videos, for improving the actions of athletes, comprising the stages: obtaining (S1) from a system of filming an athlete's body, images of relative movements of parts of the body compared with a chosen reference frame which can advantageously be another part of the body; filing (T4) the movements in a database in at least two categories comprising, on the one hand, the movements which allowed an effective action to be performed (S5) and on the other hand, the movements which did not allow an effective action to be performed (S6); processing (T7, T9, S8) the contents of the database so as to define a limited set of parameters (a, ?, ?) essential for the performance of an effective action. which makes it possible to define (S10) training instructions for the athlete from just this restricted set of parameters.

Abstract: A grip trainer includes a first chamber designed to engage a stick and a second chamber attached to the first chamber. The second chamber is configured to hold an insert. An insert disposed in the second chamber. The insert has a hardness no greater than 60 on the Shore 00 Durometer scale.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tennis training systems. Methods of practicing and teaching tennis are also provided herein. In one aspect, the training system employs an elongated, elastic cord having a proximal end and a distal end, a vibration dampener configured to be received within a string bed of a racket and operatively connected to the proximal end of the cord, and a connection disc operatively connected to the distal end of the cord. The vibration dampener is connected to the proximal end of the cord by means of an integral loop. Optionally, the connection disc is releasably connected to the distal end of the cord by means of an integral loop.

Abstract: An improved multi-adjustable batting practice tee featuring a base assembly with an improved tube assembly thereby enhancing tube movement and overall batting tee stability is disclosed. The base assembly is configured to have standard dimensions for a “HOME PLATE” in accordance with the rules of Major League baseball. The base assembly includes a continuous channel positioned across the entire horizontal plane of the base assembly that includes an inner-locking guide rail system for enhanced batting tee stability.

Abstract: A baseball bat swing training aid includes a housing having an inner cavity for storing a plurality of balls therein. A tube is extendable between storage and use configurations. The tube is disposed within the housing in the storage position. A ball holder is disposed on an end of the tube.

Abstract: A training device for use as a playing field obstacle during athletic training exercises. The training device includes a weighted base supportable on an underlying ground surface. The base has at least one wheel enabling ready repositioning of the base on the playing field and an upper wall with an upward-opening slot. The base can also include a dummy obstacle having a body portion and a base plug portion. The base plug portion is receivable within the slot of the base for connecting the dummy obstacle to the base such that, when the dummy obstacle is connected to the base, the body portion of the dummy obstacle is supported in a substantially upright position. The base may further include one or more coaching sticks removably secured within receptacles in a position extending or projecting from the base.

Abstract: A structure motivated by an impulse to slide over a surface, including: an impulse-receiving portion for receiving the impulse, the impulse-receiving portion defining a section of a generally semi-hemispherical structure and produced from a foam material patterned to represent at least a portion of a sports ball; and a sliding portion, coupled to the impulse-receiving portion, for sliding contact with the surface on a contact surface of the sliding portion responsive to the impulse the contact surface having a generally planar smooth surface having a periphery surrounded by an extension of the impulse receiving portion, wherein a tumbling of a coupled combination of the impulse-receiving portion and the sliding portion is inhibited by shifting a center of gravity downward by a greater weighting of the sliding portion relative to the impulse-receiving portion.

Abstract: This invention, called Serve Assist, is an electro-mechanical ball machine for practicing the tennis serve. It helps a tennis student to practice serves by consistently dropping the ball in the desired location. It operates in one of two modes, an Auto-feed mode in which it drops the balls in the magazine via an overhead ball release canister at regular intervals or in an Auto-sense mode where the ball is released by the detection of the student's rising tossing arm. The invention also marks the desired height of contact on the dropping ball with a laser and provides visual feedback if the ball is being struck lower than optimum. It aids the student by developing a kinetic and visual memory of the correct ball toss position and point of contact.

Abstract: A static aiming target for perfecting basketball bank shots appears to move horizontally and vertically along a backboard as a player moves back and forth across the court and towards and away from the backboard. This apparent movement of the aiming target is produced by visual aiming regions which allow for predetermined viewing of portions of the aiming target as a function of a player's position on the court. In each case, a player shoots for the aiming target in order to complete a proper bank shot.