Abstract: A training device includes a tether having inelastic portions disposed between its ends, where each inelastic portion is separated by an elastic portion, and where each of the ends is configured for engagement with hands of a trainer. The training device may include a belt that wraps around an athlete's body, the belt including a ring on a back portion thereof having an opening for receiving an end of the tether therethrough. When the belt is secured around the athlete's body and the tether is disposed through the ring, the training device may create a coupling between the trainer and athlete when the trainer secures the ends of the tether. The coupling may be substantially released when the trainer releases one end of the tether such that the released end is substantially unrestrained to traverse through the ring thereby fully disengaging the tether from the belt.

Abstract: A device for training a batter includes a top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contact the top net, a bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net, and a mechanical couple structurally configured to place the device in front of a batter such that the top net is positioned over the bottom net with a void defined between the top net and the bottom net. When the device is placed in front of a batter, the top net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void may allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

Abstract: A batting tee has a post including a ball holder on a top end of a post, and a tube cap on a bottom end of the post. A receptacle is positioned in a recess in a base frame having a through hole. The tee is set up for use by passing the post through the through hole from the bottom of the base and securing the tube cap to the base. The batting tee may be set up for use, and disassembled for transport or storage, quickly and easily.

Abstract: A goal apparatus for soccer (football) and the like has a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth.

Abstract: A goal apparatus for soccer (football) and the like has a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth.

Abstract: A golf mat includes a frame having a central channel between left and right side shoulders. A hitting pad, such as an artificial turf pad, is slidable within or on the central channel. At least one elastic element, such as a rubber cord, extends laterally across the channel, and with the elastic element attached directly or indirectly to the artificial turf pad. Impact of the golf club head on the pad causes the pad to slide forward, absorbing impact forces and providing a feel to the golfer closer to hitting off of real grass. The elastic element decelerates the pad, and returns to the pad to its original position after the impact. The elastic element may be an elastic cord having plugged or knotted ends secured between inner and outer walls of the side shoulders of the frame.

Abstract: A ball hitting practice device has a base member, a post projecting upwardly from the base member and a pivot joint between the lower end of the post and the base member for allowing pivoting of the post in any direction about the base member to any selected tilt angle. A locking device is provided for securing the post at a selected angle and direction relative to the base member, and a cup is pivotally secured to the upper end of the post for supporting a ball. The cup can be pivoted relative to the post so as to face upwardly regardless of the tilt angle of the post relative to the base member.

Abstract: A ball striking practice device is described in which a ball tethered to a pole can be struck by a player with a bat or racquet and will wrap around the pole and resile outwardly where it can be struck again. The device's service life is improved by providing a flat triangular ball positioner while aligns the tether cord in straight lines to pole attachment points, forming the cord from a flexible metal strand, preferably sheathed, constructing the positioner from an elastomeric or fabric web material, and seating the cord in a recess or insert in the ball. The device is excellent for batting or kicking practice in sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, squash and handball.

Abstract: A ball hitting practice device featuring a practice ball slidably locateable upon a tether. The tether is attached to a support structure thereby placing the practice ball in a target position to be hit by a user. The support structure may be any versatile pole or pole like structure upon which fasteners at the ends of the tether will attach. The best mode features cuffs mounted at both ends of the tether which open and reengage to provide an easy encircling mount to the support structure for the tether. The ball is slidably mounted to the tether and is positioned in a target position for striking by a user by a ball positioner also located on the tether in a fixed position that is either adjustable or permanent.