Abstract: A universal backstop for various a bat-and-ball games such as cricket, baseball and basketball, including a body made of smart textile such that the backstop acts as a contact indicator, and target areas on the backstop for improving player skills. The backstop is portable and adjustable for use in different locations, and can be adjusted to adjust the level of difficulty of game play. The backstop is thus useful as a training aid, whether at home or in a school or club environment (e.g., used as a sporting or physical education activity).