Abstract: A throwing device for efficiently throwing a ball. The throwing device has a scoop. The scoop has a closed end, a first ball opening and a second ball opening. The first ball opening and the second ball opening intersect on the scoop. The first ball opening is at least as large as the ball. The second ball opening is normally smaller than the ball. The second ball opening expands when pressed against the ball. This enables the ball to pass into the scoop through the second ball opening. A shaft extends from the closed end of the scoop for manipulating the scoop and ball.

Abstract: A throwing system for throwing and catching a ball of a first diameter. A scoop is provided that has a basket and a handle. The basket has a first end, a second end, a bottom surface and an open top, wherein the handle extends from the second end of the basket. A loading hole is disposed through the bottom surface of the basket. A flap or other obstruction is provided that at least partially obstructs the loading hole. The obstruction prevents the ball from passing through the loading hole in one direction. The ball is loaded into the scoop by simply pressing the scoop over the ball so that the ball passes through the loading hole and into the basket. Once in the basket, the ball can be thrown from the scoop in a traditional manner.