Abstract: A football training system and method for training a player football technique, strength and endurance. The system provides an engagement member that can be engaged and driven upward and substantially simultaneously rearward. The system includes a life-size simulator, dummy or engagement member for providing a true-to-life training experience. The system is capable of providing increased resistance to the player as the player drives the dummy and also provides a speed and power indication to the player, his or her coach or trainer.

Abstract: A training assistance device capable of significant height adjustment has at least one adjustable, and preferably, two adjustable arms to allow it to simulate a defender in a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, and volleyball. Structure facilitating transport of the device from place to place is included.

Abstract: A practice device for softball pitchers. The device is designed to help a pitcher develop better throwing mechanics by teaching proper spin, release, and follow through for various breaking pitches. Using the device consistently helps a pitcher improve technique, which would ultimately enhance performance in game situations. The device consists of a tripod stand, having an adjustable boom arm at its top, a wedge shaped frame and bracket with a short post assembly to which a regulation sized softball is attached. The side of the bracket opposite the soft ball features a short, right angled mounting bracket. The vertical portion of the bracket features a hole in its center and thus could be secured to the post on the booms stand filter assembly via a wing nut.

Abstract: A device (10) for practicing playing a ball game, such as tennis, comprises an arm (29) one end portion of which carries a ball (31), such that the ball (31) is rotatable retained relative to the arm (29), and a remote end portion of which is secured to a face of a toothed pulley wheel (25) which is rotatable mounted on a swingable link means (16, 17, 18) pivotally mounted on a shaft (13). A second, larger, toothed pulley wheel (14) is rotatably mounted on the shaft (13), there being resilient means (23) for restraining such rotation. The toothed pulley wheels (14, 25) are engaged by a toothed endless belt (26).

Abstract: Described herein is a combination pitching aid and batting tee apparatus. The apparatus includes a base having a front and a rear, a stand extending upwardly from the base, a support rod extending upwardly from the stand, and an arm extending outwardly from the support rod. The arm includes a target associated therewith that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. The apparatus includes a screen having a top end and a bottom end and a support assembly having a top end and a bottom end that extends upwardly from the base. The bottom end of the screen is attached near the front of the base and the top end of the screen is attached to the support assembly. The support rod can be replaced with a batting tee.

Abstract: A ball sports training aid includes a shaft and a slidably engaged replica sports ball assembly with an integral damper that is actuated when a player swings the shaft. Integral swing diagnostics means indicate correct batting, pitching and throwing techniques.

Abstract: A baseball bat swing training aid includes a housing configured for storing a plurality of balls therein. A ball positioning mechanism is disposed within the housing and includes an arm selectively extendable out of the housing. A ball holder is disposed on an end of the arm. The baseball bat swing training aid further includes a mechanism for removably yet securely fixing the ball positioning mechanism within the housing.

Abstract: An apparatus for training sports skills for games including ice hockey, soccer, tennis and volleyball using one or more opponents or simulated opponents on the playing surface to train a player to strike the game object away from an opponent in addition to practicing striking the game object. A game object machine(s) can be used to project game objects to one side of the playing surface. A controller can be provided to control operation of the simulated opponent(s) and the game object machine(s) to train placement memory and reaction time in addition to muscle memory. For ice hockey and soccer, the controller can receive input from sensor(s) on the game object, player being trained or the goal to locate the game object and/or player to position the simulated opponent(s) to train the player to strike the game object past the simulated opponent into the goal.

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: Sports practising apparatus 1 for practising close ball control, includes a plurality of generally planar elements 2 arranged in a generally circular array, each planar element 2 having thereon an impact face 3 having at least one target area 8 facing in a generally inward direction. The apparatus 1 includes means to selectively activate individual target areas 8 sequentially in a predetermined or random manner, the target areas 8 being responsive to being hit by a ball impacting on the target to de-activate the target area 8 and to activate the next individual target area 8 in the sequence.

Abstract: A bat conditioning device for breaking in or seasoning softball or baseball bats. A preferred conditioning device includes a handle having a first end and a second end, a grip attached to the first end of the handle, and a head attached to the second end of the handle having an impact response that mimics that of a regulation softball. In the preferred form, the head is a regulation softball. The bat conditioning device is of a length that allows softball bats to be broken-in by striking a bat held in one hand of a user, with the conditioning device being held in the other hand.

Abstract: A training device for use by a lacrosse player to practice checking an offensive player includes a main post extending upwardly from a base. An arm is operatively coupled to the main post and rotatable about a fixed point intermediate its proximal and distal ends. The arm includes a wrist near its distal end for holding a lacrosse stick. An activating member is mounted to the main post for separating a user from the arm's distal end. An actuator is coupled to the arm's distal member and to the activating member such that the arm is caused to move when a user attacks the activating member. The actuator may include rack and pinion gears for translating a linear force upon the activating member into a rotational force upon the arm. A spiral spring and cam provide for oscillating movement of the arm.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for calculating the distance of a ball placed into motion comprising, a means for positioning a ball at a desired height for striking, a means for measuring force exerted upon the ball when struck, a means for measuring launch angle relative to a horizontal playing field which a ball travels upon impact, a means for calculating distance the ball would travel if not restricted using the measured force and launch angle, and a means to display the calculated distance.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be rotated to various positions. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly. The collapsed device may be easily transported and/or stored. The device is particularly useful as a defensive dummy in practicing the games of basketball and volleyball.

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: An improved basketball training device is presented. It has a bearing attached to a basketball goal, as well as either a facsimile hoop for attaching on the market chutes or a folding chute. This device allows balls to be returned to any area of the court.

Abstract: A training device for throwing a baseball includes a plate assembly that is pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes a flat, rectangular balance plate and a sleeve disposed transversely across the bottom surface of the balance plate. The support member includes an elongated support arm on which the sleeve is adapted to teeter and a generally T-shaped strike plate connected to the support arm. In use, the training device can be used in the following manner to train a pitcher to exert maximum rear leg drive while throwing a baseball. Specifically, the training device is disposed on a flat, level flooring surface such that the plate assembly teeters on the support member. The pitcher then centers his rear foot on the balance plate and lifts his front knee. At this time, the pitcher drives his rear knee forward until the balance plate pivots forward and contacts the strike plate which in turn generates an audible signal.

Abstract: An angled hitting stand apparatus for training users to hit baseballs or softballs. Telescoping elongated members, e.g., posts, cylindrical tubes, or solid rods, provide support for the ball and are adjustable for accommodating the height and arm length of a user. The elongated members can be pivoted, i.e., moved back and forth, for arm or hand dominance, e.g., right-handed, left-handed, or ambidextrous hitters, to at various angles. The elongated members or posts are secured to an adapter, e.g., a cylindrical, pre-cut housing, that fits into a cap. The cap is secured to a base which is capable of supporting the apparatus. The angled presentation of the ball on the apparatus provides a proper swinging condition to the user by ergonomically encouraging the user to be properly disposed in relation to a swing slot region in order to make a correct swing without casting the user's hands during the swing.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a batting tee which provides an effective and useful device for improving a user's baseball swing. The present invention comprises a portable regulation size home plate which has a swinging arm member rotatably attached thereto which member has a first and second upright-standing batting tee thereon which are each adjustable in height. The rotatable member is attached to the home plate by means of a fastener which allows the member to swing 360 degrees around the home plate in the horizontal plane. The particular placement of the batting tees about the home plate allows the device to be used to teach a user batter how to hit balls thrown in each position about the home plate.

Abstract: A system for practicing pitching includes a batter mannequin which is selectively movable to a right handed batting position or to a left handed batting position. The batter also can be selectively moved toward and away from home plate, and has a head which automatically faces the pitcher. A catcher mannequin is disposed behind the batter mannequin, the catcher mannequin being selectively positionable along a transverse path. The catcher mannequin has a mitt which may be selectively positioned up or down. The various movements of the batter mannequin and the catcher mannequin are remotely controlled using a remote control unit.

Abstract: An apparatus for practicing baseball and softball hitting skills includes a ball holder on a rod that is suspended by a single degree of freedom support at an interior point of the rod length and the rod is balanced and proportioned relative to the support point and the ball in order to position a ball at any three-dimensional location in the hitting zone of the batter in a stable state by manual movement of the opposite balanced end of the rod.

Abstract: An improvement for a practice facility that simulates a sport playing environment, wherein the facility has a projectile striking region and a target region for the projectile. The improvement is a computerized feedback system that includes an input device for receiving participant credentials sufficient to activate the computerized feedback system and an output device for displaying perceptible output to a participant. A target array including at least one target is removably mounted in the target region and operative, when stimulated by the projectile, to produce at least one feedback signal. A data processing device is included that is adapted to receive each feedback signal produced by the target array, process selected feedback signals according to rules for the sport in order to generate processed data, and selectively transmit the processed data to the output device.

Abstract: A ball-toss training aid is provided, which includes a base piece configured to a user's wrist and having an axis parallel to the wrist. The base piece includes a curvature at an offset angle from the axis which protrudes into the user's palm so as to hold the wrist back at a desirable angle for tossing a ball. The training aid further includes a second piece having a first and second end such that the first end releasably attaches to the base piece and has a contour substantially parallel to the axis of the base piece. The second end of the second piece includes a curvature that protrudes over a ball held by the user so as to keep the index and middle fingers of the hand in a desirable extension. The training aid also includes a member coupled to the base piece, which releasably attaches to the user's forearm.

Abstract: A field training device for the development of the special characteristic required from a competitive kicker to inculcate and instill upon his mind the discipline of a sound professional, and more in particular, for attaining the special art form required to airborne a foot or soccer ball until the required objective is reached and the ball is put in flight for an extended period of in flight time or the typical hang time to maximum distances. The special training apparatus is designed for the enhancement of quality personnel possessing attributes demanded of this profession as well as the beginners at the early grade levels including schools, institutions for special educations and vocational training. The simplicity of the apparatus will invite the most demanding coaches at the international level to reap and capitalize from it benefits immediately.

Abstract: A device for controllably altering trajectory of a kicked football includes a member removably insertable in a recess of a tee. The device is used in any one of three ways. First, it may be placed within the forward recess of the tee to combine with the ball receiving recess to completely enclose the tip of the football about its periphery. Second, a protrusion of the device may be placed in front of and slightly to the right of the centerline of the football. After the football is kicked, the tip of the football strikes this protrusion, causing the football to be deflected and to hook to the left. Third, the projection is in front of and slightly to the left of the centerline of the football. After the football is kicked, the tip strikes the projection, causing the ball to travel slightly to the right.

Abstract: A soccer kicking practice apparatus is provided with a domed bolt shaft receiver for mounting a soccer ball having a protruding threaded bolt to a soccer ball holder. In the alternative the soccer kicking practice may employ a soccer ball having a nut to receive a threaded bolt mounted to a knob.

Abstract: This is a training device for soccer players that uses a plurality of connectors that have a main body and three hollow engagement ports that are angled away from the main body to provide support for the frame. The ends of the frame members fit into the engagement ports and thus engage the frame and support it for use. There is a flexible outer covering that fits over the frame members and supports the ring members that are placed within an opening in the outer covering. There can be one or two rings as desired. The outer covering does not cover the bottom of the frame, and this area can also be used as a target area.

Abstract: A device for learning pitching technique for ball games and improving muscle strength through resistance training. The device, which consists of an elongated U shaped coiled tubular spring with a curved end and pair of straight parallel shaft portions with solid tips, is aligned with and strapped to the user's pitching forearm. The device adjusts to fit the forearm. A rod or elastic string is fitted through a sleeve in the ball's internal polar tunnel, and the opposing ends of the rod or string are attached to the tips so that the ball can be spun around the rod or bounced on the string, to simulate pitching. A shock absorbent casing on the curved end and strap increases comfort. Opposing ends of an elastic band can be attached to the device and a stable object, such as a pole, to perform resistance training.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be rotated to various positions. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly. The collapsed device may be easily transported and/or stored. The device is particularly useful as a defensive dummy in practicing the games of basketball and volleyball.

Abstract: A device and method are provided for training a person to swing a bat or club while rotating the person's hips. The device includes a belt for attaching around a person's hips, a restraint device attached to the back side of the belt, and an anchor system slidably attached to the restraint device. The restraint device can be a nylon strap sewn to the back side of the belt. The anchor system comprises a flexible member, such as a rope, with a first ring attached at one end for slidable attachment to the restraint device. The other end of the anchor system can be tethered to a stationary object or held by a coach. A clip can be attached to the restraint device for limiting the extent of movement of the anchor system along the restraint device and for providing a reference point for swing training.

Abstract: A system for practicing pitching includes a batter mannequin which is selectively movable to a right handed batting position or to a left handed batting position. The batter also can be selectively moved toward and away from home plate, and has a head which automatically faces the pitcher. A catcher mannequin is disposed behind the batter mannequin, the catcher mannequin being selectively positionable along a transverse path. The catcher mannequin has a mitt which may be selectively positioned up or down. The various movements of the batter mannequin and the catcher mannequin are remotely controlled using a remote control unit.

Abstract: The invention provides a new tennis backboard design. The backboard includes a firm backing layer underlying a soft deadening layer. The rebound of a tennis ball from the backboard is reduced as compared to rebound from a rigid hard-surface backboard. This allows a player to stand fairly close to the backboard, which reduces misses. The player can stand fairly close and hit balls hard against the backboard. Because the rebound is reduced, the ball simply bounces back softly and easily to the player, allowing the player to hit hard again from a fairly short distance. Thus, long rallies without missing are easily achieved. Since the bounce is reduced, the player can stand closer to the backboard, and therefore the backboard can be smaller than conventional backboards without the player missing the backboard. This allows the backboard to be light, portable, and easily stored.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for restricting the distance between a user's wrists is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a removable first wrist cuff with a first fastener for securing the first wrist cuff to a user's wrist and a first attachment member connected to the first wrist cuff. The apparatus also comprises a removable second wrist cuff with a fastener for securing the second wrist cuff to a user's wrist and a second attachment member connected to the second wrist cuff. An elastic member is attached to both first and second attachment members such that, in operation, a user's wrists are respectively encircled by said first and second wrist cuffs and the distance between said first and second wrist cuffs is limited by said elastic member. The apparatus may be used for athletic training such as football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, boxing, and weight lifting.

Abstract: Mat for sport and games for detecting impact position of a movable object such as a ball. The mat comprises an outer and an inner layer, each with inlays of electrically conductive elements forming a pressure-sensitive switch distributed over the target area. The pressure-sensitive switches communicate with electronic circuits for indicating, processing and presentation of electrical signals when the switches are activated by a ball impact.

Abstract: An apparatus for underhand tossing of a ball includes a cabinet with a hollow tossing arm pivotally coupled thereto. A mechanism is provided to dispense a single ball at a time from a supply of balls into the hollow tossing arm. A spring is affixed at one end to the hollow tossing arm and affixed at a distal end to the cabinet at a point forward of the hollow tossing arm. A machine is provided for pulling a distal end of the hollow tossing arm toward a back end of the cabinet and releasing the hollow tossing arm such that the distal end of the hollow tossing arm swings forward, releasing the ball at a point at which the hollow tossing arm hits a stop peg.

Abstract: The invention relates to training devices for sports playing sticks with head frames. More particularly, the invention relates to weighted training devices that may be attached to a playing stick such as a lacrosse stick. The invention includes devices and methods for training and conditioning sports players, particularly lacrosse players.

Abstract: A targeting aid for use with goals characterized by opposing uprights and a crossbar has a first connector connected to the crossbar. A support extends rearwardly and downwardly relative to the first connector and connects to a second connector behind the goal plane defined by the uprights and the crossbar. From the support a target is provided which is preferably elevationally adjustable and spaced by a member from the support. By spacing the target within the confines of the goal (i.e., rearward of the goal plane) it is not in a position to be inadvertently contacted by a goal keeper.

Abstract: A pitch training system for indicating whether a thrown baseball has passed through a strike zone includes a zone assembly for detecting a baseball passing through the zone assembly. The zone assembly indicates when the baseball passes through a strike zone as determined by the zone assembly. A backstop is aligned with and positioned a distance from the zone assembly. The backstop intercepts the baseball thrown through the zone assembly.

Abstract: A batting training aid and method of use to improve baseball players' batting stance and swinging motion. The stance is characterized by a high center of gravity, erect posture with one leg forward, and the other backward. The proper swinging motion is around a vertical axis. The batting training aid comprises: a waist belt; an anklet; a stirrup attached to the anklet; a strap connected at one end to the belt and at the other to the anklet. The length of the strap is adjusted to a predetermined length set to the maximum separation between the back ankle and the waist and configured to force players into the proper batting stance and proper swinging motion. The method of use comprises adjusting the length of strap; adopting batting stance; batting at ball; sensing a tug between the waist and the ankle; and correcting the batting stance to eliminate the tug.

Abstract: A combination of a ball storage rack and a ball feeder track provide an apparatus for basketball storage and consistent position retrieval of sport balls, such as basketballs and volleyballs, by a player. The apparatus comprises a frame configured with an upper portion along the length of the frame capable of holding a plurality of sport balls with a lower rack configured to hold a plurality of sport balls and an extendable feeder track capable of receiving a sport ball and facilitating movement of the sport ball down the track for retrieval of the sport ball by a player. Feeder track may be extended for use in active sports drills or sport games, or folded or retracted for convenient storage of the apparatus when not in use. Apparatus may be configured to hold and display signage such as advertisements.

Abstract: A device for learning pitching technique for ball games and improving muscle strength through resistance training. The device, which consists of an elongated U shaped coiled tubular spring with a curved end and pair of straight parallel shaft portions with solid tips, is aligned with and strapped to the user's pitching forearm. The device adjusts to fit the forearm. A rod or elastic string is fitted through a sleeve in the ball's internal polar tunnel, and the opposing ends of the rod or string are attached to the tips so that the ball can be spun around the rod or bounced on the string, to simulate pitching. A shock absorbent casing on the curved end and strap increases comfort. Opposing ends of an elastic band can be attached to the device and a stable object, such as a pole, to perform resistance training.

Abstract: A baseball practicing apparatus includes two opposite upright frames, two opposite longitudinal rods mounted between the upright frames and provided with a plurality of first emitters and a plurality of first receivers respectively, and two opposite transverse rods mounted between the upright frames and provided with a plurality of second emitters and a plurality of second receivers respectively. Thus, the pitching position of the baseball is detected exactly by provision of the emitters and receivers, so that the user can judge and calibrate the pitching position of the baseball, thereby facilitating the user practicing the pitching skill. In addition, the baseball practicing apparatus detects and displays the pitching position and the velocity of the baseball simultaneously, thereby enhancing the amusement effect.

Abstract: What is new in this invention is the capability to reproducibly measure athlete's reaction times and virtual save/intercepts to actual competition intercept positions, using a computer display of simulated sports projectiles and their direction, and contact, magnetic, or light triggered position detectors in actual athlete intercept positions, using their own equipment, and incorporating the critical first step. Also new is software to calculate the reaction time and virtual save/intercept from a visual cue to the appropriate intercept position, and real time reporting of the reaction times permitting real time adjustments, in reproducible ways has not been available for sports other than track and swimming.

Abstract: An apparatus for practicing baseball and softball hitting skills includes a ball holder on a rod that is suspended by a single degree of freedom support at an interior point of the rod length and the rod is balanced and proportioned relative to the support point and the ball in order to position a ball at any three-dimensional location in the hitting zone of the batter in a stable state by manual movement of the opposite balanced end of the rod.

Abstract: A soccer practice apparatus to assist a user in practicing the ability to power kick, ball control, mid-volley and/or head a soccer ball. The apparatus can be formed from an arm assembly comprised of a primary arm member angled with a smooth bend to a substantially vertical portion at the end. The arm assembly is connected to a substantially vertical support member. A tether cord extends through and along a length of the primary arm member and is attached to a soccer ball. The tether cord is adjustable and permits the height of the ball to be adjusted for ground ball positions, mid volleys, and heading. The apparatus further permits a ball to be hit in any direction from any adjusted position above ground without creating ball contact with the upright support member.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for teaching a user how to hit a ball with a bat. The apparatus includes a telescopically adjustable tee assembly that is magnetically secured to an underlying base. A user can easily make adjustments to both the vertical height of the tee and its location upon the base in order to simulate different pitch types.

Abstract: Apparatus to add weight to an athletic ball striking bat, having a taper along the bat length, comprising in combination a sleeve sized to extend about the bat at the taper location, the sleeve having associated retention means to engage the bat at a zone along said taper to resist lengthwise removal of the sleeve off the bat during bat swinging, a weight or weights carried by the sleeve.

Abstract: A device which is utilized during practice or other informal situation to teach a football player such as a quarterback or kicker to deliver a football around or over one or preferably a group of linemen. In one embodiment, the device includes a mechanism capable of moving at least one figure, simulative of a human athlete, from an inactive position to an active position which is adapted to mimic predetermined characteristics of a defensive line. In yet a further embodiment, the training device has a gate of a predetermined height and width operatively connected to a base which can be utilized, for example, to practice throwing, snapping, or hiking the football, or the like. In another embodiment, the training device includes a backstop, such as a net, which can be utilized to stop a football used with the training device, such as during practice of a snap, a kick, a throw or a punt.

Abstract: A method of assessing the biomechanical efficiency of a pitching delivery relative to time elapsed through certain motions of the pitching delivery. The method includes a pitching delivery timeline. The pitching delivery timeline has a first time requirement between 0.95 and 1.05 seconds within which a first forward movement until a foot strike range of motion should be completed. The pitching delivery timeline has a second time requirement between 1.25 and 1.35 seconds and corresponds to the time it takes to complete the first forward movement and a ball release range of motion. The pitching delivery timeline has a third time requirement from between 1.925 and 2.025 seconds and corresponds to the time it optimally takes to move from the first forward movement to a follow through range of motion. The method includes comparing at least one of the time requirements with a pitcher's delivery time for the corresponding range of motion.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be rotated to various positions. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly. The collapsed device may be easily transported and/or stored. The device is particularly useful as a defensive dummy in practicing the games of basketball and volleyball.