Abstract: A ball rebound wall apparatus for a swimming pool which uses a substantially planar panel mounted on a pontoon assembly. The pontoon assembly is to be floatingly located within the swimming pool. A ballast is to be placed on the pool decking with a pontoon assembly to be tied to the ballast in order to locate the pontoon assembly in a set position and maintain the pontoon assembly in a set position. The pontoon assembly includes a groove. The ball rebound wall is to be mounted within the groove to be supported on the pontoon assembly. The pontoon assembly can be varied in its flotation ability by increasing or decreasing flotation. The rebound wall is to be tilted to assume an inclined position so that upon a ball striking the rebound wall, the ball is rebounded in an upward direction away from the surface of the water of the swimming pool. The ball rebound wall apparatus is to be readily removable and disassembled when not in use.

Abstract: Whippse semi cone, whippse whip and whippse table are the invented apparatus that will make Whippse Sport a reality. Semi cone/stick, rod are made from resilient /natural suitable materials. Semi cone is molded inside a ferruled funnel that has reinforcing materials/aids to ensure containment and firm bonding of cone with funnel. Semi cone is evenly shaped at the top and all levels of its body. Top body of semi cone is straight, middle body is slanting; lower body is steep ending with a very sharp/stair for spinning. The special whippse table is even from edge to edge, sturdy and has a carved in tiny hole at the centre to position cone before whipping. There also carved in goal symbols of 4-5 in. apart. Strands are from natural/synthetic fibres and are secured through a hole/holed thimble/hook, secured and fixed on a stick to make a whip. Funnel is made from resilient suitable material.

Abstract: A generally circular, thin, laminated, high color contrast, flexible target sheet member is affixed to a central pocket portion of a baseball glove by a peel-away pressure sensitive formed upon the backing of the target member. This simple and inexpensive single (one piece) targeting member can be mail-ordered or otherwise sold directly, particularly to millions of young “Little League” players in need of an aid in improving their throwing accuracy. No detrimental modifications of the gloves already in possession of the players is required. An advertising logo of a sponsor can be added, enabling its use as a give-away item. Alternatively, a team logo can be printed on the target.

Abstract: A training device which interactively guides a tennis racquet by exerting a towing force on a card which is connected to the tennis racquet. The device includes a vertically adjustable support connected with a guide pole fixed to a wall. A swivel arm is movably supported on the support and has a distal end which suspends a ball therefrom. The cord extends along the swivel arm and the support, and one end thereof is connected to the racquet through a stirrup.

Abstract: A basketball shot trainer for controlling the movement of the user's shooting arm in a predetermined direction and predetermined elbow placement. The shooter's arm is connected to an arm bar such that the shooting arm and elbow pivot in a predetermined manner relative to the user's torso. The shooting arm is held in the desired position on the user by means of a back plate which supports the arm bar for pivotal movement to control movement of the user's shooting arm. The arm bar has a guide portion which is secured to the user's shooting arm by an arm band which controls movement of the shooting arm in a predetermined vertical plane.

Abstract: An improved pitching machine is provided. The invented pitching machine may be capable of consecutively throwing balls that each have a different predetermined trajectory, rotational velocity, and velocity, without resetting the machine. The machine may be capable of simulating a pitch sequence, as thrown by a pitcher in a game situation, which may effectively train batters. The machine includes a pair of rotating belts that are vertically spaced and extend parallel to each other and generally horizontally. Once a ball is seized between the belts, the ball is rapidly conveyed by the belts and thrown in a predetermined direction and at a selected velocity. The velocity of the belts may be independently adjusted for imparting a predetermined rotational velocity on balls conveyed by the belts, for throwing balls of different predetermined trajectories. A control system is provided for selecting a pitch type for each ball thrown by the machine.

Abstract: Programmable robotic ball shooting machines, linked by cable or wireless signal communication, are positioned on one side of a tennis court and are structured for firing tennis balls to predetermined locations on the opposite side of the court in accordance with a preprogrammed shot sequence. A remote control communicates with the ball shooting machines and is operable to selectively control the firing of each shot from any of the machines at a time and from a direction which is directly responsive to a tennis shot made by a practicing player on the opposite side of the court. Immediately following the firing of each shot, all ball shooting machines advance in preparation for firing the next shot in the programmed sequence at a predetermined speed, spin and height particular to each ball shooting machine position, thereby controlling the depth and location of each fired shot in order to hit the predetermined location.

Abstract: A modular sports net assembly of the type forming an enclosure and used for receiving and retaining a sports item, such as a ball or the like. The assembly is assembled for deployment as a prism of varying shapes and sizes on any relatively flat ground surface and disassembled for storage. The assembly includes a tubular interfitting frame and a plurality of planar net panels.

Abstract: A portable return net device for receiving, arresting and returning a ball to a central collection point for pitched, thrown or batted balls in a ball practice system. The return net apparatus comprises; a net supporting frame, a net for receiving a projected ball, an inclined collection tray operatively associated with the net, and an exit chute, wherein the net is hung untensioned on the supporting frame, on the diagonal, and wherein flaps extending transversely across the base of the hanging net are pivotally connected thereto. The net absorbs the impact of a ball in conjunction with the flaps which trap a ball impacting a tensile zone of the net. The tensile zone comprises that portion of the hanging net below which there is insufficient net weight to arrest a ball in a triangular portion of the net below the point of impact. The arrested ball is conveyed by the collection tray to the exit chute for reuse.

Abstract: A training device for baseball hitting has a baseboard, a resilient column with one end securely yet rotatably engaged with the baseboard and a receiving tube securely connected to the other end of the resilient column. The resilient column has a bendable and shapable upper portion. The rotatable engagement between the resilient column and the baseboard allows the resilient column to incline to any desired direction and the shapable upper portion of the resilient column allows the resilient column to bend to any desired position.

Abstract: A swing practicing device trains a hitter, such as a baseball batter, to improve the accuracy and power of his swing. A baseball-shaped target is coupled to the terminal end of a target support, the baseball-shaped target accepting swing impacts without separating from the target support. The target support extends from a base having a rounded bottom surface, the curves of the rounded surface in rotational engagement with the ground. Swing impacts at the baseball-shaped target cause the apparatus to rotate from an upright position to a more horizontal position and then return to the upright position to accept repeated swing impacts. The device can include an inflatable air bladder within the baseball-shaped target and target support, and can include an adjustable weight for its base. The device can also include an adjusting mechanism to adjust the vertical height of the baseball-shaped target.

Abstract: A baseball is provided for repeated use with a pitching machine. The baseball has a smooth surface upon which a plurality of dimples or indentations are provided, said indentations being spaced in a regular pattern. These indentations serve to induce turbulent airflow over the surface of the baseball, thereby reducing the drag on the ball and serving to stabilize the flight of the ball. The ball further includes a plurality of slot-shaped depressions formed in a pattern similar to the stitch pattern of an actual baseball and wherein the inner surfaces of said slot-shaped depressions are colored with a dye or paint such that the rotational velocity of the baseball may be observed when the ball is in flight.

Abstract: A transportable basketball rim and net with optional back-board blocking training tool assembly is provided for use on a pre-existing metal goal. The base rim with net is installed over and removed from a pre-existing metal goal without the use of a ladder. The net and training tool can be removably attached to the plastic rim before the assembly is installed on the hoop. The base includes an optional insert to allow installation of the rim over a six or five inch pre-existing mount.

Abstract: The power swing training device of the invention is a tethered, truncated, training device attached by flexible elastic to a fixed anchor point, or to a pulley and weight system. A swivel attachment is attached to the distal end of the training device and a flexible yoke is attached to the swivel attachment, and an elastic cord is attached to the yoke at one end and to a fixed point at the other. In a second embodiment, a cord is hung on a pulley attached to an anchor and a weight is placed at the other end.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for training a trainee to achieve or maintain proper throwing technique by attaining proper form, position, and movement of the legs, hips, torso, and shoulders of the trainee and without the use of the throwing arm of the trainee. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention includes a harness to be worn about the torso of the trainee, wherein the harness is configured to releasably support thereon a training projectile which is configured to be launched from is supported position on the harness as a result of a training maneuver which does not involve the throwing arm of trainee. A method in accordance with the present invention includes providing a training projectile, releasably supporting the projectile proximate a throwing shoulder of the trainee, executing a training maneuver and launching the projectile as a result of the execution of the training maneuver.

Abstract: A device is described which has means to define and maintain different internal states, means to transition at regular or random intervals between those states, means to vary the minimum hold time in each state, means to vary the average time spent in each state, means to vary the order in which the states are visited, and means to externalize and transmit or display the internal state. Subsequently one or more athletes receive this information and react to it as a change in their athletic training or game environment.

Abstract: An all sports net assembly is disclosed for providing an enclosure for receiving and retaining a sports item such as a ball or the like. The net assembly may be readily assembled for deployment on any relatively flat ground surface and disassembled for storage. The assembly includes a tubular frame structure formed into the shape of a prism. A plurality of intermediate pole segments interconnect a plurality of corner units. Each of the corner units comprises projecting pole receiving portions extending along at least three independent axis, where each pole receiving portion receives an end of said intermediate pole segments to define at least four planes. A plurality of netting panels are removably attached to the tubular frame structure so as to enclose the frame assembly except for one plane of the tubular frame structure.

Abstract: The power swing training bat of the invention is a tethered, truncated, training bat attached by flexible elastic to a fixed anchor point, or to a pulley and weight system. A swivel attachment is attached to the distal end of the bat and a flexible yoke is attached to the swivel attachment, and an elastic cord is attached to the yoke at one end and to a fixed point at the other. In a second embodiment, a cord is hung on a pulley attached to an anchor and a weight is placed at the other end.

Abstract: A practice baseball bat for assisting the development of a batter's swing mechanics and techniques, comprising a conventional baseball bat defined by an elongate circular cross-sectional member with an improvement therein in which a portion thereof centered about a sweet spot of the member defines a recessed hitting surface having opposing shoulders extending between an exterior surface of the bat to the recessed hitting surface, whereby impacting the hitting surface on a thrown baseball causes the ball to fly away in a preferred flight such that repetitive use of the practice baseball bat develops muscle, stance, and swing mechanics and techniques in the batter for improving the batter's hitting skills.

Abstract: A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. The feedback information may include one or more trajectory parameters that the human may use to evaluate their skill at sending the object along a desired trajectory. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device.

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. 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. The launch sequences can be randomly generated, programmed by the sports player, or retrieved from memory. The launch of the balls can also be controlled remotely.

Abstract: A ball detection device includes a frame with a hitting member connected to a center of the frame. A plurality of detection members are connected between corners of the hitting member and the frame. A CPU is electrically connected to the detection members and a display member. When the hitting member is hit by a ball, the detection members are pulled and send a respective signal according the tension the detection member is applied to the CPU and a corresponding information is displayed on the display member.

Abstract: A training device for facilitating an orientation of a performer's hands prior to a performing of a task and includes a pair of bracelets adapted to be worn on the left and right wrists of the performer. Each bracelet includes an annular band and a plurality of tubular rollers rotatable about an axis of the respective annular band to facilitate a movement of the bracelets over the performer's hands while moving onto and off from the performer's wrists. The two bracelets also include a tethering device coupling the bracelets to one another. The invention also relates to the method of performing a task which requires the hands of the performer to be oriented close together so that they can be used in concert followed shortly thereafter by moving one hand independently of the other.

Abstract: A batting aid which is designed to improve a baseball player's batting swing and to strengthen his leading batting arm comprises an upper arm cuff attached to the upper portion of the leading arm of a person preparing to swing a bat, a wrist cuff attached to the wrist of the batter's arm, and an elastic strap connecting them. The wrist cuff has a thumb strap to hold the wrist cuff in place. The wrist cuff and the upper arm cuff are connected by an elastic strap such that, when the batter's leading arm is flexed the elastic strap is slack, and when the arm is extended, the elastic strap becomes taught and provides a resisting force against the further extension of the leading arm.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for training a player of a game in which an object is projected towards the player at a normal velocity range. Depending on the application of the training method, the normal range of velocity for the projected object in the game is determined. An apparatus is provided for projecting the object at a velocity greater than the normal velocity range. The object is projected towards the player at the velocity greater than the normal velocity range. This routine is repeated to improve ocular conditioning and physical objects of the game.

Abstract: An improved pitching machine is provided. The invented pitching machine may be capable of consecutively throwing balls that each have a different predetermined trajectory, rotational velocity, and velocity, without resetting the machine. The machine may be capable of simulating a pitch sequence, as thrown by a pitcher in a game situation, which may effectively train batters. The machine includes a pair of rotating belts that are vertically spaced and extend parallel to each other and generally horizontally. Once a ball is seized between the belts, the ball is rapidly conveyed by the belts and thrown in a predetermined direction and at a selected velocity. The velocity of the belts may be independently adjusted for imparting a predetermined rotational velocity on balls conveyed by the belts, for throwing balls of different predetermined trajectories. A control system is provided for selecting a pitch type for each ball thrown by the machine.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a baseball pitcher training device for training a pitcher in controlling his lower and upper body portions during the pitch preparation phase as well as the delivery and follow-through phase. The device comprises a portable balance beam and a simulated pitching “rubber” mounted thereon from which the pitcher initiates his pre-pitch movements. The balance beam provides a limited width foot landing area after pitch delivery to limit lower and upper body movement and ensure alignment with the plate to improve pitch accuracy. This embodiment is used primarily for pitch delivery from the stretch position. A second embodiment includes an enlarged mound platform area which is removably placed over the end of the balance beam/rubber area of the first embodiment to provide a more stable pitching area and is used for delivery from the full wind-up position.

Abstract: The invention includes a concave cup specifically designed to hold various size basketballs. The cup has a stem which inserts and is held securely in a precision bearing, which in turn is held firmly in the splined finger gripping portion of the invention. The splined finger gripping portion of the device is held securely on the finger of a person, by an o-ring. The o-ring rolls up and down on the splined portion and is prevented from rolling off by the molded protrusions at the bottom of the splined finger gripping portion of the invention. The splines are tapered to allow for expansion and contraction to fit various finger sizes.

Abstract: A training device for facilitating an orientation of a performer's hands prior to a performing of a task and includes a pair of bracelets adapted to be worn on the left and right wrists of the performer. Each bracelet includes an annular band and a plurality of tubular rollers rotatable about an axis of the respective annular band to facilitate a movement of the bracelets over the performer's hands while moving onto and off from the performer's wrists. The two bracelets also include a tethering device coupling the bracelets to one another. The invention also relates to the method of performing a task which requires the hands of the performer to be oriented close together so that they can be used in concert followed shortly thereafter by moving one hand independently of the other.

Abstract: A soccer kicking training device used for placement on a surface and for allowing a soccer ball to be kicked thereof. The soccer ball kicking training device includes a base with stationary base connector and horizontal and vertical members, two ball holder means, a height adjustment means, and a ball. The base is supported by a surface in a horizontal plane with weighted material used to help stabilize the device. The stationary base connector is attached to the base and provides height adjustment. A vertical member and horizontal member slides freely inside the stationary base connector, which provides further height adjustments to the soccer kicking training device. A top and side ball holder by which a ball can be mounted and/or attached, by which a player standing on a surface can kick a stationary ball. The soccer kicking training device has quick setup and is easily transportable to and from the soccer field.

Abstract: A stationary blocking/tackling platform for football comprising up to seven parallel blocking/tackling padded dummies movable along a track and returnable to the original position. The sled is suitable for football player training ranging from junior high school to the professional ranks.

Abstract: A self-training batting practice machine includes an upright support member, lower and upper support members, flexible ball suspension rod and at least one elastic member. The lower support member is attached to the upright support member close to a lower end thereof and extends horizontally outwardly therefrom. The upper support is supported on an upper end of the upright support member such that the upper support member is rotatable about a vertical pivot axis. The ball suspension rod is secured at an inner end to and rotatable with the upper support member and extends substantially horizontally outwardly therefrom and at an outer end has a ball-shaped object thereon for a player to swing a bat at and to hit in order to practice batting.

Abstract: A ball throwing practice system for improving a ball player's skills that includes a collapsible support frame having a first pair of legs and a second pair of legs, with the second pair of legs being pivotally coupled to one of the first pair of legs to permit pivoting of the second pair of legs with respect to the first pair of legs. The system also includes a target assembly secured to the support frame for defining a passage therethrough for representing a zone for an accurately thrown ball to pass through. Preferably, the target assembly comprises a pair of substantially horizontally oriented plate members disposed in a spaced relationship, with a lower one of the plate members being located below an upper one of the plate members. The lower plate member may be suspended below the upper plate member by a plurality of cords.

Abstract: A swing practicing device trains a hitter, such as a baseball batter, to improve the accuracy and power of his swing. A target is coupled to the terminal end of a target support, the target accepting swing impacts without separating from the target support. The target support extends from a base having a rounded bottom surface, the curves of the rounded surface in rotational engagement with the ground. Swing impacts at the target cause the apparatus to rotate from an upright position to a more horizontal position and then return to the upright position to accept repeated swing impacts. The device can include an inflatable air bladder within the target and target support, and can include an adjustable weight for its base. The device can also include an adjusting mechanism to adjust the vertical height of the target.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for training a player of a game in which an object is projected towards the player at a normal velocity range. Depending on the application of the training method, the normal range of velocity for the projected object in the game is determined. An apparatus is provided for projecting the object at a velocity greater than the normal velocity range. The object is projected towards the player at the velocity greater than the normal velocity range. This routine is repeated to improve ocular conditioning and physical objects of the game.

Abstract: A hockey goalie-training device for teaching the goalie to keep his arms from moving behind or away from his body is provided. A harness having an arm-restricting bar is attached to a belt worn around the chest of the goalie. The height of the belt around the chest of the goalie is maintained by adjustable shoulder straps, which are quickly and easily attached over the shoulders of the goalie. The device teaches the goalie to keep his hands and arms positioned such that shots cannot be completed by passing a puck between his body and his arms to score a goal. The device also trains the goalie to keep his hands positioned properly on certain movements and saves such that shots cannot pass easily by the goalie, due to proper hand position.

Abstract: An improved basketball training aid comprising a barrier over which a basketball shot must be lofted in order to pass through the basketball goal. The basketball training aid is intended for attachment to a basketball backboard and basketball goal. The basketball training aid comprises a shield formed into a substantially semi-circular shape or a substantially semi-elliptical shape with a gripping means affixed to each end of the shield. In use, each of the gripping means is attached to the front surface of the basketball backboard. The shield is held in place by the gripping means slightly above and substantially parallel to the basketball goal solely by the gripping means, with the upper surface of the shield is positioned above the top surface of the basketball goal and outside the front edge of the basketball goal.

Abstract: An improved pitching machine is provided. The invented pitching machine may be capable of consecutively throwing balls that each have a different predetermined trajectory, rotational velocity, and velocity, without resetting the machine. The machine may be capable of simulating a pitch sequence, as thrown by a pitcher in a game situation, which may effectively train batters. The machine includes a pair of rotating belts that are vertically spaced and extend parallel to each other and generally horizontally. Once a ball is seized between the belts, the ball is rapidly conveyed by the belts and thrown in a predetermined direction and at a selected velocity. The velocity of the belts may be independently adjusted for imparting a predetermined rotational velocity on balls conveyed by the belts, for throwing balls of different predetermined trajectories. A control system is provided for selecting a pitch type for each ball thrown by the machine.

Abstract: A training device for improving the batting skills of a baseball player constructed of two parallel bars that are held apart by a pair of U-shaped arms such that an open space is created between the parallel bars. The location of the arms relative to the parallel bars can be changed to accommodate either right or left handed hitters. The arms space the parallel bars apart sufficiently to create an open space between the arms through which a swung baseball bat can slide. The interior facing surfaces of the bars each have a series of rubber or plastic teeth that protrude therefrom. These rubber or plastic teeth function to prevent damage to the bat when it is swung through the open space and also to cushion the impact on the student's hands if the swing is not level. A baseball is teed up at the end of the open space on the lower of the two bars. The lower bar has a swivel attachment with the upper end of the stand.

Abstract: A ball-like target, representative of a ball to be used in actually playing a sport to be taught, for use in teaching batting and catching to new players. The ball-like target is attached to an apparatus that allows a trainer to control the target's speed and attitude of presentation to a trainee. The trainer can then explain in whatever detail is necessary for the trainee to understand the instructions being provided and the trainee can respond accordingly. The device improves training efficiency by allowing the trainer to retain possession and control of the ball. The ultimate results for the trainee are improved eye-hand coordination, many practice swings at an actual ball per unit time, immediate feed back on the result of each swing, and improved self-confidence as more and more contact is made by the bat with the ball, especially in young ball players.

Abstract: A batting tee in which the mount for the ball is positioned lower than the other components of the batting tee to encourage a level swing at the ball and to protect the mount from damage from the impact of a bat. The batting tee includes a base, an upright, and a swing arm, the mount for the ball being integral with the end of the swing arm opposite the end mounted to the upright. The swing arm is preferably pivotally and telescopically received in the upright so that the position of the ball can be varied.

Abstract: Baseball Practice Bat with a main bat barrel, a slidable handle portion, a non slidable handle portion, a rigid centrally located shaft running through the main bat barrel, the slidable handle portion and the non sliding handle portion, a non pinch flange located on the bottom of the slidable handle, the flange having a downwardly facing post, the smaller flange on the non moving handle having a rubber washer attached to its top surface, the washer having a cut out area where said downwardly facing post can penetrate and make contact with the metal portion of said non moving handle, and finger locator portions that are molded into the side of the sliding handle and non sliding handle that helps the user align his or her knuckles with respect to both handles.

Abstract: A ball throwing device capable of throwing or pitching balls at more than one speed without having to readjust the device. The ball throwing device generally includes a base, a motor and at least two ball throwing assemblies. The motor is supported on the base and includes a mounting flange, a drive motor and an output shaft driven to rotate by the drive motor. The output shaft includes at least two tire flanges carried thereon. Each of the ball throwing assemblies includes a feeder assembly and a wheel. Each wheel defines a ball gripping surface and is mounted to a tire flange. Each wheel defines a different diameter. Each feeder assembly is supported proximate the ball gripping surface of one of the wheels to guide the ball to be thrown against it. The feeder assemblies are supported via the mounting flange.

Abstract: An automatic teeing apparatus for a ball. A ball, preferably a baseball or softball, is affixed to one end of an elastic cord such as, for example, a “bungee” cord. The opposing end of the elastic cord is affixed to a stable platform or base plate adapted to support the teeing apparatus on the ground. The length of the elastic cord between the ball and the base portion is coaxially housed within a hollow, substantially cylindrical flexible pedestal mounted in a vertically upright position on the base portion. In a preferred embodiment of the device, the pedestal, the height of which is telescopically adjustable, includes a coil spring having a lower end rigidly affixed to the base portion and an upper end in opposition thereto. A rigid cylindrical tubular member has a lower end, which is concentrically disposed within the upper end of the coil spring and is adjustably attached thereto to permit telescopic adjustment of the tubular member within the coil spring.

Abstract: A shooting target system comprising a substantially vertical post having a target assembly comprising a double faced target, a stub shaft and a pivot shaft, the target assembly rotatably mounted upon the post wherein the post further releasably captures the target assembly at each one of a plurality of positions spaced vertically upon the post.

Abstract: A batting practice device for training a user to hit a ball. The batting practice device includes a stabilizing member, a connecting bar, a vertical post, a upper vertical member, a rotating arm and a ball. The stabilizing member is used for providing ballast for the batting practice device. The connecting bar couples the stabilizing member to the vertical post portion. In addition, the upper vertical member is rotatably coupled to the vertical post portion. The rotating arm has a first end and a second end. The first end of the rotating arm is coupled to the upper vertical member. The ball is coupled to the second end of the rotating arm. Thus a force asserted on the ball rotates the ball and rotating arm around the vertical post portion.

Abstract: An analyzer and practice aid primarily for determining a ball pitcher's or hitter's stride angle and stride length. The analyzer is comprised of a ground or floor mat with a grid imprinted on it, the grid havings a reference point from which reference lines extend forwardly and outwardly at predetermined angles toward a target, such as the home plate. The grid also includes lines that intersect the reference lines for easy measurement of the distance from the reference point toward the target. The mat may also include means behind the reference point for mounting an adjustable pitching rubber. The analyzer can also be used for batting practice and in training for improvement in other sports such as golf for determining a proper stance.

Abstract: An instructional swing device for teaching the proper swing for baseball, golf or the like. The instructional swing device comprises a vest or harness arrangement which positions an adjustable, stretchable strap across the torso of the user from one shoulder to the opposite hip. Attached to the strap is an audible indicating mechanism, such as a buzzer, which is activated by proper movement of the user through stretching of the strap. In operation, the audible indicating mechanism identifies a proper swing during use to provide feedback to the user that the user is performing the desired hip movement in advance of the hands.

Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing in simulated real-time environment, the skills of a football place kicker, center and holder, particularly the speed, distance, direction and angle of the kicks, by simulating charging lineman and providing simultaneous and integrally connected, resettable, visually displayed split-time and total elapsed timing feedback comprising uprights, a cross bar supporting a net, actuator switches for cross bar, timing means, and time display and reset means on the time display.

Abstract: A member (e.g. baseball bat) including a switch manually operable to obtain the transmission of signals by a transmitter in the member to an apparatus for propelling an element (e.g. ball) toward an individual holding the member. The element is propelled by a propulsion mechanism in the apparatus toward the individual holding the member so that the individual can practice receiving the element (e.g. hitting the ball). The apparatus propels the element upon the receipt of the transmitted signals and prepares for the next element in the apparatus to be propelled upon a receipt of subsequent signals from the transmitter.