Abstract: A footwear device including a resilient member having first and second ends. The first end can be configured for being connected to a user's foot, and the second end can be configured for being connected to the user's leg above the ankle joint. The resilient member can be configured and positioned for resiliently and rotatably biasing the user's foot about the ankle joint.

Abstract: A football training device including a vest having a breast plate. A deformable corrective member having an elongate tubular-shaped shape, a proximal end and a distal end, is attached to breast plate and extends outwardly substantially perpendicular to the breast plate of the vest. The tubular-shaped member is positioned on the breast plate on a side of the breast plate that relates to the throwing hand of a user and is positioned at a height on the breast plate that alerts a user of a low football takeaway from a neutral position to a loaded football ball position. A restraining device is removably attached to the vest. The restraining device is positioned on a side of the vest that relates to the non-throwing hand of the user to urge the non-throwing hand of the user to remain close to the breast plate during a throwing motion of the throwing hand.

Abstract: A negative tilting squat machine includes a base, a squat apparatus, and a linear angle actuator. The squat apparatus is pivotally mounted on the base. The squat apparatus includes a center post with a squatting device configured to slide thereon and allow the user to face the center post during exercise. A resistance actuator is configured to produce a force against the squatting device. Handles, shoulder pads, or a combination thereof are attached to the squatting device to provide the force produced from the resistance actuator against the squatting device to hands of the user gripping the handles, shoulders of the user pressing on the shoulder pads, or a combination thereof. A linear angle actuator is configured to adjust a squat angle between the base and the squat apparatus.

Abstract: A training device for ball sports comprises a launching structure comprising an aperture sized and shaped to allow balls to pass linearly through the aperture along the central axis of the aperture, and a launching means configured to contact a ball within the aperture at a plurality of contact locations spaced around the surface of the ball, and to drive the ball through the aperture, and; a supporting means configured to support the launching structure above a surface; the launching structure and supporting means configured such that in use the launching structure can be rotated about the central axis to alter the position of the contact locations.

Abstract: A method of assembling a sports training ball includes locating at least one force sensor in the sports training ball for measuring an elevated force applied to the sports training ball. The sports training ball includes an outer surface that surrounds an inner core. An indicator is located in the sports training ball. The indicator is in electrical communication with at least one force sensor and is configured to receive a change in an electrical signal when the elevated force measured by at least one force sensor decreases below a predetermined elevated threshold. The indicator is configured to indicate to a user when the indicator receives the change in the electrical signal with a change in at least one of an audio signal or a visual signal.

Abstract: An interchangeable sports training apparatus for training user's how to kick sports balls. The apparatus includes a base including a mounting bracket for mounting the base onto a surface. A height-adjustable support arm affixed to the base includes a swivel rotatably coupled thereto, such that the swivel is configured to rotate 360 degrees about the support arm. A swing arm coupled to the swivel includes a quick-release mechanism configured to releasably engage a sports ball retaining bracket and a first fastener. A height-adjustable return arm includes a second fastener configured to releasably engage the first fastener of the swing arm, in order to hold the training apparatus in a ready position for kicking, and includes a return member configured to stop rotation of the swing arm and return the swing arm to the ready position.

Abstract: A system for tracking and monitoring a game ball, wirelessly gathering data from the ball, game elements, players, officials, to improve timeliness and accuracy of game, includes a wireless tag disposed within ball to provide an identification, wirelessly communicable with a receiver to indicate a position in X, Y, Z coordinates, such that ball edge locations are identified; wireless communication system tag reading devices arranged in an array, each configured to sense and read each wireless communication system tag; a pressure sensor disposed upon player and configured to send signal of sudden pressure change; a computer control center connected to the wireless communication system tag and tag reading devices, configured for receiving, computing, processing a plurality of game data and communicating a decisive signal for exact position for placement of ball; and a personal computing device worn by game official for communications and configured to send, receive data during game.

Abstract: Systems and methods track a first object when continuous tracking information for the first object is not available. The systems and methods detect when the tracking information for the first object is not available. A last time of a last determined location of the first object is determined and a second object closest to the last determined location at the last time is determined. The location of the first object is associated with a location of the second object if tracking information for the first object is not available.

Abstract: A sports rebound wall is provided that includes: a rebound surface, at least one target area formed in the rebound surface, and a resistive matrix sensor formed on, or embedded in, the target area. The matrix sensor includes a first array of substantially parallel conductive tracks and a second array of substantially parallel conductive tracks. The first array and the second array are spaced apart from one another. The rebound wall has a matrix sensor that is capable of providing information about the force, location and timing at which the target area of the sports rebound wall is impacted. This is made possible by the specific construction of the matrix sensor.

Abstract: A sport monitoring system includes a projectile(s), sensor units for one or more players to wear, and a data processing arrangement. The projectiles are useable in a game played by players. Each projectile has a motion sensing arrangement for generating one or more motion-indicative signals, and a data recording arrangement for recording the motion-indicative signals as a function of time. Each sensor unit is provided with a motion sensing arrangement for generating a motion-indicative signal(s), and a data recording arrangement for recording the motion-indicative signals as a function of time. The data processing arrangement receives data pertaining to the motion-indicative signals from at least one of the projectiles and/or at least one of the sensor units. The data processing arrangement performs a temporal correlation of the data to determine one or more periods of time when the projectiles are likely to be spatially closely associated with the players.

Abstract: Systems and methods track a first object when continuous tracking information for the first object is not available. The systems and methods detect when the tracking information for the first object is not available. A last time of a last determined location of the first object is determined and a second object closest to the last determined location at the last time is determined. The location of the first object is associated with a location of the second object if tracking information for the first object is not available.

Abstract: A leg handle with preferably hollow cylindrical sections is used to aid in lifting a jumping player, especially for lineouts in World Rugby. The handles are preferably made of one or more foam sausages attached to a thin stretch fabric sleeve which is placed the leg of the jumper and when jumping allow for secure grasp by lifters. To use, leg handles are applied to one or more legs of a jumper and held in place with tape. When the jumper jumps, one or more lifters place their hands against the leg handle. The lifters lift the jumper higher, support the jumper in the jump while the jumper attempts to intercept a ball, and safely lower the jumper. Leg handles comprising cylindrical sections are embodied with a single sausage; a lower front sausage and a higher back sausage; or as a pair of such sausages integrated into respective legs of a pair of compression shorts.

Abstract: A system and method for pitching balls, particularly footballs and other football-shaped balls. The system and method are flexibly designed to simulate different types of pitches including but not limited to passes, punts, kick-offs and snaps. A cradle for use in the system and method holds the ball in any one of a number of positions such that when it is fed into the system, the ball is propelled to simulate a different type of pitch. The apparatus and system for pitching balls includes a support for a ball throwing head, two opposing variable speed motor powered wheels that can be tilted in relation to each other to control the spin and distance, a slide configured to present the ball on the cradle into the wheels at different angles to provide right or left handed spirals and end over end pitches, and adjustments for height and horizontal pivot. A removable throwing head allows balls to be pitched from different heights from ground level to an upright arm motion to simulate different types of pitches.

Abstract: A football passing machine is configured to eject a prolate-spheroid-shaped football. The football passing machine includes a frame member, an adjustable launch surface mounted to the frame member, a ball magazine positioned above the adjustable launch surface that is configured to contain a plurality of footballs, a moveable escapement arm that is configured to successively dispense footballs that are contained within the ball magazine onto the launch surface, a moveable ball carriage configured to move a football between a first point on the launch surface that is located directly beneath the ball magazine and a second point on the launch surface that is adjacent a football launch mechanism that is configured to eject a football from the football passing machine. An orientation of the adjustable launch surface is configured to be adjusted to change a launch angle of a football while the frame member and the ball magazine remain stationary.

Abstract: A training device adapted to support a ball above a support surface for punting. The training device includes a base assembly adapted to be disposed on the support surface, and a ball support assembly coupled to the base assembly and adapted to contact the bottom of the ball from at least one side of the ball such that the ball is supported above the support surface for punting when the ball support assembly is in a support position.

Abstract: A device for training users to utilize proper mechanics when throwing a football includes an open-ended glove having a slot communicating with a compartment that is sized to receive an arched insert plate. When the glove is worn by a user, the arched insert plate permits flexion of the user's wrist while preventing extension of the user's wrist, unless sufficient force is applied. When throwing a football, the arched insert plate prevents the user's wrist from improperly extending backwards during the follow-through motion of throwing a football. A padded spacer is included on the surface of the palmar portion of the glove for encouraging the user to properly grip the football using primarily his or her fingertips.

Abstract: Apparatuses that facilitate training for proper, repeatable throwing technique in various sports. Embodiments may provide useful feedback to a user when that user deviates from proper techniques for throwing a football, baseball, or similar item. When proper technique is used, the user may experience no interference between the training apparatus and the ball or the user's throwing hand or arm. In contrast, the user's hand, arm, or a held ball may contact portions of the training apparatus in cases where the mechanics of the user's throwing motion deviate from the proper form, thereby providing immediate feedback. In certain embodiments, the training apparatus includes a body section and attachment portions. The attachment portions may receive an upper guide structure extending from a shoulder portion of the body section and a lower guide structure extending from a hip portion of the body section.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of an American-style football quarterback training device and method. Goals associated with the disclosed system include training a quarterback to not telegraph passes and to look in a direction opposite to where the ball is about to be thrown. The disclosed device comprises a sensor that is mountable on desired headgear, for example a football helmet, and is useful for detecting lateral head position and lateral head movement, a processor for processing data associated with the lateral head position and for processing data associated with lateral head movement, a user interface, a memory storage device, and optionally a timer, each of which are in communication with the processor and sensor. The lateral head position a quarterback can be monitored and data can be captured and processed relative to when the quarterback's head moves outside of an acceptable threshold range of acceptable lateral head positions.

Abstract: A training device is disclosed that has a depressable element and an indicator element that provides a perceivable indication, for example an audible alarm, to a user when an amount of force being applied to the training device along the major axis of the training device is less than a desired amount of depressing force. In some embodiments, the training device is in the shape of a prolate sphere and approximates the size and shape of a ball typically used in American football. The training device may be configured so that no perceivable indication is provided while either little to no force is being applied to the training device along its major axis or while an adequate amount of force is being applied to the training device along the major axis thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for pitching balls, particularly footballs and other football-shaped balls. The system and method are flexibly designed to simulate different types of pitches including but not limited to passes, punts, kick-offs and snaps. A cradle for use in the system and method holds the ball in any one of a number of positions such that when it is fed into the system, the ball is propelled to simulate a different type of pitch. The apparatus and system for pitching balls includes a support for a ball throwing head, two opposing variable speed motor powered wheels that can be tilted in relation to each other to control the spin and distance, a slide configured to present the ball on the cradle into the wheels at different angles to provide right or left handed spirals and end over end pitches, and adjustments for height and horizontal pivot. A removable throwing head allows balls to be pitched from different heights from ground level to an upright arm motion to simulate different types of pitches.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide apparatuses configured for improving a ball throwing technique of a user thereof. The apparatuses generally comprise one or more body portions configured to at least partially surround at least a first portion of an arm of the user, and one or more flexible portions configured to at least partially surround and secure at least a second portion of the arm of the user, the second portion being oppositely positioned relative to the first portion. The apparatuses may further comprise at least one connector element configured to selectively attach the one or more flexible portions to the one or more body portions. Various embodiments still further incorporate a wedge portion that creates a gap between a user's palm and the ball being thrown. Still other embodiments comprise extension and rotation mechanisms for apparatus adjustments. Methods of using the various apparatuses are also provided.

Abstract: A training apparatus for use on a training surface is disclosed. The training apparatus includes a sport-projectile stopping member and an elongated body substantially transverse to the sport-projectile stopping member. The elongated body has a first section, a second section, and a transition section between the first and second sections. A portion of the first section is positioned on the sport-projectile stopping member, and the first section is sized such that the sport-projection stopping member, the first section, the training surface and the transition section define an orifice through which a sport-projectile can pass through.

Abstract: A training device is disclosed, which includes a ball and a biasing member, where a distal portion of the ball is connected to a proximate end of the biasing member. A support member is connected to a distal end of the biasing member, where the support member is adapted for being connected to a stationary support structure. From this configuration, the ball is capable of deflecting from an initial, rest configuration when the ball is perturbed by clubbing, punching and/or chopping, and rapidly returning to the rest configuration after the perturbation.

Abstract: The spiral passing system includes a shoulder harness, a wrist harness, and a control strap connecting the shoulder and wrist harnesses. The control strap, adjustable in length, falls from atop the shoulder harness, down the passer's back, around the passer's forearm, and to the harness on the passer's wrist. The control strap's length is adjusted so that, when the passer throws a football, the strap pulls on the wrist harness, causing the throwing hand to pronate inward, releasing the football with longitudinal spin, as a perfect spiral pass. The spiral passing method has the passer wear and properly adjust the system, particularly the length of the control strap, so that the passer's wrist is pronated inward, and the passer can regularly throw perfect spiral passes. Using the spiral passing system and method will soon train the passer to produce the same perfect spiral passes without needing to use the system.

Abstract: A training device to aid improving proper form and measuring directional accuracy when performing a training kicking. The device includes a base and a ball holder assembly coupled to the base. The ball holder assembly is configured to receive an attachable ball used for performing simulation kicks. A direction pointer is coupled either the ball holder assembly or the ball and is spaced from a direction template that is used to indicate a relative accuracy of the simulation kick. The device also includes a brake assembly that receives the direction pointer during the training kick to bring the ball holder assembly and the ball to a complete stop.

Abstract: A method of operating a training device includes measuring a force applied to a training ball including an outer skin surrounding an inner bladder, determining if a force applied to the training ball decreases below a predetermined threshold, and indicating when the force applied to the training ball decreases below the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A football tackling dummy apparatus includes a tackling dummy, a support structure for suspending the tackling dummy therefrom, and a release mechanism. The release mechanism is mounted on the support structure and situated between the support structure and the tackling dummy. The tackling dummy is releasably attached to the release mechanism and is released thereby when a predetermined force is applied to the tackling dummy.

Abstract: A training device includes a controller, and a sensor in communication with the controller. The sensor is configured for measuring a force. At least one indicator is in communication with the controller for indicating when a force falls below a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A football throwing teaching assembly includes a harness with a back wall, a first lateral wall and a second lateral wall. Shoulder straps extend between and are attached to the first and second lateral walls and the back wall. A panel is attached to the back wall adjacent to its upper edge and extends rearwardly and laterally away from the back wall. The panel has a front edge and an outer edge with respect to the back wall. A forward section is attached to the panel at a juncture of the front edge and the outer edge and extends forward with respect to the back wall. An arm receiving space is defined between the first lateral wall and the forward section. The arm receiving space receives an arm of a person to inhibit the person from lowering their elbow below their shoulder while throwing a football.

Abstract: A apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: determine at least one football event by comparing the at least one attribute of the football to one or more predetermined signature characteristics of different football events; and an output device to present output to a person based on the determination of the at least one football event.

Abstract: A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: receive input pertaining to motion of the football; determine a target accuracy based upon the input; and display the determined target accuracy.

Abstract: A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: receive input pertaining to motion of the football; derive at least one football motion parameter from the input pertaining to the motion of the football; and display information relating to the input. The at least one football motion parameter includes spiral efficiency.

Abstract: A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: retrieve a football instructional package from the memory regarding an act with the football; display the football instructional package on the display; instruct the player to perform the act with the football; receive input pertaining to motion of the football; store information related to the input into the memory; and display information relating to the input.

Abstract: A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: receive input pertaining to motion of the football resulting from the player performing an act with the football; store information related to the input into the memory; compare the received input with previously stored celebrity information regarding similar football acts performed by a celebrity; and display information relating to the input and the comparison to the celebrity information.

Abstract: A training device is disclosed that has a depressable element and an indicator element that provides a perceivable indication, for example an audible alarm, to a user when an amount of force being applied to the training device along the major axis of the training device is less than a desired amount of depressing force. In some embodiments, the training device is in the shape of a prolate sphere and approximates the size and shape of a ball typically used in American football. The training device may be configured so that no perceivable indication is provided while either little to no force is being applied to the training device along its major axis or while an adequate amount of force is being applied to the training device along the major axis thereof.

Abstract: In one embodiment, kicking training is provided to a kicker in real time by collecting data while the kicker kicks a ball toward a display screen, determining the trajectory of the ball from the collected data, and displaying to the kicker on the display screen a simulation of the flight of the ball within a virtual world.

Abstract: A sports ball for stroke training is provided which comprises one or more designated energy-absorbing zones and one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

Abstract: A football tee combines three ball receiving recesses into a single tee. The ball receiving recesses include a first ball receiving recess for conventional kicks, a second ball receiving recess for squib kicks, and a third ball receiving recess for onside kicks. In a first embodiment, the first ball receiving recess consists of a plurality of elongated arcuate lines with each line conforming to the shape of the surface of the football near the tip. In a second embodiment, the lines are replaced by a similar number of arcuate narrow bands, each of which conforms to the shape of the football above the tip. In a third embodiment, a series of semi-spherical projections are provided, each of which engages the football in a point contact. The bottom of the first recess is open to reduce surface area of ball contact.

Abstract: A training tool is an apparatus that teaches a user to reach their arms out from their torso in order to catch a football. The apparatus includes a waistband, a left wrist strap, a right wrist strap, a left elastic cord, and a right elastic cord. The waistband attaches the apparatus to the user's waist, and the left wrist strap and the right wrist strap attach the apparatus to the user's wrists. The left wrist strap is connected to the waistband by the left elastic cord, and the right wrist strap is connected to the waistband by the right elastic cord. The left elastic cord provides a resistance between the left wrist and the waist, which reminds the user to fully extend the left arm. Similarly, the right elastic cord provides a resistance between the right wrist and the waist, which reminds the user to fully extend the right arm.

Abstract: A training football having one or more markings for the positioning of a user's fingers and/or thumbs. The markings may include positioning indicia for fingers and/or thumbs of both the right hand and left hand of a user.

Abstract: A ball-hitting glove assembly for boxing training has a glove, a ball and a rope. The glove has a palm section, a hand back section and a finger section. The rope is mounted securely on the glove and has a glove end and a ball end. The glove end of the rope is mounted securely on the hand back section. The ball end is opposite to the glove end of the rope. The ball is mounted securely on the ball end of the rope. The ball-hitting glove assembly is easily carried and is convenient for boxing-training at any time when a user travels or exercises outside. This is greatly practical for those who like boxing.

Abstract: A leg strap with preferably horizontal handles attached at each end of each handle, is used to aid in lifting a jumping player, especially for lineouts in Rugby Union. The handles are preferably made of elastic bands with contract to provide a tight fit on the leg of the jumper and when jumping allow for secure grasp by lifters. The simple, reusable, easy to use leg straps provide a level of effectiveness, comfort, convenience, and safety not provided by conventional methods. To use, leg straps are applied to one or more legs of a jumper. When the jumper jumps, one or more lifters grip the leg device. The lifters lift the jumper higher, support the jumper in the jump while the jumper attempts to intercept a ball, and safely lower the jumper.

Abstract: A leg glove having downward facing diagonal pockets for lifting a person who is jumping or being lifted, especially for lineouts in Rugby Union. A single piece of flexible, elastic material has a base layer formed in a conical section and a partially overlapping pocket layer that is folded back over the base layer and attached to form a pocket between the base layer and the pocket layer.

Abstract: A football tee combines three ball receiving recesses into a single tee. The ball receiving recesses include a first ball receiving recess for conventional kicks, a second ball receiving recess for squib kicks, and a third ball receiving recess for onside kicks. In a first embodiment, the first ball receiving recess consists of a plurality of elongated arcuate lines with each line conforming to the shape of the surface of the football near the tip. In a second embodiment, the lines are replaced by a similar number of arcuate narrow bands, each of which conforms to the shape of the football above the tip. In a third embodiment, a series of semi-spherical projections are provided, each of which engages the football in a point contact. The bottom of the first recess is open to reduce surface area of ball contact.

Abstract: A device for training users to utilize proper mechanics when throwing a football includes an open-ended glove having a slot communicating with a compartment that is sized to receive an arched insert plate. When the glove is worn by a user, the arched insert plate permits flexion of the user's wrist while preventing extension of the user's wrist, unless sufficient force is applied. When throwing a football, the arched insert plate prevents the user's wrist from improperly extending backwards during the follow-through motion of throwing a football. A padded spacer is included on the surface of the palmar portion of the glove for encouraging the user to properly grip the football using primarily his or her fingertips.

Abstract: The football snap aid simulates a snap of a football by a center to a quarterback located behind. The football snap aid includes an apparatus that supports a padded release lever from below, and which when engaged in an upward movement shall release a spring-loaded arm that supports a football on a cradle. The spring-loaded arm translates from a lowered position to a hiked position so as to simulate actual movement of the football during a snap. The football snap aid includes an upper handle and locking tab that can rotate to reset the spring-loaded arm between uses. The apparatus includes adjustable legs that can accommodate differently sized end user. The spring-loaded arm includes adjustment means to accommodate differently sized end users.

Abstract: A football training device and system is presented that simulates game-time conditions wherein players of the opposite team attempt to strip the ball carrier of the ball. The football training device has a football with at least one cord attached to each end of the football. The cord is connected to a housing which is attached to the player's body by a strap. As the player carries the football a remote control device is used to activate the housing to retract the cord which acts to strip the football from the players hands.

Abstract: Tools, devices, apparatus, systems and methods to enhance ball handling skills and reduce and eliminate fumbling of balls, from football players, basketball players and the like. The training tool can be used to improve ball security for football players of every level to reduce or even eliminate fumbling. The tool can simulate the forces imparted on a football that can cause a fumble during the game. Used during various drills in practice, the invention will improve the player's ability to maintain possession of the football during actual game play. The invention assembly can include a ball (such as a football, basketball or rugby ball), a rope, and a reciprocating handle weight subassembly.

Abstract: A game system comprises a base game-playing structure and at least two target surfaces each defining at least one target zone and depicting different projectile-passing games. The target surfaces are engageable with the base game-playing structure in one or more substantially vertical orientations and configured to receive passed projectiles. The system also includes at least one sensor engaged with the base game-playing structure. The target zone is positioned at a location on the target surface which is aligned with the sensor. The sensor is configured to detect the presence of a projectile at the target zone. The system may also include an electronic display configured to display the status of the game being played with the game system, and an electronic controller configured to receive signals from the sensor and coupled to the electronic display to reflect the status of the game.

Abstract: The present invention is a sport swinging, hitting and throwing assistance device that includes a cumber bun base belt that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's waist and chest area while the athlete is swinging, hitting or throwing a piece of sports equipment, an arm loop that is attached to the cumber bun base belt by an expandable guide arm and receives the athlete's middle arm area that is inserted through the arm loop and a buckle. The device can also be a vest style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso or a panty style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso while the athlete is swinging, hitting, or throwing a golf club or other piece of sports equipment.