Abstract: A computer-implemented American soccer training and evaluation method that includes subjecting a drilling user to pre-defined drilling protocol(s) of a plurality of American soccer drilling assemblies and obtain, from each pre-defined drilling protocol(s) of the plurality of American soccer drilling assemblies and from at least one sensor on each of the assemblies, at least one user physical characteristic of the drilling user. The user physical characteristic is communicated to an administrative server over a network, where it is stored and used to create a drilling user performance profile having individualized performance comparisons with respect to the at least one user physical characteristic of the drilling user and a performance benchmark. Then, the drilling user performance profile is communicated to at least one of a plurality of electronic computing devices of a plurality of consuming users for evaluation and review.

Abstract: A device comprising a substantially flat device. The device has a front edge, a side edge, and a rear edge. The device is attached to a goal with an attachment means. The goal has a open portion defined by two goal posts, the goal posts having a bottom portion, the goal has a closed side and rear netting portion, the front edge of the device runs tightly between each side of the goal post, the front edge of the device is attached to the bottom portion of each goal post, or post side frame and the side edge and the rear edge of the device are attached along the closed side and rear netting portions of the goal structure respectively. The device forms a continuous angled surface between the front to closed portion of the goal. The device is an in-goal ball return device.

Abstract: A foldable, portable sports goal structure includes a hollow frame that contains an elastic cord or cable that uses compressive forces from the cord tension to hold the frame together. The sports goal includes ground support bars, sidebars and a crossbar. Rear support bars may also be used. The elastic cord or cable that is under tensions is used to hold the frame together when the goal is set up. The elastic cord or cable also holds the frame together when the goal is folded up so the goal can be quickly set up or folded up. The net can remain attached to the frame, which allows the goal to be used or stored as a single unit.

Abstract: An illuminating hockey puck and hockey goal monitoring system is provided. The hockey puck comprises a standard size hockey puck with an imbedded RF receiver, electrical circuit, and a power source therein. The receiver functions in coordination with the hockey goal monitoring system, which registers when the receiver passes over its threshold to energize a light source either in the puck or along the goal itself. The monitoring system comprises a transmitter connected to an energized wire disposed within the goal posts and over the threshold of the goal, whereby the proximity of the receiver to the wire can be measured and the system registers when the puck has entered the goal.

Abstract: A portable soccer goal frame with a base to which removable vertical poles having top side bar supports are joined holds a net to create a goal opening. The top side bar supports have a unique shape and extend horizontally from the top of the vertical poles in a manner that reduces the weight placed on the net fabric hung between the vertical poles. The top side bar supports also create a depth of the goal pocket without need for additional vertical posts. Each vertical post creates a pivot point at its bottom end, such that each vertical post is urged apart from the other post to create tension or leverage between the opposite top side bar supports, thus creating a more realistic goal shape and reducing sag at the top edge of the goal opening.

Abstract: A ball net structure arranged to be portable, collapsible, and able to be configured into different arrangements for different nets and/or different sports-related activities. The ball net structure comprising a base structure including at least one support portion, at least one base extension, and at least one base extension hinge, wherein the at least one support portion and the at least one base extension are coupled to the at least one base extension hinge. At least one rod is removably coupled to the base structure and received by a net, wherein the net is adapted to exert a force on the at least one rod causing the at least one rod to exert a force onto said base structure.

Abstract: A protective screen system having a protective screen made up of a protective screen frame and a primary net, and including a protective screen safety apparatus coupled to the protective screen. The protective screen safety apparatus includes one or more spacing connectors adapted to couple a structure such as a protective screen frame, and support and suspend a safety net in front of and spaced from the protective screen frame to minimize bounce back of a ball from the protective screen frame. Methods of protecting a batter with the protective screen safety apparatus are provided. Retrofitting and adjustable protective screen safety apparatus are described, including embodiments adapted to minimize damage to chain-link fences, as are other aspects.

Abstract: A rocket propelled grenade shield including a flexible net and a frame secured to the flexible net supporting the flexible net. Spaced hard points are attached to the net, the hard points including a base portion with a cavity therein and a plug received in said cavity locking each hard point to the flexible net.

Abstract: A collapsible sports goal that can be selectively configured between an erect configuration and a folded configuration. The sports goal has six frame elements. Each of the frame elements has two opposite ends. Each end of the frame elements connects to the end of another frame element using six connector joint assemblies. Each of the joint assemblies receives and interconnects a different two of the six frame elements. Each of the connector joint assemblies contains a hinge joint that enables the frame elements connected to each of the six joint assemblies to rotate about said hinge joint between a parallel configuration to a perpendicular configuration. When all of the connector joint assemblies are in their perpendicular configuration, the sports goal is in its fully erect configuration. Conversely, when all of the connector joint assemblies are in their parallel configuration, the sports goal is in its fully folded configuration.

Abstract: A lower corner connector for a modular sports goal comprises a first tube having a generally circular inner surface and a second tube extending substantially perpendicularly to the first tube. The first tube has an open end for receiving an upright and a base opposite the open end for resting on a surface. A retainer projects inwardly from the inner surface of the first tube for engaging and retaining the upright and permitting the upright to rock toward and away from the second tube within the first tube to assist in absorbing impact forces.

Abstract: A goal apparatus for soccer (football) and the like has a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a device, comprising a collapsible sports goal that is housed and anchored by a backpack.

Abstract: A portable, lightweight soccer rebounding wall with good rebound characteristics, whereby the pace of the rebounding soccer ball is similar to that of the pace at which it was imparted against the wall. The system is easily assembled and disassembled and is sufficiently light to be carried by one person for several hundred yards. In a specific implementation, the rebounding wall includes a panel of pultruded, fiberglass cross bar grating.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to apparatuses and methods for releasably securing a structural member of a movable goal, such as a soccer goal, to a surface, such as the ground. For example, in one embodiment, an apparatus is provided comprising: (1) an enclosure structured to be placed at least substantially below the surface, the enclosure defining a cavity; (2) a goal engaging member movable relative to the surface and structured to engage the structural member of the movable goal; and (3) a tightening mechanism mounted within the enclosure and operatively connected to the goal engaging member, the tightening mechanism being structured to urge the goal engaging member toward the tightening mechanism so that the goal engaging member releasably secures a portion of the structural member of the movable goal.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus for securing a movable soccer goal to a playing surface. When in use, the apparatus functions to prevent the soccer goal from being moved, thereby, making it considerably safer and more sturdy than an unsecured soccer goal.

Abstract: Improvements in an expandable goal net are disclosed. The expandable goal net is foldable and can be taken from a full size goal to a smaller size that can be easily compacted for transportation. The vertical legs telescope inside each other to essentially reduce the height of the vertical members to essentially half. The horizontal cross posts fold in half thereby to compact the expandable goal net into a vertical folded rectangle. The folding joints are on the horizontal members. joints lock into a horizontal orientation and can be released to allow the joints to fold essentially 180 degrees. Corners use similar hinged joints that allow the horizontal members to bend to essentially 90 degrees. Vertical members have locking slides that telescope to reduce the total length of the vertical members. The expandable goal net is made from aluminum tubes and formed or molded plastic components.

Abstract: A game for at least 2 players wherein one of the players attempts to score points by hurling a plastic ball with the aid of a scoop racket into one of three scoring areas of their opponents “goal”. Opposing players stand at opposite ends of a playing field with said goal(s) positioned in front of each player. Goals are situated a certain distance apart from each other, the three scoring areas are mounted at adjustable heights above the playing surface and can be positioned in a common plane (or not). Said scoring areas are of various diameters and point values. Said scoring areas are distinctly apart from each other (not abutted) and are attached to a fixed post (standard). Points are awarded to players for hurling the ball into one of their opponent's scoring areas with point values inversely proportional to the diameter of the scoring area scored upon.

Abstract: A flexible collapsible curtain for hanging up as a football pitch backstop characterised by a flap protruding from the plane of the curtain to define a goal having a goal mouth in the plane of the curtain, wherein, in use, the edges of the goal mouth are defined by tension in the curtain.

Abstract: A sport goal movement system that includes drive and control systems. The drive system preferably includes a motor that selectively drives one of a wheel or a track. The drive system can be integrated with and/or permanently or removably secured to the sport goal assembly. Operation of the drive system effectuates single user unassisted and possibly remote translation of the sport goal assembly relative to a ground surface.

Abstract: A play tent has a tent body, a roof, and a game device board. The tent body has a ball opening. The roof is connected with the tent body and has a ball end moveable relative to the tent body to correspond to the top of the tent body or the ball opening. The game device board is mounted on the tent body. When the ball end is moved to a position corresponding to the ball opening, a child can pitch a ball towards the game device board, and then the ball rolls to the ball opening, such that the child can pitch the ball again. When the ball end is moved to a position corresponding to the top of the tent body, the child can be engaged in other activities inside the tent body. Therefore, the play tent can provide multiple functions for use.

Abstract: A folding sports goal includes a U-shaped front frame which defines the goal opening, a U-shaped base frame with legs pivotally connected with the uprights in the front frame, and a pair of C-shaped side frames with opposite ends pivotally connected with the uprights of the front frame. The erected goal is shifted to a folded storage position by pivoting the side frames inwardly against the front frame, and then folding the base frame upwardly against the side frames and engaging locks which positively retain the goal in a folded storage position.

Abstract: A Soccer Goal Retainer includes a bar rotatably mounted in an enclosure. A clamp plate includes a lower member attachable to the bar. A vertical member extends at right angles from the lower member and an upper member extends from the vertical member generally at right angles. A lip extends generally at right angles from the upper member. With the vertical member generally positioned vertically, the lip, the upper member and vertical member are placed over the rear rail of a soccer goal and the clamp plate is secured to the bar. The clamp plate is released from the rear rail by loosening the clamp plate from the bar. The clamp plate and the bar are then rotated in a forward manner and downwardly into the enclosure. A cover is placed over the enclosure both when the clamp plate is in use and when it is being stored.

Abstract: A swiftly-assembling collapsible goal and a portable frame are provided. The goal includes a plurality of poles engaged together to form a frame of the goal. Engaged poles are associated with each other with a hinge disposed at a corner region therebetween. One of two engaged poles is provided with a tenon protruding from a first end thereof and the other pole of the two engaged poles is provided with a mortise slot at a second end of the other pole facing toward the first end. The tenon defines a wedge-shaped slot along an axis of the pole. An insert pin is engaged to the tenon with a wedge-shaped rib engaged in the wedge-shaped slot. The insert pin has two tabs laterally extending from two side surfaces thereof. The pole with mortise slot defines two slits in two sidewalls which define the mortise slot, for respectively receiving the two ribs therein. The tenon and the insert pin are received in the mortise slot.

Abstract: A goal assembly includes a base frame and a main frame. The base frame includes a first side rail, a second side rail and a cross-member that is engaged to the first and second side rails. The main frame includes a first side leg engaged to the first side rail, a second side leg engaged to the second side rail, and a cross-bar engaged to the first and second side legs. A first wheel assembly is engaged to the first side rail. The first wheel assembly includes a wheel that rotates about a rotation axis of the first wheel assembly. A second wheel assembly is engaged to the first side rail. The second wheel assembly includes a wheel that rotates about a rotation axis of the second wheel assembly. The rotation axes of the first and second wheel assemblies are generally parallel to the first side rail.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable support structure with net useful for use in multiple sports or games. Embodiments of the invention allow installation in a safe and easy way that can be performed and used by children and/or adults. It also has a mechanism of rotation and lock to a more secure fit by providing safety and soundness. Inside the tubes that make up support is an elastic cord that gives greater security and fixity to the structure.

Abstract: This disclosure primarily concerns sports goals. In an aspect, some of these sports goals are collapsible and/or portable. In some novel configurations, a sports goal might be collapsible into an easily carried configuration without any need to remove the net of the goal. In another configuration, a sports goal might have members that attach using a novel attachment mechanism that requires much less effort and frustration than conventional attachments. In yet another configuration, a sports goal might have a net that is secured to the goal frame with a novel reinforcement system that prevents the net from tearing away from the goal frame when struck with a high-velocity ball or puck.

Abstract: A returning goal system including a generally U-shaped entryway, first and second sides extending away from the entryway, and lower and upper back crossbars extending between the sides to form lower and upper open portions. A net is connected to the goal and covers the lower open portion and upper open portion. The lower open portion of the net is sufficiently tensioned so as to return a ball towards the entryway without causing it to be ejected from the goal.

Abstract: A sports goal is configured to have display lighting and fireworks. This goal post has a light emitting device, a laser lighting emitting device, and remote transmitter for controlling the light emitting device and a sound emitting device. The goal post may come in a variety of sign display appearances.

Abstract: A game goal according to the invention, such as a soccer goal, collapses both vertically and laterally. The goal includes joints and brackets which facilitate the collapse of the goal such that the during vertical collapse, the forward uprights of the goal fold below the goal's lower rear support members, enhancing the goals transportability. The goal includes stabilizing arms and corresponding receptacles to stabilize the goal in the collapsed position. The goal also has a resistive element which prevents the goal from collapsing too quickly. The goal further incorporates a rotating joint in a top corner bracket which provides an interference fit with a slot in the top corner bracket and a notch in the upright, thereby providing stability when the goal is in the upright or open position for use. Lateral stability of the goal under the weight of a net is enhanced by angle brackets at the ground level of the goal.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a device, comprising a collapsible sports goal that is housed and anchored by a backpack.

Abstract: Goal apparatus comprising a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth. A frame for use in the goal apparatus. A net for use in the goal apparatus comprising first, second and third edges, and a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member extending along the first, second and third edge respectively.

Abstract: An activity system which includes a play area and at least one wall, which defines two opposed play surfaces on opposite sides of the wall. Each play surface is capable of facilitating an activity. At least one aperture is formed in the at least one wall, which allows users of the activity system to complete an objective of an activity facilitated by the activity system.

Abstract: A collapsible sports goal that can be selectively configured between an erect configuration and a folded configuration. The sports goal has six frame elements. Each of the frame elements has two opposite ends. Each end of the frame elements connects to the end of another frame element using six connector joint assemblies. Each of the joint assemblies receives and interconnects a different two of the six frame elements. Each of the connector joint assemblies contains a hinge joint that enables the frame elements connected to each of the six joint assemblies to rotate about said hinge joint between a parallel configuration to a perpendicular configuration. When all of the connector joint assemblies are in their perpendicular configuration, the sports goal is in its fully erect configuration. Conversely, when all of the connector joint assemblies are in their parallel configuration, the sports goal is in its fully folded configuration.

Abstract: In a soccer goal consisting of a framework supporting a net arranged to trap a soccer ball passing through the mouth of the frame upon scoring a goal, a safety device for preventing the shifting of the framework from a playing field position or from tipping over from misuse or player impact consisting of a weighted roller attachable or attached to the rear of the framework and resting on the playing field opposite the mouth which roller is either permanently weighted by construction of a heavy material or is constructed of a sealed shell fillable with a liquid such as water or a flowable particulate substance such as sand. In addition to providing the necessary weight to stabilize the goal, the rollers facilitate the repositioning of the goal for storage or to clear a playing field for other purposes.

Abstract: Goal apparatus comprising a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth. A frame for use in the goal apparatus. A net for use in the goal apparatus comprising first, second and third edges, and a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member extending along the first, second and third edge respectively.

Abstract: A selectively releasable ground securing device that includes a ground member, a clamp body, and a lock assembly that selectively cooperates with the ground member to secure the clamp body relative thereto. The ground member includes a drivable body that is constructed to be driven into a ground surface such that the ground member is generally flush with the upper layer of the ground surface. The lock assembly selectively cooperates with the ground member to secure the clamp body and structure engaged therewith relative to the ground member. In a preferred embodiment, the clamp body cooperates with a rail of a goal assembly to prevent tipping or movement of the goal assembly when the lock assembly is engaged with the ground member.

Abstract: A portable and easily foldable sport net 50 comprises a ball return system wherein balls 930 or other projectiles are stopped and gently rolled back to the user. A frame system 200 may be comprised of spring steel or fiberglass and may further comprise front frame members 210, rear frame members 220 and lower lateral frame members 230. An inside net 100 is attached or integrated into the front frame members 210 and the inside net 100 has little contact or attachment to the rear frame members 220. The judicious use of netting material and other components result in a lightweight and easy to assemble sport net. Embodiments feature two lateral voids 250 and a rear void 240 which provide an economy of construction and efficiency of use.

Abstract: The invention relates to table or floor games based on throwing a ball into the game field, and can be used in organizing leisure and entertainment for both children and adults. The game comprises a game field with a plurality of holes and at least one movable trap for the ball outside the game field. The trap for the ball may be fixed to a rod, which is slidably mounted on a bar, said bar being attached to the sidewall, which limits the game field. The trap for the ball may be fixed to a rod, which is mounted on a movable platform.

Abstract: A device indicates a ready and/or upset condition of a ground supported goal such as a soccer goal that has at least one bar that lies in contact with the ground. An indicator arm is movable relative to the contact arm between a ready position and an upset position. A contact arm cooperates with. A biasing element biases the indicator arm to the upset position. When the bar of the goal is no longer in contact with the ground the indicator arm moves from the ready position to the upset position.

Abstract: A removable wheel device which slides onto the base of a sports field goal. The wheel device allows one person to move a goal across a field without using excessive force by sliding one wheel device onto the base of each goalpost and using leverage to tilt the goal and push or pull it for a distance. When inserted onto the base of the goal, the wheel device does not require any type of fastening to remain in place, but rather uses its own unique shape to hold onto the goal. In one embodiment the removable wheel device comprises a wheel, a bracket, and a U-shaped sleeve which may slide onto the base of a lacrosse goalpost.

Abstract: Equipment is temporarily supported above the ground by a self-supporting, readily erectable and transportable mast. The mast comprises a pneumatically inflatable elongate tube having a first end to which the equipment is coupled and a second end coupled to a ground support tripod. The mast is provided with bracing structure adapted to brace the tube when inflated and including respective flexible members extending from each tripod leg to the first end of the tube.

Abstract: A hockey goal frame and a hockey goal frame with a mesh net assembly are disclosed. The hockey goal frame includes two vertical posts joined by a crossbar that defines a forward frame. The forward frame is supported by a lower supporting member. The forward frame and lower supporting member have attachments wires for accepting an attachment tab from a mesh net in order to attach the mesh net to the frame. The attachment tabs have two complimentary hook-and-loop fasteners that are coupled to surround the attachment tab around the attachment wires.

Abstract: A lightweight sports net frame assembly and anti-rebound system allowing straightforward assembly, enhanced rigidity, expedited replacement of the net and ease in retrieval of objects from the net frame assembly during usage of said assembly. The net frame assembly comprises substantially cylindrical cavities that allow for cables, rods or other tethering means to pass through said cavities and in turn securely fasten within the side frame members. The joints of the frame are comprised of various interlocking pieces, which provide smooth outer surface at the joints, reinforce the rigidity of the frame and diminish rotational moments on individual segments. A frame stability system is incorporated.

Abstract: A sport goal particularly a soccer goal is provided. The soccer goal includes a pair of uprights for disposition in an opening in a ground surface such as a gymnasium floor. Each upright includes a backstay. A crossbar is disposed between the uprights to form a generally rectangular opening between the uprights, crossbar and ground surface. A net is retained on the uprights and crossbar and is supported by the backstays. A weighted portion is connected to the net at the bottom thereof.

Abstract: An extension net for providing a backstop for a standard or specially modified lacrosse goal. The extension net includes one or more frame portions that are secured to the lacrosse goal and are rotatable so as to vary an angle between an end portion of the extension net and the lacrosse goal. The extension net can be sized so as to mark an outer boundary of a regulation lacrosse crease. A convertible goal that has both lacrosse and hockey goal modes and that can support an extension net in one or both of the modes.

Abstract: Methods are provided for at least two teams to play a game with a ball on a playing surface having a plurality of zones and at least two goals. Zones have distinct rules for handling passing, receiving, and shooting of a ball during a game. A goal provides two distinctly defined types of scoring zones through which to score the ball from within a peripheral line of the playing surface. One type of scoring zone is at least one open ring shaped opening, and the other is an arced rectangularly shaped opening. The ball may be scored through either of the scoring zones. Points are awarded differently for scoring in either of the two zones and for throwing or kicking the ball through the two zones. Ball comprises at least two panels having arms attached along a contiguous seam.

Abstract: A netting apparatus adapted to display advertising content at a sporting event is disclosed. The netting apparatus comprises a first panel and a second panel. The first panel may comprise an open mesh netting, wherein the open mesh netting is adapted to safely stop a ball without significant obstruction of view through the open mesh netting.

Abstract: A ball net of box type comprises a front loop, a rear loop, and first and second side loops. The enclosing net portion are for covering a top hole formed by top portions of the loops, two side holes formed by the side loops, and a rear hole formed by the rear loop, so as to enclose the box-type space from four sides. The vertical side straight portions of neighboring loops are hold together by fabric holder portions. The top curved portion of the front loop protrudes above the top straight portions of the other loops, such that a front opening defined by the front loop provides a receiving area larger than the other holes defined by the other loops especially in a upper portion of the receiving area. The front loop has a larger area than the other loops in a lower portion of the receiving area.

Abstract: A self-deploying game device, which is intended to receive an object. It includes a bowed structure with a basic loop that includes a front part in a horizontal plane and a rear part, and a goal loop, with a rear part in a horizontal plane, and a front part in a plane forming a non-zero angle with the horizontal plane. It also includes a flexible structure with a first part stretched inside the goal loop, and a second part stretched inside the rear part of the goal loop. In the deployed position, the front part of the basic loop rests on the ground, and the tension of the flexible structure is such that the basic loop, the goal loop, the flexible structure, and the ground, form a capture volume for the object, the entrance of which is bounded by the front part of the goal loop.

Abstract: Goal apparatus comprising a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth. A frame for use in the goal apparatus. A net for use in the goal apparatus comprising first, second and third edges, and a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member extending along the first, second and third edge respectively.