Curtain Ball Blind Volleyball
Catch-and-throw game over a net covered with sheets so players can't see the other team until the ball appears overhead. Students practice reaction speed, judging the ball's path and communicating as a team.
How to play
- Hang sheets or fabric from the net (at about 6.5 ft) down to the floor to block the view. Mark two courts about 26 x 30 ft and make 4 teams of 6: two play and two wait on the sidelines (3 min).
- Explain: the ball is thrown with two hands over the net, and the other team must catch it before it touches the floor.
- The catcher throws from where they are within 3 seconds. Score when the ball lands on the other side or goes out.
- 3-minute games; sideline teams come in after each game and keep score while waiting (8 min).
- Final round with two balls at once for extra surprise, then clean up (2 min).
Rules
- Always throw over the net, not under the sheets.
- Nobody lifts or peeks under the sheets.
- Safety: stay at least 3 ft from the net and throw with an arc, never straight at the sheet.
Variations
Easier
Allow one bounce before the catch.
Standard
Catch with no bounce and throw within 3 seconds.
Harder
One pass within the team is required before sending the ball back.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: a personal zone at the back of the court where the ball may bounce before the catch.
- Hearing impairment: teammates point to where the ball is coming down.
- Fitness level: bigger, slower balls to lower the reaction demand.
Learning goals
- React quickly to a ball that appears without warning.
- Judge the ball's path in order to catch it.
- Communicate with teammates about where the ball will land.
Equipment for a class of 25
- fabric pieces: 4
- net: 1
- foam balls: 4
Teacher tip
Secure the sheets to the net with clips so they can't fall on anyone. Encourage teams to call out ("Right!", "Back!"); it improves the game a lot.
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