Datchball: The Pass That Opens the Angle

A tactical datchball session where teams use quick passes to change the throwing angle before the other side can reset. Students build team play in a sport that is often played one-on-one.

How to play

1. Set up three small courts and explain the idea: a throw works better right after a quick pass that switches the side of attack (3 min).
2. 3-on-1: three throwers outside a square pass quickly and throw at the dodger in the middle when they're out of position; switch every 40 seconds (6 min).
3. 5-on-5 games where a hit only counts after at least one pass; a catch brings a teammate back in (10 min).
4. Variation: each team has a wild card behind the other team's back line who can receive and throw (4 min).
5. Debrief: which pass gave you the biggest advantage, and how did you defend a side switch? (2 min).

Rules

• Hits below the shoulders only, with no bounce first.
• No one holds the ball for more than five seconds.
• The wild card may not step into the other team's court.
• A player who is hit goes to their team's line and comes back as soon as a teammate makes a catch.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students who are deaf or hard of hearing: the team agrees on a visual signal (arm up) to call for the pass.
• Students who use wheelchairs: play as a fixed wild card at the back; their throws count double.
• Students with a shoulder injury: only make two-hand chest passes and don't throw to hit.

Learning goals

• Use passing to create an advantage before throwing.
• Reorganize on defense when the attack switches sides.
• Cooperate in a throwing-and-dodging sport.

Equipment for a class of 25

• foam balls: 6
• cones: 16
• pinnies: 15

Teacher tip

At first everyone throws as soon as they catch: stop play and ask where the gap was. Keep teams mixed and balanced, with girls and boys spread across both sides.

More activities like this

More main activities for High School