Disc Toss and Deflect into the Can
A flying disc backyard game in which a pair throws toward a tall can 15 yards away and the partner standing by the can deflects the disc with a hand to hit it or knock it inside. Students work on the backhand throw, reading flight paths and teamwork.
How to play
- Set up 6 pairs of tall cans (or clean trash cans with a slot cut in them) facing each other 15 yards apart; two pairs play on each court, with one player from each pair at each can.
- Review the backhand throw (3 min): grip with the thumb on top, rotate the torso and release the disc flat.
- Taking turns, one player throws toward the far can and their partner, standing by that can, may deflect the disc with a hand but not catch it.
- Scoring: disc hits the can after a deflection, 1 point; hits the can directly, 2; goes in the top after a deflection, 3; goes in the slot or straight in the top, instant win.
- Teams alternate turns, each player throws 2 discs per round, then thrower and deflector switch roles; games are played to exactly 21.
- Play 3 games against different opponents and close with 2 minutes on when it was smart to deflect and when to let the disc go.
Rules
- You may not catch or hold the disc; you can only slap it.
- The deflector may not move or touch the can.
- Nobody crosses between courts while someone is throwing.
Variations
Easier
Move the cans to 10 yards and use a soft disc that is easier to throw.
Standard
Cans at 15 yards, games to exactly 21 with deflections.
Harder
Every throw must be a forehand and deflections count only with the non-dominant hand.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student always throws, from a chair, at 10 yards.
- Autism: give the student the scoring chart in writing and keep a fixed turn order.
- Weaker thrower: the student throws from 10 yards while others throw from 15, in the same game.
Learning goals
- Improve backhand throwing accuracy with a disc.
- Read the disc's flight to decide whether to deflect it.
- Cooperate with a partner in an outdoor recreational game.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Flying discs: 12
- buckets: 12
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
Tall, clean plastic trash cans work great; cut a 2-inch slot halfway up. Use good-quality or soft discs, because very light ones fly poorly in the wind.
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