Foam Javelin Territory Battle
A team game where two groups return foam javelins from wherever they land, pushing the other team back toward its end line. Students work on throwing for distance, deciding who throws when, and cooperating as a team.
How to play
- Field about 65 x 22 yards with a center line and two end lines marked with cones; teams of 6 in two pinnie colors, one in each half.
- Each team has 3 javelins. On the whistle, each team's first thrower throws from the center line into the other half (3 min practice).
- The other team throws back from the spot where the javelin landed; a cone marks that spot as their new throwing line.
- Teams alternate throws, rotating the thrower each time; if a javelin lands out of bounds, the other team moves up 5 yards.
- A team wins the round if a javelin lands behind the opponent's end line, or by holding the most ground after 4 min.
- Play 3 rounds of 4 min with 1 min between rounds to set the throwing order; then switch opponents.
Rules
- No one stands in front of their own line while the other team throws; wait facing the throw and watch the javelin.
- Javelins are picked up only once they are on the ground and the teacher has not signaled otherwise.
- Everyone on the team throws before anyone throws again.
- Overhand throws only, with a maximum 3-step approach.
Variations
Easier
Throw from a standing position and shorten the field to about 45 yards.
Standard
Throw with up to a 3-step approach on a 65-yard field.
Harder
If the receiving team catches the javelin before it hits the ground, they throw back from 3 yards farther forward.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student throws from a wheelchair or seated and gets a 5-yard bonus on each throw.
- Shyness: the team sets the order during the break, so the student knows when their turn comes and is never singled out.
- Lower strength: the student may throw a light ball, which carries more easily.
Learning goals
- Throw effectively for maximum useful distance.
- Decide as a team on the throwing order based on the game situation.
- Work with teammates while following turn-taking and safety rules.
Equipment for a class of 25
- foam javelins: 12
- cones: 20
- pinnies: 13
Teacher tip
Keep at least 10 yards clear along both sidelines and never let anyone run to retrieve while someone is throwing. Mark each new spot clearly with a cone to avoid arguments.
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