Numbers Volley Circle

In circles of 6, students keep a foam ball in the air with sets or forearm passes; the hitter calls a number, and the player with that number must make the next touch. Students work on volleyball contacts, focus and reaction.

How to play

1. Make 4 groups of 6 (one of 7) in circles about 13 ft across marked with cones. Each student gets a number from 1 to 6 (or 7) (2 min).
2. Free play for 2 minutes: pass the ball around the circle without letting it drop, using sets or forearm passes.
3. Game: the hitter calls a number while hitting, and the player with that number makes the next touch. You can't call the player who just passed to you.
4. Each group counts touches in a row. If the ball drops, restart from 0. Three 2-minute tries to set a group record (6 min).
5. Final round (3 min): the receiver must self-pass once before sending it to the number called. Share records (2 min).

Rules

• Only the player whose number is called touches the ball.
• One self-pass is allowed, and it is required in the final round.
• Safety: keep the circle open and no pushing to get to the ball.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: teammates send the ball with a bounce when they call that student's number.
• Hearing impairment: point at the player as well as calling the number.
• Skill level: use a balloon or a bigger foam ball to slow the game down.

Learning goals

• Perform controlled sets and forearm passes.
• React quickly to a verbal cue.
• Include every teammate in the game.

Equipment for a class of 25

• foam balls: 4
• cones: 16

Teacher tip

Watch that students don't always call the same classmates; add a rule that every number must be called once before any repeats. Great for a classroom or small gym on rainy days.

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