Rob the Nest
Four teams race to carry balls from a center nest to their own hoop, and once the center is empty, they steal balls from each other. It is a high-energy warm-up without direct chasing that builds speed and team decisions.
How to play
- Place a hoop at each corner of a 50 × 50 ft square and one in the middle with about 20 balls. Form 4 teams of 6 lined up behind their hoop.
- Warm up for 2 minutes: teams jog in a line around the square and do a mobility exercise at each corner.
- On the whistle, the first player in each line runs to the middle, takes one ball, drops it in their hoop, and high-fives the next player, who goes.
- When the middle is empty, players may take balls from other teams' hoops, always one per trip.
- After 90 seconds the whistle blows: the team with the most balls in its hoop wins. Play 4 rounds.
Rules
- One ball per trip, placed inside the hoop, not thrown.
- No one may guard their hoop or cover the balls.
- Go only after high-fiving the returning teammate.
- Slow down near the hoops to avoid running into other teams.
Variations
Easier
Play with only the center nest, no stealing, at a power walk.
Standard
Four teams, stealing allowed once the center is empty, and 90-second rounds.
Harder
Two players go at once and carry the ball between them without using hands.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the hoop of the team with a student using a wheelchair moves closer to the center, and that student can carry two balls per trip.
- Visual impairment: use large, brightly colored balls, and a partner goes along on the first trips.
- Fitness level: a student who needs a slower pace can be the team counter for one round.
Learning goals
- Perform short speed bursts with recovery in line.
- Decide as a team which nest to take balls from.
- Respect turns and stealing rules.
Equipment for a class of 25
- hoops: 5
- balls: 20
Teacher tip
The middle gets crowded: ask students to enter and exit on their right. If one team falls far behind, mix up the teams for the next round.
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