Set and Switch Lines over the Rope

A cooperative drill with two lines facing each other across a rope: each student sets the ball over and then switches to the back of the opposite line. It works on setting, moving after the contact and teamwork.

How to play

1. Stretch a long rope 2 m high and make 4 groups of 6 (one of 7): three in a line on each side, 3 m from the rope, with a side cone marking where to cross (2 min).
2. Phase 1 (3 min): the first student tosses over the rope; the student opposite catches at the forehead and pushes it back with a set. After sending, each student crosses by the cone to the back of the opposite line.
3. Phase 2 (4 min): direct sets without catching. The group counts out loud the consecutive sets that clear the rope; if the ball drops, start over.
4. Phase 3 (4 min): group record in 2 minutes, two tries. Each group reports its best score and the class adds up a class record.
5. Wrap-up (2 min): the most improved group explains what they did (more height, calling 'mine,' getting in position early).

Rules

• Always cross by the side cone, never through the middle where the ball is flying.
• Call 'mine' before you play the ball.
• If the ball drops, the closest student picks it up and restarts with a soft toss.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: stays at the front of one line without switching sides and may catch the ball.
• Low vision: use a contrasting ball or balloon, and the sender says the student's name before the contact.
• Mixed ability: in the same group, skilled students set from 4 m and those who struggle from 2 m.

Learning goals

• Set the ball over a set height.
• Move to a new position after the contact.
• Work together to beat a group record.

Equipment for a class of 25

• long rope: 2
• light balls: 5
• cones: 10

Teacher tip

Switching lines can cause traffic jams, so have everyone peel off to the same side after sending. With lines of three, nobody waits more than a few seconds.

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