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Throw Through the Hoop Window Trios

In groups of three, one student holds a hoop upright like a window, another throws a foam ball through it, and the third catches it on the other side. Students work on throwing accuracy, catching, and cooperation with rotating roles.

PhaseWarm-up
Duration9 min
Ages8–12
SpaceOutdoor yard
Equipmenthoops, foam balls
IntensityModerate

How to play

  1. Make trios with one hoop and one ball and line them up: thrower, window 3 yards away, and catcher 3 yards behind the hoop (1 min).
  2. The window holds the hoop with both hands at chest height while standing to the side of it; the thrower tosses underhand through the opening and the catcher catches it (2 min).
  3. Rotate every 5 throws: thrower becomes window, window becomes catcher, and catcher becomes thrower, now throwing the other way.
  4. Moving window: the hoop holder raises it, lowers it, or takes a step to the side between throws (2 min).
  5. Overhand throws from 4 yards, with the hoop held a little higher (2 min).
  6. Final challenge: each trio counts how many balls go through the hoop and are caught in 1 minute, rotating freely; two tries (2 min).

Rules

Variations

Easier

Use a large hoop at 2 yards with underhand tosses.

Standard

Hoop at chest height, 3 yards away, rotating every 5 throws.

Harder

Moving window at 4–5 yards, with overhand throws and the non-dominant hand.

Adaptations

Learning goals

Equipment for a class of 25

Teacher tip

Check at the start that the window holds the hoop from the side; it is the only real safety point. Mixed-ability trios work well because everyone plays all three roles.

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