Tunnel Ball Relay

Each team stands in a line with legs apart, and the first player rolls the ball back through the tunnel; the last player picks it up, runs to the front, and starts again until everyone has had a turn in front. Students work on hand-eye coordination, speed, and teamwork.

How to play

1. Make four teams of six standing in a line one behind the other, an arm's length apart, with a cone in front of each line (1 min).
2. Everyone stands with legs apart to make a tunnel; the first player squats with the soft ball and rolls it back between the legs of the line (1 min).
3. Players in the tunnel may steer the ball with their hands if it drifts, but not pick it up; the last player stops it (2 min).
4. The last player runs up the side with the ball to the cone, becomes the new front player, and rolls it again; the line slowly moves forward (3 min).
5. The winning team is the one whose first player is back in front, with the whole team sitting down with arms crossed (2 min).
6. Repeat with variations: alternate an over-the-head pass with the tunnel, or have the line face backward (3 min).

Rules

• The ball always rolls along the floor inside the tunnel; no throwing.
• Run along the right side of your line so you don't collide with other teams.
• If the ball leaves the tunnel, the closest player gets it and returns it to where it came out.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students who use wheelchairs: sit at the end of the line to receive the ball in a hoop and hand it to the front player instead of running.
• Students with visual impairments: use a ball with a bell, and the last player calls out to them.
• Students with less speed: the team may agree that this student walks the route without losing points.

Learning goals

• Roll the ball with control so it travels straight through the tunnel.
• Accelerate in a short sprint and get into line quickly.
• Follow the order and rules of the relay.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soft balls: 4
• cones: 4

Teacher tip

This is a classic that kids love; keep lines at least 10 feet apart so balls don't cross. If lines drift, mark each student's spot with chalk.

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