Hand Hitter

By Smart Coach
Part of Year 5-8 - Lesson 1 - Forehand + Backhand

About this activity

Author: Smart Coach
Views: 166
Phase: Warm Up

Pair students up in the class (one will have a tennis ball "thrower" and the other will be the "hitter" with NO racquet - will use their arm) and move them off so they have enough space for themselves without bumping into other players. When the coach/teacher calls out BEGIN, the thrower will gently toss the tennis ball at the hitter but only to one side (forehand) repeatedly ten times. The hitter must strike the tennis ball after it has bounced and hit it back to the thrower. After the hitter has had ten turns, both players will swap roles so the new hitter will have ten turns at hitting the tennis ball. Players will then proceed to throw and hit on the backhand side of the body (will be hitting the tennis ball with the underneath of the hand) ten times each. 

PROGRESSION:

- To add a further element, allow the thrower to randomise the side they toss the ball to making the hitter react and adapt. For every hit made, a point will be awarded. However if the ball is missed, the thrower will recieve a point. Ensure players swap roles to allow the swapped player an opportunity to beat the score.