Soccer training device

Abstract

A soccer training device which is lightweight and portable is provided. The soccer training device of the present invention comprises at least two rebound surfaces which are preferably set at different angles. A player practises soccer by kicking at the rebound surface and then trapping and returning the rebounded ball. The rebound surfaces are typically of a rigid synthetic material and are elongate relative to the connecting end panels.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10 / 377,801 filed on Mar. 4, 2003.FIELD OF INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a device to help soccer players develop their kicking and rebound skills. The device is compact and easily portable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Soccer has long been a popular sport worldwide and is rapidly growing in popularity in North America. As with all sports, practice is necessary to improve skills. One of the most important skills required in soccer is the ability to pass and trap the ball with confidence and control. This type of practice usually requires two or more people. A soccer training device that enables an individual to practice these skills, that is easily portable and which can be used in any open space, such as a backyard or park, is therefore desirable. [0004] Several soccer training devices have been developed to help players improve their skills in a time efficient man...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] In one aspect of the invention, a soccer training device is provided that is lightweight and portable. The device comprises a shell having two side ends and a first rebound surface and a second rebound surface attached to the two side ends.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the first rebound surface is set at a first angular inclination and the second rebound surface is set at a different angular inclination. This enables the user to practice different rebound skills. The first angular inclination is preferably about 5-15 degrees and the second angular inclination is about 15-35 degrees.

[0010] The present invention also provides a method for practising soccer. The method comprises kicking a soccer ball at one of the rebound surfaces and reacting to the rebound generated to return the ball to the surface. This can be repeated many times in quick succession thereby providing a very efficient exercise. A player can choose to practice low rebounds by using the first rebound surface or high rebounds by using the second rebound surface.

Problems solved by technology

While several soccer training devices have been developed, many of them suffer from the disadvantage of being very large or heavy and therefore not easily transportable.

Other devices are too lightweight and do not provide sufficient stability to withstand the force of a strongly kicked ball.

In addition, some of the prior art devices utilize netting material that is sensitive to the weather elements and thus cannot be left outside for prolonged periods of time.

Others require complicated assembly and disassembly.

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