Sports training apparatus

Abstract

This invention is a sports training target apparatus for training an individual in the throwing of a ball or other projectile. The apparatus is comprised of a wheeled frame, a support frame portion hingably attached to the wheeled frame, and a target frame portion hingably attached to the support frame. A preferred embodiment of the invention is further characterized by a hoop or net which provides a specific target for the user to assist in a convenient and effective target for practicing throwing a ball. The invention has particular utility in the training of football or soccer players. The device further includes the capability of adjusting the horizontal base portion and vertical upright portion such that the structure may be folded down onto itself for ease in portability, or for storage.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates generally to an apparatus for assisting in the training of an individual to play a sport. Specifically, this invention is directed to assisting an individual to perfect the art of throwing a ball such as a football, or otherwise projecting a ball or sports article, such as kicking a soccer ball. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] We all know that in order to gain proficiency in sports, an athlete must practice his or her critical skills over and over again. Essentially, the old adage of “practice makes perfect” is very applicable to sports training. For many sports played on both the professional level and amateur and high school level, the critical performance characteristic required is the ability to throw or otherwise propel a ball with great accuracy. In training for football specifically, passing skills are crucial. A football quarterback will generally need to practice throwing skills over and over again for months or even y...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] In light of the forgoing disadvantages inherent in the pre-existing methods and devices for assisting to train an athlete in propelling a ball or other objects, the present invention provides a significant improvement. Accordingly, the general purpose of the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new and improved apparatus for assisting in the development and training of an individual seeking to improve ones throwing capabilities for a variety of sports activities.

[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, the sports training target apparatus may include the capability of adjusting the angle between the target frame portion and support frame portion in a range from 0 to 360 degrees. The ability to change the angular relationship between the support frame and target portion serves the advantage of allowing the device to be fully folded down for easy storage and portability. It also enables user to simulate a number of alternative target practice options. For example, if the target frame is moved to a 30 degree angle with respect to the horizontal wheeled frame, more skill will be required for the user to throw a ball to the correct location, of course.

[0014] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the target frame portion may include a simple net arrangement without the use of a bordering support frame. This will serve to make the device more lightweight and flexible in moving from site to site.

Problems solved by technology

Although these are assemblies are useful for many situations, they are generally not as portable as desired in most sports training scenarios.

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