Training article for throwing and catching

Abstract

The present throwable article is a toroidal-shaped ring of tightly-rolled elastic-knit fabric, such as by using knee-high sport socks. The number of layers in the roll may vary, but preferably include 15-30 layers or more of rolled fabric, such that the cross-sectional ring is a solid and relatively tight mass. Size and shape may be varied, but it is contemplated that the size will preferably be kept about equal to or less than a softball such as 3-½ to 4-½ inches outer diameter, and with a weight of about 3-5 ounces. The throwable article is useful for training and / or for live games. It can be tailored in size, shape, weight, and functional characteristics for any game, any age and any environment.

Description

[0001]This applications claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 751,689, filed Dec. 19, 2005, entitled TRAINING ARTICLE FOR THROWING AND CATCHING, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]The present invention relates to an article for throwing and catching, and methods related to same. More particularly, the present article relates to a training article that can be thrown and caught, with reduced risk of injury to the participant and yet that simulates the weight and feel of a thrown baseball or softball.[0003]Baseball and softball are often considered to be America's favorite sports. However, many people (especially children) become “afraid” of a ball when learning the game due to the risk of being injured when catching a baseball or softball. Specifically, traditional baseballs and softballs are relatively hard, such that they can jam a finger or bruise a hand when incorrectly caught. Young players...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005]The present invention focuses on a throwable article that can be thrown or caught in a manner that simulates a baseball or softball, yet that reduces risk of injury and that emphasizes the fun of a catching and throwing game. It is a durable, low-cost article having an appropriate size and weight for participants of a particular game. I, the present inventor, discovered that the present throw ring satisfies the above criteria with surprising and unexpected results, as described below.

Problems solved by technology

However, many people (especially children) become “afraid” of a ball when learning the game due to the risk of being injured when catching a baseball or softball.

Specifically, traditional baseballs and softballs are relatively hard, such that they can jam a finger or bruise a hand when incorrectly caught.

Young players often become afraid of catching a ball due to being injured, whether it is because of a bad bounce from a rolling grounder or whether it is from a ball that is potentially thrown “too hard” for their skill capability.

However, many girls and women are sensitive to a disfiguring injury, especially to their face or hands.

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