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Introduction

As a game Billy Ball has similarities to team handball and is, therefore, a great lead up activity to it. It develops cooperative play attitudes in a fun-filled environment. Teams are ideally mixed, integrating players of different genders, ages and ability levels.

Throwing Objects
Instead of a Billy Ball ball, softer and safer throwing objects are used. The only requirement is that the objects be able to pass through an opening 24"W x 12"H. The larger the object, the more difficult it will be to score.

The Field of Play
Billy Ball can be played indoors or out or on a field or court approximately 30 yards x 50 yards. However, you may vary the dimensions to fit your facility.

The Goals
Billy Ball goals are 24"W x 12"H and are height adjustable from 5' to 8'. Telltale strips within the goal mouth clearly indicate when a goal has been scored. Goals should be placed just outside each end line on opposite ends of the playing field.

Game Play

1. Teams may field up to eleven players each, including the goalie who is positioned behind (rather than in front of the goal). In this game the goalie is part of the offense, rather than the defense. Goalies must have a single throwing object in their hands at all times.
2. Throwing objects such as frisbees, foam balls, tennis balls, deck tennis rings, fluff balls, hand balls, Koosh balls, etc. are randomly divided between goalies.
3. The game begins when the offensive team's goalie throws the first object into play.
4. Goalies can move about freely behind the goal at all times, but may never enter the field of play. If a goalie enters the field, the throwing object in play is surrendered to the nearest defensive player.
5. Field players may also move around the field freely as long as they do not have possession of a throwing object. They must remain within the boundaries of the field or court at all times. However, the moment a player takes possession of a throwing object, that player must freeze. The object must be passed before movement is allowed.
6. It is through this move, freeze and pass pattern that a throwing object is brought down field for a shot n goal.
7. An object must pass through the goal mouth for a "goal" and each "goal" counts as one point.
8. The defensive team player may intercept a throw or pick up a loose throwing object, but may never take a throwing object out of the hands of an opponent.
9. As soon as a goal is either scored or missed, the defensive team's goalie must immediately put a new throwing object into play. In this way the game has continuous momentum.
10. The game is played to a goal or time limit that you set.
11. A number of variations can be implemented very easily.
    a. This game can be adapted for play either seated or standing.
    b. There can be a half court line to divide defenders from attackers.
    c. New teams can be switched after each goal.