Skill: CATCHING
Drill: Jumping Fish
Equipment needed: One foam noodle per line
Instructors needed: One per line
Description: In this drill the students will practice catching a foam sword “jumping fish” in the air.
Teaching SKILLZ: EXTRINSIC MOTIVATION
  • If the students drop the noodle, then they have three squat jumps. If they are able to catch the noodle every time, then the instructor will do three squat jumps.
Brain SKILLZ: VISUAL PROCESSING
  • The students must be able to catch the noodles that are thrown at them. This works on their ability to participate in visual activities, as they must track the moving noodles in the air and catch them, despite them being a different shape than what they are used to.
Step 1
  • Divide the class into groups.
Step 2
  • Have the group of students sit on the side of the mat.
Step 3
  • Pick one student to go first and have that student stand on the mat.
Step 4
  • Stand approximately 4’ away with a foam sword as shown in the picture.
Step 5 – Explain the Rules:
  • When I toss the “fish” in the air, you must try and catch it with your hands.
  • If you drop the “fish”, then you have to do 3 squat jumps.
  • If you do not drop the “fish”, then I will do 3 squat jumps.
Step 6
  • Have the student go three times, standing at least 2’ further each time.
Step 7
  • Continue until each student has at least two turns.
How To Video