Broom Sweep Relay

Name and Purpose

Broom Sweep Relay is a silly, skill-based relay that challenges players to move a small ball using only a pendulum-style broom swing.
Players practise focus, patience, and coordination while sharing laughs with their team.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 10-30 players (2 teams of 5-15) | 15-20 minutes | Indoor hall or smooth outdoor surface; min 10m course per team

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Two teams line up in parallel at the start line.
Strap a broom to the first player’s waist so it hangs behind them.
Player sweeps the ping pong ball between their legs toward the finish cone, then back.
Player picks up the ball, unstraps the broom, and passes both to the next teammate.
First team to have all players complete the sweep wins the round.

Setup and Boundaries

Set a clear start cone and a turnaround cone approximately 8-10m apart
Signal: 1 whistle = pause; 2 whistles = stop and gather
Ensure the floor is clear of obstacles; a smooth surface works best for ball rolling
Velcro strap is preferred over rope; if rope is used, it must be loose enough to remove quickly and comfortably

How to Play

Divide into two equal teams. Each team lines up single file at the start cone.
Staff straps or velcros the broom to the first player’s waist at the back, so the broom hangs behind them between their legs.
Player places the ping pong ball on the floor between their feet.
Using a back-to-front hip motion, the player sweeps the ball toward the turnaround cone. No hands on the ball.
At the turnaround cone, player picks up the ball, returns to the start line, and transfers the broom and ball to the next teammate.
First team to have all players complete the sweep wins the round. Play best of 3.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Move as fast as coordination allows; aim to beat the other team
S (Support): Cheer your team; call out helpful tips (“a little left!”)
Q (Quiet): Move at a steady, controlled pace; focus on the sweep technique
O (Observer): Watch for the ball rolling out of lane; redirect gently; track turns; rotate in next round

Inclusion Adaptations

Players who cannot bend at the waist may use a longer-handled broom held between the knees instead
If strapping a broom to the waist is uncomfortable, a modified version where the player holds the broom handle lightly between their thighs is an option
Softer, lighter ball (tissue ball or foam pom) can substitute for the ping pong ball for players with lower floor visibility

Stewardship Moment

Brooms, balls, and rope/straps are all reusable; store carefully after play
Reflection: “We built a relay with everyday tools. What ordinary things do you use in creative ways at camp?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “This relay involves strapping a broom to your waist. For those not comfortable with that, holding the broom between your knees is another option that works just as well.”
Mid-game check: After the first full team rotation, check in with a thumbs signal. Adjust broom attachment if uncomfortable.
Opt-out/re-entry: Step back from the line by raising a hand. Take the ball-retriever or scorekeeper role. Rejoin at the next round.

Risks and Mitigation

Broom swinging and hitting another player: ensure teams are in clearly separated lanes with enough space between them
Player tripping on the broom while walking back: remind players to carry the broom after the sweep, not drag it
Rope tied too tightly: use velcro straps if possible; check tightness before each player goes

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Hip Circles”: everyone does 10 slow hip rotations; loosens up the sweeping motion
“Ball Roll”: players practise rolling the ping pong ball along the floor with just one finger to get a feel for how it moves

Debrief Questions

What? “What was the trickiest part of sweeping the ball? What helped?”
So What? “How did it feel to do something that looked silly in front of your team?”
Now What? “When is it useful to try something a different way, even if it looks strange at first?”

Cleanup and Reset