Kneel and Catch

Name and Purpose

Kneel and Catch is a laugh-filled ball control challenge that keeps everyone engaged from first toss to last.
Players practise hand-eye coordination and perseverance while having a good time in increasingly awkward positions.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | Small groups of 3-6 players | 10-20 minutes | Any flat outdoor or indoor space with room for small circles

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Split into groups of 3-6. Mark each group’s circle with cones.
Players stand in a circle and toss the ball around.
Each drop earns the dropper the next position penalty: one knee, two knees, one elbow, two elbows, chin to the ground.
Players must stay in their earned position while tossing and catching.
After a set time, everyone resets to standing and starts a new round. No one sits out.

Setup and Boundaries

How to Play

Players stand in a circle. One player starts with the ball.
Toss the ball to any other player in the circle.
If a player drops the ball, they move to the next position penalty: right knee down, then both knees, then one elbow on the ground, then both elbows, then chin on the ground.
Players must stay in their current position while catching and throwing.
Play continues until a set time is called by staff. Everyone resets to standing for the next round.
No player is eliminated. Reaching chin position is a badge of honour, not a removal.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Toss and catch competitively, working to stay upright the longest
S (Support): Count positions, call out encouragement, keep track of which position each player is at
Q (Quiet): Play at slower pace in a small pair group, focusing on gentle tosses
O (Observer): Watch a group, cheer players on, choose when to join

Inclusion Adaptations

Players with knee or elbow concerns may stop their position sequence early and simply catch and toss from a comfortable stance without penalty advancement
Use a larger, softer ball (foam ball) for players who find a tennis ball harder to grip or track

Stewardship Moment

Use one ball per group rather than multiple; consolidate equipment
Before leaving: pick up any balls, collect cones, and do a quick 60-second sweep of the play area

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game has you toss a ball and gradually lower your position if you drop it. For those not comfortable with kneeling or elbow positions, a standing-only option is just as valid.”
Mid-game check: After the first round, ask players to give a thumbs up, sideways, or down.
Opt-out/re-entry: Any player can raise a hand to step back. Rejoin at any point by calling “In!” and stepping into the circle.

Risks and Mitigation

Elbow or knee discomfort on hard ground: place activity on grass or use a mat; allow players to stop position advancement early
Ball collision between groups: space circles at least 3m apart
Competitive tension over “who went out first”: reframe as a fun challenge, not elimination

Warm-Up Suggestions

Juggle: pass the ball around the circle twice before the game starts, calling names as you throw
Two-hand toss: practise underarm toss and catch with a partner for 60 seconds

Debrief Questions

What? “What happened to your throwing and catching as your position changed?”
So What? “How did it feel to keep trying when things got harder?”
Now What? “Where else in life do you have to adapt and keep going even when you are in an uncomfortable spot?”

Cleanup and Reset