Gopher D-Lite Balls
Use these oversized, colorful balls with students of all ages! Much lighter than standard cage balls, they add a fun twist to a variety of activities. Durable and washable nylon fabric covers with sturdy double-stitched seams are waterproof, so balls can be used indoors or out.
Durable Construction
Durable and washable nylon fabric covers are sewn with sturdy double-stitched seams to last for years under institutional use. Waterproofing allows the game to go on rain or shine. Underneath the cover, a large latex balloon bladder helps retain proper ball shape and has a large mouth for quick inflation and deflation. Easily adjust ball size for varying activities by inflating or deflating the bladder in seconds!
Teamwork and Skill-Building
The large size and light weight of these balls make strategy and communication essential to any game, helping your kids realize the importance of teamwork. Add unique scenarios to class favorites or scale your games up to gigantic proportions—jumbo soccer or big-bounce four square! Students also stay focused and think outside the box while moving the larger balls, which means tapping into critical thinking skills and developing coordination on a larger scale.
Big-time Versatility
D-Lite Balls are available in 5 sizes to makes sure you have the perfect option for any cage ball activity. The ball's cover color also serves as its identifier, making it easy to quickly scale any game appropriately. Plus, with a fraction of the weight of normal cage balls, size won’t add the hindrance of weight! Each ball includes 1 latex bladder.
Gopher D-Lite Balls are available in 5 sizes. Replacement bladders sold separately.
Sizes
- 24" dia, Orange (12 oz)
- 36" dia, Blue (1 lb, 12 oz)
- 48" dia, Red (3 lb, 7 oz)
- 60" dia, Green (4 lb, 11 oz)
- 72" dia, Purple (5 lb, 14 oz)
15 Engaging Activity Ideas Using Gopher D-Lite Balls
Gopher D-Lite Balls are extra-light, durable foam balls that are easy to grip, safe for all ages, and perfect for developing confidence in throwing, catching, and striking skills. Their slow flight and soft construction make them especially useful for teaching fundamental movement skills to beginners without fear of injury. These balls come in various bright colors for team organization and visual tracking. Below are 15 imaginative physical education activity ideas designed to maximize the versatility of Gopher D-Lite Balls while helping students master essential movement patterns.
1. Floaty Catch Frenzy: Students toss a Gopher D-Lite Ball high in the air and try to catch it before it touches the ground. The slow flight builds confidence in catching and tracking.
2. Balloon Volley Battle (Without the Balloon!): Use D-Lite Balls instead of balloons for a similar slow-moving volley game over a low net. Teaches striking and anticipation.
3. Rainbow Relay Roll-Off: In teams, students roll the ball to a cone and back. Focuses on rolling accuracy and teamwork.
4. D-Lite Dodge Challenge: Use D-Lite Balls in a safe dodgeball-style game. Promotes dodging, throwing, and cardiovascular movement without fear of injury.
5. Partner Pop-Up Toss: One student tosses the ball up; the partner runs in to catch it. Builds spatial awareness, teamwork, and locomotor skills.
6. Wall Ball Wonder Toss: Students toss the ball at the wall and catch it on the rebound. Vary distance and height for difficulty. Focuses on manipulation and reaction.
7. Balance Beam Bounce: Students walk a line while bouncing and catching the ball. Enhances balance and control.
8. Up, Down, Around: Students toss the ball up, then touch the ground or spin around before catching it. Adds agility and hand-eye coordination.
9. Paddle Pair Challenge: Students in pairs volley the ball back and forth using Rainbow UltraGrip Paddles. Teaches cooperation and consistent striking.
10. D-Lite Tower Target: Stack foam blocks as a “tower.” Students attempt to knock it over with an underhand toss. Works on power, control, and aim.
11. High Bounce Hot Potato: In groups, students pass the ball quickly in a circle after bouncing it once. If the ball is dropped, the group does a fun challenge (like 5 frog jumps).
12. Catch & Squat Circuit: Students toss the ball, perform a squat, then catch it before it lands. Builds leg strength and coordination.
13. Color Code Toss Tag: Assign each ball color to a movement (e.g., red = jump, blue = spin). When tagged, students perform that movement before rejoining. Adds a cognitive twist to a tossing game.
14. Volley Balloon Keep-Up (Foam Edition): Groups try to keep the ball in the air using only their hands, or feet. Teaches coordination and group awareness.
15. Partner Mirror Bounce: One student performs a bounce or toss pattern, and the partner mirrors it exactly. Builds observation skills and motor matching.