Gopher Oversized Foam Tennis Balls

Keep the intimidation factor low as you introduce beginners to the game of tennis—this ball is made of foam and is 25% larger than a traditional ball. Extra-large size is easier to see, handle, and hit, while still offering a realistic bounce and authentic playability on the court. Pair these balls with oversized racquet heads to give students a feel for hitting that minimizes shock and maximizes results. Precision-cut uncoated foam is smooth and soft to the touch. Optic yellow is easy to see! Recommended for use indoors for optimum longevity. Balls are 3-1/2" dia. Set of 3.

Specifications

• Optic Yellow Color
• 3-1/2" dia – 25% larger than regulation balls!
• Recommended for indoor use

15 Creative PE Activities Using Gopher Oversized Foam Tennis Balls

The Gopher Oversized Foam Tennis Balls are lightweight, soft, and larger than standard tennis balls, making them perfect for younger students and beginners learning fundamental movement skills. Their oversized design slows down gameplay and increases visibility and success, while the foam construction enhances safety during striking, catching, and throwing. These balls are ideal for developing hand-eye coordination, manipulative control, and confidence across a range of physical education activities. The following 15 imaginative and inclusive activities are tailored to maximize the unique benefits of these oversized foam tennis balls in small or large group settings.

1. Foam Bounce Frenzy: Students bounce the oversized foam ball on a racquet as many times as possible in 30 seconds—developing striking control and coordination.

2. Giant Juggle Jam: Students use their hands to gently juggle the foam ball in the air—practicing hand tracking and fine motor coordination.

3. Foam Ball Foot Tap: Students tap the ball up using their feet in soccer-style—improving foot-eye coordination and balance.

4. Roll & Goal Relay: Students roll the ball along the floor to a partner standing inside a hula hoop—practicing rolling accuracy and team communication.

5. Soft Serve Challenge: Using a Rainbow Midsize Aluminum Tennis Racquet, students try to serve the foam ball into designated zones—developing serving control.

6. Catch & Clap Challenge: Toss the ball, clap once, and catch it. Add more claps as students improve—focusing on hand-eye coordination and reaction speed.

7. Volley Balloon Blast: Use the foam ball like a balloon. Students keep it in the air using different body parts—promoting creative movement and manipulative variety.

8. Skipping Serve Shuffle: Students skip to a line, serve the ball, then shuffle back—combining locomotor skills and manipulation.

9. Foam Frenzy Free Play: Let students explore different movements using the ball—rolling, tossing, kicking, bouncing—encouraging movement exploration.

10. Cross-Court Catch: In pairs, students toss or hit the foam ball across the court to each other—developing spatial awareness and catching confidence.

11. Paddle Pass Parade: Using Gopher Oversized Aluminum Tennis Racquets, students pass the foam ball around a circle without using hands—building cooperation and striking control.

12. Tap & Turn Tennis: Students tap the ball upward with a racquet, then perform a spin before the next tap—combining manipulation and body control.

13. Partner Paddle Juggle: Students try to juggle a foam ball back and forth without letting it touch the ground—building timing and teamwork.

14. Rainbow Zone Challenge: Place colored hoops or poly spots. Students must land their ball in each color in order—developing targeting accuracy and visual tracking.

15. Trick Toss Trials: Students invent silly toss-and-catch challenges (e.g., toss behind the back, clap twice)—encouraging creativity and coordination.