Gopher SoftPlay Soccer Balls

The polyester knit cover and cushioning foam layer weighs 30% less than a regulation ball, taking the intimidation out of the game for beginners. Our only fabric-covered trainer makes it perfect for introductory use with younger students!

Friendly Design for Beginners

Foam backing on the machine-stitched fabric panels provides superior softness. This makes it easier for players to learn key soccer skills properly. The soft texture is beneficial because it "gives" when passing or fielding, allowing for better control. Synthetic rubber bladder ensures long lasting air retention, especially when compared to latex bladders. Indoor use only. Available in Size 5.

15 Engaging Physical Education Activities Using SoftPlay Soccer Balls

The SoftPlay Soccer Balls are uniquely crafted with an ultra-soft foam cover, making them ideal for introducing soccer skills to beginners or for safe play in confined indoor settings. These balls are particularly helpful in reducing fear and injury, encouraging participation from hesitant or younger students. Because of their forgiving texture and friendly bounce, they are excellent tools for developing a wide range of fundamental movement skills through fun, low-risk, high-engagement activities suitable for students of all ages and abilities.

1. Foam Footsie Freeze: While dribbling their SoftPlay ball, students move around the space. When the teacher calls “freeze,” they must stop the ball with the sole of their foot and balance. Builds dribbling and static balance.

2. Bumper Boot Brigade: In teams, students try to dribble their ball across the gym while avoiding others. The soft ball reduces collision impact. Emphasizes dodging, dribbling, and spatial awareness.

3. Squish & Kick Soccer Flick: Students practice inside-foot flick passes to partners using the soft ball’s squishy texture to control power. Focuses on passing and foot coordination.

4. Cozy Catch Challenge: Students gently toss and catch the SoftPlay ball with a partner, mimicking goalie movements. Soft foam supports catching confidence and manipulative skill development.

5. Pillow Pass Pursuit: Students partner up and try to pass the ball back and forth while jogging. The foam ball allows for indoor and close-quarter practice. Teaches dynamic balance and passing on the move.

6. Gentle Juggle Jamboree: Students experiment with gentle foot and thigh juggling using the soft foam ball. Emphasizes coordination and focus.

7. Target Tap Trap: Students dribble toward targets and perform a trap move on the ball over each one. Soft texture assists beginners with footwork. Develops trapping and targeting skills.

8. Popcorn Pass Palooza: Students softly “pop” the ball into the air with their foot and catch it. The foam construction makes this easier for beginners. Enhances foot-eye coordination.

9. Foamie Foot-Freeze Tag: Students must dribble while avoiding taggers. If tagged, they must freeze until a teammate gently passes a ball through their legs to unfreeze them. Reinforces teamwork and dribbling.

10. Pillow Punch Punt Practice: Students try gentle punts into a goal using the soft ball. The foam reduces rebound, making it easier to teach kicking form safely.

11. Gentle Giant Getaway: Students must escape a central “giant” while dribbling their ball to a safety zone. If tagged, they join the giant. Reinforces dribbling and evasion.

12. Dribble Dance Delight: Students perform dribble patterns in rhythm to music. The soft ball allows free movement and fun. Focuses on rhythm, control, and footwork.

13. Partner Pass Parade: Students form passing lanes across the gym and attempt to pass to their partners in timed rounds. The foam ball reduces intimidation and builds passing confidence.

14. Pillow Pass Precision Path: Create lanes with cones, and have students pass their ball through them. Ball’s low bounce helps with controlled movement.

15. Roll ‘n Go Rescue: Students must roll the ball to a partner stuck in a zone to rescue them. Builds rolling accuracy and teamwork.