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Wheel of Throws

Image: FDGA / Jouni Kallio

The Wheel of Throws turns, and players come and pass, learning basic throwing types that become habits, which in turn become mastered skills.

The WoT is a fun way to practice a variety of throwing types, typically for approach shots. The only requirement is that players be able to throw as far as the basket (typically 20-40 meters).

Supplies

  • One basket
  • Three discs for everyone
  • Printouts with different throwing styles (anhyzer forehand, hyzer backhand, straight backhand, etc.)

Preparations

  1. Put a basket in the middle of the field.
  2. Mark the 1 and the 3 point circles around the basket.
  3. Mark throwing spots around the basket (e.g. at a distance of 20-40 m) and put a throwing-style printout next to each one.
  4. Divide the group into pairs, and send each pair to a throwing station.

Rules

  • Everyone throws three discs from their station using the style defined in the printout (see picture).
  • The throws are scored as follows:
    • Bigger circle 1 p
    • Smaller circle 3 p
    • Top/bottom band or chains 5 p
    • Made basket 10 p
  • When everyone has thrown, the players collect the discs and count their points. Remind them that before going to the basket, all players must make sure that everyone has thrown their discs!
  • Pairs move clockwise to the next throwing position. Continue the rounds until all pairs have thrown from every throwing station.

Additional Tips

Teaching technique: It is possible to combine individual technique teaching with the throwing wheel. The coach chooses one throwing spot and guides the players there. The other pairs throw on their own from their stations. It may be a good idea to put the same throwing style to the next station, so that the player can practice independently what they just learned.

Co-creation: You can put the print-outs in a pile and let the kids build a throwing wheel as they wish.

Print-outs: You can download an editable PowerPoint template file, in Finnish, here or a pdf here, and change the text to your preferred throws and language. Throwing styles can be printed on both sides of the print-out. The sheets should be laminated and enough space should be left on the edges to place a couple of stones on top of the sheet in windy weather. There are also some special throwing styles included like the flick roller.