Catch
Objectives
Share fun, build trust, get to know each other, remember how back-to basics and simplicity can be valuable . . .
Group Size
Any size group can do this - if you split into pairs or small groups.
Materials
Balls - half as many as the number of participants. Playground-type (large) bouncing balls are best to accommodate a range of abilities. Yet you can offer a choice from among a variety of ball types and sizes - from tennis balls to beach balls.
Set Up
This activity requires a space large enough for people to spread out. Could be an indoor gymnasium or an outdoor area. A hard ground surface, rather than gravel or grass, is best to allow for bouncing - e.g. a playground, basketball or tennis court, or cleared parking lot.
Directions
Invite people to pair up. This could be with someone they don't know, or pick names two at a time from a hat to identify the pairs. Have each pair choose a ball. Invite them to "just play catch." Instruct that it is to be a cooperative, rather than a competitive, experience - nor hard balls or trick throws. Suggest variations such as one bounce, or overhand/underhand throws. For individuals who are skilled and need challenges, they could use their non-dominant hand only. After a period of time, the leader calls or blows a whistle for everyone to find a new partner - this mixing can be repeated a few times, maybe even until every person has paired with every other person.
Debrief
Talk about the experience, feelings when the catches went well/didn't, personal memories of playing catch, ideas about how to apply any insights to the team's work projects . . .
Alternatives
Have people play catch in groups of three, or in larger circles.
