Lacrosse Training Ball

Abstract

A lightweight lacrosse training ball that is suitable for use in lacrosse training drills is lighter, softer, and larger than a regulation lacrosse ball. The lacrosse training ball is comprised of multiple layers: an inner (non-hollow or hollow) layer comprised of a rubber compound; a middle layer comprised of felt or a similar cushioning material; and an outer layer. In one embodiment, the lacrosse training ball is a non-hollow or hollow, lightweight ball with a cushioning layer covered with an outer surface. The light weight of the lacrosse training ball makes it suitable for training where player safety is of concern. The light weight is also advantageous for developing optimal catching ability, forcing players to focus on “giving” with the catch or catching softly. The larger size of the lacrosse training ball increases catching proficiency as there is less room for error in catching a larger ball.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A lacrosse training ball, comprising:
 an inner layer comprised of a rubber compound;   a second layer comprised of a cushioning material, the second layer covering the inner layer; and   a third outer layer comprised of a textured material, the third outer layer covering the second layer;   wherein the lacrosse training ball is lighter, softer, and larger than a regulation lacrosse ball.   
     
     
         2 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 1 , wherein the third outer layer is comprised of one of:
 (i) adhesive tape; (ii) athletic tape; (iii) a textured cotton; and (iv) a textured cotton blend.   
     
     
         3 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 2 , wherein the third outer layer is comprised of one of adhesive tape and athletic tape, the adhesive or athletic tape wrapped around the second layer to fully encompass the second layer. 
     
     
         4 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 1 , wherein the weight of the lacrosse training ball is between about 61.45 grams and about 61.79 grams. 
     
     
         5 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 1 , wherein the diameter of the lacrosse training ball ranges from about 65.41 mm to about 68.58 mm 
     
     
         6 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 1 , wherein the inner layer and the second layer comprise a regulation tennis ball. 
     
     
         7 . A lacrosse training ball, comprising:
 an inner layer comprised of a rubber compound; and   an outer layer comprised of one of a textured material or a smooth material, the outer layer covering the inner layer;   wherein the lacrosse training ball is lighter, softer, and larger than a regulation lacrosse ball.   
     
     
         8 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a second layer comprised of a cushioning material, the second layer in between the inner layer and the outer layer.   
     
     
         9 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 8 , wherein the inner layer and the second layer comprise a regulation tennis ball. 
     
     
         10 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 7 , wherein the outer layer is comprised of one of: (i) adhesive tape; (ii) athletic tape; (iii) a smooth cotton; (iv) a textured cotton; (v) a smooth cotton blend; and (vi) a textured cotton blend. 
     
     
         11 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 7 , wherein the weight of the lacrosse training ball is between about 61.45 grams and about 61.79 grams. 
     
     
         12 . The lacrosse training ball of  claim 7 , wherein the diameter of the lacrosse training ball ranges from about 65.41 mm to about 68.58 mm