Patent US 6,435,989

A ball-like target, representative of a ball to be used in actually playing a sport to be taught, for use in teaching batting and catching to new players. The ball-like target is attached to an apparatus that allows a trainer to control the target's speed and attitude of presentation to a trainee. The trainer can then explain in whatever detail is necessary for the trainee to understand the instructions being provided and the trainee can respond accordingly. The device improves training efficiency by allowing the trainer to retain possession and control of the ball. The ultimate results for the trainee are improved eye-hand coordination, many practice swings at an actual ball per unit time, immediate feed back on the result of each swing, and improved self-confidence as more and more contact is made by the bat with the ball, especially in young ball players.