Pitch Off
Pitch Off is a game which focus' on the short game in golf. Requiring more finesse than pure power to hit the target.
- In Pitch Off, the players aim is to strike the ball off the ground/mat, using a Sand Wedge or Pitching Wedge, and get the ball to land and stop inside the jackpot zones (5p & 10p areas), to gain the highest score. - Set out an area which is 50m in length, and approx. 25-45m in width (depending on the area available). Using markers, mark out areas as shown by (x) in the diagram to the left. Then take 3 large hula hoops (or mark out a 1x1m) and place them inside the respective areas. *If the area being used is not suitable to hit off, use tee-mats. - Have the players stand in line across the line farthest from the 3-point section and place their ball down and get ready to swing. Then say "Strike when ready", and allow ALL students to tee off. Give them more than 1 ball so they can re-set after their first hit. Once all balls are expended, allow the students to go and collect them. -Players must keep their own score (in accordance to where the ball stops, and the corresponding score). - Allow any other students who where unable to tee-off in the previous round to have their turn. - In order to hit the target, players need to know that it is not a race, but a game which requires you to be settled and focus on the sequencing and power allocation of the shot. This means that players should focus on keeping their eye on the ball, keeping the club head in-line with where they want the ball to land, and not trying to 'smash' the ball but strike it cleanly, not scuffing the club head on the ground before contact. |
Additional Information:
- The game can run in groups, that way students can worry less about their individual mistakes and enjoy the teams success. - A golf swing is a difficult task to execute correctly, so taking time to go through the swing with students might be needed. |
Equipment:
- 10 markers (to identify the field of play & sectors) - 3 Hula-Hoops (to mark the jackpot zones) - Pitching and/or Sand Wedge's - Practice Golf Balls (for safety and to control distance) - Tee-Off mats (if the ground is unsuitable for golf shots) |
Safety Guidelines:
- Although the golf balls are soft, ensure that the landing area is clear of all persons, as the balls can still cause damage. - Make sure that players have a 2metre clear zone around them when they swing as the clubs can be very harmful. - Do not allow anyone to go and pick up a ball whilst someone is still teeing off. |