PaceSetter Book

Throwing Activities 4

4.3 Javelin (Pull)

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4.3.1 Introducing the Pulling Action

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Illustration of a left-handed thrower

The sitting throw and soccer throw are both basic pulling throws. The sitting throw is a two-handed overhead throw using a size 4 soccer ball. The young athlete sits on a standard gym bench with both feet touching the floor and starts the throw from behind the head. The legs and hips act as anchor points so that the torso can move. The ball should be released from straight arms above the head to gain maximum throwing distance. The soccer throw again is a two-handed overhead throw using either a size 4 soccer ball or 1kg medicine ball. The young athlete stands with one foot in front of the other behind the throwing line to gain purchase and starts the throw from behind the head with slightly bent arms, releasing the ball with straight arms when above the head. Throwing a ball and throwing a javelin are somewhat related but for the purpose of teaching young athletes it is recommended that tennis balls, javelin balls, soft javelins or plastic javelins are used as safety is of paramount importance. 4.3.2 Throwing a Tennis Ball Throwing a tennis ball, baseball, cricket ball or field hockey ball is a good outdoor event for young athletes aged 8–11. It can teach the basic skills of a javelin throw as it utilises the pulling action. Young athletes can also note from this throwing activity the disadvantage of throwing the ball too high or too low when the ball leaves the hand. Emphasis should be placed on smooth throwing rather than maximum effort due to the lightness of the ball. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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