Abstract:
The invention provided is directed to a soccer training device, module training system and method of use. The device is a deflection wall that may be portable or permanently affixed to a ground surface. The wall having a larger and smaller embodiment, mimicking the silhouette of a soccer goal or an average player of a given age range from a far distance at simulated closer range. The inventive features of the wall intended, to enhance quantity, quality, speed, and accuracy of interaction and perception between the user, the ball and the wall according to professional quality and professional level training techniques. Multiple wall units may be combined to create individualized training modules wherein one person may train in a simulated multi-player environment of varying levels of complexity. Two or more module units may be combined to create a soccer training system. The modules and systems may be staged in limited ground surface area both indoor and outdoor.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This non-provisional patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/804,422, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non- Provisional Patent Application Serial No 13/587,715, filed on Aug. 16, 2012, which in turn claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/662,551, filed on Jun. 21, 2012, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119(e) and 37 C.F.R. 1.78 (a)(4) (a)(6) and all other relevant sections of the law not referred to herein, each of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
       [0003]    A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0005]    The present inventive subject matter relates to a soccer training device, a soccer training system and a method of use. 
         [0006]    2. Background 
         [0007]    Mastering the game of soccer requires the mastery of one&#39;s own body and eye coordination. It is a contact sport where a player&#39;s entire body must be intuitively responsive to the ball on the field at any particular time or location. The player&#39;s muscles must react reflexively to the field and all things within as though they are extensions of his own body. Professional soccer players spend tremendous amounts of time conditioning their bodies to achieve a level of muscle memory and intuition that makes their movement on the field second nature and fluid. While actual practice is the only way a player can improve his or her skill, the quality and amount of practice determines the rate of actual improvement. In order for any individual to propel themselves to the next level of skill in the game of soccer, they must dedicate sufficient time on the field and off the field to constant muscle training. Soccer being a high contact sport requires equipment and training techniques that simulate a multi-player environment that provides constant dynamic contact. 
         [0008]    Mastery of the game requires repetitive training to develop speed and control over the ball and the player&#39;s ever changing environment. Improvement of skill requires exposure to new complex variables and the opportunity to practice controlling and overcoming such variables. Variables in the game may be any element in the environment that changes the position of the ball, the player or the team&#39;s advantage. Variables may become more complex as more players are involved in a particular game. They may still be complex between fewer players if the skill level of each player enables them to each possess greater control over the ball. It is the aspiration of any soccer player to develop advanced level of skill such that the individual can act and strategize offensively or defensively to capture and maintain control over the ball in any fast paced scenario. To achieve this beyond a team training effort, through individual training, a player must be able to simulate realistic multi-player conditions to create the types of variable challenges encountered on the field during a fast paced game. For a player to develop his or her skills at professional quality level, the player must train and hone his or her skills to the true parameters of the game. High amounts of repetitious training in a simulated dynamic environment will enable any individual player to develop professional level precision, speed and agility that can be translated onto the field in any live match. 
         [0009]    The ideal training device and system should be true to the parameters and dimensions of the game. Such parameters include but are not limited to the following: spatial limitations, area of control over the ball within the player&#39;s environment, high paced interaction between multiple players, dynamic changing environment from high speed movement of players on the field, intense competition between players to control the soccer ball, spatial spread of players on a field in the course of a game, necessary levels of accuracy in aim for passing and shooting the ball, standard positioning of soccer field components such as the goal posts or other players, quality and types of interaction between the player and different elements on the field (spinning the ball, passing the ball between players, etc.), material composition of equipment (rubber soles of shoes and the ball), visual effects from the field environment and components within (white or metallic soccer goals, green sod for outdoor soccer field, tan wooded floors of indoor soccer arena). etc. The ideal training device and system would manage and control the scope of variables so that the user can recreate and repeat training, or scale the variables down to focus on specific sets of variables. The device and system would evolve with the user by enabling the user to introduce new challenges or variables at various stages of improvement. All the while, such a device should remain useful and relevant to users of all skill levels. The ideal device should enable an individual user to achieve high amounts of repetitious contact with the ball, achieve high speed multidirectional movement and tight ball control, train to the true parameters of the game, and develop multiple skills in tandem as would be expected from a multi-player training environment. 
         [0010]    Current products in the market that offer individualized repetitive training fail to reflect real parameters and challenges experienced on the field specific to the sport of soccer. These products are easily outgrown due to their limited usefulness relative to the long term needs of aspiring soccer players. The following summarizes current soccer rebound devices designed primarily for kick training. Their deficiencies and limitations are inherent in their designs, offering limited practical use to serious trainers. U.S. Pat. No. 5,556,104 provides a training device with multiple functions on multiple sides. The problem is that each functional side interferes with the usefulness of the other feature during training. Further, the device is not constructed in a manner that when positioned on the ground with the board surface side facing forward, would maintain stability against frequent high impact contact with a soccer ball. 
         [0011]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,650,189 is a rebound net assembly intended for softball or baseball pitch training. Not only are there too many parts to this device making it difficult to transport, but the net feature is not ideal for soccer training purposes since it cannot replicate a deflection similar in feel and quality to that of a professional soccer player. Further, the surrounding frame protrudes from the overall wall surface, creating interaction with the ball that is not otherwise experienced in reality. The device also lacks a self-stabilizing component that allows it to withstand the full impact of repeated impact of a high speed soccer ball. 
         [0012]    U.S. Patent Application No. 2005012125A1 provides a device with multiple paneled sides that requires assembly to be functional. The design of this device prevents it from being staked or anchored to the ground for added stability. The weight of water or sand filling its cavity is insufficient to stabilize the device against frequent high impact of a soccer ball by serious trainers. Further, the size and shape of the device does not reflect the natural coverage of an opposing player&#39;s silhouette. Thus accuracy and precision of the player would be disproportionately skewed to the disproportionate size of the device over time and use 
         [0013]    The device of U.S. Patent Application No. 20020022540 A1 takes up a great amount of space on the field with its multi-panel construction. This device is very one dimensional in that, despite the multi-panels in solved and the ability to have multiple users train at once, players are restricted to using one panel at a time and cannot train interactively with other players. 
         [0014]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,909,330 comprises a hollow base requiring filler, such as water or sand, to create stabilizing weight. As stated before, the design is inconvenient and unstable for the quality and amount of ball to wall impact sought to be achieved by serious trainers. 
         [0015]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,935,971 provides another rebound panel made of netting. A great deal of assembly is required and the device is not easily transportable. As with other netted devices, the frame surrounding the four sides of the device interferes with the ball&#39;s trajectory path and the interaction of the ball with the rebound surface. 
         [0016]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,284,277 describes a kick ball game and apparatus kit that may be used indoor or outdoor, played similarly to soccer or hockey but does not require special skills from the players. This patent provides for an interesting method of arranging players of the game with predefined rules of operation. This patent is not intended as a soccer training method or apparatus and does riot function as such. 
         [0017]    A considerable need remains for inventive solutions that improve upon the quality of soccer training devices, methods and systems. All patents and applications referred herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Furthermore, where a definition or use of a term in a reference, which is incorporated by reference herein, is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0018]    The invention herein achieves a quality and type of professional grade training never seen before for individualized soccer training. The award winning professional level skill and experience of the inventor as both a lifetime soccer athlete and coach has enabled the inventor to gain the proper insight to develop a device and system that offers these combined training features in an elegant and effective way. The goal of this invention is to enable an individual user to achieve high amounts of repetitious foot training, practice high speed multi-directional movement while maintaining tight control over a soccer ball, develop accurate aim, perception and intuition for the true parameters of the game, and eventually learn to strategize and control both the ball and the player&#39;s unpredictable environment. These goals are achieved by the unique design and training method described as follows. 
         [0019]    The invention herein makes optimal use of material and design by improving on the following features: choice of material composition of the device to enhance realistic simulated interaction between the ball and user, effective use of exposed surfaces on the device to maximize interaction, ergonomic design to avoid unwanted secondary interactions (e.g., no protruding attachments from the wall such as nuts and bolts to avoid unnatural deflection of the ball from the wall, no extra framing, etc.), dimensional considerations so as to simulate true distance and size parameters between the players on a field, compressed dimensional features to encourage high speed proximate interaction, choice of color to condition the user&#39;s depth and peripheral perception, minimization of secondary distractions not natural to the game (such as loose rattling or reverberation), simulation of multi-player environment by modularizing the device which encourages high speed multidirectional interaction and control, consideration of distance between devices within a given module specifically to train passing techniques according to best practice for professional quality soccer training, adjustability of modules to control complexity and allow for personalized training. 
         [0020]    The device described herein is a soccer deflection wall. Each device or wall is comprised of one or more panels and a supporting unit or anchor support assembly. Each said panel may be embodied in the shape of either a square or rectangle but is not limited to these described shape embodiments. The panels having rounded exposed corners to minimize wear and tear on a deflecting ball and to mimic the interaction of a ball against the curve of a player&#39;s foot. The word exposed hereinafter will mean any surface that is open and unobstructed from the general field environment such that said surface may have direct contact with a traversing ball approaching or deflecting from said surface. All exposed surfaces of the device that may serve to deflect the soccer ball should be completely even without protrusion, introverted contours, recesses, cracks or crevices, holes, extensions, etc. Protrusions from exposed surfaces such as bolts and frame attachments or crevices and cavities could cause unnatural deflection of the ball and risk expensive damage to the impacting ball. The dimension of the wall (vertical length and horizontal width) should simulate the proportional perspective of a far distant silhouette of a player of a given age range or goal post from close proximity. The device may be scaled up or down to the relative size of the user to achieve the intended purpose. For example, infant children approximately three years of age may require smaller versions of the device to achieve the same goals achievable by this invention. The reason for this preferred size dimension is to encourage accuracy of aim and perception within a compressed environment but to the true dimensions of opposing players at a distance on the field, 
         [0021]    Each panel should have an exposed main surface, a back surface and side edge surfaces. In one embodiment, the surfaces are substantially flat with a gritty texture and having no attachments or cavities on the exposed portions, and the main surface should have a perimeter border that is preferably white or metallic in color, the total combined surface area of the perimeter border being less than that of the main surface, optionally comprising less than fifty percent of the surface area of said exposed main surface. The remaining interior portion should have a color similar to a standard soccer field or arena. The typical color of a standard outdoor soccer field is green for sod grass, typically beige for indoor wooded floor panels and occasionally green for painted indoor soccer arenas. The reason for this color combination and pattern is to train the user&#39;s sense of perception and intuition to the standard effects of the game. 
         [0022]    The exterior surface of the panel is comprised of a semi-viscous and semi-flexible textured material similar to rubber, latex or neoprene to create a dampening and gripping effect that is consistent in wet and dry conditions. The slight gripping effect or viscosity of the rubber like substance on the surface of the panel enables the user to manipulate the ball against the panel to create unique deflection and aim that may be recreated between multiple live players. The gripping effect is similar in texture and durability to a typical soccer player&#39;s shoes. The material forming the exterior surface of the panel can be utilized to form the entire panel, or the material forming the exterior surface of the panel can be affixed to an interior support structure for the panel. The interior material composition of each panel providing the support to the exterior surface that is attached to thereto in any suitable manner can be formed of any suitable material and would preferably be comprised primarily of wood, wood composite (or stiff organic fiber material such as bamboo) for its hardness and unique low reverberation effect. Reverberating sound from a surface upon impact can be a distracting element leading to unwanted sensory conditioning. Alternative solid materials may be used interchangeably and should be sufficiently dense to enhance the quality of deflection from the panel exterior surface while having minimal reverberation upon impact. The slight dampening effect particularly achieved by wood fiber material will also help limit wear and tear on the ball from extended use. Thus, the composition of the wall panel may include any of the following materials and is not limited to polycarbonates, plexiglass, metal, wood, foam, plastic, combinations of these materials or any future unknown material that achieves the described intended quality and purpose. 
         [0023]    The wall or device in certain of the illustrated embodiments is embodied in two sizes, a larger and a smaller size. The smaller size embodiment is intended to train passing skills and will be referred to as a passing wall. The larger size embodiment is intended to train shooting techniques and will be referred to as a shooting wall. A passing wall is sized as desired and can be scaled to the size of an average adult player in ready position (standing with legs spread apart) would preferably have a height that is between two to three feet and a width that is approximately three and a half feet to four and a half feet. The size of the shooting wall may also be selected as desired and in one embodiment can range between three and a half feet to four and a half feet in height and approximately six to eight feet in width, proportional to a long distance perspective of a standard goal post from within ten yard of the player. The dimensions however may be proportionally smaller in alternative embodiments to accommodate the average dimensions of very young players. 
         [0024]    The deflection panel is connected to a support assembly for purposes of stabilizing the panel on the ground and maintaining the device in an erect vertical position during use. The support assembly may be detachable and portable or permanently affixed to the panel and the ground by an anchor, which can form a part of the assembly. Material composition of the support assembly may comprise and is not limited to weather resistant metal, organic or inorganic fiber materials or plastic, or combinations thereof. 
         [0025]    A permanent support assembly would be connected to the panel and further connected to an anchor that is embedded beneath the field surface. A support piece of the permanent support assembly detachably connects the panel to the anchor such that the panel would be permanently fixed in position when connected to the anchor in the ground, yet the panels themselves may be removed to avoid theft or weather. When in use, the separate components of the permanent support assembly are connected in position and a tight, rigid, immovable connection results. The sturdiness and rigidity should have no secondary affect (i.e. rattling, budging movement, etc.) upon rapid frequent high impact on the panels. 
         [0026]    A portable support assembly provides for a panel that is connected to a support unit, the support unit further connected to a portable fixturing means (i.e. spike, stake, pad, suction, pin, etc.) This embodiment would not be permanently anchored to the ground or permanently positioned in any location but maybe moved and positioned anywhere feasible. Material composition of the support and fixturing means may include any of the following durable and weather resistant material such as galvanized metal, organic or inorganic fiber, plastic, etc. A preferred embodiment of the fixturing means comprising a ring or hinge connected to a flat stake (preferably triangular and flat in shape) which swivels around the axis of an axle. The axle may be a detachable rod separately connected to the ring or it may be a portion of the ring itself. The axle (essentially a thin rod) is a means for keeping the stake attached to the support to minimize spare parts. The rotating or swivel feature of the axle and stake allows the stake to swivel into position for anchoring while remaining connected to the fixture unit. The continual connection between the axle and the stake allows the fixture to remain unitarily connected to the device as it is being used and in between use during transport. The swivel feature further allows the stake to flip away from the ground surface should the device be dragged along the ground during transport, minimizing damage to the field. The fixturing means may be removable from the support assembly such that when removed, the device may be staged or stationed within an indoor arena. When in use, fixturing means would be attached to the support assembly and the stake would be inserted into the ground. The stake would rotate or flip downward towards the solid support. Upon abutting the solid support, the stake is prevented from further movement. The abutment will occur and remain in place after the stake has penetrated into the ground surface. This stabilizes the panel and holds the entire device in rigid form against forceful frequent impact from the ball. No secondary affects (rattling, budging, etc.) should result from this manner of fixture. 
         [0027]    The support assembly in either term can also be formed to enable the panel to be pivotable with respect to the support assembly while secured to the support assembly. By attaching the panel to the support assembly in a pivotal manner, the movement of the panel relative to the support assembly can be utilized to provide another level of modification to the use of the device including the panel and the support assembly. 
         [0028]    Multiple units of two or more walls or devices may be erected and staged oppositely in modularized fashion. The opposing distance between any two passing walls can be configured as necessary, and in one embodiment should be approximately ten yards or less, but no less than three yards, for purposes of simulating true spatial parameters of the game in a compressed environment. Any distance beyond ten yards will begin to take on qualities of shooting and becomes less practical for training passing skills. In this embodiment, the adjacent distance between the side edges of neighboring passing walls should be no less than two yards to mimic the standard minimum spread between players in the game. These distance parameters follows best practice in the industry for training professional soccer skills but have been adjusted to accommodate individual training in a compressed environment. The manipulated dimensions of the module and device is engineered and designed to react to the individual user and create a simulated effect of high speed competitive interaction between players from close proximity. Additional walls may be positioned at an angle from the parallel rows of each module. Each added device will increase complexity by introducing new variables, 
         [0029]    Multiple modules formed with various numbers of walls or devices may be staged adjacent to each other to create a personalized soccer training system. Players are able to control amount of complexity by adjusting the devices or walls within a particular module. As the user masters a particular set of challenges within a given module, the newly acquired skills are further put to the challenge in a new environment, such as that created by reconfiguring one or more of the walls in one or more of the modules. Progressive and controlled training through this type of modular system allows the user to become intimately familiar with otherwise unpredictable variables. This helps develop intuition in movement, speed, aim and accuracy. Mastering these basic skills allow the user to begin developing strategic control techniques. The results of which allow the user to remove some element of unpredictability from the game. 
         [0030]    A complete modular training system may be erected within six square yards to forty square yards or more depending on the level of complexity aimed to be achieved and the types of modules set within, maximizing use of space and having a very small foot print on any field or arena. Portability of the device allows anyone to design a personalized modular training system and quickly position it in any location. The shape of the device further allows for manufacturability by of at least the exterior surfaces and/or the panels or the walls or devices by any suitable extrusion method. 
         [0031]    The training device, method of use and modular training system provided herein does not exist in the art at this time. Current products within the market lack the embodiment and capability to encourage the type of professional skill development that is achievable with this invention. Other features, advantages, and object of the present invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood from the following detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0032]    The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements. Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
           [0033]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a panel of the device according to a first embodiment of the invention described herein, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0034]      FIG. 2  is a side plan view of the device comprising two panels and a support assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention described herein, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0035]      FIG. 3  is a side plan view of a third embodiment of the invention described herein, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0036]      FIG. 4  is an isometric view from the back of the embodiment of the device of  FIG. 1  comprising one panel and bracket support assembly, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0037]      FIG. 5A-5C  are partially broken away isometric views along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 4  of the fixturing means of the support mechanism of the invention described herein in various positions, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0038]      FIG. 6A-6B  are partially broken away isometric views of the fixturing means of the support mechanism of the invention described herein being engaged with a support surface, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0039]      FIG. 6C  is a perspective view of the device of  FIG. 4  of the invention according to the description herein, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0040]      FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of the device of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0041]      FIG. 7B  is a front plan view of an alternative configuration of the device of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0042]      FIG. 7C  is a front plan view of still another alternative configuration of the device of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0043]      FIG. 8A  is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a module formed with the devices of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0044]      FIG. 8B  is an isometric view of a second embodiment of a module formed with the devices of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0045]      FIG. 9  is an isometric view of a third embodiment of a module using the devices of  FIG. 4  according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0046]      FIG. 10  is a top plan view of a fifth embodiment of a module according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0047]      FIG. 11  is a top plan view of a sixth embodiment of a module according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0048]      FIG. 12  is a top plan view of a seventh embodiment of a module according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0049]      FIG. 13  is a top plan view of one embodiment of a complete modular training system according to the description herein, the illustration is not drawn to exact scale or perspective; 
           [0050]      FIG. 14  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a panel support assembly for use with the device of  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 15  is a side plan view of the support assembly of FIG. 
           [0052]      FIG. 16  is a top plan view of the support assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 17  is a schematic view of a method of using the modules of  FIG. 8A-8B  and  13 ; 
           [0054]      FIG. 18  is a schematic view of a method of using the modules of  FIGS. 9 and 13 ; 
           [0055]      FIG. 19  is a schematic view of a method of using the modules of  FIGS. 10 and 13 ; 
           [0056]      FIG. 20  is a partially broken away perspective view of a panel of the device according to a second embodiment of the invention described herein, the device not drawn to exact scale or perspective; and 
           [0057]      FIG. 21  is a cross sectional view along line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 20 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0058]    Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present invention which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. 
         [0059]      FIG. 1  provides a general embodiment of the device of the present invention which is a deflection wall  100 . The device in  FIG. 1  is not drawn to scale and represents a generic illustrated description of the claimed features. The deflection wall  100  as illustrated having a panel  101  that has a rectangular shape, though other geometric shapes for the panel  101  are also contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention. The panel  101  includes an exposed front surface  102  that is formed to be flat, containing no attachments or cavities that would interfere with the interaction with a ball B striking the front surface  102  of the panel  101 . The exposed front surface  102  is surrounded by a peripheral surface or edge  103  and has a greater surface area than the exposed side surface of the surrounding edge  103 , such that the panel  101  is formed to he relatively thin across the edge  103  relative to the length and height of the remainder of the panel  101 . The corners  104  of the panel  101  in the illustrated embodiment are formed with a curved profile such that deflection of a ball B from said corner would closely simulate a ball being kicked from the curve of a person&#39;s padded shoe as opposed to a hard jagged surface. The curved or rounded corners  104  further minimize wear and tear on a ball typically experienced with sharp or jagged edges. The panel  101  is placed with one of the long portions of the peripheral edge  103  directly on and perpendicular to the ground during use, and is secured in this position by a support assembly  106  connected to the panel  101 . 
         [0060]    The panel  101  also includes a rear surface  105  disposed opposite the front surface  102 . The rear surface  105  can be formed similarly to the front surface  102 , or can be formed of a material different than that of the front surface  102 , as rear surface  105  is prevented from being struck by the ball B by the attachment of a support assembly  106  to the rear surface  105 . The front surface  102  and the rear surface  105  can each be joined to the peripheral edge  103  in a manner that provides a generally seamless appearance to the panel  101 , and optionally to enclose an inner support structure (not shown) positioned between the front panel and the rear panel  105  and within the peripheral edge  103  to provide support to the panel  101 . 
         [0061]    The front surface  102  is formed with an inner section or target  107  which makes up the majority of the front surface  102  and an outer section or border  108  disposed around the side and upper edges of the inner section  107 . The inner section  107  and the outer section  108  are delineated, at least visually, from one another in the illustrated embodiment by making the inner section  107  a different color from the outer section  108 . Additionally, alternatively or in combination with the different colors, the inner section  107  can be formed of a material different than that used to from the outer section  108 . In this embodiment, the panel  101  can have the front surface  102 , the peripheral edge  103  and the rear surface  105  formed from a suitable material, such as a plastic material, and the inner portion  107  can be affixed to the front surface  102  of the panel  101  in a suitable manner, such as by adhering or mechanically securing the inner portion  107  to the front surface  102 . The inner portion  107  can be attached to the front surface  102  within a recess formed in the front surface  102  such that the inner portion  107  and the outer portion  108  form a planar configuration for the front surface  102  without any protruding components. 
         [0062]    In the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , the panel  101  includes an outer coating  110  covering the entire panel  101  and enclosing an interior (not shown) of the panel  101 . The coating  110  is comprised of a thick, semi-flexible and semi-viscous material, which can be similar to rubber or neoprene, and is extruded, poured, molded, painted, sprayed or otherwise positioned around the entirety of the interior of the panel  101  to form the exposed surfaces on the front surface  102 , the peripheral edge  103  and the rear surface  105 . Additionally, the coating  110  can be applied in one or more than layer in order to provide the desired properties to the exposed surfaces  102 .  103  and  105  of the panel  101 . One or more of the exposed surfaces  102 ,  103  and  105 , and preferably the front surface  102 , may be textured in suitable manner to enhance the contact of the surface of the panel  101  with the ball B striking the panel  101 , e.g. the grip applied to the ball B by the surface, but should not have substantial grooves, cavities or raised features otherwise interfering with the planar nature of the surfaces of the panel  101  to detrimentally affect the simulated interaction provided by the panel  101 . The interior of the panel  101  can be formed of any suitable material able to provide the desired rigidity to the panel  101 , and can be substantially comprised of any solid material such as but not limited to wood, wood composite, plastic, glass, fiber-reinforced material, metal, foam, carbon fiber or any combinations thereof. The interior composition of the preferred embodiment would be comprised of wood or a wood composite material. 
         [0063]    In a particular embodiment of the panel  101 , the outer coating  110  is formed of a suitable material, such as a thermoplastic or thermoset material, in a suitable molding process, such as in rotomolding, thermoforming or injection molding process that can be utilized with the material selected to form the outer coating  110 . The outer coating  110  can also be formed of a first portion and a second portion that are later joined to one another, either alone or around an interior, which can be formed of a suitable material, as described previously. Additionally, the outer coating  110  can be formed as a single structure defining the interior, and within which the material forming the interior can be subsequently introduced or injected. In one embodiment of the panel  101 , the panel  101  is formed to be approximately two (2) to two and one half (2½) inches thick from the front surface  102  to the rear surface  105 . The thickness of the outer coating  110  is formed to be between one eighth (⅛) to one half (½) inch, and more particularly between one quarter (A) to one half (½) inch thick or between one eighth (⅛) to one quarter (¼) inch thick, leaving an interior having a thickness of approximately one and one quarter (1⅞) to one and one half (1½) inches of airspace within the panel  101 . 
         [0064]    The outer coating  110  of the panel  101  in one embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21  is formed as a single structure with a pair of apertures  1100  formed in a top surface  1102  of the peripheral edge  103  of the panel  101  that extend through the outer coating  110  to communicate with the interior  1104  of the outer coating  110 . In addition, the outer coating  110  has a number of bores  1106  formed therein that extend from the front surface  102  to the rear surface  105  of the panel  101 . In each bore  1106 , and insert  1108  is positioned therein to form a sleeve extending through the interior  1104  of the panel  101 . The inserts  1108  can be secured within the bores  1106  in any suitable maimer, such as by an adhesive, such as an epoxy, or by any suitable mechanical means. In an alternative embodiment, the inserts  1108  can be formed during the molding process of the same material as the outer coating  110  to integrally extend between the bores  1106  from the front surface  102  to the rear surface  105 . 
         [0065]    In the embodiment of  FIG. 20 , the inserts  1108  are shown to be generally cylindrical in shape and include an anchor  1110  that is movably secured to the insert  1108  that is positioned partially within the insert  1108  and extends partially outwardly from the insert  1108 . When an object, such as a bolt  1112  to affix the outer coating  110  to a permanent or releasable support assembly  302  ( FIG. 3 ) is inserted through the bore  1106  and the insert  1108 , the engagement of the bolt  1112  with the anchor  110  within the sleeve  1108  causes the anchor  1110  to move out of the sleeve  1108  an into the interior  1104  of the panel  101  to engage the anchor  1110  and the sleeve  1108  with the material positioned within the interior  1104  of the panel  101 . While shown in a position partially over and/or outside the front surface  102 , preferably the bolt  1112  is mounted in a reverse configuration than that shown in  FIG. 21 , i.e., against the rear surface  105 , or such that the bolt  1112  is recessed within or flush with the front surface  102  to avoid interaction of the bolt  1112  with a ball striking the front surface  102 . In addition, the sleeves  1108  can be formed with interior threads to engage complementary threads on the bolt  1112  such that the length of the bolt  1112  can be shortened to enable the bolt  1112  to be inserted through a support assembly  302  ( FIGS. 3-6 ) and into the sleeves  1108  via the rear surface  105 , but such that the bolts  1112  do not extend completely through the panel  101 . 
         [0066]    After the formation of the outer coating  110  in the selected molding process, the interior  1104  of the panel  101  is filled with a material  1114  to provide the desired rigidity to the panel  101 . The material selected can be a wood composite or other suitable material, but in the illustrated embodiment is a rubberized foam material that can be injected into the interior  1104  of the panel  101  using the apertures  1102 . In one embodiment, the foam material  1114  is introduced into the outer coating  110  prior to the complete cooling of the material forming the outer coating  110  in order to enable the outer coating  110  to shrink around the foam material  1114  as it cools. Once filled with the material  1114 , the apertures  1102  are closed off by caps  1116  or other suitable devices positioned within the apertures  1102  to form a unitary enclosure around the material  1114  with the outer coating  110 . The caps  1116  can be engaged with the outer coating  110  in any suitable manner to permanently engage the caps  116  with the outer coating  110 , such as any adhesive or mechanical fastening means. The caps  116  can also he engaged with the outer coating  110  when the coating  110  is still warm after injection of the material  1114  to use the heat of the outer coating  110  to assist in engaging the caps  1116  to the coating  110 . 
         [0067]    In addition, the panel  101  may include a rough or grip-enhancing texture on the outer coating  110 , and more particularly on the front surface  102  of the panel  101 . Also, the inner portion  107  of the front surface  102  may have a pigment of a selected color, that is preferably different than the color of the material forming the outer coating  110 , providing a visual indication of the portion of the panel  101  to be targeted when in use. 
         [0068]    As stated above, the device may be embodied in two preferred sizes. A device  100  formed with a larger size is defined as a shooting wall  700 , 702  ( FIGS. 7A and 7C ), as it is designed to represent the area available for a player to shoot the ball B, and a wall formed with a smaller size is defined as a passing wall  701  ( FIG. 7B ), as it designed to represent the area in which a player can pass the ball B to a teammate. The shooting wall  700 .  702  is formed to have a dimension capable of simulating the shooting area for a player, e.g., having a dimension proportional in perspective to a standard soccer goal post frame from a far distance, e.g., more than fifteen (15) feet. In one embodiment, the shooting wall  700 ,  702  is between three and a half (3.5) to four and a half (4.5) feet high from the support surface on which the device  100  rests, such as the ground or floor and between six (6) to eight (8) feet wide. The passing wall  701  is formed to have a dimension proportional in perspective to simulating the silhouette of an average adult soccer player standing in ready position with legs spread apart to receive a pass. In one embodiment, the passing wall  701  is between two (2) to three (3) feet high from the support surface on which the device  100  rests, such as the ground or floor, and three and a half (3.5) feet to four and a half feet (4.5) wide. The two sizes for the shooting wall  700 ,  702  and the passing wall  701  may be scaled down to the proportional dimensions of average users of a particular age range such as shorter youth players or smaller infant children players. 
         [0069]      FIG. 2  illustrates an alternative embodiment of the deflection wall  200  formed with two panels  201 . Each panel  201  can be formed similarly to the panel  101 , and can be formed similarly to or different from one another. In the wall  200 , each panel  201  has one exposed front or main surface  202 , a substantially exposed peripheral edge surface  203 , all but the bottom which is in contact with the supporting surface, e.g., the ground, and an obstructed back or rear surface  204 . The back surfaces  204  face and are secured in a suitable manner, such as any fixed or releasable mechanical connection, to a central stabilizing unit  205  which can be formed of any suitable material. The stabilizing unit  205  has a pair of arms  206  that extend away from one another and are directly secured to the back surfaces  204  of the panels  201 . The arms  206  are connected to a surface engaging portion  207  that can be inserted into or otherwise engaged with the surface  208 , e.g., the ground, on which the panel  201  is positioned. Further, one or more of the stabilizing units  205  can be secured between the panels  201  to provide the desired functionality to the device  200 . With this construction, the device  200  is fully usable from both sides of the device  200 . In addition, the device  200  may have more than two panels  201  secured thereto. 
         [0070]      FIG. 3  illustrates another alternative embodiment of the device  300  which includes a single panel  301  formed similarly to the panel  101  and having an anchor support assembly generally illustrated in the drawings at  302 . The support assembly  302  includes a support channel or sleeve  304  connected to the back surface  303  of the panel  301 , and support rod  305  fixed in the ground  306  to an anchor  307 , formed of a suitable material, such as concrete, disposed below the surface of the ground  306 . To secure and stabilize the panel  301  in an erect position above ground  306  for use, the rod  305  can be inserted into the sleeve  304  to hold the panel  301  in position over the ground  306 . One or more support or support assemblies  302  may be connected to a particular panel  301  to provide the desired amount of support to the panel  301 , particularly in light of the size and composition of the panel  301  the ground surface composition. The embodiment of  FIG. 3  illustrates one of many potential manners of construction known in the art and should not be read in a limiting fashion. 
         [0071]      FIGS. 4 ,  5 A and  5 B illustrates another embodiment of the device  400  having one panel  401  attached to a support assembly  402 .  FIG. 4  illustrates a side view of this embodiment of the device in which the support assembly  402  comprises two angled brackets  403  secured to the rear surface  405  of the panel  401 , with each bracket  402  having a fixturing means  404  connected thereto generally opposite the panel  401 . The angled bracket  403  forming the support assembly  402  may comprise any hard weather resistant material such as but not limited to stainless or galvanized steel, durable plastic, carbon fiber or any combination of such material. The bracket  403  may be secured to the panel  401  in any suitable manner, such as by mechanical fasteners, and can be movably attached to the back surface  405  of the panel  401 , such that the brackets  403  can be pivoted between the use position in  FIG. 4 , and a collapsed position where the brackets  403  are disposed generally parallel to the back surface  405  for ease of transport, or can be detachable from the panel  401  as a separate component for transport. The support assembly  402  is not limited to an angled bracket means  403  but may include any similar manner of structural and stabilizing support of the panel  401  in a vertical upright position over a support surface, such as a soccer field or arena. 
         [0072]    In one embodiment, the brackets  403  forming the supporting assembly  402  would be attached to the panel  401  without holes or protrusion through any exposed surfaces of said panel  401 , such as but not limited to nails and screws. Further, the connection between parts of the device  400  in whole and upon fixture to the ground surface for intended use should be substantially sturdy and having minimal movement or noise, particular upon forceful impact. Unwanted sounds or deflection interaction arising from the wall upon impact may negatively affect psychological aspects of training, resulting in secondary unwanted habits or else simply interfering with the overall focus of training. The choice of material, composition and design of attachment features, many of which are already known in the art, can be chosen to minimize this unwanted effect, 
         [0073]      FIG. 4  illustrates the back side  405  view of an embodiment having two triangular brackets  403  attached to the back surface  405  of a panel  401 . Each angled bracket  403  recessed approximately seven to ten inches inward from the edges  406   a  of the panel sides so as to minimize obstruction to a soccer ball trajectory path. The angled bracket  403  has a horizontal piece  407  resting above the ground surface and extends perpendicularly from the bottom edge  406   b  of the back surface  405  on a horizontal plane relative to the ground surface. In one embodiment, said horizontal piece  407  is connected to the back surface of the panel  401  approximately half an inch (0.5) above the bottom edge of said panel  401  and extends outward at a perpendicular ninety degree angle as seen from a side view when the bracket  403  is in an open standing position. The purpose of the half inch lift above the bottom edge of the panel  401  is to create a pivot between the bottom of the panel  401  and the bracket  403  as the entire assembly rests against the horizontal ground surface. This slight pivot of the panel  401  rearwardly against the bracket  403  creates a resistance against the ground that is necessary to prevent the heavy wall from collapsing to the ground upon forceful impact of a high speed ball B. Without this said pivot, the wall would more likely collapse under its own weight (which is between eighty (80) to one hundred (100) pounds for the shooting wall and thirty (30) to forty-five (45) pounds for the passing wall) upon forceful impact of a ball should the wall be positioned at least close to perpendicular to the horizontal ground surface. The weight of the walls themselves should be heavy enough to withstand high frequency forceful impact of the ball without any slight movement of its position. Accordingly, the ideal weight of the wall should be within the range provided immediately above. Further, given the inherent balancing issues with a large heavy wall, the slight pivoting of the bracket pieces described above secures the walls in position according to their intended use and application. The brackets  403  also include a tangential piece  409  secured to the horizontal member  407  generally opposite the rear surface  405  of the panel  401 . The panel  401  includes a vertical rail  408  formed on the and extending rearwardly from the back wall surface  405 , which, when connected to the horizontal piece  407  and the tangential piece  409  of the bracket  403  create a triangular shape as illustrated in the drawings, which provides a high degree of stability to the panel  401  when in use. The horizontal  407  and tangential  409  pieces preferably comprised of weather resistant metal, though other suitable materials are also contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4 and 6C , further illustrates a portable detachable version of the angled support brackets  651  wherein the brackets  651  may be attachable and detachable by a spring lock or clip mechanism  652 . The lock mechanism  652  includes a pin  653  that insertable through pairs of openings  654  formed in the horizontal piece  407  and the tangential piece  409  that can be align with channels  655  formed in the rails  408 . The pins  653  can be secured within the openings  654  and channels  655  by a clip  656  pivotally secured to one end of the pin  655  and having an aperture  657  at the opposite end that is positionable over the opposed end of the pin  655 . 
         [0075]    An alternative embodiment of the bracket  651  is shown in  FIGS. 14-16 . In this embodiment, the bracket  651  includes the horizontal piece  407  and the tangential piece  409  connected to one another, and optionally including brace members extending therebetween and/or between spaced brackets  651 , along with a fixturing means  500  ( FIGS. 14 and 15 ) pivotally secured thereto. The end of the horizontal piece  407  and the tangential piece  409  engaged with the panel  401  include vertically-oriented sleeves  660 . Within each sleeve  660  is disposed a shaft  668  that is connected at each end to a flange  662  extending from opposed ends of a fixing bracket  664 . The bracket  664  also includes a stop  666  extending from one side of the bracket  664  and connected between the flanges  662 . The bracket  664  is connected to the rear surface  405  of the panel  401  in any suitable manner hold the bracket  664  on the panel  401 . However, as the shaft  668  is rotatable within the sleeve  660  on the bracket  651 , the bracket  651  can rotate with regard to the bracket  664  and the panel  401 . In this manner, the bracket  651  can be rotated from an extended position where the bracket  651  contacts the stop  666  on each bracket  664  to a collapsed position where the brackets  651  are positioned generally against the rear surface  405  of the panel  401 . Further, in the collapsed position, as a result of the dimensions of the brackets  651 , the brackets  651  are positioned coplanar with one another, such that the brackets  651  do not touch or interfere with one another in this position. The brackets  651  can also optionally be locked in either position by a suitable locking member (not shown) engaged between the sleeve  660  and the shaft to prevent their rotation with regard to one another. 
         [0076]    A fixturing means  404 , 500  according to  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C is connected to the joint end  501  where the horizontal piece  502  and tangential piece  503  meets. An exploded view of the fixturing means  500  as illustrated in  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C comprising a flat triangular wedge  504  whose wider end  505  contains a hollowed sleeve or tubular portion  506  (shown in part) within whereby a link, bolt or thin axle rod  510 , or any equivalent thereof, is slid through said sleeve  506  such that the wider side of the wedge  504  swivels around the link or rod  510  in the direction shown by arrow  507 . The fixturing means  500  is connected to the horizontal piece  502  at the joint end  501  such that it may swivel around the axis of the horizontal piece. 
         [0077]    When in use according to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , the pointed end  601  of the flat wedge  602  is positioned downward perpendicular to the ground surface and perpendicular to the cross section of the horizontal piece  603  at the joint end  604 . The wedge  602  is then driven into the ground with the flat side buttressing or abutting a blunt end (see  FIG. 5A ,  509 ) of the horizontal piece  603 . The abutment of the flat wedge  602  against the blunt end  509  of the horizontal piece  603 , as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , prevents the wedge from rotating further along the axle rod thus stabilizing the device against forceful impact. In addition, the joint end  501  can be rounded instead of squared and a second, opposite blunt end  509  added in order to enable the fixturing means  500  to be rotated through an angle of approximately one hundred and eighty degrees (180°) and engaged with the ground in multiple orientations of the panel  101  and support assembly  302 , 
         [0078]      FIGS. 7A ,  7 B and  7 C illustrating the exposed front or main surface  703  of some preferred embodiments of the device  700 ,  701 ,  702 .  FIGS. 7B and 7C  illustrating a larger device  702  and smaller device  701  which are versions of the panel device  700 . The devices are not drawn to exact scale but are drawn to relative scale as intended for an adult user and a standard goal post. The exposed front surfaces  703  of each panel  700 ,  701  and  702  are formed similarly to that of panel  101  and each have soft rounded or curved corners  704 , a white colored border  705  comprising less than fifty (50) percent of the surface area of the exposed main surface  703 , and more preferably less than ten (10) percent of the total surface are of the exposed front surface  703 . The central area or portion  706  of the exposed main surface  703  within the perimeter of the white border  705  is preferably formed to have a color mimicking a real soccer field or arena such as tan, beige, brown or green. 
         [0079]      FIG. 8A  illustrates a soccer training module  800  comprising two smaller passing walls  801  wherein each respective exposed main or front surface  802  is positioned directly opposite from each other.  FIG. 8B  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a two passing wall  801  module  805  that is spaced further apart. Variations in the distance between passing walls will vary but should be ten (10) yards distance or less from one another as a rule for purposes of mimicking actual distance between players within close practical passing range according to standard practice in the game of soccer. This range of distance further facilitating and encourage rapid, high repetition passing interaction between the player and the passing walls.  FIGS. 8A and 8B  are not drawn to scale or perspective. 
         [0080]      FIG. 9  illustrates a more complex soccer training module  900  having three passing walls  901  and one shooting wall  902 , whose exposed main surfaces  903  are centrally facing wherein the combination of panels  901 ,  902  are oriented to create a rectangular or square pattern with a central area  903  defined therebetween. This configuration and other module configurations may be embodied in permanent attachments to the ground surface by way of an anchor support assembly or system, as described previously regarding prior embodiments of the panels  901 ,  902 .  FIG. 9  is not drawn to scale or perspective either. Alternatively, the shooting wall  902  and one or more of the passing walls  901  can be oriented to be parallel to one another, optionally with the parallel shooting wall  902  and the passing wall  901  in the same vertical plane above the supporting surface, e.g., the ground. 
         [0081]      FIG. 10  illustrates an even more complex embodiment of a soccer training module  250  having eight permanently positioned devices  151   a, b, c  with two additional portable devices  152  in angled positions. This embodiment of the module having three pairs of passing walls  151   b, c  and one pair of shooting walls  151   a , simulating a complete multiplayer game environment. The three pairs of passing walls  151   b, e  arc positioned opposite to each other in parallel form, with two rows of three passing walls  151   b, c . The pair of shooting walls  151   a  is positioned opposite each other between the two rows of passing walls  151   b , and at each ends of the two rows. The eight walls  151   a,b,c  form a generally rectangular shaped module  250 . The distance  153  between the exposed main surfaces of the two rows of passing walls  151   a,b,c  (along the length of the rectangle between exterior surfaces of the two opposing walls) is approximately eight (8) yards. The distance  154  between the opposing shooting walls  151   a  is approximately thirty-two (32) yards. The distance between adjacent passing walls within a given row (from side edge  155  to side edge  155 ) is approximately two (2) yards or greater. 
         [0082]      FIG. 11  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a complete field module  250  with six permanently fixed devices  251   a,b,c  and two portable devices  252  in an angled position. The distance between side edges  253  of the passing walls within the same row  250   a,c  remains at least two (2) yards of separation at a minimum, mimicking the natural minimum spread between players in actual play according to standard practice and training of the game. 
         [0083]      FIG. 12  illustrates three circular modules  350 , each module containing eight passing walls  351 , the exposed front surface of each passing all  352  centrally facing the same central radial point to form a substantially circular or oval pattern. The distance between side edges  353  of the passing walls remains at least two (2) yards of separation at a minimum, mimicking the minimum natural spread between players in actual play according to standard practice and training of the game. 
         [0084]      FIG. 13  illustrating one embodiment of a complete soccer training system  450  having nine sets of modules  451 ,  452 ,  453 ,  454 ,  455   456 ,  457 ,  458 ,  459  of progressive levels of complexity. The first six sets of modules  451 ,  452 ,  453 ,  454 ,  455 ,  456  represent the least complex types, each containing two passing walls. The distance between the exposed front surface of the opposing passing walls within each of the first six modules are as follows: Module  1  ( 451 )=10 yards; Module  2  ( 452 )=9 yards; Module  3  ( 453 )=8 yards; Module  4  ( 454 )=7 yards; Module  5  ( 455 )=6 yards; Module  6  ( 456 )=5 yards. These distances reflect the closest range of separation between players in passing position in actual play according to standard practice and training within the game of soccer. Any distance further than ten (10) yards would require shooting of the hall and detract from training passing techniques, and any distance of less than two (2) yards is too close for this type of training, with three (3) yards being a more (desirable minimum distance. 
         [0085]    Modules  7  ( 457 ) and  8  ( 458 ) of  FIG. 13  represents the next progressing levels of modular complexity. These two sets each contain four permanent devices with three passing walls and one shooting wall. Both module units contain three passing walls and one shooting wall. The dimensional requirements of Module  7  &amp;  8  are as follows: two passing walls in opposing position with the respective exposed surfaces separated by approximately seven (7) yards distance; one passing wall perpendicularly positioned  460  between the two passing walls at approximately two (2) yards distance between side edges  461 ; a shooting wall perpendicularly positioned relative to the two opposing shooting walls on the opposite end from the perpendicular passing wall  460 ; the shooting wall separated from the perpendicularly positioned passing wall  461  at approximately fourteen (14) yards distance. Portable devices or walls may be added to existing permanent modules to increase complexity of training. 
         [0086]    The last module  9  ( 459 ) of this system  450 , is substantially similar to the complete field module described in  FIG. 10  or  11 . Alternative modular embodiments, such as the type described in  FIG. 12 , may be added or substituted for any of the modules described within  FIG. 13 . The described training system and modules described above may be reconfigured to add extra levels of complexity by adding more devices at desired position on an existing modular environment. Alternative embodiments of the system may comprise less numbers of module units or fewer training levels. The described training system and module units may be permanently affixed onto a dedicated field or may be transported and movable anywhere along a field. The claimed device may be manufactured with either manner of construction in mind. 
         [0087]    Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a schematic view of the method of use of the modules  800  of  FIGS. 8A and 8b , as well as modules  451 - 456  of  FIG. 13  is shown. In one embodiment of the method of using the modules  800 ,  451 - 456  the method, a player  1000  is positioned between the walls and can perform one of two exercises:
       1) player  1000  can pass the ball B against one of the walls, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall, and then turn 360° to pass the ball B back at the same wall, and repeat this process; or   2) player  1000  can pass the ball B against one of the walls, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall, and then turn 180° to pass the ball B to the opposite wall, and repeat this process.
 
As the skill of the player  1000  in controlling the ball  13  as it rebounds off of the walls increases, the player  1000  can move to modules  800 ,  451 - 456  having progressively wider spaces between the walls, such that the passes become more difficult to make and receive accurately, and so that the player  1000  can incorporate making realistic in-game moves, e.g., dribbling and juking or evading, prior to making and/or receiving the passes against the walls of the modules  800 ,  451 - 456 .
       
 
         [0090]    Looking now at  FIG. 18 , a schematic view of the method of use of the module  900  of  FIG. 9 , as well as modules  457 - 458  of  FIG. 13  is shown. In one embodiment of the method of using the modules  900 ,  457 - 458  the method, a player  1000  is positioned centrally within the walls and can perform these exercises:
       1) player  1000  can pass the ball B against one of the passing walls, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall, and then turn 90° or 180′ or 360′ to pass the ball B back at the same wall, or at one of the other passing walls in the triangular passing wall configuration and repeat this process; or   2) player  1000  can pass the ball B against one of the passing walls, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall, and then turn 180° to shoot the ball B at the shooting wall, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the shooting wall and the turn to pass the ball off of one of the passing walls, and repeat this process.
 
As the skill of the player  1000  in controlling the ball B as it rebounds off of the walls increases, the player  1000  can move to modules  900 ,  457 - 458  having progressively wider spaces between the passing and shooting walls, including being able to move certain portable walls present in the modules  900 .  457 - 458 , such that the passes and/or shots become more difficult to make and receive accurately, and so that the player  1000  can incorporate making realistic in-game moves, dribbling and juking or evading, prior to making and/or receiving or collecting the passes and shots against the wails of the modules  900 ,  457 - 458 .
       
 
         [0093]    Looking now at  FIG. 19 , a schematic view of the method of use of the module  250  of  FIGS. 10-11 , as well as module  459  of  FIG. 13  is shown in one embodiment of the method of using the modules  250 ,  459  the method, a player  1000  is positioned centrally within the walls and can perform these exercises:
       1) player  1000  can pass the ball B against one of the passing walls on one side of the module, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall while moving forward towards one of the shooting walls, and then pass the back at another passing wall on the same or opposite side of the module, or shoot the ball B at the adjacent shooting wail, and collect the ball from the shooting wall and reverse direction to repeat this process: or   2) players  1000  can pass the ball B against one or more of the passing walls, receive the ball B as it rebounds off of the wall, and then shoot the ball B at the shooting wall in playing a one on one or two on to game using the passing walls as additional “teammates” to move the ball B towards the desired shooting wall or “goal.”
 
As the skill of the player(s)  1000  in controlling the ball B as it rebounds off of the walls increases, the player(s)  1000  can move to modules  250 ,  459  having progressively wider spaces between the passing and shooting walls, including being able to move certain portable walls present in the modules  250 ,  459 , such that the passes and/or shots become more difficult to make and receive accurately, so that the player(s)  1000  can incorporate making realistic in-game moves, e.g., dribbling and juking or evading, prior to making and/or receiving the passes and shots against the walls of the modules  250 ,  459 , and to incorporate more players  1000  within the games played within the modules  250 ,  459 .
       
 
         [0096]    Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described by way of summary, detailed description and illustration. The specific embodiments disclosed in the above drawings are not intended to be limiting. Implementations of the present invention with various different configurations are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.