Proper InflationKeep the basketball inflated to the recommended pressure. Over or under-inflation can affect the ball's bounce and cause uneven wear. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check regularly and make sure to moisten the inflator needle. It is a good idea to do a check that the basketball is properly inflated and has no air leaks before each use. |
Clean RegularlyWipe the basketball down after use with a damp cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and oils. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the surface. If the basketball gets wet, dry it off as soon as possible with a towel. Do not use a hair dryer or any direct heat source to speed up the drying process. |
Appropriate StorageStore the basketball in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving it in a car or in an area where it might be exposed to moisture or heat, which can degrade the material. |
Use on Proper SurfacesUse the basketball on appropriate surfaces. Hardwood courts are ideal for indoor balls, while concrete or asphalt courts are more suitable for outdoor balls. Using a ball on the wrong surface can lead to premature wear. |
Avoid Sitting or Standing on the BallAvoid sitting or standing on the basketball, as it can distort its shape and impact both its bounce and overall performance. |
Check for DamageInspect the ball periodically for cuts, nicks, or other signs of wear. Early detection of damage can prevent further deterioration. |
Proper HandlingEncourage proper handling and use of the basketball. Discourage kicking or using the ball for purposes other than basketball. |
Knocking In & and oiling (Also known as Seasoning)
Each English Willow and Kashmir Willow bat in our collection requires essential pre-use preparation. It is imperative to either apply a generous coating of oil or affix a sheet of Extratec to the bat's face. This crucial step ensures that the bat is fortified against potential damage. Neglecting this preparatory process could leave the bat susceptible to undesirable splitting and cracking, compromising its performance and longevity.
Oiling
Ensuring that your bat is regularly oiled is paramount in maintaining the optimal moisture balance within the wood. This meticulous maintenance not only preserves the bat's integrity but also significantly diminishes the likelihood of any splitting or cracking occurring. It's important to remember, however, that it's entirely normal for a bat to exhibit minor cracks and splits following mild to moderate usage. Such minor imperfections are a natural testament to the bat's journey and use in the sport.
(source: wristspinbowling.com)
Directions:
1. Use a cloth to apply 2-3 teaspoons of raw linseed oil to the face, edges and back of the bat and spread evenly. Avoid putting oil on labels.
2. Carefully wipe up any excess oils seen running down the bat when held upright.
3. Lay the bat down horizontally facing up for 24 hours after applying one coat of oil to allow proper drying.
4. For best results, repeat above process 3-4 times before first use.
5. Coating with oil is required every week thereafter.
Knocking In
Knocking in is the process by which the grains and fiber materials of the bat are compressed. This strengthens the bat to prepare it for use. This process is important to maintain the durability of the bat.
(source: sw.com.au)
Directions:
1. Use a ball or a wooden cricket bat mallet to knock the bat for 2-4 hours continuously.
2. Start the knocking process by hitting the mallet against the blade (face of the bat), firmly but not too hard.
3. Increase force after an hour.
4. Ensure all areas of the blade, not covered by stickers, are knocked in equally.
5. When knocking the edges, roll the mallet or a rounded object up and down the edge of the bat.
When the knocking and oiling process has been completed, and if Extratec has not been applied, the blade should be tested to see if it requires more oil. To do this, run your thumbnail up the blade of the bat from the toe to just below where the front sticker is. If there is a tiny speck of oil where your thumbnail is, there is enough oil. However, if there is no oil the blade will need to be oiled again. YOUR BAT SHOULD BE TESTED IN THIS MANNER EVERY 3 TO 4 WEEKS TO ENSURE PROPER OILING.
]]>We are committed to providing the resources and information
you need to support your Xenith gear.
MEASURING FOR A HELMET
Measure 1 inch above the eyebrow and around the circumference of
the head, as shown. If the measurement falls between two sizes, size
up and use comfort pads to further customize the fit.
]]>Suppose you’re heading out to the gym for a quick workout. You would grab a smaller gym bag that fits your shoes, clothes, and your water bottle. You wouldn’t grab a hockey equipment bag, as that would be way too large. Same thing goes for work or school. Your laptop bag would carry your notebooks, pens, laptop and papers perfectly where as a duffel bag would be unnecessarily large.
Now that we’ve provided a few examples of how the right bag is essential, let’s dive in a little further into when you should use each bag.
Have a lot to carry around, but also want your hands to be free? Then backpacks are your go-to! Backpacks will give you the freedom you need while also providing ample storage for all of your belongings. Backpacks are perfect for an on-the-go type of person, and are perfect for small day to day adventures.
Size, style, and volume are three main factors that can vary depending on the needs of the buyer. For example, larger volume backpacks can be great for long, overnight hikes; while smaller volume backpacks are perfect for shorter daytime hikes. If you are going on a plane and need a carry on bag, then a medium sized backpack is perfect because it's not too big, and not too small. It really comes down to your preference, where you’re going and how much you need to carry with you when choosing a backpack size.
Apart from the volumes, the styles also communicate the purpose of the backpacks. Ideally, a school-boy style backpack may not be a great hiking bag, but would be a plausible option for everyday use to carry books and laptops.
When choosing a backpack style, ask yourself “what am I going to use this bag for?”. Is it for hiking, for school, or simply just for fashion purposes? Nevertheless, the backpack you choose should be something that’s not only functionable, but something that suits your preferred style.
There are some additional features that you should look for when choosing a backpack. If you need a backpack mainly for outdoor activities, then the most important additional feature you should look for is weather resistance. If there’s a chance that your bag’s contents might get drench in rain, then it is crucial to consider this feature. If you can’t find a bag that is entirely weather resistant, then make sure it is slightly waterproof. Some bags even offer an additional cover for your backpacks to keep it protected from the rain. This is an option to add on to any existing backpacks you may have if you don't want to purchase an entirely new weather proof bag.
Moving forward, another option that you may be looking for is lockable zippers. This feature is ideal for if you travel a lot and don’t want your belongings to be stolen. The locks will ensure that things are safe in your compartments, and that nothing gets lost after your bag has been handled at the airport.
Internal frame is something to be considered when buying backpacks for hiking or long travels. Otherwise, internal frames shouldn’t matter too much. It is better to have a sturdy internal frame that can keep your items secure and safe. This is especially important if the contents of your bag are breakable or valuable.
Padded shoulder belts and hip belts are important to keep you comfortable during long travels. If you are prone to having shoulder pain or back pain, then this feature is something to prioritize when looking for a backpack. Having padded and adjustable straps will ensure that you can customize the bag to fit your individual body. This will lessen the load and evenly distribute the weight, thus avoiding further injuries. Similar to the shoulder belts, hip belts should also be padded to avoid uneven weight distribution.
Do you want to dig down your clothes deep down in your backpack? No, right? Then get a front loading backpack. This makes getting your stuff easy.
Backpacks can carry large loads, but nothing can compare to the capacity of a duffel bag and their durability. Rolling suitcases may be a contender against the duffel, however duffel are more accessible and flexible in comparison to rolling suitcases. Let’s dive in a little further into why duffel make great bags.
Duffel bags are chosen for their convenience. However, there are certain subtle features things that can add more convenience to a duffel bag. For example, duffel bags with D-Shaped openings are better suited for if you need quick access to your items.
Duffelsare not typically the easiest type of bag to carry around. This is usually because of their single shoulder straps, which may be uncomfortable if you have to carry the bag for a long period of time. However, not all duffel bags are dependent on the single strap. Some duffel bags can be carried like a backpack, and some (such as a hockey duffel bag) have wheels.
Volume is another feature that you should consider when purchasing a duffel. If you have very few things to carry but have a large duffel, then it would look saggy and be difficult to carry around. It is important for you to choose the right volume that fits your requirements. Duffel bags come in all sizes, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find one that is the right size for you.
As mentioned earlier, not all bags are meant for all environments. You need to carry a different bag for a different setting; for a different ambiance.
]]>Handball is a fascinating game played throughout five continents by over 180 countries and 19 million people of all ages, worldwide. From the 1920s it was played outdoors, except in some northern countries, like Sweden, where the game was played in an indoor court. Indoor handball gained popularity in the 1930s and by the mid 1960’s playing outdoors on a large field came to a stop and indoor handball gained more interest among sports enthusiasts. During the 1939 Summer Olympics program outdoor handball was introduced, but since the 1972 Summer Olympics program it has become an indoor sport. Handball is a combination of Basketball, Soccer and Netball. It is played indoors on a court about the size of two basketball courts.
The objective of the game is to throw the ball into the opponent's goal. Defenders may use their body to make contact with attackers to prevent them from having a clear shot at goal. Attackers attempt to break through the defense or shoot over the top of them to score a goal. Two teams compete with 6 court players and 1 goalkeeper playing per team at any one time. Substitutions can be made at any time. Each goal counts as 1 point and games regularly finish with teams having scored over 20 points.
The game is played on a court 40m long and 20m wide with 2m high and 3m wide nets at either end. The game consists of two 30-minute time periods with a 10-minute rest in between. All players alternate between an attacking position and a defending position, depending on who has possession of the ball. The ball is usually moved around the court by passing and dribbling however, as in basketball, you cannot double-dribble. Players can hold the ball for a maximum of three seconds before having to pass or dribble and take up to three steps while holding it.
If there is a penalty a player is warned. The next two penalties are two-minute suspensions. After that players can be disqualified (which means they are removed, but can be replaced after two minutes). They can also be excluded, which means they cannot be replaced and the team will have one less player on the court.
Goalkeepers stand in a 6m Goal area which only they may enter. Court players are not allowed to be in this area however they may leap into this area whilst shooting provided they shoot before they land. Goalkeepers can leave their goal area when not in possession of the ball and participate as a court player.
Each goal counts as 1 point. Usually 20 goals are scored in a game. The handball weighs 16 ounces (13 ounces for women) and is about the size of a cantaloupe.
There are four types of players:
Goalies: Defend goal. Not expected to stop as many goals as goalies in hockey or soccer.
Circle Runners: Large players who block shooters and try to disorganize the defense. They also are shooters, usually from close-in range.
Wings: They are offensive players who shoot at odd angles, usually from the sides.
Big Shooters: They are tall, agile players who much like quarterbacks lead the offense. They shoot from the backcourt over the head of defenders.
With physical contact, unlimited substitutions and shots at goal that can reach over 100 km/hour, handball is reputed as being the fastest ball sport. There is a great deal of physical contact and end-to-end action involving high jumps, powerful throws and spectacular agility, there is always something exciting happening on the field of play.
Reference: ct.spanish.com/legends/king/handball.htm, bathstudent.com/su sport/club/handball
Beach Handball is a rapidly developing sport that combines competition with leisure. Played on sand by teams of four, with four substitute players per team, the action on the small court is fast and at times furious. Extra points are awarded for particularly spectacular goals: for those scored in-flight, 360˚ spin shot, through a penalty or by a goalkeeper. Games go over two halves of 10 minutes each. There is always a winner in beach handball: a golden goal’ rule applies in a draw for the half; should each team win a half; the game is decided by a ‘shoot-out’: a field player going up against the goalkeeper. Beach handball has developed into a competitive sport and as such aims to enter the Summer Olympic Games. Beach Handball entered the official sports program of The World Games 2013 in Cali, Colombia for the first time (previously an invitational sport). The growing interest in this young sport can now be recognized all over Europe, South America, North Africa and Asia.
Mini Handball is a ball game for children. Handball rules and equipment are adapted so that children can understand, learn and enjoy the game. Playing this kind of handball, children ages 8-11 can exercise, improve their basic motor skills and coordination, which is just as important as the development of specific game concepts such as "team spirit" or "fair play." The game and experience should always be kept in the foreground, the results and achievement in the background. It is not adults' handball! Training and tactics should not be involved.
The two teams include 5-6 players (4-5 field players and a goalkeeper) depending on how practiced the children are, the length of the game depends on their age, but every player should be involved for roughly the same time (perhaps also in the goal).
Smaller Court: 20-24m long x 12-16m wide (e.g. 20 x 13m is exactly one third of the normal handball court).
Soft Ball: a ball with a circumference of 44-49cm, should be colorful, suitable for children, soft, not too heavy, must bounce well and be easy to grab to guarantee a "fear-free" game. Children should like it and not be afraid of it.
Mini Handball rules are made extremely simply to allow a teacher or coach (not a referee) to make fair and easy decisions which children can understand.
The general rules - ball handling, defending, attacking, scoring, etc. - are identical with the rules of Handball. The game should always be played in the spirit of fair play, but in case players behave unfairly, they will get substituted (not suspended) for two minutes.
Reference: bchandball.ca
Image courtesy of BCHandball.ca
]]>Sports fundraising is so critical these days. Whether you are a basketball, football, soccer, or cheerleading organization, the costs of playing sports is getting higher than registration fees and budgets can handle. Most leagues require players to participate in some sort of sports fundraiser to offset costs. The difficult thing is choosing the best fundraising ideas for your particular team.
There are so many different types of teams and clubs, that choosing a fundraiser can be overwhelming.
There is absolutely no reason your fundraiser shouldn't be successful. But unfortunately, that's not always the case.
The good news is that with a little focus, just about every fundraising idea can work to some degree.
So, let's look at 3 things you and your team should do to get started. While we certainly can’t guarantee results, you will certainly be better equipped to start your fundraiser with a better chance for success.
The problem with lots of fundraisers is that they are last minute events with little to no planning prior to getting started.
It's no wonder that results can be lacking.
So here are some things to brainstorm as you develop a fundraising game plan:
1. How much money are you trying to raise?
2. Will you hold one fundraiser or are your needs too large for just one?
3. Have you clearly defined what the money you are raising will be used for?
4. Do you have a basic schedule for your fundraiser? Make sure it includes planning time, a start date, turn in date, end date and delivery date.
5. Create a list of successful fundraisers you (or others) have held over the past few years.
It's important that your players are motivated to raise money. Otherwise it doesn't matter how much money you need because your players will simply not care and not produce.
At your next group meeting, make sure you designate time to talk specifically about your fundraiser.
The first thing you should discuss is the need for the fundraiser. What do your players need that requires a fundraiser? Be sure each member understands the personal benefits they will receive from helping with the fundraiser.
Next go on to goals. Everyone should know how much you are trying to raise and when you need to raise the money by. That means each player needs to know what you expect of them individually. Set individual goals as minimums.
Review the schedule for when you are planning to get started.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Bake Sale – Bake sales are always fun (everyone likes homemade goodies!)
Host a Car Wash – Who doesn’t like a clean car? If your team members don’t want to do the actual washing, try selling car wash tickets to a local car wash. Many of these companies will give back 50% of the profits. Contact the local carwash nearest you to see what fundraiser program they have.
Selling Products –check out companies such as Vandermeer Nursery, World FinestChocolate or MacMillan Orchards (serving Durham/Toronto & Southern Ontario) that have fundraising programs. You sell their products (plants, chocolate, cookie dough etc.) at a good rate and then make a percentage back of what you sell.
Rent a Student - The best part about this fundraiser is that there is a 100% profit! Your organization can offer to “rent your students” to families to do mow their lawns, do yard work, walk their dogs, help clean out their garage or any other jobs they might need done. This is typically done in increments of 30 minutes. It’s pretty cut and dry and a great money maker!
Restaurant Night - Everyone needs to eat! So, match that need with an opportunity to earn money from the profits of a local restaurant and you have a win-win situation! Many restaurants will share 10-20% of total sales with your organization. Simply set up a night with the restaurant and get as many people to eat at that particular restaurant on the designated date!
Soccer: Shot Cage - This fundraising program is best suited for a league-wide effort. On Picture Day, during a tournament, or at any other event with high attendance, set up a soccer “shot cage” with a radar gun to measure velocity. Every player will want multiple chances to show just how fast their shot speeds toward the goal. You can set up contests with prizes for various age ranges, team awards, Top Gun, etc. Soccer fundraising featuring a radar-equipped shooting cage is actually an inexpensive event to host. Several companies rent the equipment by the week with radar gun, cage, and freight all included for less than $350. To maximize your soccer fundraising success, price shots in a multi-shot package, such as two for $1 or other combinations. Count the number of players in your league or potential shooters at a tournament event and determine if this type of soccer fundraising is right for your group.
Some fundraising ideas are from Fundraiserhelp.com and sportsmomsurvivalguide.com.
]]>Below is our break down of the must-have products from CoreFX that you can purchase through Marchants. Read on to find out more about these items and how they will take you to the next level of strength and fitness.
Kettlebells are usually used for dynamic moves and offer various fitness benefits such as enhanced strength,endurance, balance and agility. With just this one piece of equipment, you can have a challenging and efficient work out.
The CoreFX Kettlebell comes in different sizes, starting from 10 lbs to 50 lbs. The prices for the CoreFX Kettlebell starts from $29.99 for the lowest 10 lbs category and the highest 50 lbs would cost $109.99. All kettlebells come with a rubber coating on the bell to minimize noise while exercising, and has a dual surface texture which improves the grip for various exercises.
Get them here: http://bit.ly/kettlebell-corefx
Like kettlebells, CoreFX Medicine Ballsare used to focus on and improve agility. They have been proven to develop explosive strengths of the athlete; increase muscle power and the overall sports performance. Medicine balls also serve as an excellent tool for maximum power output. Medicine balls can be tailored to an endless variation of exercises according to your needs. Russian twists, High-to-Low, Lunge Rotation, Slams and Plank Jacks are some of the full body exercises that could be done using Medicine Balls.This makes them a very versatile piece of equipment that can be used not only at the gym, but at home as well.
Exercising with medicines balls help to focus on targeting the whole body rather than just a single muscle. This is important to improve athleticism and sports performance.
At Marchants, CoreFX medicine ball come in six sizes - 6 lbs, 8 lbs, 10 lbs, 12 lbs, 15 lbs and 20 lbs. The ball also has a dual surface texture, for added grip and control when in use.
Get them here: http://bit.ly/medicine-balls
CoreFX Push sleds are versatile pieces of equipment that provide incredible results in a short amount of time. The pushing sled can be used as a strength training equipment to improve the explosive strength of athletes. The intensity of the workout can be amplified by adding weights to the push sleds as this will improve strength, stamina and agility.
Pushing sleds not only improve your stamina and strength, they are also very safe and athletes are susceptible to lesser injuries. The athletes body also sustains very few wear and tear after the workout and this is ideal for football players with two-a-day schedules.
The equipment is structured with two push-bars, two towing-rings and a low bar which is used to add weights to the sled. The push sleds work against the friction of the floor which in turn depend on the surface you use it on.
The base model of the push-sled starts at $499.95 at Marchants.
Get them here: http://bit.ly/push-sleds
The Plyo Box as the name suggests, is used for plyometric training workouts. Athletes use it to jump up, jump down, jump back up, and down again (repeating this step over again multiple times) in an explosive motion. The point of this exercise is to increase muscle power, strength, speed, and bone density. By jumping up and down from the box to the floor, you are conditioning your body to burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time. This is called HIIT. Box jumps can also improve the way you do other exercises such as squats and deadlifts as they help to increase your stamina, strength, and flexibility.
The Plyo Box by CoreFX comes in 3 sizes - 20”, 24” or 30”. The box is solid on all the 6 surfaces and uses internal reinforcing components to give the box a sturdy rock solid feeling. The edges are sanded and rounded for safety and the boxes come with a handle for easy transportation. This is another piece that is great for using at the gym, or investing in your own to use at home.
Get them here: http://bit.ly/plyo-box-3-in-1
Sandbags are simple pieces of equipment that are used for high strength and conditioning workouts. The intensity of the workout is revealed by sand movement in the sandbags, which increases the volatility of training without giving way for a rhythmic movement.
CoreFX Sandbags are high in quality and designed to withstand the extreme training sessions. The sandbag is made out of military grade material and has withheld rigorous tests. The CoreFX Sandbag can hold upto 50 lbs of sand and would not leak, even in the harshest of conditions.
Get them here: http://bit.ly/corefx-sandbags
]]>If you’re looking for an ideal indoor scoreboard that can be used for both basketball and volleyball, then look no further! The MacGregor SK3048 scoreboard measures in at 4 feet wide by 2 feet tall and has bright 6" LED numerals, making it easy to read. It is the perfect dimension for your average court, and with some minor tweaks it can also be used for wrestling.
Need to keep track of how long a practice or a warm up is? Use this scoreboard as a clock or a countdown timer. You can then switch it over to keep track of the scores, periods, bonuses, and possession. It also has a last minute counter which provides a thrilling game experience for both athletes and spectators.
Some key features of the MacGregor SK3048 are that it comes with a 300 foot range rechargeable wireless remote, making it accessible from a distance. The wireless remote can be set to 12 frequencies to prevent interference. As well, it comes with a 100 foot power cord to obtain power for the scoreboard from a distant power supply.
While the MacGregor SK3048 gives excellent functionality, a portable stand or wall mount is necessary to keep the device in place or transport it around the stadium. This stand has to be bought separately for $247.95.
MacGregor SK2229R Indoor Tabletop Scoreboard & Timer
Just like its big brother MacGregor SK3048, MacGregor SK2229R is an indoor scoreboard but smaller in size. MacGregor incorporates a 4.25 inch LED panel for the score and 4.75 inch panel for the timer. The overall dimensions of the scoreboard measures to 16”x24”x10” and weighs in at 13 lbs.
MacGregor SK2229R indicates time, scores, digital periods, bonus, team fouls and possession. It can also function as a timer, stopwatch, metronome or an alarm during training sessions. This multi-sport scoreboard can be used for sports such as Volleyball, Basketball and Wrestling.
The 100 foot range remote gives officials to control the scoreboard from a distance. Four different frequency settings in the remote ensures less interference from others. Unlike the larger MacGregor SK3048, the SK2229R is able to stand alone on a table. If you dislike mounting items onto the wall, then this is the scoreboard for you. However if you change your mind, you can also use it with a stand, which is sold separately. This is an ideal table top scoreboard, but this can also be used with a stand which is sold separately.
If you’re looking for a scoreboard that has the functionalities of the MacGregor SK3048 without breaking the bank, then this is the ideal scoreboard for you.
Gametime Portable Electronic Scoreboard
Unlike the MacGregor Scoreboards mentioned above, Gametime is an outdoor scoreboard with an audio player. The most interesting feature of this scoreboard is that it can be linked to an iPhone application to be remotely accessed through Wi-Fi within a 50 meter range.
Gametime comes with a rechargeable Li-ion battery powered by an AC adapter which gives up to 4 hours of battery life. The scoreboard is also weather resistance and could be used both indoors and outdoors. A 20W audio system provides good audio quality and also allows you to speak to the crowd through a microphone using the iOS App. You could be the official game announcer!
The unit can be easily mounted on a camera tripod or a back panel wall mount. The scoreboard also comes with a built-in handle for easy transportation. However, an extra shoulder strap could also be obtained optionally.
If you are looking for a scoreboard which has inbuilt audio functionality which could used for training purposes and to guide the players, Gametime Scoreboard would be your best bet.
Portable Manual Scoreboard
If all you need is a scoreboard that can show scores of the home and guest teams, a portable manual scoreboard would do the trick. SKTT Manual scoreboard is a 12” x 24” heavy duty scoreboard with large 7” numbers and scores counting to 99.
This manual scoreboard gives larger viewing scores to the spectators and is ideal for practices, games, and matches. It can be used for basketball, volleyball, tennis, or pretty much any game involving two teams.
XTC Gear No Limits Interval Timer
XTCis the only Canadian made scoreboard & timer amongst the lot. It can function as a simple timer, minute counter or a scoreboard. The multisport scoreboard timer can be controlled using Android & iOS App via bluetooth up to a distance of 100 ft. or could be operated using the IR remote included in the package.
Bright Green and Red 4” LED light provides good view from a distance. With dimensions of 22.5” by length and 6.25” by height, XTC is a bulky device but comes with wall mountable capabilities.
If you are looking for a flexible option for your team, where you could train them and take records of the scores on practice games, XTC is what you should go for.
]]>