Each player is designated his or her own square (place in outer space). This is decided by drawing numbers 1 to 4
The player who draws number one is in top position and player who draws number two is in second position and so on...
The goal of the game is to be in the number one position in space. In order to do this you must knock out the opponents who are in higher squares.
Player in the top Space position begins the game by serving the ball (the hot sun) into any other square using an underhand open palmed serve.
The players square that the hot sun lands in must then return the hot sun to any other players square without letting the ball bounce more than once in his/her square.
Note that all shots must be underhanded.
If the hot sun is not returned after being hit into your area of Space then you are knocked out.
If you are in 1st position and get knocked out you move to 4th position and everybody moves up in Space.
Double Hot Sun: Two players will be designated to one square to work together as a team.
Bonus Hot Sun: Place a pylon somewhere in each square. If a player hits another players pylon, s/he automatically moves to the number one position.
What are the most effective ways to score points in this game?
To hit into open space: aim where the players aren’t standing in their area of space
Make the ball difficult to return by using fakes (e.g., look one way and hit the other) and by putting spins on the ball.
Use large, light, soft balls.
Allow the players to catch the ball before throwing it to the next player.
Players can throw the ball underhand instead of using an underhand open palmed serve.
Players use non-dominant hand
Kick the ball
Players can hit it up to three times in their own square to themselves (or a partner)
LEVEL OF COMPLEXITY
Easy
Moderate
Difficult
Participant Grouping
The game requires four participants to play. Each person involved in the game is designated his/her own square decided by drawing numbers out of a hat.
Equipment
Balls (e.g. beach, foam, paper, wiffle gator): 1 ball per game. A soft bouncy ball. Other: Tape or rope to section off squares
Playing Area
Gymnasium
Safety
Make sure that all games of Hot Sun are spaced out properly so that the games do not interfere with each other. Also use a soft ball to avoid injury.
Life Skills Development
Coping and Self-Management Skills
Did you feel pressured to catch the ball? How did it make you feel when you were "knocked out" of the line? Did it affect your performance?
Where else do you feel pressure from others to perform to a certain level?
How do you feel when others pressure you into making decisions that are unhealthy lifestyle choices?
Why is it important to stand up for what you believe in and not follow others because you want to fit in?
FUNdamental Skills
Stability Skills
Stability for Striking Skills
Preparation Phase: Have feet shoulder width apart with non-dominant foot slightly ahead of the other. Have equal distribution of weight on each foot to remain stable (We dont want any falling trees).
Execution Phase: Shift body weight forward by stepping with non-dominant foot preforming a rocking action.
Follow Through Phase: Bend knees and lower hips to stop forward motion.
