This game is best suited for small teams of 5, which will allow 2 or 3 games to be played at a time depending on class size. Use existing boundary lines and/or cones to define the boundaries and pin area for each game. The boundaries of the games should be adjusted to maximize the use of your space and allow for the greatest number of games to be played simutaneously.

Divide the players into 2 teams (5 players per team) and give all players a jersey. Each team consists of 4 “Rovers” and 1 “Pin Keeper”. Rovers are responsible for passing the ball(s) to their teammates, knocking down the other team’s pins, protecting their team’s pins, and returning their team’s pins to the pin area if they are knocked out. Rovers may not enter the pin area. Pin Keepers are responsible for protecting the pins, and making occasional outlet passes to their teammates. At the start of the game the Pin Keepers may arrange the pins any way they would like as long as they are within the pin area.

The game is started with the Pin Keepers passing the balls out to their teammates who begin the game on their half of the court. Players pass the ball and knock down the pins by rolling the ball across the floor. Players may NOT use a throw or toss. Rovers should be encouraged to move to an open space when awaiting a rolled pass. Upon receiving the ball a player is allowed to take 2 steps to control forward momentum and then he or she must pass or shoot the ball. Rovers and Pin Keepers are allowed to block passes with their hands and/or feet. When using feet to block the ball students should be encouraged to trap the ball like they would in soccer. Team Bowling is not a contact sport. Players who initiate physical contact will lose possession of the ball.

Players are encouraged to regulate their own game, but if needed a teacher or instructional aide can act as referee. The emphasis in Team Bowling is who can keep their pins standing for a longer period of time. once one teams pins are all down, reset the pins and play again with new Pin Keepers.

To promote passing consider requiring a team to make a certain number of passes or require that all team members touch the ball before a team may roll it at a pin.

Don't allow students to block with their feet to promote catching with their hands.

Students may write in their reflective journals: What did you do to encourage your teammates? How could you have done a better job showing your teammates appreciation? Did your teammates encourage you and how did it make you feel?

Since this is a cooperative activity, the teacher should promote clear positive communication among teammates. Communication is the key to the team being successful.

This activity has been used with students who have mild to severe disabilities. Plus, this activity has been used with students in inclusive classes grades 3-6. For students who are in wheelchairs there are no modifications.