Flys Up

Catch It or Crash #

Flies Up is a classic playground catching game where one thrower sends the ball skyward and the rest scramble to catch it. Each catch earns points, and the first player to reach the winning total is crowned the champion.

How to Play #

One player (the thrower) stands with a ball (or frisbee) at one end of the play area. All other players stand facing them in a group some distance away. The thrower calls out a number (e.g., “100 points!”) and then tosses or kicks the ball high into the air.

Players rush to catch the ball. Whoever catches it earns the number of points called out. If the ball is dropped or hits the ground, no points are awarded.

The first player to reach an agreed-upon score (usually 500) becomes the next thrower.

Variations

Team Play: Instead of collecting points for individuals, points will be pooled for your team. The team that reaches the set amount of points first wins.
Point Cap: You may tell the players that there is a maximum point value that can be assigned to a single throw. This will stop games ending in only one throw.

Rules #

Thrower Role: One player starts as the thrower and announces the point value for each toss.

Point Catching: Players earn the announced points by catching the ball cleanly in the air.

First to Score: First player to reach the total score goal (commonly 500) becomes the new thrower.

No Holding: Players must not shove, hold, or block others while going for the ball.

Dropped Balls: If the ball is dropped or missed, no points are awarded.

Materials #

Materials Required

Ball or Frisbee: Any soft or bouncy playground ball works well.
Open Space: A field or large grassy area for safe catching and movement.

Setup #

Setup Instructions:

Choose a Thrower: Pick one player to be the first thrower. The rest line up at the catch zone.
Define Boundaries: Mark out a clear catch area to keep the game fair and safe.
Agree on Winning Score: Set the score needed to win (e.g., 500 points).
Begin the Game: The thrower announces point values and launches the ball high. Let the catching chaos begin!