US Patent 7186192 Ball return system

A ball return apparatus includes a base, a substantially vertical pole extending from the base, an extensible tether extending from the pole, and a ball connected to the tether. The preferred base has a hollow interior and a closure so that the base can be filled with water or sand. The pole is mounted for articulation relative to the base, and a compression spring resists such articulation and causes the pole to return to its rest position. The tether has an extension spring connected to an elastic member. A swivel is at the end of the tether. An attachment device or plug connects to the ball. A glow ball or other ball can be used.