Toss-A-Name Game
Toss a ball while saying names - simple but effective way to learn everyone's name quickly.
10-15 min
6-25 people
high
basic
About This Game
Toss-A-Name Game helps groups learn names through repetition and physical activity. Standing in a circle, toss a soft ball while saying the name of the person you're throwing to. Start slow, add complexity with multiple balls and patterns. By the end, everyone knows everyone's names.
Objectives
- Learn everyone's name quickly
- Create active engagement
- Build group energy
- Practice focus and attention
How to Run This Game
Facilitator Script:
"Let's learn everyone's names! We'll go around the circle - say your name clearly. I'm [Name]. Your turn!"
Actions:
- Stand in circle
- Each person says name clearly
- Repeat once more around circle
- Encourage: speak loudly and clearly
Tips:
- • For name tags: remove them for the challenge
- • Go around 2-3 times for reinforcement
Facilitator Script:
"I have a ball. I'll make eye contact with someone, say their name loud and clear, then toss it to them. They do the same. Try to toss to everyone at least once. Ready? [Name], here you go!"
Actions:
- Start with one soft ball
- Say name, make eye contact, toss
- Receiver acknowledges, picks new person
- Continue until everyone has caught once
- Start pattern over, build speed
Tips:
- • Use soft ball (foam, beach ball, stuffed animal)
- • Emphasize: eye contact, clear name, gentle toss
- • If name forgotten: others help out
Facilitator Script:
"Great! Now let's add a second ball. Same pattern, but now two balls going. Stay focused!"
Actions:
- Add second ball
- Try to maintain same pattern
- Increase speed
- Optional: add third ball for chaos
Tips:
- • Chaos is good - creates laughter
- • When balls drop: laugh and continue
- • Multiple balls = more name repetition
- • End when energy peaks
Facilitator Tips
- Best for groups 8-25 people
- Use soft, safe balls
- Perfect for first day of class, new team, orientation
- Repetition + movement = name retention
- Add balls gradually for controlled chaos
Common Challenges & Solutions
Variations & Adaptations
Say person's name AND one fact about them when tossing
Establish pattern, then reverse it (toss backwards through same sequence)
Each person creates a gesture with their name, group repeats
teams have used this game