WO2022251531A1

WO2022251531A1 - Retractable backstop assembly for a sport structure

Info

Publication number: WO2022251531A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/031176
Authority: WO
Inventors: David DE SPONG
Original assignee: Dabew Llc
Priority date: 2021-05-26
Filing date: 2022-05-26
Publication date: 2022-12-01
Also published as: EP4347062A1; AU2022281396A1

Abstract

A backstop assembly for a sport structure that includes at least one support member that is configured to be coupled with at least one structural member of the sport structure, and a net having a top side that is coupled with an upper end of the at least one support member. The backstop assembly is moveable between a stowed configuration, in which the support member is in a stowed position and the net does not extend past a periphery of the sport structure, and a deployed configuration, in which the support member is in a deployed position and at least two sections of the net extend outwardly from the periphery of the sport structure.

Description

RETRACTABLE BACKSTOP ASSEMBLY FOR A SPORT STRUCTURE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 63/193,461, filed on May 26, 2021, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR

DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.

SEQUENCE LISTING

[0003] Not applicable.

FIELD OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] The present disclosure provides an assembly for securing a sporting accessory article to a sport structure, and more specifically, to a retractable and adjustable backstop assembly for an existing or new sport structure.

BACKGROUND

[0005] The objective of many sports is to shoot a ball at a target object, such as a goal, hoop, a net, and the like, and this is especially true of “goal sports,” such as soccer, football, hockey, lacrosse, and basketball. However, an issue commonly arises during the aforementioned sports when an attempted shot is not placed on target and the ball veers outside the goal and out of play. Such errant shots can pose a safety risk to surrounding people and property, and the process of locating and retrieving a ball of an errant shot can cause a significant interruption to the flow of practice or a game. In some cases, errant shots can result in a loss of property if the ball is not retrievable, i.e., when practice occurs adjacent to a busy road, or can result in a nuisance to others, i.e., when a ball falls within a neighboring property. To quell this common issue, backstops or similar netting systems are often erected behind or adjacent to the target object, such as a goal or a hoop, to provide a means for arresting or rebounding errant shots. [0006] Conventional backstop designs require extensive setup, maintenance, and a substantial stand structure. In general, there are two types of common conventional backstops: standalone backstops and attachable backstop systems. With respect to standalone backstops, a “fence-like” design is generally utilized, which includes a tubular-framed net that is installed to the ground using foot-like base members and stabilizing cables at each end. This type of design is normally constructed behind the sport structure or goal and, in some cases, may be permanently or semi-permanently secured to the ground due to the inherently tedious nature of corresponding setup, handling, and storage. When utilized in a location where permanently securing the backstop is not a viable option, such as a public park, standalone backstops must be assembled, disassembled, and transported for each use. Many users consider this to be a cumbersome process due to the bulkiness of common standalone backstop designs, so attachable systems are often preferred. Further, many conventional backstops include vertically-oriented rectangular and planar structures, and while such designs may be sufficient for arresting errant shots that emanate from locations disposed generally in front of the goal, these conventional backstops are ill-suited for intercepting shots taken from more laterally disposed field positions. Still further, conventional standalone backstops can be also unsightly and may cause damage to the surrounding turf or grass, such as a result of the aforementioned foot-like base members.

[0007] Conventional attachable backstop systems may be permanently or removably secured to an object, such as a sport structure or goal, a hoop, or the like. Attachable backstop systems are typically more compact than their standalone counterparts because the object to which the backstop is attached provides the majority of the necessary structural support for the assembly. Unfortunately, conventional attachable backstop systems also have issues that can be detrimental to the user or the overall performance of the system. For example, some conventional attachable backstop systems connect to the lateral sides of the sport structure or goal and are disposed directly adjacent to the field of play, which may cause a safety hazard to players during practice or formal play. Further, most attachable systems must be fully disassembled from the sport structure or goal when a user no longer needs the backstop erected, which can require a substantial amount of time. Still further, many attachable backstop systems are adapted only for use with a specific sport structure having a particular configuration. That is to say, most conventional attachable backstop systems are not universally attachable to a variety of sport structures or goals having differing configurations. [0008] For example, some conventional backstop systems known in the prior art include: U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2015/0024877A1, which discloses a flexible, collapsible curtain for erecting as a combination soccer goal and backstop; U.S. Pat. No. 8,100,784, which discloses an extension net providing a backstop on a standard or specially modified lacrosse goal; and U.S. Pat. No. 10, 195,508, which discloses a removably attachable backstop net mechanism that can be fully integrated to a profile of an existing goal.

[0009] Therefore, a need exists for a backstop assembly that addresses one or more of these identified shortcomings.

SUMMARY

[0010] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an assembly that can include a coupling member for securely attaching a sporting accessory, such as a backstop, to an existing or new sport structure, such as a soccer goal, a basketball hoop, a tennis net, or the like. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a backstop assembly for a sport structure that can include at least one support member that can be configured to be coupled with at least one structural member of the sport structure and can be moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position, and a net that can have a top side that can be coupled with an upper end of the at least one support member. The backstop assembly can be moveable between a stowed configuration, in which the at least one support member is in the stowed position and the net does not extend past a periphery of the sport structure, and a deployed configuration, in which the at least one support member is in the deployed position and at least two sections of the net extend outwardly from the periphery of the sport structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sport structure can have an upper member, a first side member, and a second side member that define the periphery of the sport structure. In such embodiments, the at least one support member can include a first rod having a first upper end and a second rod having a second upper end, and the first rod can be configured to be coupled with the first side member and the second rod can be configured to be coupled with the second side member. In such embodiments, the net can have a shape with a first upper comer and a second upper comer, opposite the first upper comer. In such embodiments, when the backstop assembly is in the deployed configuration, the first and second upper corners of the net extend outwardly from the periphery of the sport structure and are disposed below the upper member. [0012] In some embodiments, the backstop assembly can include a first coupling member that can be configured to be removably attached to the first side member and slidably receive the first rod, and a second coupling member that can be configured to be removably attached to the second side member and slidably receive the second rod. In some embodiments, the first and second rods can be coupled to a rear side of the first and second side members, the rear sides being opposite the upper member, via the first and second coupling members. In some embodiments, the first and second side members can extend at an angle relative to the upper member, and the first and second rods can extend at the angle such that the first and second upper ends are above the upper member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first coupling member can include a first member having a first rod receiver and a second member having a second rod receiver, the first member can be removably attached to an upper end of the first side member and the second member can be removably attached to a lower end of the first side member adjacent to a lower member of the sport structure such that the first rod is slidably received within the first rod receiver of the first member and the second rod receiver of the second member. In such embodiments, the second coupling member can also include a first member having a first rod receiver and a second member having a second rod receiver, the first member can be removably attached to an upper end of the second side member and the second member can be removably attached to a lower end of the second side member adjacent to a lower member of the sport structure such that the second rod is slidably received within the first rod receiver of the first member and the second rod receiver of the second member.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first and second rods can be coupled to outer sides of the first and second side members, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second rods can extend substantially perpendicular to the upper member of the sport structure. In some embodiments, the first and second rods can be configured to be moveable between a deployed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and a stowed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance.

[0015] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a backstop assembly for a sport structure that has an upper member, a lower member, a first side member in connection with first ends of the upper and lower members, and a second side member in connection with second ends of the upper and lower members, opposite the first ends. The backstop includes a first rod having a first upper end, a second rod having a second upper end, a first coupling member that can be configured to be coupled with the first side member of the sport structure and to receive the first rod, a second coupling member that can be configured to be coupled with the second side member of the sport structure and to receive the second rod, and a net having a top side, a bottom side, a first upper corner, and a second upper corner opposite the first upper comer, The top side of the net can be coupled with the first upper end of the first rod and the second upper end of the second rod, such that the first and second upper corners of the net extend below the upper member. In some embodiments, the first and second rods can extend substantially perpendicular to the upper member of the sport structure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first side member can include a first vertical post having a first end in connection with the first end of the upper member, a first horizontal post having a first end in connection with a second end of the first vertical post and a second end in connection with the first end of the lower member, a first angled post having a first end in connection with the second end of the first horizontal post and a second end in connection with a first stmt that is in connection with the first end of the upper member. In such embodiments, the first coupling member can have a first end coupled to the first angled post with an opening that is configured to slidably receive a lower end of the first post and a second end coupled to the first horizontal post. In such embodiments, the second side member can include a second vertical post having a first end in connection with the second end of the upper member, a second horizontal post having a first end in connection with a second end of the second vertical post and a second end in connection with the second end of the lower member, a second angled post having a first end in connection with the second end of the second horizontal post and a second end in connection with a second stmt that is in connection with the second end of the upper member. In such embodiments, the second coupling member can have a first end coupled to the second angled post with an opening that is configured to slidably receive a lower end of the second post and a second end coupled to the second horizontal post.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first and second rods can be configured to be moveable between a deployed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and a stowed position, in which the first and second upper ends are aligned with or at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance. In some embodiments, the backstop can further include a cable in connection with the lower ends of the first and second rods such that the first and second rods are moveable between the deployed and stowed positions by adjusting a length of the cable. In some embodiments, the backstop can further include a winch that can be configured to adjust the length of the cable to move the first and second rods between the deployed and stowed positions. In some embodiments, the first coupling member can further include a first cable holder that can extend from the second end of the first coupling member to the winch, and the second coupling member can further include a second cable holder that can extend from the second end of the second coupling member to the winch. In some embodiments, the winch can be electronically or hydraulically powered.

[0018] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a backstop assembly for a sport structure that has an upper member, a lower member, a first side member in connection with first sides of the upper and lower members, and a second side member in connection with second sides of the upper and lower members, opposite the first sides. The backstop can include a first rod having a first upper end, a second rod having a second upper end, a first coupling member that can be configured to be coupled with the first side member of the sport structure and that can have a first end configured to slidably receive a lower end of the first rod such that the first rod extends substantially parallel to a first vertical side post of the first side member that is in connection with the first side of the upper member, a second coupling member that can be configured to be coupled with the second side member of the sport structure and that can have a first end configured to slidably receive a lower end of the second rod such that the second rod extends substantially parallel to a second vertical side post of the second side member that is in connection with the second side of the upper member, and a net that can have a top side, a bottom side, an upper right comer, and an upper left corner. The top side of the net can be coupled with the first upper end of the first rod and the second upper end of the second rod, such that the upper right and left comers of the net extend below the upper member with the upper right corner and with the first upper comer being adjacent to the first vertical side post and the second upper corner being adjacent to the second vertical side post.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first rod can be disposed along the first side member between the first vertical side post and the first end of the lower member, and the second rod can be disposed along the second side member between the second vertical side post and the second end of the lower member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first and second rods can be configured to be moveable between a deployed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and a stowed position, in which the first and second upper ends are aligned with or at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance. In some embodiments, the backstop can further include a cable that can be in connection with the lower ends of the first and second rods such that the first and second rods are moveable between the deployed and stowed positions by adjusting a length of the cable, and a winch that can be configured to adjust the length of the cable. In such embodiments, the first coupling member can further include a first cable holder extending from a second end of the first coupling member to the winch, and the second coupling member can further include a second cable holder extending from a second end of the second coupling member to the winch.

[0021] Other aspects of the backstop assembly described herein, including features and advantages thereof, will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the figures and detailed description herein. Therefore, all such aspects of the backstop assembly are intended to be included in the detailed description and this summary.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 front view of a regulation soccer goal for the purpose of explaining certain details relevant to the invention;

[0023] FIG. 2 is a left side view of the soccer goal of FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 3 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure and in a deployed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 4 is a front view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 3;

[0026] FIG. 5 is a right side diagrammatic view of an exemplary embodiment of a coupling member assembly of the backstop assembly of FIG. 3, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective detail view of a first coupling member of the coupling member assembly of FIG. 5;

[0028] FIG. 7 is a front view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 3 having an alternative exemplary embodiment of the backstop net, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; [0029] FIG. 8 is a right side schematic view of another exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 9 is a front view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure and in a stowed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 10 is a right side view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 9;

[0032] FIG. 11 is right rear perspective view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 9 in a deployed configuration, with some aspects of the system removed for clarity;

[0033] FIG. 12 is a front view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 11;

[0034] FIG. 13 is a left side view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 11;

[0035] FIG. 14 is a front view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure in a stowed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 15 is a front view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 14 in a deployed configuration;

[0037] FIG. 16 is a right side view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 14;

[0038] FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic right side view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 14 being moved toward the deployed configuration;

[0039] FIG. 18 is a rear view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure in a stowed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 19 is a rear view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a backstop assembly assembled on a sport structure in a stowed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

[0041] FIG. 20 is a rear view of the backstop assembly of FIG. 19 in a deployed configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Before the embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the figures. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of values ± 5% of the number that each term precedes. Further, throughout the disclosure, the term “substantially parallel” refers to a direction that is within ± 5 degrees of a reference direction, e.g ., a first direction that is within ± 4 degrees of a second direction is substantially parallel to the second direction. Similarly, throughout the disclosure, the term “substantially perpendicular” refers to a direction that is within ± 5 degrees of perpendicular of a reference direction, e.g. , a first direction that is within ± 94 degrees of a second direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction.

[0043] The following discussion provides several non-limiting examples of specific implementations in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, some embodiments provide an assembly that can be adapted to secure a sporting accessory article, such as a backstop assembly, to an existing sport structure, such as a soccer goal, a lacrosse goal, a handball goal, a hockey goal, a tennis net, or a basketball hoop. In some embodiments, one or more components of the backstop assembly can be integrally formed with or contained within a new sport structure, such as a post or pole of a goal. In other embodiments, a backstop assembly can be removably coupled with one or more structural components of an existing sport structure, such as via one or more coupling mechanisms. Moreover, exemplary assemblies that may include one or more coupling members to secure a sporting accessory are described herein in the context of a backstop assembly that is retractable or movably attachable to a sport structure, in particular, a soccer goal or a basketball hoop. However, assemblies and coupling mechanisms of the present disclosure may be used to secure a wide variety of sporting accessories to any variety of sport structure, and assemblies for securing sporting assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure should not be limited to any particular usage or application. Accordingly, other implementations in accordance with the present disclosure are possible and are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0044] Turning now to the figures, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary sport structure that is a regulation soccer goal 30. The goal 30 includes a first or right side member 32, a second or left side member 34, a horizontally extending upper member or crossbar 36 having a first or right end 36a in connection with the right side member 32 and a second or left end 36b in connection with the left side member 34, and a horizontally extending lower member 38 having a first or right end 38a in connection with the right side member 32 and a second or left end 38b in connection with the left side member 34. More specifically, the right side member 32 includes a first or right upright member 40 having a first or upper end 40a in connection with the right end 36a of the crossbar 36, a first or right lower strut 42 having a first or proximal end 42a in connection with a second or lower end 40b of the right upright member 40 and a second or distal end 42b in connection with the right end 38a of the lower member 38, a first or right diagonal member 44 having a first or lower end 44a in connection with the right end 38a of the lower member 38, and a first or right upper strut 46 having a first or proximal end 46a in connection with the right end 36a of the crossbar 36 and a second or distal end 46b in connection with a second or upper end 44b of the right diagonal member 44.

[0045] Similarly, the left side member 34 includes a second or left upright member 50 having a first or upper end 50a in connection with the left end 36b of the crossbar 36, a second or left lower strut 52 having a first or proximal end 52a in connection with a second or lower end 50b of the left upright member 50 and a second or distal end 52b in connection with the left end 38b of the lower member 38, a second or left diagonal member 54 having a first or lower end 54a in connection with the left end 38b of the lower member 38, and a second or left upper strut 56 having a first or proximal end 56a in connection with the left end 36b of the crossbar 36 and a second or distal end 56b in connection with a second or upper end 54b of the left diagonal member 54.

[0046] Referring specifically to FIG. 2, a front plane 58 of the goal 30 is defined by a front surface 36c of the crossbar 36, a front surface 40c of the right upright front member 40, and a front surface 50c of the left upright front member 50. A goal net 60 is fixedly attached from the right side member 32 to the left side member 34 (see FIG. 1) and from the crossbar 36 to the lower member 38 such that an opening 62 of the goal 30 is defined by the front plane 58 together with a ground surface G. Likewise, outer surfaces of each of the crossbar 36, the right upright front member 40, the left upright front member 50 together with the ground surface G define a periphery of the goal 30. The goal 30 also has an exterior or rear plane 64 defined by an exterior or rear surface 44c of the right diagonal member 44 and an exterior or rear surface 54c of the left diagonal member 54. More specifically, at the rear of the goal 30, the right diagonal member 44 and the left diagonal member 54 (see FIG. 1) extend outwardly and upwardly from the lower member 38 toward the crossbar 36 of the goal 30 prior to abutting against the proximal ends 46a, 56a of the horizontally extending upper struts 46, 56, respectively. When viewed from a lateral side (such as the right side, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4), the left and right diagonal members 44, 54, and thus also the rear plane 64, extend upwardly at an angle between about 55 degrees to about 80 degrees relative to the ground surface G.

[0047] Referring now to FIGS. 3-6, an exemplary embodiment is illustrated of a backstop assembly 80 assembled on the goal 30. Referring specifically to FIGS. 3 and 4, the backstop assembly 80 includes a first or right coupling member 82 configured to be removably secured to the right side member 32, a second or left coupling member 84 (see FIG. 4) configured to be removably secured to the left side member 34 (see FIG. 4), a first or right support member or rod 86 having a first or lower end 86a configured to be slidably received by the right coupling member 82, a second or left support member or rod 88 (see FIG. 4) having a first or lower end 88a (not shown) configured to be slidably received by the left coupling member 84, and a backstop accessory or net 90 attached to second or upper ends 86b, 88b (see FIG. 4) of the right and left support rods 86, 88, respectively.

[0048] Referring specifically to FIG. 5, a right side view is shown of the right coupling member 82 attached to the right side member 32 of the goal 30. For ease of illustration, only the right coupling member 82 is shown in detail. In the illustrated embodiment, the left coupling member 84 (see FIG. 4) is generally similar to the right coupling member 82 but coupled to the left side member 34 (see FIG. 4) of the goal 30. As shown in FIG. 5, the right coupling member 82 includes a first or lower coupling element 92 and a second or upper coupling element 94. Similarly, the left coupling member 84 includes a third or upper coupling element, e.g ., lower coupling element 92, and a fourth coupling element, e.g, upper coupling element 94. Each of the lower and upper coupling elements 92, 94 include a retaining portion 96 that is adapted to slidably receive the support rods 86, 88 and a mounting portion 98 that is adapted to securely mount the coupling elements 92, 94 to one or more members 40, 42, 44, 46, 50, 52, 54, 56 of the right or left side members 32, 34 of the goal 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the right coupling member 82 is coupled to the right diagonal member 44 of the right side member 32.

[0049] More specifically, the mounting portion 98 of the upper coupling element 94 of the right coupling member 82 is arranged proximate to the upper end 44b of the right diagonal member 44 and the mounting portion 98 of the lower coupling element 92 is arranged proximate to the lower end 44a of the right diagonal member 44, such that the retaining portions 96 of the lower and upper coupling elements 92, 94 are adjacent to the rear surface 44c of the right diagonal member 44. In some embodiments, the lower and upper coupling elements 92, 94 of the right and left coupling members 82, 84 can be integrally formed with one another. In some embodiments, the right and left coupling members 82, 84 can include only the lower coupling element 92 or the upper coupling element 94.

[0050] Referring specifically to FIG. 6, the upper coupling element 94 of the right coupling member 82 is shown in greater detail. For ease of illustration, only the upper coupling element 94 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower coupling element 92 is generally similar to the upper coupling element 94. As shown in FIG. 6, the mounting portion 98 of the upper coupling element 94 includes a recessed area 98a that is shaped to receive the right diagonal member 44 of the right side member 32 of the goal 30. More specifically, interior surfaces of the recessed area 98a are complementary to the exterior surfaces of the right diagonal member 44. In some embodiments, the shape of the mounting portion 98 may differ in order to accommodate differently shaped members of an existing goal.

[0051] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 98 of the upper coupling element 94 can be configured such that the shape of the recessed area 98a can be changed by a user. For example, in some embodiments, the upper coupling element 94 can be configured such that a user can adjust a width or a depth of the recessed area 98a. The mounting portion 98 of the upper coupling element 94 of the right coupling member 82 further includes a fastening aperture 98b that can fixedly receive fasteners (not shown) to securely fasten the upper coupling element 94 to the right side member 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening apertures 98b of the upper coupling element 94 are configured to receive one or more screws. In other embodiments, one or more, or a combination, of a bolt, a clamp, a ratchet, or any other fasteners commonly known in the art can be used to securely fasten the upper coupling element 94 to the right side member 32. [0052] Referring again to FIG. 5, the lower end 86a of the right support rod 86 is received in cylindrical sleeves 96a of the retaining portions 96 of the lower and upper coupling elements 92, 94 of the right coupling member 82. In the illustrated embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve 96a of the lower coupling element 92 of the right coupling member 82 has a closed end 96b such that the lower end 86b of the right support rod 86 is seated upon the closed end 96b to lock the support rod 86 in a deployed position, and thus also the backstop assembly 80 in the deployed configuration (as shown in FIG. 4). Thus, the right support rod 86 may be moved from the deployed position to a stowed position by moving the support rod 86 in the direction of arrow A and then rotating the lower end 86a of the support rod 86 in the direction of arrow B such that the rods 86, 88 are disposed behind the goal 30 and do not interfere with play on the goal 30. In other embodiments, different configurations may be implemented to move the support rods 86, 88 between the deployed and stowed positions and the backstop assembly 80 between the deployed and stowed configurations.

[0053] Referring again to FIG. 3, with the support rods 86, 88 in the deployed positions, the support rods 86, 88 of the backstop assembly 90 project upwardly and forwardly beyond the crossbar 36 of the goal 30 such that the upper ends 86b, 88b of the support rods 86, 88 extend beyond the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) and above the crossbar 36 of the goal 30. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 5, with the backstop net 90 attached to the upper ends 86b, 88b of the support rods 86, 88, the backstop net 90 drapes behind the support rods 86, 88 and the rear plane 64 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30. As such, in the illustrated embodiment, the backstop net 90 is disposed at an angle relative to the ground surface G that corresponds to the rear plane 64 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30. Notably, this angular orientation of the exemplary backstop net 90 has been found to be better equipped for intercepting errant shots emanating from positions radially away from the center plane of the goal 30.

[0054] In some embodiments, the support rods 86, 88 may have telescoping features such that a length of the support rods 86, 88 is adjustable relative to the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30. In such embodiments, the backstop assembly 80 can be configured to move from the deployed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) to the stowed configuration (not shown) by retraction of the support rods 86, 88. In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 80 can be configured such that the support rods 86, 88 may be configured to be automatically telescopic, such as by a motor in connection with a pulley system of the backstop assembly 80. In some embodiments, the support rods 86, 88 are movable relative to the goal 30 following initial assembly of the backstop 80, such as at adjustable angles or distances relative to the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 7, the backstop net 90 of the backstop assembly 80 is shown prior to assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the backstop net 90 is rectangular shaped, and the support rods 86, 88 connect to the backstop net 90 at two respective locations along an upper peripheral edge 90a of the net 90. A first or right lower comer 90b and a second or left lower comer 90c of the net 90 may be secured to the ground surface G, such as via one or more stakes 106 (see FIG. 4) or other retaining means, such as cords, ropes, cables, strings, poles, posts, or the like. During assembly, a first or right upper comer 90d and a second or left upper corner 90e of the net 90 are not secured to the support rods 86, 88 and drape downwardly due to gravity, thereby creating a first or right transverse fold 90f and a second or left transverse fold 90g in the net 90, which can provide the assembled backstop assembly 80 with a generally trapezoidal profile, such as the profile of backstop net 90 shown in FIG. 4. Thus, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 7, the assembled backstop 80 includes a first or right net section 90h and a second or left net section 90i that extend laterally from the from the right and left side members, 32, 34, respectively, of the goal 30 and a third or top net section 90j that extends vertically from the top of the goal 30 between the right and left net sections 90h, 90i. In some embodiments, the backstop net 90 can have different shapes, such as, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, or octagonal, with the top side 90a being an upper most edge or point of the shape of the net 90 and the right and left upper comers 90d, 90e being the upper most points of curvature adjacent to right and lefts sides, respectively, of the top side 90a of the net 90. In some embodiments, the backstop net 90 can be triangular or circular shaped.

[0056] Referring again to FIG. 3, the backstop assembly 80 is shown in the deployed configuration, in which at least the top section 90j of the backstop net 90 forms an acute angle relative to the ground. As such, errant shots that contact the backstop net 90 may be deflected against the net 90 back toward the playing field or may be captured behind the goal 30 between the goal net 60 and the backstop net 90, depending on the elasticity of the backstop net 90 or the angle of the trajectory of the ball relative to the backstop net 90. Relatedly, in some embodiments, the backstop net 90 is configured to provide substantially enhanced deflection of a ball from the backstop net 90 to support the practice of a user. In some embodiments, the backstop net 90 can include one or more portions having characteristics, such as elasticity, color, or density, that differ than other portions. For example, in some embodiments, one or more portions of the backstop net 90 can comprise a first material having a first elasticity while other portions of the backstop net 90 can comprise a second material having a second elasticity that is different than or less than the first elasticity.

[0057] It is contemplated that a backstop assembly can be configured to couple with other parts of the goal 30 other than the right and left side members 32, 34. For example, in some embodiments, the backstop assembly 80 can include a central mounting member (not shown) that is configured to attach to a rear upper member 36d (see FIG. 2) and the lower member 38, and can receive a third or central support rod (not shown) having an upper end that can attach to the backstop net 90. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the backstop assembly 80 can include one or three or more coupling members and can include one or three or more support rods.

[0058] It is further contemplated that a backstop assembly can be integrally formed with one or more structural components of an existing or new sport structure. For example, in some embodiments, the right diagonal member 44 of the right side member 32 of the goal 30 can include an first opening (not shown) at the upper end 44b that can be configured to slidably receive a first support member, such as the right support rod 86 of the backstop assembly 80, and the left diagonal member 54 of the left side member 34 of the goal 30 can include a second opening (not shown) at the upper end 54b that can be configured to slidably receive a second support member, such as the left support rod 88 of the backstop assembly 80.

[0059] It is still further contemplated that a backstop assembly can be configured to be adjustable to a plurality of deployed positions relative to the sport structure. Accordingly, FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the backstop assembly 80 assembled on the goal 30, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the right coupling member 82 is secured to the right side member 32 at a joint between the upper end 40a of the right upright member 40, the proximal end 46a of the upper right strut 46, and the right end 36a of the crossbar 36. Similarly, the left coupling member 84 (see FIG. 4) is secured to the left side member 34 at a joint between the upper end 50a of the left upright member 50, the proximal end 56a of the upper left strut 56, and the left end 36b of the crossbar 36. Further, in the illustrated embodiment and with reference to FIG. 6, at least the upper coupling elements 94 of the right and left coupling members 82, 84 further include a transition portion (not shown) that rotatably connects the retaining portion 96 to the mounting portion 98 so that the support rods 86, 88, and thus also the backstop net 90, may be movable relative to the goal 30 while the backstop assembly 80 remains in the deployed configuration.

[0060] More specifically, the transition portions (not shown) of at least the upper coupling elements 94 of the left and right coupling members 82, 84 can be configured to be pivotable about a pivot axis 100. Thus, a user may rotate the support rods 86, 88 about the pivot axis 100 to place the backstop net 90 in a variety of positions or configurations. In some embodiments, at least the upper coupling elements 94 of the right and left coupling members 82, 84 can further include a locking mechanism, such as a ratcheting mechanism, that can be configured to secure the retaining portion 96 at one or more angles relative to the mounting portion 98. In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 80 can be further configured to be moved to the stowed configuration from the deployed configuration by rotation of the support rods 86, 88 about the pivot axis 100. For example, in such embodiments, the support rods 86, 88 can be configured to have telescopic upper ends 86b, 88b that can be retracted such that a length of the support rods 86, 88 is decreased and thus the retracted upper ends 86b, 88b are arranged toward the pivot axis 100 when the backstop is in the stowed position to limit interference with the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30.

[0061] It is further contemplated that a backstop assembly can be configured to be assembled on a sport structure and automatically moveable or retractable between the stowed and deployed configurations. Accordingly, FIGS. 9-13 illustrate another embodiment of a backstop assembly 180 assembled on the goal 30. In particular, the backstop assembly 180 of FIGS. 9-13 is similar to the previous embodiment of FIGS. 3-8, with like elements being indicated by similar reference numerals. For example, the backstop assembly 180 includes a backstop net 190 that can be secured to a ground surface G, such as with one or more stakes 206 (see FIGS. 12 and 13), just as the backstop assembly 80 of FIGS. 3-8 includes the backstop net 90. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 9-13, the right and left coupling members 182, 184 of the backstop assembly 180 are removably attached to the right and left side members 32, 34, respectively, such that the right and left support rods 186, 188 are substantially parallel to the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30 when the backstop assembly 180 is in either of a stowed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) and a deployed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13). Further, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the backstop assembly 180 is configured such that the support rods 186, 188 are substantially aligned with the crossbar 36 of the goal 30 such that the backstop assembly 180 does not interfere with play on the goal 30 while in the stowed position.

[0062] Referring specifically to FIGS. 9 and 10, the backstop assembly 180 is shown in a stowed configuration. In particular, the retaining portion 196 of the right coupling member 182 is removably attached to the right side member 32 of the goal 30 toward the upper end 44b of the right diagonal member 44 via a fastening member 198b and extends downwardly to the right lower strut 42. Similarly, the retaining portion 196 of the left coupling member 184 is removably attached to the left side member 34 of the goal 30 toward the upper end 54b of the left diagonal member 54 via the fastening member 198b and extends downwardly to the left lower strut 52. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the retaining portions 196 of the right and left coupling members 182, 184 extend substantially parallel to the front plane 58 (see FIG. 2) of the goal 30. The lower ends 186a, 188a (not shown) of the right and left support rods 186, 188 are slidably received within the retaining portions 196 of the right and left coupling members 182, 184, respectively, such that the upper ends 186b, 188b of the support rods 186, 188 extend slightly above the upper ends of the coupling members 182, 184 when the backstop assembly 180 is in the stowed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10). Referring specifically to FIGS. 10 and 11, the right and left coupling members 182, 184 can each further include a containing portion 202 that can extend from lower ends of the retaining portions 196 along the right and left lower struts 42, 52 toward the rear of the goal 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the containing portions 202 of the coupling members 182, 184 further extend along at least a portion of the lower member 38 of the goal 30. In some embodiments, the containing portions 202 of the coupling members 182, 184 can also be removably attached to the right and left lower struts 42, 52, respectively, via a second fastening member 198b (as shown in FIG. 11).

[0063] Referring specifically to FIG. 11, in the illustrated embodiment, the backstop assembly 180 is configured such that the support rods 186, 188 are simultaneously moveable between the stowed positions (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) and deployed positions (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13), and thus the backstop assembly 180 is moveable between the stowed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) and the deployed configuration (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13), via one or more cables 208 in connection with the support rods 186, 188 and a winch 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the winch 204 is arranged along the lower member 38 at the rear of the goal 30 and the cables 208 extend from the retaining portions 196 of the coupling members 182, 184 within the containing portions 202 to the winch 204. The backstop assembly 180 can be configured such that retraction of the cables 208by movement of the winch 204 in a first direction, thus reducing a length of the cables 208, can cause the support rods 186, 188 to move to the stowed position (as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10), and extension of the cables 208 by movement of the winch 204 in a second direction, opposite the first direction, can cause the support rods 186, 188 to move to the extended position (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13). For example, in some embodiments, the cables 208 can be in connection with the lower ends 186a, 188a of the support rods 186, 188 and the coupling members 182, 184 can further include a spring (not shown) arranged within the retaining portions 96 to bias the support rods 186, 188 toward the deployed position. Thus, in such embodiments, retraction of the cables 208 via the winch 204 can cause the support rods 186, 188 to compress the springs and move toward the stowed position.

[0064] In some embodiments, the winch 204 can be moveable between a plurality of positions to adjust the cables (not shown) to a plurality of lengths such that the backstop assembly 180 is moveable to a plurality of deployed positions between the stowed and deployed configurations. In some embodiments, the winch 204 can be electronically or hydraulically powered. In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 180 can include two or more winches 204 that can independently move the right and left support rods 186, 188. In some embodiments, the cables (not shown) can be contained within the right and left lower struts 42, 52 and/or the lower member 38 of the goal 30. In some embodiments, the cables (not shown) can be connected to the upper ends 186b, 188b of the support rods 186, 188.

[0065] As briefly mentioned above, aspects of the backstop assemblies 80, 180 assembled on the goal 30, as shown in FIGS. 3-13, can be implemented in backstop assemblies that can be assembled on other types of sport structures or goals that are different than goal 30. Accordingly, FIGS. 14-17 illustrate a backstop assembly 280 assembled on a sport structure or goal 300 that is a regulation basketball hoop. In particular, the backstop assembly 280 of FIGS. 14-17 is similar to the previous embodiment of FIGS. 3-13, with like elements being indicated by similar reference numerals. Referring specifically to FIGS. 14 and 15, the goal 300 includes a hoop 302 having a net 304. The hoop 302 is mounted to a backboard 306, and the backboard 306 is mounted to a post 308. More specifically, the post 308 of the goal 300 has a first or lower end 308a secured to a ground surface G, a second or upper end 308b opposite the lower end 308a, and a bend or boom section 308c (see FIG. 16) arranged toward the upper end 306b such that, with the backboard 306 mounted to the upper end 308b of the post 308, the hoop 302 is suspended above the ground surface G. Further, an outer perimeter of the backboard 306 defines a periphery of the goal 300.

[0066] With continued reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, in the illustrated embodiment, a support rod 286 of the backstop assembly 280 is mounted to a rear side of the post 308 via a coupling member 282, and a backstop net 290 (see FIG. 15) is attached to an upper end 286b of the support rod 286. The backstop assembly 280 can be configured to be moveable between a stowed configuration (as shown in FIG. 14) and a deployed configuration (as shown in FIG. 15). As shown in FIG. 15, when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed configuration, an upper edge 290a of the backstop net 290 extends above the backboard 306 by a distance. In some embodiments, the upper edge 290a of the backstop net 290 extends above the backboard 306 of the goal 300 by a distance in a range between about 30 centimeters (cm) and about 300 cm, between about 80 cm and about 250 cm, between about 130 cm and about 200 cm, or between about 50 cm and about 220 cm. A first or right lower corner 290b and a second or left lower comer 290c of the backstop net 290 can be removably secured to the ground surface G toward or aligned with the front of the backboard 306. As also shown in FIG. 15, a first or right upper comer 290d and a second or left upper comer 290e are not attached to the support rod 286 and thus drape downwardly toward the ground surface G, which provide a horizontal fold 290f of the backstop net 290. Therefore, with the backstop assembly 280 in the deployed configuration (as shown in FIG. 15), the backstop net 280 can deflect or trap a ball that is shot errantly and misses the backboard 306 in either of a first or right net section 290h, a second or left net section 290i, or a third or top net section 290j .

[0067] Referring specifically to FIGS. 16 and 17, in the illustrated embodiment, the support rod 286 includes a first or lower portion 286c having a first or lower end 286a of the support rod 286 and a second or upper portion 286d having the upper end 286b of the support rod 286. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower portion of the support rod 286 is removably attached to the rear side of the post 308 via the coupling member 282. More specifically, a first or lower coupling element 292 of the coupling member 282 is removably attached to toward the lower end 308a of the post 308 and a second or upper coupling element 294 of the coupling member 282 is removably attached toward the upper end 308b of the post 308. Further, with the lower portion 286c of the support rod 286 secured to the post 308, the support rod 286 is configured such that the upper portion 286d is rotatable relative to the lower portion 286c at a pivot axis 286e. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, when the upper portion 286d is rotated toward and adjacent to the lower portion 286c about the pivot axis 286e, the backstop assembly 280 is in the stowed configuration, and, when the upper portion 286d is rotated away from the lower portion 286c toward the backboard 306 in the direction of arrow C (see FIG. 17), the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed configuration. When the backstop assembly 280 is in the stowed configuration (as shown in FIG 16), the backstop net 290 can be easily removed from upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 or wrapped around the upper and/or lower portions 286c, 286d of the support rod 286 such that the net 290 does not interfere with play on the goal 300.

[0068] In some embodiments, the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is parallel to the lower portion 286c when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, the upper portion 286d is at an angle relative to the lower portion 286c and disposed toward or away from the backboard 306 when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed position. In some embodiments, the support rod 286 can further include a locking mechanism (not shown) to secure the upper portion 286d parallel to or at one or more angles relative to the lower portion 286c of the support rod 286. In some embodiments, the lower portion 286c of the support rod 286 can be integrally formed with or contained within the post 308 of the goal 300.

[0069] It is contemplated that the backstop assembly 280 can be configured to be retracted or moveable between the stowed and deployed configurations in various ways. Accordingly, FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the backstop assembly 280, in which the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is telescopic within the lower portion 286c of the support rod 286 to move the backstop assembly 280 between the stowed configuration (as shown in FIG. 18) and the deployed configuration (see FIG. 15). For example, the backstop assembly 280 is moveable from the stowed configuration toward the deployed configuration in the direction of arrow D. Thus, the backstop assembly 280 of FIG. 18 is in the stowed configuration when the upper end 286b of the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is at a first distance relative to the upper end or pivot axis 286e of the lower portion 286c and is in the deployed configuration when the upper end 286b of the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is at a second distance relative to the upper end or pivot axis 286e of the lower portion 286c. In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 280 of FIG. 18 can have a plurality of deployed positions that correspond to a plurality of distances between the first and second distances of the upper end 286b of the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 relative to the lower portion 286c. In some embodiments, the lower portion 286c of the support rod 286 can be integrally formed with or contained within the post 308 of the goal 300 such that the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is within the post 308 when the backstop assembly 280 is in the stowed position and extends out of an opening (not shown) of the post 308 adjacent to the bend section 308c (see FIG. 16) when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed position.

[0070] In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 280 can be configured such that the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is telescopic within the lower portion 286c via a manual operating means, such as a pulley system, a winch, or a hydraulic pump that can be operated by a user’s foot. In some embodiments, the backstop assembly 280 can be configured such that the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286 is automatically telescopic within the lower portion 286c via an automatic operating means, such as a motor that can be electronically or hydraulically powered. In such embodiments, the automatic operating means can include an input device, such as a button, that can be arranged on the goal 300, such as on the post 308 or a rear side of the backboard 306. In some embodiments, a manual or automatic operating means can be contained within the post 308 or behind the backboard 306.

[0071] It is further contemplated that the support rod 286 of the backstop assembly 280 can be configured to provide an increased surface area of the top net section 290j of the backstop net 290 when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed configuration. Accordingly, FIGS.

19 and 20 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the support rod 286 of the backstop assembly 280 that includes two extension rods. More specifically, the support rod 286 of FIGS. 19 and

20 includes a first or right extension rod 288a and a second or left extension rod 288b that extend from the upper end 286b of the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286. A third or middle extension rod 288c can be connected to the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b to provide additional structural support to the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed configuration (as shown in FIG. 20). As shown in FIG. 20, the upper edge 290a of the backstop net 290 can be attached to each of the upper ends of the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b such that the surface area of at least the top section 290j of the backstop net 290 is increased and thus can deflect or trap a larger scope of errant shots relative to the backboard 306. [0072] With continued reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the support rod 286 can be configured such that the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b are pivotable relative to each other about the upper end 286b of the upper portion 286d of the support rod 286. For example, in some embodiments, the middle extension rod 288c can be spring biased such that, when the backstop assembly 280 is in the stowed configuration, the middle extension rod 288c is compressed and the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b are at a first angle relative to each other, and, when the backstop assembly 280 is in the deployed configuration, the middle extension rod 288c expands causing the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b to be at a second angle relative to each other that is greater than the first angle. In such embodiments, the pivotable right and left extension rods 288a, 288b and the spring biased middle extension rod 288c can be particularly beneficial in ensuring that the right and left extension rods 288a, 288b do not extend past the periphery of the backboard 306 when the backstop assembly 280 is in the stowed configuration to limit interference of play on the goal 300 and to provide increased surface area of at least the top section 290j of the backstop net 290 when the backstop assembly 280 is moved to the deployed configuration.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 3-20, various components of the exemplary backstop assemblies, including one or more components or structures of the exemplary coupling members, may be formed through additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing. To that end, a number of 3D printing techniques may be implemented to form one or more components of the exemplary backstop assemblies, such as material extrusion. In some embodiments, the coupling members may be 3D printed as a single unitary piece. In other embodiments, portions of the coupling members may be 3D printed separate from and later coupled to other portions of the coupling members.

[0074] While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood that such terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in the figures. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

[0075] Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present disclosure. It is understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text and/or figures. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present disclosure. The embodiments described herein explain the best modes known for practicing the disclosure and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the disclosure. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

[0076] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A backstop assembly for a sport structure, comprising: at least one support member that is configured to be coupled with at least one structural member of the sport structure, the at least one support member being moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position; and a net having a top side that is coupled with an upper end of the at least one support member, wherein the backstop assembly is moveable between a stowed configuration, in which the at least one support member is in the stowed position and the net does not extend past a periphery of the sport structure, and a deployed configuration, in which the at least one support member is in the deployed position and at least two sections of the net extend outwardly from the periphery of the sport structure.

2. The backstop assembly of claim 1, wherein the sport structure has an upper member, a first side member, and a second side member that define the periphery, wherein the at least one support member is a first rod having a first upper end and a second rod having a second upper end, the first rod being configured to be coupled with the first side member and the second rod being configured to be coupled with the second side member, wherein the net has a shape with a first upper corner and a second upper corner, opposite the first upper comer, and wherein, when the backstop assembly is in the deployed configuration, the first and second upper comers of the net extend outwardly from the periphery of the sport structure and are disposed below the upper member.

3. The backstop assembly of claim 2 further comprising: a first coupling member configured to removably attach to the first side member and slidably receive a first lower end of the first rod; and a second coupling member configured to removably attach to the second side member and slidably receive a second lower end of the second rod.

4. The backstop assembly of claim 3, wherein the first and second rods are coupled to a rear side of the first and second side members, the rear sides being opposite the upper member, via the first and second coupling members.

5. The backstop assembly of claim 4, wherein the first and second side members extend at an angle relative to the upper member, and wherein the first and second rods extend at the angle such that the first and second upper ends are above the upper member.

6. The backstop assembly of claim 5, wherein the first coupling member includes a first coupling element and a second coupling element, the first coupling element being removably attached to an upper end of the first side member and the second coupling member being removably attached to a lower end of the first side member adjacent to a lower member of the sport structure such that the first rod is slidably received within the first and second coupling elements of the first coupling member, and wherein the second coupling member includes a third coupling element and a fourth coupling element, the third coupling member being removably attached to an upper end of the second side member and the fourth coupling member being removably attached to a lower end of the second side member adjacent to a lower member of the sport structure such that the second rod is slidably received within third and fourth coupling elements of the second coupling member.

7. The backstop assembly of claim 3, wherein the first and second rods are coupled to outer sides of the first and second side members, respectively.

8. The backstop assembly of claim 7, wherein the first and second rods extend substantially perpendicular to the upper member of the sport structure.

9. The backstop assembly of claim 8, wherein, when the backstop assembly is in the deployed configuration, the first and second upper ends of the first and second rods are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and, when the backstop assembly is in the stowed configuration, the first and second upper ends of the first and second rods are at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance.

10. A backstop assembly for a sport structure that has an upper member, a lower member, a first side member in connection with first ends of the upper and lower members, and a second side member in connection with second ends of the upper and lower members, opposite the first ends, the backstop assembly comprising: a first rod having a first upper end; a second rod having a second upper end; a first coupling member configured to be coupled with the first side member of the sport structure and to receive the first rod; a second coupling member configured to be coupled with the second side member of the sport structure and to receive the second rod; and a net having a top side, a bottom side, a first upper comer, and a second upper corner opposite the first upper comer, wherein the top side of the net is coupled with the first distal end of the first rod and the second distal end of the second rod, such that the first and second upper corners of the net extend below the upper member.

11. The backstop assembly of claim 10, wherein the first and second rods extend substantially perpendicular to the upper member of the sport structure.

12. The backstop assembly of claim 10, wherein the first side member includes a first vertical post having a first end in connection with the first end of the upper member, a first horizontal post having a first end in connection with a second end of the first vertical post and a second end in connection with the first end of the lower member, a first angled post having a first end in connection with the second end of the first horizontal post and a second end in connection with a first stmt that is in connection with the first end of the upper member, wherein the first coupling member has a first end coupled to the first angled post with an opening that is configured to slidably receive a proximal end of the first post and a second end coupled to the first horizontal post, wherein the second side member includes a second vertical post having a first end in connection with the second end of the upper member, a second horizontal post having a first end in connection with a second end of the second vertical post and a second end in connection with the second end of the lower member, a second angled post having a first end in connection with the second end of the second horizontal post and a second end in connection with a second strut that is in connection with the second end of the upper member, and wherein the second coupling member has a first end coupled to the second angled post with an opening that is configured to slidably receive a proximal end of the second post and a second end coupled to the second horizontal post.

13. The backstop assembly of claim 12, wherein the first and second rods are configured to be moveable between a deployed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and a stowed position, in which the first and second upper ends are aligned with or at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance.

14. The backstop assembly of claim 13 further comprising a cable in connection with the proximal ends of the first and second rods such that the first and second rods are moveable between the deployed and stowed positions by adjusting a length of the cable.

15. The backstop assembly of claim 14 further comprising a winch configured to adjust the length of the cable to move the first and second rods between the deployed and stowed positions.

16. The backstop assembly of claim 15, wherein the first coupling member further includes a first containing portion extending from the second end of the first coupling member to the winch, and the second coupling member further includes a second containing portion extending from the second end of the second coupling member to the winch.

17. A backstop assembly for a sport structure that has an upper member, a lower member, a first side member in connection with first sides of the upper and lower members, and a second side member in connection with second sides of the upper and lower members, opposite the first sides, the backstop assembly comprising: a first rod having a first upper end; a second rod having a second upper end; a first coupling member configured to be coupled with the first side member of the sport structure, the first coupling member having a first end configured to slidably receive a first lower end of the first rod such that the first rod extends substantially parallel to a first vertical side post of the first side member, the first vertical side post being in connection with the first side of the upper member; a second coupling member configured to be coupled with the second side member of the sport structure, the second coupling member having a first end configured to slidably receive a second lower end of the second rod such that the second rod extends substantially parallel to a second vertical side post of the second side member, the second vertical side post being in connection with the second side of the upper member; and a net having a top side, a bottom side, an upper right comer, and an upper left corner, wherein the top side of the net is coupled with the first upper end of the first rod and the second upper end of the second rod, such that the upper right and left comers of the net extend below the upper member with the upper right comer being adjacent to the first vertical side post and the upper left corner being adjacent to the second vertical side post.

18. The backstop assembly of claim 17, wherein the first rod is disposed along the first side member between the first vertical side post and the first end of the lower member, and wherein second rod is disposed along the second side member between the second vertical side post and the second end of the lower member.

19. The backstop assembly of claim 17, wherein the first and second rods are configured to be moveable between a deployed position, in which the first and second upper ends are at a first distance relative to the upper member, and a stowed position, in which the first and second upper ends are aligned with or at a second distance relative to the upper member, the second distance being less than the first distance.

20. The backstop assembly of claim 19, further comprising: a cable in connection with the first and second lower ends of the first and second rods such that the first and second rods are moveable between the deployed and stowed positions by adjusting a length of the cable; and a winch configured to adjust the length of the cable, wherein the first coupling member further includes a first containing portion extending from a second end of the first coupling member to the winch, and wherein the second coupling member further includes a second containing portion extending from a second end of the second coupling member to the winch.