Extended-use ball striking training device

A ball striking practice device is described in which a ball tethered to a pole can be struck by a player with a bat or racquet and will wrap around the pole and resile outwardly where it can be struck again. The device's service life is improved by providing a flat triangular ball positioner while aligns the tether cord in straight lines to pole attachment points, forming the cord from a flexible metal strand, preferably sheathed, constructing the positioner from an elastomeric or fabric web material, and seating the cord in a recess or insert in the ball. The device is excellent for batting or kicking practice in sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, squash and handball.