Sports Word Search

About this puzzle

A free printable sports word search for kids: 12 words hidden across, down and diagonally in a 12 by 12 grid, from bat to medal. The answer key on page 2 marks every word in color. First graders can do it on their own once they know the strategy at the top of the page. Use your team colors.

Tips for using it

• Color the court or field first, then the ball.
• Start with words that have rare letters (K, V, W, Y): they are easier to spot than words full of E and A.
• Slide a ruler or a strip of paper down the grid to read one row at a time.
• Use a highlighter or a crayon instead of circling: the words stay readable and the page looks great on the fridge.

Printing tips

Download the PDF and print at 100% (or “fit to page” on A4). Page 1 is the puzzle and page 2 is the answer key with the answers in red; print just page 1 if you want to keep the answers for checking. The PNG shows page 1 only. Free for personal, family and classroom use.