Looking for cheap alternative to plyo platform or wooden box

defreak

I coach volleyball, and one of the common training tools is a box/platform, here and here are two popular ones. Problem is my school is on a tight budget, and we can't afford these specifically built ones. Plyo platforms are cheaper, but I can't find any with a big enough surface area (need at least 30" x 30"), and they're still pretty pricey.

I am looking for anything that can be used as a box/platform to stand on, and meet these guidelines:
- standing surface area of at least 30" by 30".
- between 15" and 25" high.
- can support up to 200 lbs.
- cost under $50.
- carry-able by one person, no more than 50 lbs? unless there are wheels.
- material doesn't matter, appearance doesn't matter, shape doesn't matter, as long as someone can stand on it safely.

Building one is out of the question, because:
- I don't trust my craftsmanship enough.
- I don't have the tools.
- even if the above two reasons are no longer concerns, my athletic director won't allow it because he doesn't want the possibility of the school getting sued from someone getting hurt from a box an employee made.

Any suggestion is appreciated.

mts

what about old step aerobics stairs

Djeet

Yeah, you aren't getting what you want under $50 unless you build it yourself. You don't need much in the way of carpentry skills to make something like this. You'll need plywood and 2x4's (you'll probably want to add gussets or additional support); if you don't overbuild it and seal it you'll probably have to rebuild these things as they wear out. Between all of the staff I'd be surprised if you could not find a drill (with screwdriver bits) and a circular or table saw to borrow for this project. Elsewise have you looked into making something from plywood and cinder/concrete blocks?

defreak

Step aerobics stair's surface area is not big enough, I've seen ones that are wide enough, but the depth is usually no more than 15".

Building is out of the question even if I have the skills and tools, AD won't allow it.

I know it's a long shot, was just hoping someone had some crazy idea that may work. Like fill up a cardboard box with styrofoam or something.