New game: Hit the cyclist?

I had some 12 year olds try to hoof a ball at me one evening last week just for fun.
Thing is I broke my wrist in august so it's still healing and would have snapped again if I had come off.
Another thing is it could just have easily been my missus on her bike and she's still quite new to cycling and would have paniced a bit.
I try not to be violent and didn't relish the thought of slapping a 12 yo but at the same time I agree with Malibu, you can't just let them get away with it.

Anyone found the best way to deal with these hood-rats so they learn their lesson not to do it again?

Reckon I should have just picked up their ball and fucked off. Hindsight's a great thing.

Threaten to D-Lock them across the face. If they come back with a smart response, get a bit closer and ask them how they plan on getting to hospital with their faces spurting blood.