Dodgeball

WDBF foam dodgeballs used at the World Dodgeball Championships

An example of a dodgeball court used in the Elite Dodgeball Invitational

Azalea Donche, preparing to counter at

Clutching the ball with one hand

Dodgeball is a team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoiding being hit themselves. The main objective in dodgeball is to eliminate all members of the opposing team by hitting them with thrown balls, catching a ball thrown by an opponent, or inducing an opponent to commit a violation, such as stepping outside the bounds of the play area.

History

The origins of dodgeball are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been played in a variety of forms for hundreds of years, particularly in Africa. The game as it is known today primarily developed in the United States and Canada, where it gained popularity in the 20th century as a simple and inclusive game suitable for all ages and skill levels. Dodgeball has since spread internationally, with many countries developing their own variations of the game.

Rules and Gameplay

The standard rules of dodgeball are governed by various organizations, with the World Dodgeball Federation being one of the most prominent. A dodgeball game typically involves two teams, with six players on each team on the court at the start of the game. The game is played on a rectangular court with a center line that players cannot cross during play.

Players aim to hit opponents with balls to eliminate them from the game, while avoiding being hit themselves. Players can also catch balls thrown at them to eliminate the thrower and bring one of their eliminated teammates back into the game. The game continues until all players on one team are eliminated.

Dodgeball can be played with various types of balls, but the most common are foam balls or rubber-coated foam balls. The number of balls used in a game can vary, but six is typical for competitive play.

Variations

There are many variations of dodgeball played around the world, with rules that vary by region, age group, and playing environment. Some variations include:

• Prisonball: Similar to standard dodgeball, but eliminated players go to a "prison" behind the opposing team's side of the court, where they can attempt to hit opponents from behind.
• Doctor Dodgeball: Each team selects a "doctor" who can "heal" eliminated players and bring them back into the game. The identity of the doctor is kept secret from the opposing team.
• Gaga Ball: Played in a fenced-in area known as a "gaga pit," this variation involves hitting the ball with one's hands and aims to eliminate players by hitting them below the knees.

Cultural Impact

Dodgeball has made a significant cultural impact, particularly in North America, where it is often associated with physical education classes in schools. The game has been the subject of debate regarding its suitability for children, with critics arguing that it can promote bullying and exclusion. Despite this, dodgeball remains a popular recreational activity and has even been featured in movies and television shows, most notably in the 2004 film DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story.

Competitive Dodgeball

Competitive dodgeball has grown in popularity, with national and international tournaments being held. The World Dodgeball Federation and other organizations have worked to standardize rules and promote the sport globally. Competitive dodgeball emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness.

See Also

• Team sport
• Physical education
• World Dodgeball Federation