Dodgeball: A Classic Game of Throwing, Catching, and Strategy
Two teams throw dodgeballs at each other, trying to eliminate players by hitting them with the ball or catching a ball thrown by the opposing team. The last team with players remaining wins!
Description: Dodgeball is a high-energy game where two teams compete to be the last ones standing. Players throw dodgeballs at their opponents, aiming to hit them and eliminate them from the game. Additionally, catching a ball thrown by the opposing team can also eliminate an opponent. The game requires strategy, teamwork, and agility as players dodge incoming throws, strategize throws to eliminate opponents, and work together to catch incoming balls and protect their teammates.
Categories: Team Sport, Gym Class Activity, Party Game
How to Play:
- Number of Players:
- Minimum: 6 (3 per team)
- Ideal: 10-16 (5-8 per team)
- Maximum (depending on court size): Up to 30 (15 per team)
What You’ll Need:
- Dodgeballs (soft, rubber playground balls are ideal)
- Open space (gymnasium, field, or large backyard)
- Cones or markers (to mark the court boundaries and center line)
- Optional: Vests or ribbons (to distinguish teams)
- Gameplay:
Set Up the Court:
- Mark the playing area as a rectangle with a center line dividing the court into two equal halves for each team.
- Place all the dodgeballs along the center line.
Divide into Teams:
- Split the players into two even teams and assign them to opposite sides of the court (optional: designate teams with vests or ribbons).
Gameplay:
- At the start of the game, all players stand behind their end line.
- On a signal (e.g., whistle blow), players can rush to the center line and grab dodgeballs.
Throwing and Dodging:
- Players can throw dodgeballs at opponents on the opposing team, aiming to hit them below the shoulders.
- Players must dodge incoming throws by moving side-to-side, jumping, or ducking.
Getting Out:
- A player is out if:
- They are hit by a thrown ball from the opposing team (below the shoulders and while not holding a ball).
- They catch a ball thrown by the opposing team.
- They step outside the boundaries of the court.
- They throw a ball that goes out of bounds.
- A player is out if:
Winning:
- The game continues until all players on one team are eliminated. The team with players remaining on the court wins!
Estimated Playtime:
A single game of dodgeball can last anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on the number of players, variations used, and overall skill level.
Safety Tips:
- Use soft rubber dodgeballs specifically designed for dodgeball.
- Aim throws below the shoulders and avoid throwing directly at the head.
- Players should have enough space to move around freely and dodge incoming throws.
- Encourage good sportsmanship and fair play.
Make it Your Own:
Multiple Lives: Instead of immediate elimination, players can have a certain number of “lives” (e.g., 3 lives) and can re-enter the game after being hit.
Dodgeball with Zones: Divide the court into three zones: a “safe zone” behind the end line, a “dodge zone” in the middle, and a “catcher zone” near the opponent’s end line. Players can only be eliminated by a thrown ball while in the “dodge zone.” Players in the “catcher zone” can eliminate opponents by catching a thrown ball, but cannot be eliminated by a thrown ball themselves.
Foam Dodgeballs: For younger players or a less intense game, consider using softer foam dodgeballs.
Ready to Dodge, Dip, Dive, and Dodge?
Gather your friends, grab some dodgeballs, and get ready for a thrilling game of dodgeball! It’s a fun and active game that promotes teamwork, strategy, and a healthy dose of friendly competition.
Similar Games:
- Kickball: A team sport that combines elements of baseball and soccer. Players kick a ball and run around bases, while the opposing team tries to get them out.