Dodgeball

Duck, Dip, Dive, Dodge #

A fast-paced team game that emphasizes agility, aim, and reflexes. Teams face off in a head-to-head battle to eliminate opponents by hitting them with soft foam balls. The last team with players left standing wins the round.

How to Play #

Players are divided into two equal teams and start on opposite sides of a defined court. Several dodgeballs are placed in the center line. When the game begins, players rush to grab a ball and run back to the starting line before they can start throwing. After that, they begin throwing at the opposing team.

If a player is hit by a ball thrown by an opponent (and the ball isn't deflected or caught), they are out. If a player catches a ball, the thrower is out and one of the catcher’s teammates may return to the game. The game continues until all players on one side are eliminated.

Games can be played as single elimination, best-of-three rounds, or timed matches depending on your schedule and group size.

Variations

• Every Man for Himself: No teams — last player standing wins.

• Timed Respawn: Players re-enter after a set time in a “jail” zone.

Rules #

Teams: Two teams of equal size, positioned on opposite sides of the court.

Ball Start: All dodgeballs start on the center line; players rush in on the signal.

Run Back: Players must run back to the starting line after picking up a ball from the center when the game starts. When they've come back, then they can start throwing the dodgeball (after that instance, any ball they pickup throughout the game can be thrown instantly.)

Elimination: A player is out if hit directly by a live ball or if their throw is caught.

Catches: Catching a ball brings back one eliminated teammate (optional rule).

Boundaries: Players must stay within their side and the marked boundaries; stepping out results in elimination.

Holding Balls: A player may not hold more than one ball at a time (optional for faster play).

Winning: The round ends when one team is completely eliminated.

Materials #

Materials Required

• Soft Foam Balls: 5–20 dodgeballs, depending on group size and court size.

• Cones or Tape: For marking court boundaries and the center line.

• Whistle: To signal start and end of each round.

• Pinnies or Bands: Optional for distinguishing teams.

Setup #

Setup Instructions:

1. Mark the Court: Use cones or tape to define a clear center line and side boundaries.
2. Place the Balls: Set dodgeballs on the center line, evenly spaced.
3. Divide the Teams: Split players into two equal teams and assign sides.
4. Explain the Rules: Clarify the objectives, boundaries, and elimination rules before starting.
5. Start the Game: Blow the whistle to begin the first round. Keep score if playing multiple rounds.