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{{Short description|Team sport}}
{{about|the sport|the film|DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story|location service|Dodgeball (service)}}
{{pp|small=yes}}
{{redirect|Dodge Ball|the video game|Super Dodge Ball}}
{{about|the sport|the film|Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story|the location service|Dodgeball (service)|the object sometimes used in the game|utility ball|the video game|Super Dodge Ball}}
{{original research|date=December 2011}}
{{Infobox sport
[[File:Dodgeball.jpg|300px|thumb|A dodgeball player dodging a ball.]]
| name = Dodgeball
'''Dodgeball''' is a [[game]] in which players on two teams try to throw large balls at each other while avoiding being hit themselves. In the United States, the game is typically played among children 6-12 in [[elementary school]]. However, internationally, the [[team sport|sport]] has also emerged as a popular [[middle school]], [[high school]] and [[college]] sport. It is also popular in informal settings and is often played on a [[playground]], in a [[gym]], or in organized recreational leagues.
| image = Dodgeball (cropped).jpg
| union = [[World Dodgeball Association]] and [[World Dodgeball Federation]]
| contact = No
| team = 6 per side
| category = Indoor
| equipment = Dodgeball ([[utility ball]])
| venue = Dodgeball court
| olympic = No
| paralympic = No
}}
'''Dodgeball''' is a [[team sports|team sport]] in which players on two opposing teams try to throw balls and hit opponents while avoiding being hit themselves. The objective of each team 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 court.


The sport is mostly played in schools under varying rules, and also formally as an [[international sport]], under rules that vary among international governing bodies, such as the [[World Dodgeball Federation]] (WDBF), which runs the [[Dodgeball World Championship]] and the World Dodgeball Association (WDA). USA Dodgeball is the governing entity for dodgeball in the [[United States]], with member leagues and clubs across the nation.
There are many variations of the game, but generally the main objective of each team is to eliminate all members of the opposing team by hitting them with thrown balls, catching a ball thrown by a member of the opposing team, or forcing them to move outside the court boundaries when a ball is thrown at them. The form that is most common in U.S. schools was popularized by the 2004 film ''[[Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story]]''.


==Equipment==
==Equipment==
[[File:Opening rush.jpg|alt=|thumb|WDBF foam dodgeballs used at the World Dodgeball Championships]]
The number of dodgeballs used in the game often varies, but three to ten is common. Exceptions are usually made if a court is particularly small or if many people participate. More balls generally adds to the amount of action in a game, but can result in stalemate with many blocks. Six is the minimum number of balls to conduct a game with enforced rules. An odd number is generally favorable as one team will necessarily have a majority of balls in possession and should take the offensive role.
There are many different ball types used around the world, including {{convert|8.5|in}} rubber, "no-sting" rubber, foam and cloth; versions made with rubber or [[polyvinyl chloride]] are termed [[utility ball]]s. USA Dodgeball uses all ball types across multiple tournaments held by them and their member organizations. The [[World Dodgeball Federation]] (WDBF) used primarily foam for their first [[Dodgeball World Championship|World Championships]], but starting with 2022, both cloth and foam categories were introduced.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1115371/edmonton-to-host-world-dodgeball-champs | title=Edmonton to host 2022 World Dodgeball Championships | date=13 November 2021 }}</ref>


The WDBF specifies the use of six balls with six players per side for their [[Dodgeball World Championship|World Championships]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rules {{!}} World Dodgeball Federation |url=https://worlddodgeballfederation.com/rules/ |access-date=2023-02-09 |language=en-US}}</ref> Various rule sets governing number of balls and players are used around the world depending on the court size, level of play, and the organization's discretion.
The standard worldwide measurement and material for a dodgeball is a seven inch foam ball; however, most dodgeballs are roughly the size of a [[volleyball]] and composed of [[foam]] with a thin [[plastic]] shell. Some dodgeballs are made of [[rubber]] and some more specialized ones have a padded canvas surface. Some leagues allow the use of multiple sizes of dodgeballs in a single match, while others use one standard size for all balls. The size of balls typically used in Canada are 7" to 8.25" in diameter, and are made of a soft foam with an exterior coating. Individual tournaments or leagues may choose to use larger, rubber balls, as well.

The WDA specifies the use of five balls; certain national rule sets, such as in [[Austria]], specify six.<ref>{{Cite web |last=WDA |first=World Dodgeball Association |title=World Dodgeball Association (WDA), Rules & Regulations, Version 2.0.4 |url=https://www.dodgeball.sport/_files/ugd/37bdb7_9e96204b1cbb4d8197388c20194f4895.pdf}}</ref> Amateur games typically use from three to ten balls, the number tailored to the size of the court and the number of players. More balls generally adds to the amount of action in a game, but can result in stalemate with many blocks. If there are too few balls, the element of stealth is removed, as players can see all the balls that might hit them.


==Court==
==Court==
[[File:NDL court diagram.png|thumb|An example of a dodgeball court used in the National Dodgeball League.]]
[[File:Court diagram.jpg|alt=|left|thumb|Dodgeball court used by World Dodgeball Association]]
Dodgeball can be played on any surface that has clearly marked boundaries and a center line, such as a [[Basketball court|basketball]] or [[volleyball]] court or fenced area. Elite Dodgeball specifies a court {{convert|50|feet|m}} by {{convert|25|feet|m}}, where a zone {{convert|10|ft|m}} wide at the junction of the areas is a neutral zone.<ref name=Eliterules>{{Cite web|url=https://www.elite-dodgeball.com/rules/|title=Elite Dodgeball Rules|publisher=Elite Dodgeball|access-date=2019-06-21|archive-date=2019-06-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190621171607/https://www.elite-dodgeball.com/rules/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
A typical dodgeball game is usually played on a [[basketball court]], [[volleyball court]], fenced area or even an [[Australian Rules Football]] oval or [[soccer pitch]]. There is no fixed dodgeball [[court]] design. The game is picked on the best available surface that is usually one of the above mentioned. Unless it is a variation of dodgeball, the court must have a center line.


Games can also be played outdoors on a [[soccer]] pitch or [[football]] field. The WDBF organizes games on beaches<ref name="WDBF">{{Cite web|url=https://worlddodgeballfederation.com/|title=World Dodgeball Federation &#124; World Organizational Body For The Sport Of Dodgeball}}</ref> and USA Dodgeball hosts tournaments at [[trampoline]] parks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://usadodgeball.com/member-organizations|title=USA Dodgeball - Member Organizations|first=U. S. A.|last=Dodgeball|website=usadodgeball.com}}</ref> WDBF specifies a court {{convert|60|feet|m}} by {{convert|30|feet|m}} with no neutral zone.<ref name="WDBF_Rules">{{cite web |title=World Dodgeball Federation Rules |url=http://www.worlddodgeballfederation.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/WDBF-Rules-Revision-2017-10-06-Final-1.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181125193121/http://www.worlddodgeballfederation.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/WDBF-Rules-Revision-2017-10-06-Final-1.pdf |archive-date=25 November 2018 |access-date=19 June 2019 |website=World Dodgeball Federation }}</ref>
==Rules of game==
[[File:NDL amateur game.jpg|thumb|right|Dodgeball players preparing for the opening rush. ]]
At the beginning of a dodgeball game, the balls are lined up on the central dividing line (in some versions of the game, the balls are thrown in the air for the players to catch or divided evenly to both the teams pre-match). The players then rush towards the center line simultaneously and try to grab one of the dodgeballs and throw or roll it backwards to their teammates (they cannot pick up a ball and throw it instantly). This is known as the opening rush. Once the game has commenced, players throw balls at members of the opposing team in an attempt to eliminate the players.


The attacking lines and center lines are of vital importance. A team can stand in its attacking area and throw the balls to opponents.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-05-04|title=Dodgeball Rules {{!}} How to Play Dodgeball|url=https://rulesofplaying.com/dodgeball-rules/|access-date=2020-09-29|website=Rules of Sports|language=en-US}}</ref>
When a player has been hit by a dodgeball "on the full" (i.e., without hitting the roof, the floor, any of the walls, or an outside object and rebounding off) and no one catches it before it becomes dead, that player has been eliminated and must move to his team's designated bench area (players are still out if the ball rebounds off another dodgeball and/or player and hits them on the full). The same rule applies if any number of people try to catch the ball but drop it. Depending on the rules and variation, "headshots" (balls thrown in dodgeball that hit an opposing player in the head) may either result in the thrower being out, or the person being hit being out.


== Matchplay ==
If a player catches a ball thrown by the opposing team on the full, then the player who threw the ball is eliminated, and the team that caught the ball can reinstate the player that has been out the longest (or depending on the rules, the player(s) whom the thrower eliminated, or even the whole team). Some variations change the reinstatement limit. As long as the ball has been caught in any way and is held for two seconds, the thrower is out (i.e., even if the ball is caught between the legs, the thrower is still out). If a dodgeball hits an opposing player but gets caught by one of the hit player's teammates, the thrower is out, a player gets reinstated, and the player who got hit stays in. A variation if the dodgeball game is played on a basketball court is that if a player throws the ball and it goes into the opposing basket and/or it hits the basketball backboard on the full, the whole team gets resurrected. The ball is still counted to have hit the backboard or scored a basket on the full if it rebounded off another dodgeball or it was deflected into the backboard by an opposing player. If the ball hits the backboard supports and/or the ring but fails to hit the backboard or go into the hoop, there is no effect. Players cannot be caught out if the ball hits the backboard, backboard supports, and/or the ring.
=== Length of game ===
Informal matches of dodgeball are typically played until all players on one side are out. In WDBF guidelines, matches last a total of 40 minutes. These are split into two 20-minute halves, during which as many sets as possible are played. A set lasts until all players on one side are out. One point is awarded for every set won. Teams switch sides at halftime.<ref name=WDBF_Rules />


=== Starting the game ===
Players can pick up dead balls and throw them back at the other team. Players are allowed to leave the confines of the court to gather balls that have rolled out of bounds, but cannot throw the ball until they are back inside the court. A ball thrown from outside the court cannot eliminate an opponent who is hit. It only succeeds in getting the thrower automatically eliminated. If that ball however is caught on the full, the opposition can reinstate the player that has been out the longest from their team. A player who moves completely out of bounds when a ball is thrown at them and does not catch that ball is also eliminated. If a player moves into the opponent's zone or picks up a ball from inside the opponent's zone without it fully rolling inside their zone, that player is out. Players can also get eliminated if their throw hits an opponent on the head (Directly on purpose), displays bad sportsmanship, or cheats. Kicking the balls is prohibited.
In informal dodgeball, balls are initially distributed to players by one of the following methods:


*By even distribution to the two teams.
Depending on the rules of a particular game, a ball in the possession of a player can be used to block incoming balls thrown by the opposing team.
*By being lined up on the central dividing line.
Once players on both teams are eliminated, the game is over.


In this latter option, players then rush toward the center line to grab one of the balls. This is called the opening rush. It is never legal to immediately throw such a ball at an opponent; a player grabbing a ball on the center line retreats or throws it back to a teammate.
Another alternate rule is ‘No Lines’ or open court. This rule is used at a point in the game when there are few players left and it was too easy to dodge the ball with all the extra room. When ‘No Lines’ is declared, all boundary lines no longer count and the players can go anywhere to get a better shot at their opponent. <ref>{{cite news |title=All Grown No Lines: A little known Dodgeball rule. |first=Giovanni |last=Valentino |url= http://giovannivalentino.blogspot.com/2013/06/no-lines-little-known-dodgeball-rule.html|work= Exaggerated Rants and Strange Musings |date=July 18, 2013 |accessdate=August 22, 2013}}</ref>


In WDBF regulations, the ball must be returned behind an "attack line", roughly a third of the way from the back of court. Players may only run for the balls on the left side of the court, while the middle ball will be contested.<ref name=WDBF_Rules />
[[File:Spartacus Dodgeball Throw.png|thumbnail|Spartacus throw]]


==In popular culture==
=== Gameplay ===
[[File:Azalea team usa.jpg|thumb|Azalea Donche, preparing to counter at the [[World Dodgeball Championship]]s in Los Angeles in 2018]]


Following distribution, players aim to hit one another. A ball is considered "live" from the moment it leaves a player's hand up until it touches the floor, wall, or ceiling, when it becomes "dead". If a player is hit by an opponent's live ball, they are "out"; if the ball is dead, there is no hit. If a player catches a live ball, the opponent who threw the ball is out and a player on the catcher's team is "revived" from the outbox; however, if they fail to secure the catch, leading to them dropping the ball, the failed catcher is out.
*The 2004 movie ''[[Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story]]'' is generally credited with reviving interest in the sport, especially among young adults, despite referencing the sport as being about "violence, exclusion and degradation".<ref>{{cite news |title=All Grown Up, Dodgeball Hurtles Toward a Higher Popularity |first=Amit |last=Paley |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43151-2004Jul11.html |work=The Washington Post |date=July 12, 2004 |accessdate=February 3, 2012}}</ref>
*The ''[[South Park]]'' episode "[[Conjoined Fetus Lady]]" and Season 1 of ''[[Freaks and Geeks]]'' depict dodgeball as a potentially violent sport.
*In ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episode "[[My Fair Laddy]]", the new gym teacher Coach Krupt has the students play "Bombardment", a variant of dodgeball where Krupt throws balls at students while screaming "Bombardment".
*In [[TV]] [[sitcom]] ''[[According to Jim]]'', Jim, the main character, while a child, hits Pierson with a dodgeball during a game. Pierson calls for a timeout, but Jim argues that dodgeball does not have timeouts. Pierson never forgives Jim for that hit even after 30 years, when he becomes a [[vicar]].
*In the movie ''[[Chicken Little (2005 film)|Chicken Little]]'' during gym class, the little animals appear to be playing dodgeball.
*The TV show ''[[Warehouse 13]]'' featured a Baylor Dodgeball, stored in the Warehouse for causing the deaths of 5 military cadets during training. It can launch itself at high speeds and multiplies upon contact. Reverts to a single ball if one is caught.
*In the game ''[[Bully (video game)| Bully]]'' at sportive hours in gym.
*In the ''[[Total Drama Island]]'' episode "[[List of Total Drama Island episodes|Dodgebrawl]]", the campers compete in a game of dodgeball.
*In the series ''[[Ed, Edd n Eddy]]'', the character Edd never removes his hat from his head due to what he calls the "dodgeball incident."
*In the 2006 movie ''[[Jackass: Number Two]]'', one of the skits involves playing dodgeball both in the dark and using [[medicine balls]] rather than traditional dodgeballs.
*In the Discovery Channel series ''[[Wreckreation Nation]]'', host Dave Mordal competes in a WASA Dodgeball tournament in Denver, Colorado.
*In ''[[Greek (TV series)|Greek]]'', the ZBZs take on the IKIs in an all-girl match, resulting in a winning blow by Jordan to Frannie.
*In ''[[Percy Jackson and the Sea of Monsters]]'', Percy and his friend Tyson must play a dodgeball game to the death against cannibal giants who want to eat him.
*The film ''[[Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium]]'' has a [[magic in fiction|magic]]al [[closet]] with a knob that turns to change rooms like the room of balls, where the three boys are amazed to see. It has every kind of ball including the [[red]] [[gigantism|gigantic]] dodgeball standing as a curious boy named Jason (played by [[Isaac Durnford]]) opens the [[curtain]]s by pulling the elegant [[rope]]. The ball bigger than him has the black letter "[[M]]" (which stands for Magorium) on it and when he touches it with his pointing fingertip, it rolls amongst him and when the door is sealed, he gets squished by the ball he touched. Mr. Edward Magorium opens the door and describes the giant ball as "impossible to dodge".
*In Episode [[List of Dexter's Laboratory episodes#Season 1: 1995-1997|S1E2]] of ''[[Dexter's Laboratory]]'', the protagonist is forced to play dodgeball in [[Physical education|P.E.]], resulting in him being bullied in the process. He eventually takes revenge on his bullies with the help of a freshly invented ''[[Powered exoskeleton]]'', dodgeball-style.
* In episode '[[List_of_M*A*S*H_episodes#Season_9_.281980.E2.80.9381.29|Letters]]' of [[M*A*S*H_(TV_series)|M*A*S*H]] (season 9, episode 2), the doctors receive letters from school children asking various questions. One child says she would be rather playing dodgeball, but her teacher is making her write the letter.
*In the TV show '[[Glee (TV series)|Glee]]', this game becomes an important part of the character Kurt's campaign. He describes it a "modern day stoning."
*In the movie ''[[Bad Teacher]]'', while Cameron Diaz's character attempts to teach her students more aggressively, one method she used was throwing a dodgeball at a student if he/she got a question wrong, reversely if he/she got it right, they'd get to throw at her.
*GSN aired a dodgeball game show called ''[[Extreme Dodgeball]]'' it was hosted by Bill Dwyer and Zach Selwyn and ran for 3 seasons.
*In the Babymouse series' 2nd book ''Babymouse: Our Hero'', Babymouse plays dodgeball; she fails as a kindergartener but defeats her nemesis in the game when older. Dodgeball has made appearances in other books such as ''Babymouse: Heartbreaker'' & ''Babymouse: The Musical''.
*Dodgeball is featured in the Nintendo Wii video game ''[[Mario Sports Mix]]''.


In WDBF regulations, players may "block" a throw with another ball. In this situation, the thrown ball remains live, as it has not hit the floor or a wall, and so can be caught or can still hit a player out. If the blocker drops the ball used to block, they have failed to keep their ball secure and are out.
In addition, the dangerous nature and associated risks of dodgeball have resulted in controversies, lawsuits, and calls to eliminate the game from school physical education programs.<ref>{{cite news |title=School dodgeball goes to court in New York |url=http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2004-11-20-dodgeball_x.htm |work=The Associated Press |publisher=USAToday.com |date=November 20, 2004 |accessdate=February 3, 2012}}</ref>


Dead balls that leave the court can only be returned to players by each team's designated ball retrievers. Stepping outside the court, including stepping on a boundary line or entering the opponents' zone, is a violation. Other violations include kicking a ball, displaying bad sportsmanship, and stalling (having a ball for over ten seconds and doing nothing with it).<ref name=wikihow /> The penalty is that the violator is out.<ref name=WDBF_Rules />
==World records==
* [[University of California, Irvine]], reclaimed the largest game of dodgeball title on Sept. 25, 2012 with 6,084 participants.<ref>[http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/25/uc-irvine-students-claim-record-for-worlds-biggest-dodgeball-game/ CBS]</ref> The previous largest game of dodgeball was played by 4,979 participants at the [[University of Alberta]] on February 3, 2012.<ref>{{cite news |title=U of A smashes dodgeball record |url=http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/smashs+dodgeball+record/6098140/story.html |work=Edmonton Journal |date=February 3, 2012 |accessdate=February 3, 2012}}</ref>
* The longest game of dodgeball was played on April 27-29, 2012 at the [[Castleton State College]] in [[Castleton, Vermont]]. The game lasted for 41 hr 3 min 17 sec.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-3000/longest-marathon-playing-dodgeball/ |title=Longest marathon playing dodgeball |work=Guinness World Records |accessdate=June 19, 2013}}</ref>


===Optional rules===
==Variations==
{{main|List of dodgeball variations}}
Protect the Pin - A variation on dodgeball in which each team has 1 to 3 pins on their respective ends of the court. A team may win by either knocking down all the pins or knocking out all the players. Hence the name "Protect the Pin". Additionally, players may opt to play with "lives". Each player wears a band representing each extra life (1 band for 2 lives, 2 bands for 3 lives, etc.) and simply removes a band when hit with a ball or when their ball is caught. When no bands are left, they go out the next time they are hit or their ball is caught.
Optional rules may be in effect in informal games of dodgeball or in open matches by agreement:


# "Head shots" (thrown balls that hit an opposing player in the head) may either result in the thrower being out, or the person being hit being out, or neither.<ref name=WDBF_Rules /><ref name="wehododgeball">{{cite web|url=https://www.wehododgeball.com/rules/|title=Rules & Regulations|website=wehododgeball.com|access-date=March 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191130075129/https://www.wehododgeball.com/rules/|archive-date=November 30, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>
Medic - A variation on dodgeball in which each team has a player designated as the "Medic." Once a player is struck or caught out during a match, they do not exit the playing area, but rather sit down. If they are touched by the Medic, they reenter play. If a team's Medic is struck out, the Medic is out for the rest of the round, and no further players can be resurrected.
# In "jailball", players who are out go to "[[jail]]" behind the opponents' back line. They can return to the game if they:
#* Capture a dead ball, or
#* Capture a dead ball and throw it and hit an opponent.
# In games played on a basketball court, thrown balls that hit the backboard or go into the goal (even if deflected by a player or another ball) may have special status, such as returning all eliminated teammates to the court.
# When there are so few players on the court that dodging the ball is easy, "No Lines" may be declared. This means that there are no team zones; players can go anywhere on the court to get a better shot at an opponent.
# Rules may also vary regarding what happens when a ball is caught. In some variations, the thrower is out but no teammate of the catcher is revived, and in others, the thrower is not even out.


==Tactics==
Jail - When a player is out, they go a "Jail Area" on the opposite end of the court where they stay until a member of their team throws a ball all the way across the court for them to catch and they can rejoin the game. This is usually risky because the other team can intercept the balls easier, thereby knocking the thrower out of the game instead.
[[File:Cody Wikipedia (2).jpg|alt=|thumb|Clutching the ball with one hand]]


The following basic tactics are useful:<ref>{{Cite web
Army - A variation of dodgeball where rather than going out when hit with a dodgeball or having a throw caught the otherwise "out" player remains in the game but loses the use of one of their limbs. If a player is struck with a dodgeball they may continue playing but must discontinue use of a limb of their choice; either an arm or a leg. Similarly, if a player's throw is caught by an opponent the thrower must choose to discontinue use of a limb. Usually, if a player is struck on a specific limb they do not have a choice and must discontinue use of that specific limb. If a player loses the use of both legs they must sit on the ground and may only move by crawling. Once a player loses the use of both arms they are out. If a player makes a catch they are permitted to re-continue use of one of their lost limbs. If a player makes a catch and they already have full use of all limbs a teammate who is out may return to the game.
|url=https://www.union.ic.ac.uk/acc/dodgeball/game/tips
|title=Tips and Tactics
|publisher=Imperial College Dodgeball Club}}</ref>


* Thrower location: Move toward the neutral zone to attack; stay on the back line when not attacking. Do not stand in another player's line of sight. Do not turn your back to the opponents.
Invincible - Where two people can't be knocked out of the game with a dodgeball or throw. When they catch a ball the whole team is back in. When there is only 1 person left they are no longer invincible.
* Coordinated attack: Call out to teammates to coordinate multiple attacks on the same opponent, preferably from very different angles. Number the opponents, left-to-right, and call out an attack target by number.
* Throwing technique: Throw with one hand. Aim below the waist to avoid getting caught or making a head shot. Throw when the opponent is distracted. Learn to throw balls so that they curve.<ref name=wikihow>{{Cite web
|url=https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Great-at-Dodgeball
|title=How to Be Great at Dodgeball
|publisher=Wikihow}}</ref>


Many local teams and international teams develop their own tactics and calling systems specific to their style of play. These become more complex in higher leagues, which often requires specific training for the players in calling positions such that they can make rapid, tactical decisions.
==Japanese version==
Similar in concept, Japanese dodgeball has rules not found in other variations of rule sets. For example, the number of steps a player can take after receiving the ball is limited. Only one ball is played. The type of ball used is also different from the that commonly used in North America.
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==Kenyan version==
==Competitions==
The main dodgeball competition is the [[Dodgeball World Championship]], held by the [[World Dodgeball Federation]] (WDBF). The competition takes place annually since 2012. It was initially an open event, but stopped being an open event as the membership grew, and now works by qualification.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nst.com.my/sports/others/2018/10/424848/world-dodgeball-federation-backs-mad-refutes-claims-world-championship|title=World Dodgeball Federation backs MAD, refutes claims World Championship mere invitational event &#124; New Straits Times|date=25 October 2018 }}</ref> In 2021, WDBF's membership reached 80 members, all also members of the relevant continental federations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.sportspromedia.com/opinions/world-dodgeball-federation-championships-edmonton-2022-duane-wysynski/ | title=Why the World Dodgeball Federation is set to bounce back in 2022 | date=24 November 2021 }}</ref>
Called Kati its played by two teams. One team has people inside the KATI area, the other outside throwing and fetching the ball to the two main ‘two hitters’

The hitters will try to hit the people at the center “KATI” to eliminate them (similar to dodge ball) If one is hit by the ball they get out of the KATI area
== Variations ==
The people in KATI will try to dodge the ball while also making a tower of bottle tops. If they manage to make the tower then they shout “HOORAY!”, and those who had been hit come into play again.
{{main|List of dodgeball variations}}

=== Circle dodgeball ===
In some elementary schools in the United States, a version is played using a circular court. The team outside the circle has the ball or balls, and the team inside must evade the thrown balls. The players who are hit with the ball may change places with the person who hit them, or they may be out of the game and the last person remaining unhit may be the winner. There are variants.<ref>Circle Dodgeball, Playworks. No author, undated. Online at https://www.playworks.org/game-library/circle-dodgeball/</ref>

=== Similar games in other countries ===
* A game similar to dodgeball was reportedly played by Mongol warriors after the [[Battle of Mohi]] in 1241, using the severed heads of defeated Hungarians.<ref>{{cite book |last=Grachev |first=G. |title=O mongol'skikh zavoyevaniyakh Kiyevskoy Rusi Pol'shi i Vengrii 1237–1242 (On Mongol conquests of Kievan Rus, Poland, and Hungary, 1237–1242) |date=1976 |publisher=Nauka |location=Moscow |pages=281–282}}</ref>{{Verify source|date=November 2023|reason=This is from the movie ''Dodgeball'' and I assume it's a joke but I can't tell for sure.}}
* In Sweden, there is a version called ''killerboll'' ("killer ball") where the player who has the ball is limited to three steps before throwing. Whoever is hit by the ball may return to the game if the player who knocked them out is hit.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.klubbensport.se/tips/lek/killerboll |title=Spelregler Killerboll |website=Klubbensport }}</ref>
* In Iran, this game has long been one of the common cultural theses called “vassati” (وسطی). People of every age group are familiar with the game and especially they play it when going on a picnic. A player from the middle team who is hit by the ball is out of the game and the game continues in each set until all the players in the middle team get out of the field, although the player who is out can return to the game when their teammates catch the ball.
* On the [[Indian subcontinent]], a variation of the game is played called "Sekan-tadi" (सेकन-तड़ी). This is slang used for "slamming the hip." Other names are எறி பந்து, Gend Tadi and Maram Pitti. {{citation needed|date=June 2020}}
* In China, a variation of the game is played called "Diu Sha Bao" (丢沙包). Instead of a ball, the game is played with a small round sand bag, which is also known as the "Sha Bao" (沙包).{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
* In Belgium and The Netherlands, a variation is known as “Tussen Twee Vuren” (“Between Two Fires”), which is commonly played in schools. It is also called "trefbal" (hit ball).
* In Poland, a variation is known as "Dwa Ognie" ("Two Fires"), which used to be common in schools.
* In Afrikaans South African schools, a variation named "brandbal" (burning ball) is played with a tennis ball inside a designated area such as a rugby field or tennis court. The objective is for the person in possession of the ball to hit any other player with the ball, in which case the person last hit becomes the next one chasing and hitting the others. A secondary objective is to hit players by throwing as hard as possible, leading to the "burning" sensation.
* In Brazil, dodgeball is known as ''queimado'' and usually features rules similar to jailball, including players that go out to "jail" behind the opponents' back line. It can be played with a single ball as well.
* In Estonia the game is called "rahvastepall"—"the nationsball". It is played with one ball.

==Criticism==
The notion that gameplay resembles assault or is too aggressive has led to lawsuits and calls to eliminate the game from school physical education programs.<ref>{{cite news |title=School dodgeball goes to court in New York |url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2004-11-20-dodgeball_x.htm |work=The Associated Press |publisher=USAToday.com |date=November 20, 2004 |access-date=February 3, 2012}}</ref><ref name=gn-experts-say-dodgeball-is-legalised-bullying>{{Cite news |title=Experts say dodgeball is 'legalized bullying' — is the game really the problem? |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/5355416/dodgeball-bullying-children/ |last=Patel |first=Arti |date=2019-06-05 |access-date=2022-07-01 |work=[[Global News]]}}</ref>

==World records==
* [[University of California, Irvine]], reclaimed the record for largest game of dodgeball on September 25, 2012, with 6,084 participants.<ref>{{Cite news
|url=http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/09/25/uc-irvine-students-claim-record-for-worlds-biggest-dodgeball-game/
|title=UC Irvine Students Claim Record For World's Biggest Dodgeball Game
|publisher=CBSLA.com
|date=September 25, 2012}}</ref> The previous largest game of dodgeball had been played by 4,979 participants at the [[University of Alberta]] on February 3, 2012.<ref>{{cite news |title=U of A smashes dodgeball record |url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/smashs+dodgeball+record/6098140/story.html |work=Edmonton Journal |date=February 3, 2012 |access-date=February 3, 2012 |archive-date=February 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120206062210/http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/smashs+dodgeball+record/6098140/story.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* The longest recorded game of dodgeball was played on April 27–29, 2012, at the [[Castleton State College]] in Vermont; it lasted for 41 h 3 min 17 s.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records-3000/longest-marathon-playing-dodgeball/ |title=Longest marathon playing dodgeball |work=Guinness World Records |access-date=June 19, 2013}}</ref>


==Usage in American vernacular==
In some American idioms, the act of avoiding something or someone mildly unpleasant can be referred to as 'playing dodgeball.' Additionally, in a variant of the same concept, the term "dodgeball" is sometimes used to describe a situation in which an individual is caught between two untenable positions, in a reference to the version of the game in which players from the same team can surround opposing players from two opposite sides.
==See also==
==See also==
*[[Ga-ga]]
* [[Dodgeball ranking]]
* [[Intercollegiate sports team champions#Dodgeball|U.S. intercollegiate dodgeball champions]]
*[[Prisonball]]
*[[Killerball (sport)]]
*[[Intercollegiate sports team champions#Dodgeball|U.S. intercollegiate dodgeball champions]]


==Notes==
==References==
=== Citations ===
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


=== General and cited references ===
==References==
* D'Angelo, Chris (2008). [http://www.dodgeballbook.com ''If You Got the Guts, We Got the Balls: A Book About Dodgeball'']. Dangerous Chris Print. {{ISBN|978-0-578-01564-4}}.
*[http://www.thendl.com/theNDL-Dodgeball-101.asp National Dodgeball League Official Dodgeball Rules & Regulations of Play]
* Keyes, A. (2005). ''The Complete Book About Dodgeball''. AuthorHouse. {{ISBN|1-4208-7548-5}}.
*[http://worlddodgeball.org/documents/83-wdbf-official-rulebook World Dodgeball Federation rule book]
* Kassock, Isaac (2012). ''The Philosophy of Dodgeball: A Treatise''. Createspace. {{ISBN|1-4700-4494-3}}.
*D'Angelo, Chris (2008). [http://www.dodgeballbook.com ''If you got the Guts, We got the Balls: A book about Dodgeball'']. Dangerous Chris Print. ISBN 978-0-578-01564-4
* [[YMCA]] School Playground Partners: Dodgeball Games—https://web.archive.org/web/20090219064408/http://ecke.ymca.org/docs/playgroundpartners/dodgeballgames.pdf YMCA of San Diego County]
*Keyes, A. (2005). ''The Complete Book About Dodgeball''. AuthorHouse. ISBN 1-4208-7548-5
*Kassock, Isaac (2012). ''The Philosophy of Dodgeball: A Treatise''. Createspace. ISBN 1-4700-4494-3
*[[YMCA]] School Playground Partners: Dodgeball Games [http://ecke.ymca.org/docs/playgroundpartners/dodgeballgames.pdf YMCA of San Diego County]


==External links==
==External links==
{{commonscat|Dodgeball}}
* {{Commons category-inline|Dodgeball}}
{{Wiktionary}}

* [http://www.thendl.com/ National Dodgeball League] Professional dodgeball league, directions for member clubs/leagues in the United States.
* [http://www.dodgeballnation.ca/ Dodgeball Nation] Information on Dodgeball event and leagues from around the world.
* [http://www.dodgeball4ever.com/ World Dodgeball Society] California, Chicago, New York
* [http://www.dodgeballusa.com/index.shtml National Amateur Dodgeball Association]
* [http://www.ncdadodgeball.com/ National College Dodgeball Association]
* [http://www.dodgeballislife.com San Diego Dodgeball Leagues]
* [http://vdldodgeball.ca/ Vancouver Dodgeball League] A Vancouver, BC, Canada league.
* [http://www.ukdba.org/ UK Dodgeball Association] National governing body for dodgeball in the UK.
* [http://www.dodgeballnz.com/ Dodgeball NZ], New Zealand's Official Dodgeball Organisation


{{Outdoor games}}
{{Team Sport}}
{{Team Sport}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Team sports]]
[[Category:Dodgeball| ]]
[[Category:Articles containing video clips]]
[[Category:Ball games]]
[[Category:Ball games]]
[[Category:Games of physical skill]]
[[Category:Games of physical skill]]
[[Category:Dodgeball| ]]
[[Category:Physical education]]
[[Category:Physical education]]
[[Category:Team sports]]

Latest revision as of 22:24, 25 November 2024

This article is about the sport. For the film, see Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story. For the location service, see Dodgeball (service). For the object sometimes used in the game, see utility ball. For the video game, see Super Dodge Ball.
Dodgeball
Highest governing bodyWorld Dodgeball Association and World Dodgeball Federation
Characteristics
ContactNo
Team members6 per side
TypeIndoor
EquipmentDodgeball (utility ball)
VenueDodgeball court
Presence
OlympicNo
ParalympicNo

Dodgeball is a team sport in which players on two opposing teams try to throw balls and hit opponents while avoiding being hit themselves. The objective of each team 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 court.

The sport is mostly played in schools under varying rules, and also formally as an international sport, under rules that vary among international governing bodies, such as the World Dodgeball Federation (WDBF), which runs the Dodgeball World Championship and the World Dodgeball Association (WDA). USA Dodgeball is the governing entity for dodgeball in the United States, with member leagues and clubs across the nation.

Equipment

WDBF foam dodgeballs used at the World Dodgeball Championships

There are many different ball types used around the world, including 8.5 inches (220 mm) rubber, "no-sting" rubber, foam and cloth; versions made with rubber or polyvinyl chloride are termed utility balls. USA Dodgeball uses all ball types across multiple tournaments held by them and their member organizations. The World Dodgeball Federation (WDBF) used primarily foam for their first World Championships, but starting with 2022, both cloth and foam categories were introduced.[1]

The WDBF specifies the use of six balls with six players per side for their World Championships.[2] Various rule sets governing number of balls and players are used around the world depending on the court size, level of play, and the organization's discretion.

The WDA specifies the use of five balls; certain national rule sets, such as in Austria, specify six.[3] Amateur games typically use from three to ten balls, the number tailored to the size of the court and the number of players. More balls generally adds to the amount of action in a game, but can result in stalemate with many blocks. If there are too few balls, the element of stealth is removed, as players can see all the balls that might hit them.

Court

Dodgeball court used by World Dodgeball Association

Dodgeball can be played on any surface that has clearly marked boundaries and a center line, such as a basketball or volleyball court or fenced area. Elite Dodgeball specifies a court 50 feet (15 m) by 25 feet (7.6 m), where a zone 10 feet (3.0 m) wide at the junction of the areas is a neutral zone.[4]

Games can also be played outdoors on a soccer pitch or football field. The WDBF organizes games on beaches[5] and USA Dodgeball hosts tournaments at trampoline parks.[6] WDBF specifies a court 60 feet (18 m) by 30 feet (9.1 m) with no neutral zone.[7]

The attacking lines and center lines are of vital importance. A team can stand in its attacking area and throw the balls to opponents.[8]

Matchplay

Length of game

Informal matches of dodgeball are typically played until all players on one side are out. In WDBF guidelines, matches last a total of 40 minutes. These are split into two 20-minute halves, during which as many sets as possible are played. A set lasts until all players on one side are out. One point is awarded for every set won. Teams switch sides at halftime.[7]

Starting the game

In informal dodgeball, balls are initially distributed to players by one of the following methods:

  • By even distribution to the two teams.
  • By being lined up on the central dividing line.

In this latter option, players then rush toward the center line to grab one of the balls. This is called the opening rush. It is never legal to immediately throw such a ball at an opponent; a player grabbing a ball on the center line retreats or throws it back to a teammate.

In WDBF regulations, the ball must be returned behind an "attack line", roughly a third of the way from the back of court. Players may only run for the balls on the left side of the court, while the middle ball will be contested.[7]

Gameplay

Azalea Donche, preparing to counter at the World Dodgeball Championships in Los Angeles in 2018

Following distribution, players aim to hit one another. A ball is considered "live" from the moment it leaves a player's hand up until it touches the floor, wall, or ceiling, when it becomes "dead". If a player is hit by an opponent's live ball, they are "out"; if the ball is dead, there is no hit. If a player catches a live ball, the opponent who threw the ball is out and a player on the catcher's team is "revived" from the outbox; however, if they fail to secure the catch, leading to them dropping the ball, the failed catcher is out.

In WDBF regulations, players may "block" a throw with another ball. In this situation, the thrown ball remains live, as it has not hit the floor or a wall, and so can be caught or can still hit a player out. If the blocker drops the ball used to block, they have failed to keep their ball secure and are out.

Dead balls that leave the court can only be returned to players by each team's designated ball retrievers. Stepping outside the court, including stepping on a boundary line or entering the opponents' zone, is a violation. Other violations include kicking a ball, displaying bad sportsmanship, and stalling (having a ball for over ten seconds and doing nothing with it).[9] The penalty is that the violator is out.[7]

Optional rules

Main article: List of dodgeball variations

Optional rules may be in effect in informal games of dodgeball or in open matches by agreement:

  1. "Head shots" (thrown balls that hit an opposing player in the head) may either result in the thrower being out, or the person being hit being out, or neither.[7][10]
  2. In "jailball", players who are out go to "jail" behind the opponents' back line. They can return to the game if they:
    • Capture a dead ball, or
    • Capture a dead ball and throw it and hit an opponent.
  3. In games played on a basketball court, thrown balls that hit the backboard or go into the goal (even if deflected by a player or another ball) may have special status, such as returning all eliminated teammates to the court.
  4. When there are so few players on the court that dodging the ball is easy, "No Lines" may be declared. This means that there are no team zones; players can go anywhere on the court to get a better shot at an opponent.
  5. Rules may also vary regarding what happens when a ball is caught. In some variations, the thrower is out but no teammate of the catcher is revived, and in others, the thrower is not even out.

Tactics

Clutching the ball with one hand

The following basic tactics are useful:[11]

  • Thrower location: Move toward the neutral zone to attack; stay on the back line when not attacking. Do not stand in another player's line of sight. Do not turn your back to the opponents.
  • Coordinated attack: Call out to teammates to coordinate multiple attacks on the same opponent, preferably from very different angles. Number the opponents, left-to-right, and call out an attack target by number.
  • Throwing technique: Throw with one hand. Aim below the waist to avoid getting caught or making a head shot. Throw when the opponent is distracted. Learn to throw balls so that they curve.[9]

Many local teams and international teams develop their own tactics and calling systems specific to their style of play. These become more complex in higher leagues, which often requires specific training for the players in calling positions such that they can make rapid, tactical decisions.

Competitions

The main dodgeball competition is the Dodgeball World Championship, held by the World Dodgeball Federation (WDBF). The competition takes place annually since 2012. It was initially an open event, but stopped being an open event as the membership grew, and now works by qualification.[12] In 2021, WDBF's membership reached 80 members, all also members of the relevant continental federations.[13]

Variations

Main article: List of dodgeball variations

Circle dodgeball

In some elementary schools in the United States, a version is played using a circular court. The team outside the circle has the ball or balls, and the team inside must evade the thrown balls. The players who are hit with the ball may change places with the person who hit them, or they may be out of the game and the last person remaining unhit may be the winner. There are variants.[14]

Similar games in other countries

  • A game similar to dodgeball was reportedly played by Mongol warriors after the Battle of Mohi in 1241, using the severed heads of defeated Hungarians.[15][verification needed]
  • In Sweden, there is a version called killerboll ("killer ball") where the player who has the ball is limited to three steps before throwing. Whoever is hit by the ball may return to the game if the player who knocked them out is hit.[16]
  • In Iran, this game has long been one of the common cultural theses called “vassati” (وسطی). People of every age group are familiar with the game and especially they play it when going on a picnic. A player from the middle team who is hit by the ball is out of the game and the game continues in each set until all the players in the middle team get out of the field, although the player who is out can return to the game when their teammates catch the ball.
  • On the Indian subcontinent, a variation of the game is played called "Sekan-tadi" (सेकन-तड़ी). This is slang used for "slamming the hip." Other names are எறி பந்து, Gend Tadi and Maram Pitti. [citation needed]
  • In China, a variation of the game is played called "Diu Sha Bao" (丢沙包). Instead of a ball, the game is played with a small round sand bag, which is also known as the "Sha Bao" (沙包).[citation needed]
  • In Belgium and The Netherlands, a variation is known as “Tussen Twee Vuren” (“Between Two Fires”), which is commonly played in schools. It is also called "trefbal" (hit ball).
  • In Poland, a variation is known as "Dwa Ognie" ("Two Fires"), which used to be common in schools.
  • In Afrikaans South African schools, a variation named "brandbal" (burning ball) is played with a tennis ball inside a designated area such as a rugby field or tennis court. The objective is for the person in possession of the ball to hit any other player with the ball, in which case the person last hit becomes the next one chasing and hitting the others. A secondary objective is to hit players by throwing as hard as possible, leading to the "burning" sensation.
  • In Brazil, dodgeball is known as queimado and usually features rules similar to jailball, including players that go out to "jail" behind the opponents' back line. It can be played with a single ball as well.
  • In Estonia the game is called "rahvastepall"—"the nationsball". It is played with one ball.

Criticism

The notion that gameplay resembles assault or is too aggressive has led to lawsuits and calls to eliminate the game from school physical education programs.[17][18]

World records

See also

References

Citations

  1. ^ "Edmonton to host 2022 World Dodgeball Championships". 13 November 2021.
  2. ^ "Rules | World Dodgeball Federation". Retrieved 2023-02-09.
  3. ^ WDA, World Dodgeball Association. "World Dodgeball Association (WDA), Rules & Regulations, Version 2.0.4" (PDF).
  4. ^ "Elite Dodgeball Rules". Elite Dodgeball. Archived from the original on 2019-06-21. Retrieved 2019-06-21.
  5. ^ "World Dodgeball Federation | World Organizational Body For The Sport Of Dodgeball".
  6. ^ Dodgeball, U. S. A. "USA Dodgeball - Member Organizations". usadodgeball.com.
  7. ^ a b c d e "World Dodgeball Federation Rules" (PDF). World Dodgeball Federation. Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 November 2018. Retrieved 19 June 2019.
  8. ^ "Dodgeball Rules | How to Play Dodgeball". Rules of Sports. 2020-05-04. Retrieved 2020-09-29.
  9. ^ a b "How to Be Great at Dodgeball". Wikihow.
  10. ^ "Rules & Regulations". wehododgeball.com. Archived from the original on November 30, 2019. Retrieved March 22, 2021.
  11. ^ "Tips and Tactics". Imperial College Dodgeball Club.
  12. ^ "World Dodgeball Federation backs MAD, refutes claims World Championship mere invitational event | New Straits Times". 25 October 2018.
  13. ^ "Why the World Dodgeball Federation is set to bounce back in 2022". 24 November 2021.
  14. ^ Circle Dodgeball, Playworks. No author, undated. Online at https://www.playworks.org/game-library/circle-dodgeball/
  15. ^ Grachev, G. (1976). O mongol'skikh zavoyevaniyakh Kiyevskoy Rusi Pol'shi i Vengrii 1237–1242 (On Mongol conquests of Kievan Rus, Poland, and Hungary, 1237–1242). Moscow: Nauka. pp. 281–282.
  16. ^ "Spelregler Killerboll". Klubbensport.
  17. ^ "School dodgeball goes to court in New York". The Associated Press. USAToday.com. November 20, 2004. Retrieved February 3, 2012.
  18. ^ Patel, Arti (2019-06-05). "Experts say dodgeball is 'legalized bullying' — is the game really the problem?". Global News. Retrieved 2022-07-01.
  19. ^ "UC Irvine Students Claim Record For World's Biggest Dodgeball Game". CBSLA.com. September 25, 2012.
  20. ^ "U of A smashes dodgeball record". Edmonton Journal. February 3, 2012. Archived from the original on February 6, 2012. Retrieved February 3, 2012.
  21. ^ "Longest marathon playing dodgeball". Guinness World Records. Retrieved June 19, 2013.

General and cited references

  • Media related to Dodgeball at Wikimedia Commons
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