dodgeball

Dodgeball is a team sport in which players on opposing sides try to eliminate each other by throwing balls and by catching those thrown by opponents. The objective is to be the last team with players remaining on the court.

Play takes place on a rectangular court divided by a center line. Each team starts with a set number of players and a supply of soft dodgeballs. On a signal, players throw balls to hit members of the opposing team below the shoulders while avoiding being hit themselves. An opponent is out if a ball they are struck by is not touched by another player or the ground before hitting them, or if the ball they throw is caught by an opponent. A catch often eliminates the thrower and may allow a previously eliminated teammate to re-enter, depending on the rules. Balls that land out of bounds, bounce out of the play area, or hit the ground are considered dead.

Rules vary by competition and format. Common variations include small-sided games such as 6-on-6 or 8-on-8, with additional rules to prevent dangerous plays and to govern catches, revivals, and time limits. The game ends when one team has all players eliminated or when a pre-set victory condition is reached.

Equipment typically includes foam or rubber dodgeballs designed to be soft and safe, with the court defined by boundary lines. The sport is commonly played in schools, clubs, and leagues, on indoor gym floors or outdoor surfaces.

History and governance: dodgeball has roots in playground and school games in the 20th century, with several regional variants. International competition has been organized by bodies such as the World Dodgeball Federation, along with national associations in many countries. The sport emphasizes speed, agility, throwing accuracy, and tactical catching.