Winton Eliott
Dodgeball is a game played by two teams, where players try to throw balls and hit opponents while avoiding being hit themselves.
The goal of the game is for one team to eliminate all members of the other through thrown balls, catching the opponent’s throws, or making them commit penalties.
Dodgeball is a sport commonly played in schools under varying rules.
It can also be played formally as an international game with different sets of rules governed by renowned organizations, such as the World Dodgeball Federation or the World Dodgeball Association.
If you are based in The United States of America, then USA Dodgeball would be your organization that takes charge and regulates dodgeball tournaments and leagues within the nation.
Who invented dodgeball?
The game of dodgeball has a long and rich history, dating back to the medieval era.
The first recorded instance of dodgeball is in a 14th-century French manuscript, which describes a game called “la soule”.
In this game, players would try to hit each other with a ball made of leather or cloth.
The game was popular among peasants and knights alike, and it quickly spread throughout Europe. By the 17th century, the game had reached America, where it was known as “dodge ball”.
The rules of the game have changed little over the centuries, and it remains a popular playground activity to this day.
So, who invented dodgeball?
It is impossible to say for sure, but it is clear that this thrilling game has been enjoyed by generations of people all over the world.
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What are dodgeball’s basic rules?
Basic dodgeball rules state that players must throw the ball with an underhand motion, and they cannot hold onto the ball for longer than 10 seconds.
Players cannot hold onto more than one ball at a time, and they are not allowed to kick or strike the ball. If a player is hit by a thrown ball, they are out of the game.
If a player catches a ball thrown by their opponent, they may bring back one of their teammates who has been eliminated.
The team that eliminates all players on the opposing team wins the game.
Additionally, players cannot block or guard their heads with their hands or arms, and any physical contact is not allowed. The court boundaries are marked by tape or cones, and players that touch the boundaries are out of the game.
These basic rules can vary slightly in different leagues or organizations. However, the overall goal remains the same: to eliminate all members of the opposing team.
Where is dodgeball most popular?
Dodgeball is popular all over the world, but it has a particularly strong following in the United States.
The National Amateur Dodgeball Association (NADA) was founded in 2000 and now boasts over 200 member teams across the country.
Additionally, there are numerous collegiate dodgeball leagues and tournaments in the US. Outside of America, dodgeball is also popular in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan.
The World Dodgeball Association hosts international championships every two years, bringing together top dodgeball teams from around the globe to compete for the title of world champion.
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Some facts about dodgeball
- The World Dodgeball Federation is the official governing body for international dodgeball, with member countries from all six inhabited continents.
- In 2015, the World Dodgeball Association hosted the first ever Beach Dodgeball World Cup in California, USA.
- The International Olympic Committee has recognized dodgeball as a sport, and there have been discussions about potentially adding it to the Olympic Games.
- The film “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story” (2004) popularized the sport and helped increase its popularity in pop culture.
- Actor Ben Stiller, who played a dodgeball coach in the film, has stated that he is a lifelong fan of the game and often plays with friends in his spare time.
Final words
Dodgeball is a game with a long and varied history. First mentioned in the medieval era, it has been played by people all over the world for centuries.
In the early 1800s, it was brought to the United States by immigrants and soon became a popular schoolyard game.
Today, dodgeball is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a respected sport in its own right.
With its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay, it is easy to see why this game has stood the test of time. Whether you are looking for a competitive challenge or just a fun way to stay active, dodgeball is a great option.
So get out there and start playing!
