How to Play Dodgeball: A Beginner's Guide
What is Dodgeball?
Dodgeball is a fun and exciting game where players on two teams try to eliminate their opponents. Both teams throw balls at each other with the aim of hitting their opponents, while trying to avoid being hit themselves.
The Australian Dodgeball Federation (ADF) is the peak body of Dodgeball in Australia, that exists to promote Dodgeball as a legitimate sport that will attract talented, enthusiastic athletes at the social and international levels.
The Basics
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The Court: The game is played on a rectangular court, divided into two halves, with five to six dodgeballs depending on game format (foam or cloth).
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Playing: Eliminate opponents by hitting them or catching their throws, while dodging and blocking to survive.
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Winning: The team with the last player(s) standing at the end of the set wins a point, and the teams with the most points at the end of match time wins!
Playing Dodgeball
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Divide into Teams: Split into two teams of six players each.
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Starting Positions: Each team starts with their feet on their back boundary line.
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Starting the game: When the referee blows the whistle, players can rush forward to retrieve the dodgeballs placed on the centre line, bringing them back behind the activation line to make the ball live.
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Throwing: To eliminate an opposing player, a player must throw and hit an opposing players body (inclusive of clothing) without touching any part of the court.
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Dodging: Quickly move around the court to avoid being hit by incoming dodgeballs.
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Blocking: Players may use held balls to block an incoming live ball, but be careful, blocked balls are live and can still eliminate you or your team!
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Catching: If you catch a ball thrown by the other team, the thrower is out, and the last eliminated player on your team is revived.
Tips for Beginners:
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Timing vs Power: A well timed throw is nearly always more successful than a throw with lots of power.
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Stay Agile: Be quick on your feet to avoid incoming balls.
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Communicate with Your Team: Work together with your teammates to strategize and coordinate your moves.
