There are many ways to play dodgeball, but, in general, the object is to hit an opponent with a ball while avoiding getting hit. Newer variations involve hitting a ball against a wall rather than a person.
The traditional dodgeball game involves two teams, usually with at least six players per team. The most popular game has a midline that separates the two teams and involves throwing several balls (usually simultaneously) to eliminate the opponents. Another, less common game, is when one team is designated "throwers" and forms a large circle. The other team consists of "dodgers" who position themselves in the middle of the circle. The throwers try to hit one or more dodgers with the ball. While staying within the circle, the dodgers try to avoid getting hit by jumping out of the way, ducking or otherwise dodging the ball. If the ball strikes a dodger, that child is out for the round. If a dodger catches the ball on a fly, the player who threw the ball is out. The winning team is the one with the last person left on the court. The throwers and dodgers then switch roles for the next round. Often, throwing the ball at someone's head is strictly forbidden in dodgeball anyone who does so is out of the game. A good rule is that "hits" don't count unless the ball strikes a player at waist level or below.
ADVANTAGES??
Many skills are used during dodgeball, including quick movements, quick change of direction (agility), throwing, catching and aiming. Dodgeball also teaches children teamwork and the importance of keeping their eye on the ball at all times. These skills are transferable to a host of sports, including soccer, basketball and tennis. Dodgeball can be aerobic and challenges most major muscle group. Children of all ages can play dodgeball, although it is safest when played by a group of children who are close in age or stature.
DISADVANTAGES??
The National Association for Sport and Physical Education does not support dodgeball as an appropriate practice for PE classes because it uses children as human targets. The organization states that there are other activities that can teach children the same skills gained from playing dodgeball.
The main problem with dodgeball is finding a ball that is heavy enough to be thrown with accuracy yet soft and light enough to not injure anyone. If thrown at high velocity, rubber playground balls, volleyballs and soccer balls can sting the skin or cause a more serious injury. Sponge balls tend to be so light that they can cause the thrower to sustain a rotator cuff injury if thrown too hard. One possible solution is a vinyl-covered foam rubber ball, but even these could potentially cause injury if thrown hard enough at the face or another vulnerable body part. Children can literally be knocked off their feet in dodgeball. Or they can get the wind knocked out of them if hit in the chest while attempting to catch the ball. A child could also get struck in the head or face by ducking in the wrong place at the wrong time.
It can be hard to keep certain children from whaling the ball like a melon during dodgeball. The risk for injury is increased when the thrower is bigger and stronger than the dodger. The importance of adult supervision during dodgeball - and strict enforcement of safety rules - cannot be overemphasized.
Lastly, dodgeball supports eliminating the "weakest" participants and causes a lot of wait-time. Ironically, the same people who get "out" first are usually the very people that need the most exercise and skill practice.