What is Dodgeball?

Dodgeball is a fast-paced, team-based sport where players aim to eliminate opponents by hitting them with a ball. It's a game that combines strategy, athleticism, and quick reflexes.

Here at BDL we currently play Foam Dodgeball — this is closest in format to any form of dodgeball you're familiar with, be it from school or the iconic 2004 movie Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story.

There is another popular format of Dodgeball called Cloth, recognised by the WDBF and played around the world . BDL currently does not run any cloth competitions, but we would like to in the future!

Basic Rules to Get Started

The aim of Dodgeball is to eliminate every player on the opposing team to win the round and get a point for your team. The team with the most points at the end of the match wins. Simple!

Like any sport, Dodgeball has a lot of rules and specific scenarios to be mindful of. To start playing, all you need to know is the following:

🏃‍♂️ The Opening Rush

Every dodgeball round begins with what's called the Opening Rush.

  • All players start on their own baseline (the back of the court).
  • When the referee blows the whistle, players sprint toward the center line.
  • Each team is allowed to retrieve the three balls on their side of the center line only — no stealing balls from the opponent’s half during the rush.
  • To activate a ball (meaning you can legally throw it at the other team), it must be carried or passed fully behind your team’s activation line before use. At BDL, this activation line is clearly marked and sits a few meters back from the center.

How do players get out in dodgeball?

  • Players are eliminated if they're hit by a thrown or "live" ball without catching it.
  • Players that step on or outside of the court boundaries are eliminated.
  • Players whose thrown ball is caught by an opposing player before it touches the ground, wall, or ceiling are out — and the player that caught the ball gets one of their eliminated teammates back in!

What else can I do?

  • Players can block "live" balls thrown at them with a ball held in their hands, as long as it doesn't touch any part of their body during the block.

Game Format

A standard dodgeball game is played with 6 players per team on court.

👉 At BDL, our format is:
⏱ 2x 20-minute halves (40 minutes total playing time)
🏆 The winner is determined by the team that has won the most rounds at the end of the match

Each round is played until one team eliminates all players from the opposing team. Teams play as many rounds as possible within the time limit, keeping track of rounds won.

Prefer a video?

Ready to Play?

If you're interested in trying dodgeball for yourself, check out our register page to join one of our social sessions or competitive leagues!

📣 Got questions or just want to see what dodgeball looks like in action?
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or check out our Substack for game recordings and updates!

FAQ

Q: Is dodgeball a team sport?
Yes, teams of six players per side, with subs if needed.

Q: Can you block in dodgeball?
Yes, you can block in dodgeball with a held ball. Just be careful not to hit yourself or a teammate with the rebounding ball.

Q: How long is a dodgeball match?
Usually, a foam dodgeball match is played in 2x 20-minute halves. There can be some variation between leagues and competitions — BDL follows the rules set out by the World Dodgeball Federation.

Q: Are headshots allowed?
Yes, headshots are allowed in our competition. They're not encouraged, obviously, but these things happen. Some leagues will have a "no-headshots" policy that we find affects the competitive flow of the game and doesn't really decrease the number of head hits — so we don't enforce rules like these.

BDL wants to make sure dodgeball can be a fun and non-threatening experience for everyone. More experienced players are used to getting hit in the head here and there, but it can be frightening for newcomers. A simple "sorry" or raised hand goes a long way!

Q: How does "Advantage" work in dodgeball?
Advantage is given to the team with more players on court — they’re expected to throw first and maintain the pace of the game. If they stall too long, refs may call a penalty or force a throw. It keeps the game flowing and fair!

Q: What is "Cloth" Dodgeball?
Cloth dodgeball uses smaller, grippier balls made of fabric or synthetic covering. It's popular in Europe and used in international play by the WDBF. It plays slightly differently to foam — with more catching and longer throws. BDL doesn't offer cloth matches yet, but we’re working on it!

Q: How can I learn more about the rules of dodgeball?
You can read the full WDBF foam rulebook here, or ask one of our refs or team captains at the courts — we’re always happy to help new players feel confident.

Keep Learning

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