Are headshots allowed?

In most versions of dodgeball, headshots don’t count and may even result in a penalty for unsafe play.

Can you cross the center line?

No. Crossing the center line results in an automatic out, even if it’s accidental.

How long can a player hold a ball?

To keep the game moving, many leagues enforce a 10-second throw rule—if you hold the ball too long, you must roll it to the other team.

How to Play Dodgeball – Official Rules, Setup, and Scoring

Q: Can you block a ball with another ball?

Yes, players can use a ball to deflect incoming throws. However, if you lose control of your ball during a block and it’s knocked out of your hands, you’re out.

Q: What happens if two players throw at the same time and both get hit?

Both players are considered out unless one of the balls is caught before it hits the ground.

Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by The Official Game Rules Team

Dodgeball is a fast-paced team game where players try to eliminate opponents by hitting them with a ball while avoiding being hit themselves. It’s an energetic mix of agility, teamwork, and strategy that’s perfect for gym class, sports clubs, or casual outdoor fun.

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How to Play Dodgeball

Object of the Game

The goal of dodgeball is to eliminate all players on the opposing team by hitting them with a ball or catching one of their throws before it hits the ground.

Players and Equipment

Number of players: Typically 6 players per team (but can vary from 4–10).
Equipment: 6 soft rubber or foam dodgeballs, and a large rectangular court divided into two halves.
Court size: Around 60 ft long by 30 ft wide (similar to a volleyball court).
Boundary line: A center line divides the two teams, and players cannot cross it.

Setup

Divide players into two equal teams.
Place six dodgeballs evenly across the center line.
Each team lines up behind their baseline, ready to rush for the balls.
When the referee or game leader shouts “Go!”, players sprint to grab the balls and start throwing.

Gameplay Rules

Starting Play

Once the game begins, players grab the balls and must retreat behind their attack line before throwing.
A ball that hits an opponent below the shoulders and touches the ground first counts as an out.

Eliminations

You’re out if:

You are hit by a live ball thrown by an opponent and it touches you before hitting the ground.
Your throw is caught by an opponent before the ball lands.
You step over the center line or out of bounds during play.

Catches

If a player catches an opponent’s throw:

The thrower is out, and
The catching team may bring one eliminated player back in.

Live and Dead Balls

A live ball is in play from the moment it leaves a player’s hand until it touches the floor, wall, or another surface.
Once it hits something, it becomes a dead ball and cannot get players out.

Winning the Game

A game ends when:

All players on one team have been eliminated, or
The time limit expires (often 3–5 minutes).
If time runs out, the team with the most players remaining wins.

Scoring

You can play dodgeball in rounds:

Each team earns 1 point per round win.
The first team to reach an agreed number of points (usually 3–5) wins the match.

Common Variations

No Headshots: Hits above the shoulders don’t count.
Medic Dodgeball: A designated player (the “medic”) can revive teammates when touched.
King’s Court: Players hit out go to the opposite team’s side and can return to play if they catch a ball.

Strategy Tips

Stay moving—standing still makes you an easy target.
Aim for legs or lower body to reduce the chance of your throw being caught.
Work as a team: coordinate throws to trap or confuse opponents.
Use dodges, ducks, and side steps rather than jumping straight up.

FAQ – Dodgeball Rules

Can you block a ball with another ball?

Yes, players can use a ball to deflect incoming throws. However, if you lose control of your ball during a block and it’s knocked out of your hands, you’re out.

Are headshots allowed?

In most versions of dodgeball, headshots don’t count and may even result in a penalty for unsafe play.

What happens if two players throw at the same time and both get hit?

Both players are considered out unless one of the balls is caught before it hits the ground.

Can you cross the center line?

No. Crossing the center line results in an automatic out, even if it’s accidental.

Can the same player throw and catch in the same play?

Yes, as long as they are within bounds and the catch happens before the ball touches the ground.

How long can a player hold a ball?

To keep the game moving, many leagues enforce a 10-second throw rule—if you hold the ball too long, you must roll it to the other team.

Variations

Circle Dodgeball: Players form a circle, and the player in the middle tries to avoid being hit by the balls thrown by players in the circle.
Medic Dodgeball: Each team has a “medic” who can revive eliminated players by tagging them. The game ends when the medic is eliminated or all players are out.
Prison Ball: Eliminated players go to the “prison” behind the opposing team and can return to the game if they catch a ball thrown to them by their teammates.
No-Blocking: Players are not allowed to use a ball to block incoming throws. This variation increases the difficulty and intensity of the game.

Conclusion

Dodgeball is one of the best games for combining fun, fitness, and teamwork. It’s easy to learn but rewards quick thinking and coordination. Whether you’re playing in a gym or the backyard, these dodgeball rules will keep the game fair, exciting, and fast-paced.