There was a time when dodgeball was an integral part of physical education in most American schools. It is the only sport that this writer can think of where children are encouraged to throw something at another student with the intent of hitting them. This makes the game exciting, but has also led to much controversy. The game can be configured for any number of players who are generally divided into two teams on a basketball court, football field, soccer pitch, etc. A set of balls, usually 5 or 6 are at the center line. When the play starts, members from each team rush to grab a ball and put it into play by sending it back to a teammate further back on his side of the court. The balls are then thrown at the opposing team with the aim of hitting them before the ball hits the ground, at which point they are out of the game. If an opposing player catches the ball in flight, the thrower is out. The game is played until the last player on one team is out, making the other team the winner. The attacking nature of the game can lead to bullying and “ganging up” where multiple players attack a single player. Many schools and parents have questioned the “cruel nature” of the game and have had it removed from schools. Others say that this is life.
The 2004 movie, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, is a comedy starring the excellent Vince Vaughn as Pete Lafleur, owner of “Average Joe’s” gym, a financially strapped business which is likely to be bought out by “Globo Gym” and demolished for extra parking. Globo Gym is owned by the baddy, White Goodman, played by the also excellent Ben Stiller. To save their beloved gym, the Average Joe’s members must defeat Globo Gym’s dodgeball team in a classic underdog match. Though most of the bullying and “badness” is played or laughs, the movie reflects a core of truth, that dodgeball can be a vicious game when played by vicious people. The balance of humor and underdog story made the movie a success at the box office. It is also likely that many in the audience were drawn to a movie because, as past participants, they were eager to relive the game vicariously in the safety of their seats.
