It’s a scene that haunts many childhoods: rubber balls hurtling through the air, narrowly missing your face and legs, leaving you with no safe haven. Just when you think you’ve dodged one, another strikes you in the gut, knocking the wind out of you. The sting of that rubber ball is nothing compared to the sting of defeat. You’re out. Game over.
This is dodgeball, often humorously referred to as “slaughterball,” and it captures the essence of many children’s nightmares, especially for those of us who always found ourselves picked last during gym class. I was one of those kids—awkward, uncoordinated, and while I wouldn’t label myself unathletic (I later swam at a Division 1 university), traditional team sports were not my forte. Games like soccer were bearable, but dodgeball? That was sheer terror.
Despite its notorious reputation, dodgeball remains a staple in physical education classes, but there’s a growing call for it to be phased out. “Dodgeball is often seen as a way to express aggression,” explains Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a professor of education at a local university. “But I wonder if that’s truly the lesson we want to impart.”
Research from a Canadian team suggests that dodgeball promotes a toxic environment, where students learn to dehumanize their peers. Interviews with middle schoolers revealed an alarming consensus: dodgeball was widely disliked. The researchers noted that many students felt the game reinforced bullying and oppression. “The underlying message is that it’s acceptable to harm others,” Dr. Mitchell remarked. “True competition should involve evenly matched teams, yet kids often stack their teams to secure an easy victory. What’s enjoyable about that?”
While some children still find joy in dodgeball—perhaps influenced by its comedic portrayal in movies—many educators are advocating for kinder alternatives. “Instead of dodgeball, schools are now embracing gaga ball,” says Dr. Mitchell. This game, played with a soft foam ball and with hits only allowed below the knees, is viewed as a more inclusive option. It emphasizes fun over aggression and enables participation without the need for advanced athletic skills.
It’s important to recognize that dodgeball does not foster skill development. Those who struggle with catching or throwing are often too preoccupied with survival to learn effectively. This isn’t about eliminating the risks associated with sports; rather, it’s about examining the approach and tactics used in games like dodgeball. Physical education should be a space where students learn to manage emotions, not express them through hostility.
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In summary, while dodgeball may have its fans, many children find it distressing and detrimental. By shifting towards games like gaga ball, we can create a more inclusive, supportive environment that fosters skill development and emotional growth in physical education.