Dodgeball
Dodgeball. What is more stereotypical of youth groups than dodgeball? I can’t think of anything. But dodgeball is the quintessential youth group game for good reasons.
- Learning curve. Basically, there is none. In fact, the basic description of the game is found in the title: dodge ball. My only explanation of the game last night to some students: “Dodge the balls.”
- Unlimited possibilities. Even though dodgeball is an inherently simple game, there are more variations of the game than years in Methuselah’s life. Wikipedia lists 49 different variations, including Bombardment, Medic, and Killball. My youth group plays a variation called Secret Service. The whole group is in a circle, with two people in the middle (President and Secret Service). The idea is to hit the President, with the Secret Service blocking the Prez.
- Age appropriate. Dodgeball is a game for all ages. Little kids and children’s ministries are frequently playing this game (sometimes with balls of yarn). Jr. High and Sr. High ministries feature it regularly. Heck, even adults enjoy the game (especially if they can peg little kids). The highlight of any dodgeball night is the leaders vs. all round, where the volunteers can get revenge on any student they would like, and all the leaders can collectively show the students that they still rock.
If you do not have dodgeballs, or would like the best ones ever created by man, then check out the Rhino Skin dodgeballs. Although a little pricey, these dodgeballs are extremely durable, very lightweight, and have an incredibly grippable service. These balls allow everyone to throw their hardest (including leaders), yet do not sting or hurt when hitting people. That may disappoint some leaders, but these Rhino Skin balls are great for fun without the injuries and property damages.
The series “Youth Pastor Toolbox” discusses different tools of the trade for youth ministry. A new “Youth Pastor Toolbox” will be posted every Tuesday.
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1 Comment to Dodgeball
[...] and water balloon fights. Water balloon fights are a great asset to any youth ministry; like dodgeball, it allows leaders to show their dominance and superior athleticism over the students in a harmless [...]
July 22, 2008