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June 5, 2001
No. 3

Run the Gauntlet - Dodgeball

This is one of the many popular forms of dodgeball. It can be played either as an elimination or inclusion game. Learning occurs best, and it is more fun, when players are not eliminated from the games.

The number of players can range 10 to as many as 25. Divide the players into two equal groups. The throwing team, using soft playground balls or sponge-type balls, is stationed in two parallel lines about 30 to 50 feet apart depending on their ages. The other team is challenged to run between the two parallel lines while the throwing team attempts to hit them with the ball. In running the gauntlet, the running team can either make one trip or be challenged to run "down and back" to complete one trip. Pick some suitable number of runs, say five round trips, and then have the two teams change positions.

Teams can each take two or three turns running the gauntlet. Count one point for each runner hit with the ball. Should a runner catch the ball, a point is awarded to the running team. Play the best of three sets.

Safety Rules:

• Players must be hit below the waist or shoulder. Decide which rule you wish to observe.

• When a player hits an opponent legally with the ball, the throwing team is awarded one point.

• When a player is hit illegally, the offended team can receive 1 or 2 points, and the thrower can be banished for the remainder of that game.

Teaching suggestion:

This game, as with many forms of dodgeball, emphasizes the skills of
throwing, catching, running, jumping, dodging, agility and alertness. For players who do not already possess these skills, it is suggested that a few practice sessions or lessons be planned to help them become more familiar with these skills. This can be done quite easily with simple throwing and catching lessons involving 2-3-4 players at a time. Start slow and then increase the pace. Make this a game by challenging the players to make 20 passes. First group to do this wins. Players can also learn to run and catch as can occur in the basketball fast break. Fast or quick throws help the players become more accustomed to the fast pace of dodgeball.

NAYSI Activity Tip of the Week is a feature of www.NAYSI.com. Find a new activity every week that can be played at home with your kids or on the field and court with your group or team. Past issues are found in the Archive at www.NAYSI.com.