Dodgeball Dilemma: What Side Are You On?

As a physical education (PE) teacher, my experience with dodgeball has been both extensive and eye-opening. The latest episode of the podcast offers a candid exploration into the world of dodgeball and its implications for school sports and education. I share my firsthand observations of the game, recalling instances of head injuries, cheating, poor sportsmanship, and the targeting of weaker students. These negative aspects of dodgeball in PE classes have led me to question the game’s role and search for more inclusive alternatives.

The game’s risks and the potential for exclusion are not merely theoretical; they have real-world consequences. The legal and community standards that educators should adhere to challenges the perception that dodgeball is an irreplaceable part of the curriculum. We must uphold professionalism in teaching sports and encourage fellow educators to engage in this conversation.

Alternative activities to dodgeball, such as Castle Ball and Wreck-It Ralph, are options that still engage students in the fundamental skills of throwing, catching, and dodging without the harmful effects associated with traditional dodgeball. My approach is to promote games that foster teamwork and inclusion rather than focusing on elimination and competition.

I’d like you to reflect on their own experiences and consider the broader impact of dodgeball on children’s physical and emotional well-being. My call to action is not just about eliminating a single game from PE classes but about redefining physical education to ensure it is safe, inclusive, and educational.

We also should touch on the balance between fun and safety in sports education. My transition from teaching PE to US history has provided me with a unique perspective on the educational journey. I see sports as a crucial component of that journey, one that should be approached with the same care and thoughtfulness as any other subject.

My personal experiences and the stories shared by my wife, who feared dodgeballs as a child, provide a compelling argument for reevaluating the game’s place in schools. The episode is a thought-provoking look at how we can reshape physical education to better serve our students and prepare them for a lifetime of healthy, active living.

As educators and parents listen to this episode, they will be encouraged to think critically about the sports they teach and promote within schools. The podcast offers a space for debate and growth, urging listeners to consider how they can contribute to a safer, more positive PE environment for all students.

This conversation about dodgeball in education is just the starting point for a much larger discussion about the values we impart through school sports. By engaging in this dialogue, we can work towards a future where every aspect of education, including physical education, is aligned with the principles of safety, inclusiveness, and integrity.