Official WDBF Rules Overview
Dodgeball played under World Dodgeball Federation (WDBF) rules is fast, fair, and easy to understand. Whether you are stepping onto the court for the first time or preparing for a tournament, here is everything you need to know about how the game works.
How a Match Works
A match consists of multiple sets. Each set begins with the rush: six foam balls are placed along the centre line, and when the referee blows the whistle, both teams sprint to grab them. The set ends when all players on one team have been eliminated, or when the time limit runs out. If the timer expires, the team with more players remaining on the court wins the set.
A full match typically consists of a fixed number of sets, and the team that wins the most sets takes the match. This format keeps the energy high and gives teams plenty of chances to adjust their strategy.
How to Get Players Out
- Hit — If a thrown ball hits an opponent below the shoulders before touching the ground, that player is out.
- Catch — If a player catches a thrown ball cleanly (before it touches the ground, the floor, another player, or a wall), the throweris out and one of the catcher's eliminated teammates returns to the court.
- Boundary violation — Stepping outside the court boundaries during play means you are out.
Headshots
A ball that hits a player on the head or neck does not count as an elimination. The targeted player stays in. Depending on the situation, the thrower may receive a warning or be called out if the throw is deemed reckless. This rule ensures player safety remains the top priority.
The Rush
At the start of each set, players line up behind their own end line. On the whistle, they sprint to the centre to grab balls. There is a key rule: any ball retrieved from the rush must first be taken behind the attack line before it can be thrown. This prevents players from throwing at point-blank range right off the start.
Ball Possession and Timing
Players cannot hold onto a ball indefinitely. Under WDBF rules, you have a limited number of seconds to throw the ball once you pick it up. If one team holds all the balls, the referee will call a ball count, forcing them to throw. This keeps the game flowing and prevents stalling tactics.
Substitutions and Team Size
Teams usually have a roster larger than the six players on the court. Substitutions can be made between sets, allowing coaches to rotate players and manage fatigue. Everyone on the roster gets playing time, making it a true team effort.
Foam Ball Specifics
Official WDBF games use foam dodgeballs. These balls are lightweight, soft, and designed to be safe on impact while still allowing accurate, fast throws. Foam balls grip differently than rubber, which changes the throwing technique — spin, speed, and placement become crucial skills. At Gron's Dodgeball, we use official-standard foam balls at every session so you always train the way you play.