Your First Session — What to Expect
Walking into your first dodgeball session can feel a little nerve-racking, but here is the truth: everyone starts somewhere, and dodgeball is one of the most beginner-friendly sports out there. At Gron's Dodgeball, we welcome new players every week, and you will be throwing, dodging, and laughing within minutes.
What to Wear
Keep it simple. Wear comfortable sportswear — a t-shirt, shorts or tracksuit bottoms, and indoor sports shoes with non-marking soles. Avoid shoes with black rubber soles, as most sports halls do not allow them. You do not need any special equipment; we provide all the balls and bibs.
What to Bring
- A water bottle — you will need it.
- A small towel if you tend to sweat.
- A positive attitude and willingness to move.
That is genuinely all you need. No gloves, no pads, no special gear.
How a Session Runs
Every session starts with a quick rules recap so that everyone — including first-timers — knows how the game works. After that, we do a short warm-up to get your muscles ready and your heart rate up. Then we jump straight into games.
Games are played in short sets, so you get plenty of breaks. Teams are mixed and rotated throughout the session, which means you will play with and against different people. The format keeps things social and ensures no one is stuck on the sideline for long.
No Experience Needed
We mean it. You do not need to be athletic, coordinated, or fast. The beauty of dodgeball is that you contribute to your team just by being on the court. Drawing attention, making catches, and communicating with teammates are all valuable — and none of them require prior experience.
Tips for Beginners
- Keep moving — a moving target is much harder to hit than a stationary one. Shuffle side to side and stay light on your feet.
- Watch the thrower, not the ball — you can read where someone is aiming by watching their body, not the ball after it leaves their hand.
- Work together — coordinate throws with your teammates. Simultaneous attacks from different angles are far more effective than solo throws.
- Try to catch — it feels impossible at first, but catching gets easier with practice and it is the most rewarding play in the game.
- Do not be afraid of getting hit — the foam balls are soft and painless. Getting hit is part of the game, and you will be back in before you know it.
After the Game
Many of our players stick around after sessions to chat, grab a drink, and talk about the best plays of the night. Dodgeball has a strong social side, and some of the best friendships at Gron's started on the court. So do not rush off — the afterdodge is half the fun.