The Boston Society of Bombardment

Laws are what separate us from the animals. Well, laws and clothing, if you discount those small dogs that are dressed up in sweaters and turtlenecks. But certainly laws. The best dodgeball game is one that adheres to a strict set of rules that govern the gameplay. Rules can be varied to complement skill set or team size, but generally, if its a moderate to small sized game (read: the best kind) of devoted players, i believe the following oft debated rules should be applied (in additon to the basic rules):

1. headshots count. period.
2. if a ball hits clothing but not skin, the player is out. wear baggy shorts at ones own risk.
3. a player can be saved by a teammate catching a hit that was deflected, but the thrower is still in as well.
4. if you deflect a ball with another ball, you are safe. if you try to deflect a ball with another ball but it strikes your hand, you are out, as the first thing the ball comes into contact with is your hand.

that last rule is often, surprisingly enough, disputed, as some people try to hide the fact they were struck on the hand or even say that since they are holding a ball, the hit doesnt count. this is both ridiculous and stupid, and people who purport such wanton heresy should be expelled from the game, or at least kicked in the groin.