To Allow or Disallow Dodgeball?

        In today's society, many schools around the country are debating whether or not to ban the game of dodgeball from their curriculum. The game has become a very controversial topic within physical education classes as dodgeball has already been cut from school programs. Dodgeball is still an integral part of many physical education programs because teachers view the game as enjoyable to many. There are arguments from teachers who would like dodgeball to remain in the physical education curriculum, while many others would debate the danger the game entails.
    

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        Personally, I began in the middle of allowing or disallowing the game because I see both sides of the argument. Now, I am starting to lean more towards not allowing the activity in any class setting. I feel there are countless cons to the game, and only a handful of positives the game can produce for the child to benefit from. Dodgeball is considered a very aggressive game which can induce violence among the students. If dodgeball is played at an early age it can teach the student violence and aggression is alright; later becoming violent in life. The game often does not allow the less athletic students to enjoy class, which tends to be the children who need the exercise the most. These students are typically the individuals who decide not to participate and sit on the sidelines twiddling his/her thumbs. When a student feels uncomfortable or can not perform the activity as well as others it is detrimental to his/her confidence and encourages him/her to despise physical education more. It is unfair for the children who do not possess the motor skills to be effective in the game because his/her self-esteem is affected. In most cases, the more "athletic" students who possess the skills to successfully play the game frown upon a less "athletic" student being on his/her team. Negative energy is then shown and feelings become hurt and it leads to children skipping physical education often. Children want to be a part of games with other classmates, rather than having to perform a different activity because he/she is uncomfortable with dodgeball. Nobody wants the feeling of being left out of a game. There are a countless amount of other safe and inviting activities which incorporate the same motor skills as in dodgeball.
     
        In conclusion, one could see the problems why dodgeball has become a controversial issue in physical education classrooms. The game is a favorite among many students, but the risk to preserve dodgeball in school settings might be too high to be involved with. No matter what state an individual is from there will always be people who are for and against dodgeball. It is an on-going debate, which may never be put to rest.

***Update (9/22/11) Based on a 2006 position statement by NASPE, dodgeball has no place to be played in any physical education class. The statement explains why dodgeball is inappropriate for physical education programs and should be excluded from all schools. Follow the link below and scroll down to "Position on Dodgeball in Physical Education" to view the stance NASPE takes on the game of dodgeball.   http://www.aahperd.org/naspe/standards/PEPS.cfm

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