Dodgeball

Dodgeball came to the big screen in 2004 courtesy of Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughan, but the sport itself has been gaining popularity since then, with England having been European champions twice. The sport first originated in America, but is said to have really got a foothold in the UK around 2006. Typically teams have 6 players, with a game lasting 2 minutes, or until all the players are out in a team. Three balls are used with players trying to hit other players on the opposing team with those balls whilst avoiding being hit themselves.

We had a chat with Simon Moody, coach at Enderby Dodgeball club, who first got involved in the sport purely by accident. What started out as "just a laugh" has now ended up with Simon being captain of Leicester City Ligers, and having a level 2 coaching certificate. Although the sport hasn't been recognized as an Olympic Sport as yet, it is "recognised" by "Sport England". As well as playing for England, Simon enjoys the great social aspect of the club, and also the obvious health benefits of staying fit.

The sport has separate men's and women's teams, and the Enderby club is looking to recruit more people, including young people. At the moment the average age of the members there varies between 17 to 23, and their club nights are every Tuesday (£2) and every Thursday (£1.50). Yes the Thursday night is cheaper!

Contact details for the club are as follows:

Enderby Leisure Centre, Mill Lane
Enderby
Leicester
LE19 4LX
Tel: 07743098544
E-mail: enderbydodgeball@googlemail.com