A new dodgeball league is preparing to launch in Steinbach this fall, and organizers are inviting residents to try the sport for free during a special introductory event.
Southeast Event Centre will host the come-try night on May 27 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., giving people a chance to experience what league play will look like before registration officially opens later this summer.
Nick Grenier, who lives in Ile des Chenes and runs a league in Winnipeg, says the idea came together as the Southeast region continues to grow.
“With the new Southeast Event Centre, it just felt like it was at the right time to try to spread the sport into other communities, and I think there’s no better place to start than that facility.”
Grenier says the Steinbach league will focus on recreation and accessibility during its first season.
Players will be able to register either as a full team or individually and be placed onto a team. Grenier says the atmosphere is meant to stay casual and welcoming.
“It’s a lot like the dodgeball that you can play in high school There is a set of rules that we follow in terms of structure, but for the most part, it’s throwing foam balls at your opponent and trying to hit them.”
Grenier emphasizes that the league uses soft foam dodgeballs rather than the rubber balls many people remember from school gym classes.
“They’re seven-inch foam balls. They’re regulation size by World Dodgeball Federation, and they don’t hurt at all,” he says.
The first Steinbach season is expected to feature a single recreational division open to all skill levels. Grenier says more divisions could be added later if interest grows.
Affordable and accessible
Grenier says one of dodgeball’s biggest advantages is its low cost compared to many organized sports.
“Essentially all you need to come with is gym attire, gym shoes, and the rest is provided. So, it’s very affordable in that sense, and an easy barrier to entry as well.”
He adds that the sport also appeals to a wide range of people because success is not based on a single athletic skill.
“You don’t necessarily need to be extremely fast, or you don’t need to have a really good arm. You could be a good catcher or you could be a good dodger.”
Beyond the game itself, Grenier hopes the league will help people connect socially and build community.
He says the Winnipeg league has grown to more than 700 members, with many participants forming friendships through the sport.
“I think with how tight-knit a community Steinbach is, there’s a very good chance that this same type of community feel around the dodgeball league could happen out there as well.”
Event details
Grenier says the Wednesday trial event is free and open to anyone interested in learning more before committing to the fall season.
“We’ll show them what they’ll expect, and if they enjoy it, then I would suggest that they register for the fall season.”
More information can be found on the Steinbach Dodgeball Trail Night website or on the Dodgeball Winnipeg Facebook page.
With files from Carly Koop