Each spring semester, the middle school dodgeball tournament dominates break period, attracting spectators to the lower courts of Marshall Center. The game entertains students, as it contrasts with most of their activities at school.
The first middle school tournament emerged in 2005 with the goal of cultivating a community. When students congregate above the dodgeball courts, they create a supportive and energetic environment. In the 2022 dodgeball games, Camryn Banafsheha ’27 participated because she saw dodgeball’s power to unite her peers.
“With all of the different activities that everyone has to do during the day, dodgeball provides an opportunity for everyone to come together,” Banafsheha said.
Middle school math teacher Dan Reeves ’94 volunteered to be a referee during the tournament’s inaugural year. He values the dodgeball tournament because it provides an enjoyable experience for all, and the pressure of victory is not as prominent as in most athletic activities at school.
“I love watching the teams that are just out there to have fun,” Reeves said. “They might not be the most competitive, but the crowd is willing to cheer them on. They win the crowd, and I don’t care whether or not they’ve won the game.”
Before the tournament, grade-level deans form dodgeball matches depending on athletic skill to ensure that all teams enjoy the experience. After one loss, teams are eliminated but usually continue to participate by attending the games.
