Fun Games to Play With a Ball

A ball can be used to play many types of games.the ball image by Oleg Verbitsky from Fotolia.com

Fun is never far away when you have a ball. Some of the most popular games in the world require a ball. Everyone knows about baseball, football and basketball. Those three games get a lot of attention, but they are only three of many games requiring a ball. Below is a list of additional games you might find of interest.

American Handball

American handball requires you to hit a small ball with your fist or hand against a wall. The game is loaded with health benefits. According to the U.S. Handball Association, handball helps develop the body and the brain. It also requires intense concentration. Adult and children often play the game.

The game involves hitting a rubber ball against a wall with your hand. Stand at the serving line to serve the ball. If the ball doesn’t go behind the serving line and hit the floor once, then the serve isn’t legal. You score if the ball hits the floor at least twice before your opponent returns it. The same rules apply when your opponent serves the ball. It’s only possible to score when it’s your turn to serve.

Soccer is a sport requiring two teams, a field and a soccer ball. Each time has a goal placed at opposite ends of the field. To score points, you or a team member must kick the ball into the opposing team’s goal. Players can touch the ball with any body part except the hands.

There are normally 22 people on the field at a time, 11 players per team. Field positions include forward, fullback and midfielder. The most well known position is that of the goalie. The goalie is important because it's her job to block the opponent's ball from entering the goal.

Soccer is a physical activity that provides an aerobic workout. Science Daily reports that soccer offers the same or better health benefits than running.

Dodgeball is a two-team sport. Teams throw balls at each other while trying to avoid taking a hit. If a ball hits a player, then the player leaves the game. A player is also out if a ball they throw is caught by a player by a member of the opposing team.

According to the National Dodgeball League, teams should have six players with at least four alternates. It’s also permissible to use more than one ball during a game. You can relax these rules if you’re not playing in a professional game or using professional rules.

Volleyball is a game requiring two teams. There are normally six players per team separated by a net. Each team tries to knock the ball to the ground on the opposing team’s side. The game begins when you or another player serves the ball over the net. Members of the opposing team must not let the ball touch the ground. They work together to send the ball back over the net. Teams earn points by getting the ball past the opposing team.