1:30pm | The World Dodgeball Society (WDS), the “premier co-ed sports and social organization based on nostalgia and camp of the 80s,” kicks off their first 2012 season with an open gym play time Tuesday January 31st at 8:00pm; the official league will start the week after on February 7th.

“Everyone has memories of playing dodgeball as a kid, whether fond or not-so-fond,” said Michael “Handsome” Costanza, founder and self-appointed grand poobah, World Dodgeball Society. “We want to remind people of a simpler time – before careers and college – when the only thing you had to worry about was whether to wear your Air Jordans or Converse with your legwarmers.”

No experience or sign-up is necessary. Just show up to play with World Dodgeball Society’s soft no-sting balls on January 31st or February 7th. New-to-dodgeball players can learn the rules and practice their skills at these open gym sessions for $5 for a two hour session in an indoor facility from 8:00-10:00pm.

The official league season, starting February 7th, lasts eight to nine weeks, with each team carrying a roster of 10-20 people (with a minimum amount of girls). New-to-dodgeball are still welcome to “drop-in” on that day. Full teams are encouraged to sign up in advance but individuals can sign on at any time as a loner or with friends. The cost for the season is $55 per person, which includes weekly 50-minute games, “a sweet league t-shirt and the chance to meet some awesome people.” 

“Last season’s winners, Young Gunz, worked hard to come out on top, but this season will include a whole new slate of players that may change the tides,” says Long Beach regional manager Tracy Brown.

WDS also offers leagues throughout California, Illinois, Maryland and New York, on varying weeknights, for both beginners and hardcore players, all followed by the opportunity to socialize with fellow players at after-hour spots.

For more information and to register, please visit the World Dodgeball Society website. All Long Beach games are played at the Cesar Chavez Elementary School (730 West 3rd Street, Long Beach) in downtown Long Beach.