Protect the President Game

Protect the President is a high-energy game that gets everyone moving and laughing. It gives youth a chance to burn off energy while working together. The game is fun and exciting, and it helps break down barriers between group members. It works well for youth ministry, retreats, and team-building activities.

This game helps young people learn about trust and responsibility. The bodyguard must pay attention and act fast to keep the president safe. The president must trust the bodyguard to protect them. This teamwork builds stronger bonds and helps the group grow closer.

Protect the President also teaches quick thinking and awareness. Players must watch what is happening around them and react right away. It encourages focus and self-control, even when the pace gets fast. These skills can help youth in other areas, such as sports, school, and prayer.

Another benefit of this game is that it includes everyone. It does not take long to learn, and players of all skill levels can join. It creates a lively and joyful atmosphere where everyone can take part and have fun. It reminds youth that faith groups can be full of energy, teamwork, and friendship.

• How to Play
• Printable Instructions
• More Youth Ministry Games

Protect the President can remind youth of the call to be alert and faithful. In Scripture, Jesus tells His followers to stay awake and watch. The bodyguard in the game must stay alert and ready at all times. This connects to the call in Matthew 26:41, where Jesus says, “Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test.” Just as the bodyguard protects the president, we are asked to guard our hearts and our faith from temptation.

The game also points to the idea of sacrifice. The bodyguard takes hits to protect someone else. This can help youth think about how Jesus gave Himself for us. It can open a short reflection about self-giving love. Protecting another person shows care and courage, even when it might be uncomfortable. That mirrors how Christ protects us with His love, even through suffering.

Protect the President can also teach about leadership and trust in God’s plan. The president must stand firm and follow the rules, even when things get hard. This can remind young people of biblical figures who trusted God when under pressure, like Daniel in the lion’s den or David facing Goliath. In youth ministry, this game brings laughter, but it also gives a simple way to talk about faith, courage, and standing firm in what is right.

Equipment and Materials

• One or more dodgeballs (soft “no-sting” balls work best)
• Tape or cones to mark a circle or area on the floor

Setup

1. Choose one player to be the president.
2. Choose one player to be the bodyguard.
3. Have the president and bodyguard stand in the middle of the play area.
4. Make a circle around them using tape or cones. This shows where the rest of the players will stand.
5. If you want a greater challenge, mark a small space (about two feet wide) for the president to stay inside.

Game Play

1. The players in the circle throw the ball toward the president, trying to tag them with the ball.
2. The bodyguard moves to block the ball and protect the president. The bodyguard can use any part of the body to stop the ball.
3. The president can move out of the way but cannot touch the ball.
4. If the president touches the ball, the bodyguard becomes the new president. The player who threw the ball becomes the new bodyguard.
5. The game continues without stopping. Players should switch roles quickly to keep the action going.

Variations and Safety

• Add another ball to make the game faster.
• Have two bodyguards if the group is large.
• Remind players to throw gently and aim below the shoulders.
• Make sure there is enough space between players to avoid collisions.
• Encourage fair play and quick transitions when roles change.

What is the Protect the President game?

The Protect the President game is a fun and fast activity like dodgeball. One player is the president, and another is the bodyguard. The rest of the players try to hit the president with a ball, while the bodyguard blocks it.

How many people do you need for the Protect the President game?

You need at least six players to make it fun. Larger groups work even better. You can always add more balls or bodyguards if you have many players.

What kind of ball should we use for the Protect the President game?

Use soft foam or “no-sting” dodgeballs. They are safer and hurt less when thrown. Avoid hard balls that could cause injury.

Can the president move during the Protect the President game?

Yes, the president can step or lean away from the ball. However, the president cannot touch the ball with any part of their body.

How does the Protect the President game end?

You can play for a set time or until everyone has a turn as president. It’s flexible and easy to adjust based on your group size and time.

Is the Protect the President game safe?

Yes, if played carefully. Remind players to aim below the shoulders and avoid throwing too hard. Always give enough space between players.

This game brings fun and excitement to any youth group gathering. It gives players a chance to move, laugh, and let go of extra energy. Every round is full of surprises as the ball flies and roles change quickly. The laughter and friendly chaos make it a game everyone remembers.

Beyond the fun, it can spark reflection about faith and life. It shows what it means to stay alert, be brave, and trust others. Youth can see how small actions—like guarding a friend—can show love and care. It can open short but meaningful talks about watching, waiting, and being faithful, like Jesus taught.

The game ends with smiles and energy, but it also leaves something deeper. It reminds us that faith can be active and joyful. When we stay watchful and look out for others, we live out the Gospel in a simple way.

Try the Protect the President game at your next youth event or retreat. It is easy to set up and great for all ages. You will see smiles, laughter, and plenty of movement. It helps youth have fun while learning about courage and awareness.

After you play, come back and share how it went. Tell us your own variations or what your group enjoyed most. Your ideas can help other leaders and groups make the activity even better. Add your thoughts in the comment section and inspire others to give it a try.