Glow in the Dark Dodgeball is a great way to bring youth together in a fun and exciting way. The dark gym filled with glowing lights sets the scene for laughter, movement, and teamwork. It gets everyone involved, no matter how shy or outgoing they are. The game helps break the ice and gets youth talking and connecting.
This game gives youth a chance to build friendships. When they play together, they learn to trust each other, cheer each other on, and even laugh when they get out. It’s not just about winning. It’s about helping one another and enjoying the time together.
Glow in the Dark Dodgeball also gives youth a safe space to be active and have fun. It keeps them moving and gives them a break from screens and stress. It’s a great way to burn off energy in a way that feels joyful and welcoming.
Playing in the dark with glowing gear also reminds us that we are called to be light in the world. Youth can see how being kind, joyful, and part of a team can light up even the darkest space. It’s a small way to live out their faith and have fun doing it.
Let There Be Glow
Glow in the Dark Dodgeball can remind us of the very beginning of the Bible. In Genesis, God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. This game takes place in the dark, but the glowing tape, bracelets, and balls light up the space. It’s a fun way to show how light makes a difference. Even a little glow can help us see. This helps youth think about how God’s light shines in the darkness of our lives.
This game also connects with Jesus’ words in the Gospel. He said, “You are the light of the world.” Playing in the dark with glowing lights helps young people picture that message. Their glow bracelets remind them that each person can shine. Even in a noisy game, they can remember they are called to bring light to others by what they say and do.
Sometimes the game gets wild. Balls are flying, people are running, and it’s hard to see what’s coming next. That can feel like life. Youth face things they don’t expect. The game becomes a fun way to talk about being alert, staying strong, and keeping focus. Just like in Scripture, we are told to be watchful and ready.
So while the game is fun and silly, it also helps youth think about light, faith, and how to live with purpose. It’s a great way to make a Bible truth stick in their minds—one dodgeball at a time.
Glow in the Dark Dodgeball Game Rules and Instructions
Materials Needed:
- Soft No-Sting Dodgeballs (A dozen or more recommended)
- Glow-in-the-dark Tape
- Playground Cones (At least a dozen)
- Glow Bracelets
Game Setup:
- Apply two strips of glow-in-the-dark tape to each dodgeball.
- Attach glow tape to the playground cones.
- Use cones to mark the boundaries of the playing area.
- Distribute a couple of glow bracelets to each player.
Game Rules:
- Begin with dodgeballs aligned on the center line.
- At the start signal, players rush to grab balls from the center.
- Players must remain on their team’s side of the court.
- Elimination occurs if a player:
- Steps over the sideline or center line.
- Is hit by a live thrown ball.
- Throws a ball that is caught in the air by an opponent.
- Blocking a thrown ball with another ball is allowed. However, dropping the blocking ball or any contact with the thrown ball results in elimination.
- Balls are no longer “live” after hitting the ground, ceiling, or walls.
- Eliminated players join the resurrection line on the side.
- Catching a ball allows the first person in the resurrection line to re-enter the game.
- Implement a time limit for holding onto a ball, commonly ten seconds.
- The game ends when all players on one team are eliminated.
Resources
God Lights Our Way: GLOW Night
The GLOW theme brings faith and fun together. With glowing games and prayer, it shows how Jesus is the light that helps us find our way. It helps teens connect faith with real life through simple, joyful activities.
This theme fits well with youth ministry topics like trusting God, choosing what’s right, and sharing faith with others. It also builds community and helps teens feel included and seen.
Eternal Dodge Ball
Eternal Dodge Ball is a fun way to keep the excitement going after the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game. While both games use similar equipment, Eternal Dodge Ball adds a twist with its never-ending play and surprise returns. It gives youth a new challenge and keeps them laughing as the game continues with no clear end.
You can also use Eternal Dodge Ball to lead into a faith talk about eternity, heaven, or forgiveness. After the high energy of the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game, this one keeps the pace but adds deeper meaning. Try both in one night for a full, fun experience.
Protection Dodge Ball
Protection Dodgeball is a great follow-up to the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game. It slows things down while keeping everyone active. Players work in pairs, with one protecting the other. This opens the door to talk about sacrifice and care. It’s fun and meaningful, and it helps youth think about how others look out for them.
You can also start the night with Protection Dodgeball. It’s a good warm-up that teaches focus. Then move into the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game for high-energy fun. Both games fit well together and offer different ways to connect faith and play.
More Youth Ministry Games
Looking for more fun ideas like the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game? Check out our youth ministry games page. It’s filled with exciting activities that help bring faith and fun together. These games are great for retreats, youth nights, or any time your group needs something active and engaging.
The Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game is just one way to make memories and share joy. On our youth ministry games page, you’ll find many more ideas to help your group grow and enjoy time together. These games are easy to plan and full of energy.
Why play games in youth ministry? Games like Glow in the Dark Dodgeball are used in youth ministry to foster a sense of community, teamwork, and joy among young participants, creating an engaging environment where faith and fun meet, strengthening bonds within the group.
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork
Dodge, Duck, and Shine
This fun and colorful image of Glow in the Dark Dodgeball is now available for download. Use it in your bulletin, newsletter, or youth ministry materials to promote your next GLOW (God Lights Our Way) event. It’s perfect for showing the energy and excitement of faith-filled fun.
Whether you’re planning a youth night or retreat, this image adds a bright visual reminder that even games can reflect the joy of following Jesus. Download it today and help spread the light!
Paid subscribers may download a large copy this digital artwork without watermarks, suitable for use in bulletins, social media, newsletters, etc., free of charge by clicking here. You must be logged in as a paid subscriber to access the file.
Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glow in the Dark Dodgeball
What kind of dodgeballs should we use for the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game?
Use soft, no-sting dodgeballs. These are safer and less likely to hurt when thrown. Try to get ones that glow or that you can mark with glow-in-the-dark tape.
Do we need a dark room for the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game?
Yes, a dark room works best. A gym or large room where you can turn off the lights is perfect. Just make sure it’s safe and free of tripping hazards.
How do we make the balls glow for the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game?
You can use glow-in-the-dark tape. Wrap two strips around each ball. You can also use glow paint, but tape is easier and less messy.
Is the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game safe?
Yes, it’s safe when set up properly. Use soft balls, mark the boundaries with cones, and make sure the space is clear. Glow bracelets help everyone see each other.
How many players can join the Glow in the Dark Dodgeball game?
You can play with any number. Just divide into two teams. If the group is large, rotate teams or have several short rounds.
Lights Out Laughs On
Every youth group needs a game that brings smiles, movement, and just the right amount of chaos. This game does all that while giving youth a chance to shine—literally. With glowing balls flying and bracelets flashing, the fun never stops. It’s noisy, it’s exciting, and it’s something they’ll remember.
The best part is how the glow reminds us that even in the dark, light stands out. This can lead to deeper talks about faith, courage, and choosing the good. It’s a simple game, but it leaves room for big thoughts.
So whether you’re planning a retreat, a Friday night, or just want to try something different, this is a great choice. It helps bring faith and fun together in one bright package. You don’t need much to set it up—just a dark room, some glowing gear, and youth who are ready to laugh.
Your Turn
Give this game a try at your next youth gathering. It’s easy to plan, fun to play, and opens the door to some good reflection. Kids will love the glowing action, and leaders will enjoy seeing them connect and grow.
Do you have your own twist on this game? Share your ideas and notes in the comments. Let others know what worked, what surprised you, and how you made it your own. Your tips might help another leader plan their next big game night.
Leave a Reply