Expectations, Rules and How-To | Gaga Ball Pits 101

Our new GaGa Ball pits and 3-point basketball hoops are now ready to be used by students during recess and outdoor play times. Before students begin using these new spaces independently, we ask all staff to review the rules and expectations with their classes.

At the moment, some students are treating the GaGa pits as a wrestling or “UFC-style” arena rather than a game space. Please reinforce with students that rough play, fighting, pushing, or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated. 

Any physical altercations or misuse of the pits will result in disciplinary consequences, including loss of access to the pits and possible suspension.

ABOUT GAGA BALL

GaGa Ball is believed to have originated in Israel, where the word “gaga” means “Hit-Hit” in Hebrew. The game became popular because it is simple to learn, fast-paced, inclusive, and generally safer than traditional dodgeball.

 RULES AND GAMEPLAY

1. Ball to Use
2. • Use a soft foam or rubber playground ball
   • Hard rubber balls and basketballs are not permitted
2.  Maximum number of players is 15
3.  Starting the Game
4. • All players begin with one hand touching the pit wall
   • A referee or player tosses the ball into the center of the pit
4.  “Ga-Ga-Go”
5. • Players say “Ga” on the first bounce, “Ga” on the second bounce, and “Go” on the third bounce
   • The ball is then officially in play
5.  Elimination
6. • A player is out if the ball touches below the knee
   • A player is also out if they hit the ball out of the pit
6. No Double Touches
7. • A player may not hit the ball twice in a row
   • The ball must touch another player or the wall before the same player hits it again
7.  No “Turtling”
8. • Players may not squat or kneel to block their legs
8.  No “Lumberjacking”
9. • Players may not sit or stand on the pit walls
9.  No Catching or Throwing
10. • The ball must be hit with an open hand or fist
    • Throwing or carrying the ball is not allowed
10.  Winning the Game
11. • The last player remaining in the pit wins

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS

•  Players who are out must exit the pit immediately
• The first player out often starts the next round by tossing the ball in
• Additional balls may be added when only a few players remain to keep the game moving
• Students should avoid high-impact hits and play respectfully at all times

Please take some time to review these expectations with your students. While many students already know the game, many do not and the same may be true for staff supervising recess.

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