Dodgeball Spotlight

Player Profile: Rising Star Cal Little

Embarking on our series of dodgeball features, we shine the spotlight on the dynamic talent hailing from Seattle, Washington – Cal Little

My encounter with Cal unfolded on the courts of the 2023 USA Dodgeball Nationals in Kansas City, an event that showcased not just his prowess but his infectious energy and innovative approach to the game. In my eyes, Cal possesses a reservoir of raw talent, and I'm eager to witness his evolution within the dodgeball community. His journey of promise will be a testament to the ability of USA dodgeball to guide the youth toward professional athletic growth, reflecting the craft and dedication required to thrive in the realm of professional sports.

Cal's early life was entrenched in sports. As the coach's kid, he seamlessly transitioned between various positions in baseball, showcasing his versatility from pitcher to outfielder. However, a pivotal moment in his sophomore year saw him trade the baseball diamond for the realm of robotics. Here, Cal not only excelled but also assumed the role of president of the robotics club, in charge of constructing a formidable 120 lbs robot.

Cal faced two significant challenges that propelled his dodgeball journey – the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic, derailing his senior year of high school, and his history as a baseball pitcher prone to hitting batters. Dodgeball emerged as a space for him to express his true self, turning his struggles into strengths.

The introduction to dodgeball entered Cal's life through the legendary Cal-Anderson Friday Night Dodgeball games in Seattle. Unlike the glam of L.A.’s premier social dodgeball leagues, Cal-Anderson is the closest thing to raw, street dodgeball as it gets. It involves playing amidst a mix of small foam and hefty 8.5-inch pinch balls. Participants engage in a social scene reminiscent of a casual 'pick-up game.' This stands out as possibly the only place within the community where nobody gives a damn about the best ball type; you're there simply for the love of the game. Here is where Cal found himself after the emergence of life after-covid. Allowing him a social space and a space to be an athlete.

His fate in dodgeball seemed inevitable as he enrolled at University of Seattle. There he came across Lucas Boyle, a graphic design professor at the University of Seattle. Lucas is also a prominent USA dodgeball player and the host of the competitive international tournament "The-Thing" in Seattle. There Cal gained insightful mentorship. Cal's mechanical mind and passion for the game caught the attention of John Bell, captain of the up-and-coming club team "Misfits." This led to Cal joining Misfits and competing in various tournaments across the USA and Canada. Cal's sports background has helped transform him into one of the emerging talents in USA dodgeball. Expressing gratitude for finding the dodgeball community, he highlights the support of his family in his journey to becoming a competitive dodgeball player.

Inquiring about his competitors, Cal mentions his admiration for Elijah Hoshimoto, a player he encountered through Lucas. Despite not always defeating Hoshimoto's team, "Outsiders," Cal embraces the challenge of trying to outmaneuver him. He fondly recalls a memorable moment during the Western Championships in Calgary, where he successfully tagged Hoshimoto out, leaving a lasting impact on his game, though not enough for the win. Cal was most impressed with Hoshimoto’s integrity and had nothing but praise to say when playing against him.

Cal is a solid presence on the dodgeball court, wielding natural athleticism, lightning reflexes, and a crafty fast throw. His recent achievement of securing a spot on the Team USA practice squad, with aspirations to join the active roster for the World Dodgeball Tournament, underscores his dedication and skill.

Residing in the vibrant dodgeball hub of Seattle, Cal benefits from a thriving community and abundant opportunities to hone his craft. Seattle boasts a diverse array of dodgeball leagues and tournaments, ranging from casual weeknight games to prestigious weekend events like the Slam, Foamy, Women's Wonderball, and SQUID, alongside the renowned "Thing" tournament. The city's rich dodgeball scene serves as a blueprint for club dodgeball nationwide, characterized by locally rooted teams, organic growth, and a fervent community spirit. As the sport continues to evolve, nurturing youth involvement will be pivotal in shaping its professional future. Seattle's model of grassroots development provides a solid framework for this endeavor, ensuring a steady influx of talent and sustained growth. In the emerging landscape of professional dodgeball, Seattle's example shines as a beacon of success, offering a roadmap for other regions to follow.

Reflecting on the broader context of dodgeball's evolution, it's akin to playing alongside the legends of basketball's golden era. Cal represents the vanguard of this new era, embodying the potential for both personal and sport-wide growth. With the unwavering support of the dodgeball community, Cal's journey is poised to parallel the ascent of dodgeball in the USA. Let's rally behind Cal as he continues to elevate his game and contribute to the dynamic landscape of dodgeball!"