I’m Rob “Hometown” Immel. Since I can remember my life has been based around sports and play. In my early years I spent all day outside riding my bike; racing to beat the street lights coming on. In college I played basketball, and I enjoyed extra-curricular activities so much I became a high school PE teacher.
This amazing game found me in 2002. I’ve been playing, organizing, and promoting ever since. My only hesitation about playing dodgeball is my addiction. I play multiple times a week and run a youth dodgeball program. I have incredible support from my family who recognize my passion for this sport and my mission to help it grow. Now my love for being active has transferred onto my three kids (8, 6, and 2 years old).
From the beginning I have embraced the challenge to change the perception of dodgeball from a jokey “gym class” game to an athletic, competitive sport. I’ve worked with the NDL to standardize dodgeball under one set of rules and sanctions. I believe my peers see me as an influential player, and I have taken on the veteran role by mentoring younger players and teams.
I believe I bring out the best in those that play around me and fill the holes they cannot. More important than recognizing my strengths, I know and understand the strength of my teammates. What I lack in speed I make up for in accuracy. I do whatever it takes across the board for my team and the goal; to win.