Chris Zelinsky, aged 25 and a long-time resident of St. Mary’s County, is the newest member of the United States Dodgeball Team, having been selected (June 2013) to represent the USA at the 2013 World Dodgeball Invitational this September, in New Zealand!
Zelinsky, referred to by his teammates as ‘Mr. Hollywood’, has been playing dodgeball competitively for nine (9) years. When asked why he was named ‘Mr. Hollywood’, Zelinsky stated, ‘ My entire persona changes on the court…my alter ego kicks in and I love the spotlight on me – it shines brightly whenever I am playing dodgeball.’ Considered an elite player by other dodgeball players, Zelinsky has competed in over 75 tournaments nationally, with his East Coast traveling team of nine years, Medics, located in Southern Maryland. Personal dodgeball accomplishments include: three (3) MVPs, four (4) last ‘man’ standing awards, 45 tournament wins, and a wall full of trophies and medals!
However, the most important accomplishment in Zelinsky’s dodgeball career occurred in November 2005, when Zelinsky met the love of his life on the dodgeball court! During the game Zelinsky threw a ball to the opposing team (simply playing offense) that accidentally hit an opponent in the face (foul play?). After apologizing profusely and extending an olive branch, inviting Ms. Soon To Be Zelinsky to dinner – they married and live in St. Mary’s County with their one year old.
Fairness, honor, and modesty are a few adjectives that describe Zelinsky and attributes that the United States Dodgeball Organzation (USDO) seeks. The USDO is a non-profit organization formed in 2012 that represents the US in the sport of dodgeball. Developing the sport and engaging with dodgeball leagues and teams to make dodgeball more accessible to all, are the primary goals of the USDO. The 2013 USA Team members, composed of hand-selected players across the nation, share the same passion for playing and promoting this dynamic sport. Zelinsky is a well respected player amongst his dodgeball comrades, not only because of his expertise and skills, but because of his proven ability to compete respectively.
Confirmed participating countries at the 2013 World Dodgeball Invitational include, the USA, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, the UK, and Malaysia. Zelinsky’s goal for the Invitational is to show the rest of the world he has learned over the years, from strategy to technique, and how the flight path of the dodgeball can be manipulated. Zelinsky is beyond excited about this upcoming event, ‘representing my country on Team USA will be the ultimate achievement of my dodgeball career!’
USA members of the Dodgeball Team must pay for all expenses, donations are more than welcome to meet the needs of flight costs, uniforms, accommodation, and food. Please contact Chris Zelinsky directly to
