Both our men and women’s dodgeball teams do us proud in the US.

PETALING JAYA: The national men’s dodgeball team emerged triumphant again in the World Dodgeball Championships in Los Angeles, United States.

They retained the world championship title while the women’s team finished runner-up. Both of their opponents were the US teams.

The men’s team edged their opponents 5-4 in a nail-biting match to successfully defend their title while the women’s team, the defending champion, went down 5-8.

“It was physically and mentally draining as we had three back-to-back matches and some tough matches consecutively.

“We had to strategise well to preserve energy levels while giving our best. We will work harder next year for a third consecutive world championship in the male category,” said team captain Carlos Goonting.

The men’s team defeated Hong Kong in the quarter-finals and Australia in the semi-finals.

The teams competed in a round-robin format, playing every opponent before qualifying for the elimination stage.

Malaysia Association of Dodgeball (MAD) president Datuk Samson David Maman congratulated both teams for their outstanding performance.

“We must thank our supporters for making this possible.

“Figos, Sunway Extreme Park, Hannah Yeoh, Youth and Sports Ministry, National Sports Council, the parents and the commitment of the dodgeball teams, MAD and many others who chipped in to lend us a hand. This title is for you,” he said.

Head coach Albert Tan said all players put in their best effort and there was a strong team spirit.

Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman also congratulated the teams on Instagram.