Bongo Ball is back by popular demand and will take place before the Panther’s football game Saturday in the tailgate area.

Bongo Ball is based off of one of the American Gladiator events. The object of the game is to shoot the opponent with Nerf ball air-canned shooters. The game is a mixture of laser tag, paintball and capture the flag.

The University Board first introduced Bongo Ball last year at its Spring Fling event.

“It was well received and everyone loved it so we’re trying it again,” said Otis Seawood, UB special events coordinator.

“The game is set up like a paintball game, but instead of paintballs they are Nerf balls so they wont ruin your clothes,” UB vice chair, Alyssa Anderson said. “It’s the same kind of course with obstacles you can hide behind. It’s intense, it’s awesome.”

It will be free to play and no prior sign ups are necessary. Anyone who is interested in the tailgate can play. All the players have to do is sign a liability form and they are eligible.

The first 10 people to sign up and participate will receive instant prizes. The UB will also have other prizes and giveaways, which will be given to participants throughout the day.

Bongo Ball is played by two opposing teams with a maximum of five people on each team. Teams can have less people if they choose to. Once a player is shot, they are out for the game. Whatever team has all their players out loses and the team with remaining players on the court wins.

The court will be about the size of a basketball court with fencing around it. Once the players enter the court they will be required to put on a vest and headgear. Then they will receive a quick explanation on how to use the equipment provided.

“I’ve seen a fraternity win a game in a minute and a half, but it depends on the game, some games last 10 minutes,” Seawood said.

UB will be holding multiple games of Bongo Ball beginning at 11 a.m. before the football game and then again after the game.

The event was originally scheduled as a tournament Saturday from 1 to 7 p.m.

The UB had some complications with this time and day because they did not want to interfere with the football game.

“We want to support the athletics not take away from them,” Seawood said.

The UB decided to use the football game to their advantage and this is when they changed the tournament to a fun tailgating activity.

“We encourage both males and females to participate. It is going to be a great atmosphere and it is always fun to come out and support the Panthers,” Seawood said.

Lauren Lombardo can be reached at 581-7943 or

lnlombardo@eiu.edu.