Four years after being the subject of a Hollywood film, dodgeball has been officially recognised as a sport in the UK.

The decision was confirmed by each of the four UK sports councils after a 17-month application process by the United Kingdom Dodgeball Association (UKDBA).

Sport England's director of sport, Lisa O'Keefe, said: "Dodgeball, which has proved popular among students, has been recognised as a sport. I sincerely hope that recognition will help dodgeball promote its unique appeal to many more potential participants."

There are currently more than 70 adult teams in the UK playing dodgeball, with schools now also taking up the sport. The first adult tournament was organised in February 2005, with two more events held over the next year.

Two leagues were originally formed between 2005-6 – one in Northampton, and one in Milton Keynes, before the number expanded to 6 leagues. The first British Championship took place in May 2007 featuring 23 teams, and proved to be such a success that the 2008 Championship required three qualifying competitions after 45 teams entered.

Chair of the UKDBA, Peter Robson, said: "Our aim is to establish dodgeball as a well-recognised minority sport in the UK. We have a 17-event tournament schedule in 2008 and 20 tournaments in the pipeline for 2009.

"We also have a coaching course available, to give teachers and coaches the tools they need to deliver dodgeball sessions."

Dodgeball tournaments scheduled for the second half of 2008 are due to take place in Cardiff, Edinburgh, Essex and Southampton, while Nottingham will host both the University Championship and Women's British Dodgeball Championship.