MATTAPOISETT — Paul McLaughlin hopes that Center School students will go gaga over a new dodgeball-like game that they can now play at school, thanks to his Eagle Scout project.

The 15-year-old, with the help of his Boy Scout Troop 53 and other community organizations, built a Gaga pit that will enable them to learn a new game. 

Gaga, Hebrew for dodgeball, puts a twist on the familiar game by incorporating a new structure into the rules. Each player must stand within the edges of an enclosed octagonal pit, each putting their hand against its wall. The game begins when the ball is thrown to the center of the pit.

“GA” players chant as they deliver the first hit to the rubber ball. “GA!” they cry as they hit it a second time. Once they shout “BALL” after hitting it a third time, players slap the ball and try to hit their opponent below the knee to get them “out”.

McLaughlin is carrying on the family tradition of becoming an Eagle Scout. His brother and father were also Eagle Scouts.

The prospective Eagle Scout saw Gaga pits at different camping sites as a Boy Scout and wanted more people to share his enthusiasm for the activity.

When he saw that Center School did not have a pit for the game, he decided to build one.

“It allows people to play a fun game and for the town to get together more,” said McLaughlin, who was happy to finally complete the project.

Starting in November, the Old Colony freshman spent his weekends working on the Gaga Pit receiving help from Mahoney’s Building Supply, Mattapoisett Self Storage, G.H. Dunn Insurance Agency, Peter P. Briggs Insurance Agency, Dawson Real Estate and Village Signs. By early December, the project was completed and installed at the school, though children patiently waited to use it until McLaughlin had a perfect spring day to dedicate the pit. 

Physical education teacher, Chad Cabeceiras said he is looking forward to utilizing the pit for his students.

“I’m excited… because we didn’t have one. Only on field days the YMCA would bring a portable one,” said Cabeceiras, “This can be used all year round in my physical education program at any time, so it’s awesome.”

Once the weather cleared up, on April 24, McLaughlin’s efforts were recognized by Center School Principal Rose Bowman and Cabeceiras. His parents, Jeanine and Dennis McLaughlin, were also there to support him.

Paul shook hands with Bowman and handed a few rubber balls to Cabeceiras for use in the Gaga Pit.

“I’m very happy,” said Jeanine, “It takes a lot of work and effort to get to this point.”

Paul will have his Eagle Scout ceremony on May 11 at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church.