Your heart is pumping as you run from one obstacle to the next. You do your best not to be a target, and if you’re lucky, to leave an opponent with a colored blotch on their clothing.
It’s the height of paintball season in Western Washington and the Cort family is busy helping families, friends, co-workers and other paintball enthusiasts enjoy an exhilarating and safe experience.
“We rarely have anyone leave who hasn’t had an amazing time,” says Dawn Bennett from Doodlebug Sportz Paintball. “The adrenalin rush, the fun; it’s something players never forget and they can’t wait to come back. Everyone has a story about their experience and through the story, they relive the adventure.”
The company was founded in 1999 by her father Don Cort, while brothers Danny and Dusty were becoming more interested in competitive paintball. What began with Don selling paintball supplies out of a converted travel trailer grew to the operation of indoor playing arenas, and eventually to the creation of Doodlebug Sportz.
Today, Danny oversees the outdoor arena in Snohomish, plus Everett’s indoor arena, while Dusty heads up the Pro Shop in Everett. Dawn’s daughters and Danny’s kids, all under 11, are growing up in the business, which Dawn says is a great way to promote family togetherness and teach co-operation.
Ready to try your hand at DBS Paintball?
Try a pickup game or bring the gang – Whether you’re OK playing in an open indoor or outdoor session, or are more comfortable playing with your own friends in a private group, you can do both here. Full rental packages are available, including your paintball marker, mask and paintballs.
Kids’ Day aimed at young players – For kids age 6 to 12, special sessions are hosted every other week that ease them into the sport of paintball. Age-appropriate training, the opportunity to play games and do target shooting, and enjoy a pizza lunch are included. “These sessions take the aggressiveness out of it, they’re focused on learning how to play and how to do it strategically,” Bennett says.
What do I need to bring? You’ll want to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Otherwise jumpsuits are available, and you’ll be equipped with paintball markers, water-soluble paint capsules and full-coverage goggles. You’re welcome to bring along your own marker and goggles/helmet to use.
What if I’ve never played? Safety is the key for every game, in combination with having fun. Staff are on hand throughout, giving safety briefings and game orientations to start, then refereeing the games.
To learn more about how it works, visit doodlebugsportz.com or call any of the locations. You can also reserve a time to play.
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