Blue skies, creative costumes, and contagious energy filled Laguna Beach High School for SchoolPower’s 14th Annual Dodgeball Tournament, a beloved community event benefiting Laguna Beach public schools.

Hosted by SchoolPower, the Laguna Beach Education Foundation, the tournament drew hundreds of students, families, and volunteers for a day of friendly competition and school spirit.

“It was the best day ever,” said first-time player PK, a third grader. His mom, Jena Offield, added, “Any excuse to dress up and dodge for glory—we’re there!”

SchoolPower partnered with CORE Athletic Training, a local youth sports academy and trusted provider for elementary after-school programs. Leveraging their expertise and connection to USA Dodgeball, CORE brought in professional referees and emphasized sportsmanship throughout the event.

Students in grades 3–8 packed the high school’s North and Dugger Gyms, showing off imaginative costumes and fierce dodgeball skills. Between matches, attendees enjoyed food from Tacos San Jose, Poke Tiki, and Handel’s Ice Cream, while the high school wrestling team ran a popular snack bar stocked with pizza, Board & Brew sandwiches, and cold drinks.

Adding to the excitement, Rivian showcased its latest R1S electric SUV on campus. Kids and families were invited to guess the number of dodgeballs packed into its front trunk for a chance to win a prize.

Winning teams earned $500 to direct toward a SchoolPower program of their choice, including the Athletics Fund, Educator Grants, SPASE (SchoolPower After School Enrichment), or Family Support Services. Division and Costume winners received colorful Slunks hats, while Sportsmanship winners and runner-up teams took home Golden Spoon Laguna Beach certificates.

The event was co-chaired by SchoolPower trustees Michael Contursi and Megan Hilliard, with the help of countless parent coaches, LBHS student volunteers, and enthusiastic community supporters.

“What an amazing day full of spectacular costumes, tasty food, and insane dodgeball action,” said Contursi. “This is such a fantastic SchoolPower event our family and community look forward to every year.”

SchoolPower’s Dodgeball Tournament was presented by CORE Athletic Training. Court sponsors included Ballesteros Group Real Estate, Hueston Hennigan, Rivian, and Hiya. Event sponsors were LIVEL Real Estate | Meital Taub Luxury Group, Willhoit Construction, MacGillivray Freeman Films, Hobie Surf Shop, The Ranch at Laguna Beach, Board & Brew, Laguna Beach Magazine, and The Independent Laguna Beach.

The following teams dodged their way to victory:

Division Winners
3rd-4th – BALL-erinas
5th-6th – Wave Rider Westsiders
7th-8th – Salty Slammers

Best Costume Winners
3rd-4th – Aura Farmers
5th-6th – Double Double Dodgers
7th-8th – Jingle Ballers

Best Sportsmanship
3rd-4th – The Gremlin Ballers
5th-6th – 6’7 Ballers
7th-8th – Space Dodgers

Shout-out to event photographer Candice Dartez who captured amazing shots of the teams and court action.

Special thanks to Stephanie Romero of LBUSD who caught even more action on camera.

As laughter echoed through the gyms and brightly costumed players dove for victory, this year’s tournament once again showcased the power of community in motion. Beyond the friendly competition, the event celebrated creativity, connection, and the shared commitment that makes Laguna Beach public schools thrive. SchoolPower’s annual dodgeball tradition proves that when a community comes together for its students, everyone wins.