More than 370 costumed players on 48 teams ducked, dodged, and dived for balls at Laguna Beach High School on October 12 for SchoolPower’s 11th annual Dodgeball Tournament. This year’s event, returning for the first time since 2019, focused on connecting the community and included more students than ever before.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of such a creative and exciting tradition,” explained Shannon Nash, first-time coach of the El Morro Maniacs. “The kids will always remember this epic event.” LBHS’s Dance Company kicked off the event with a choreographed routine. Adding to the energy were Dodgeball chairs Christy and Brian Rayburn and their planning committee of SchoolPower trustees, plus hundreds of parent coaches, volunteer referees, and cheering spectators. Music, food trucks, and face painting in the LBHS courtyard boosted the excitement.

The event was presented by Hueston Hennigan. Meital Taub Luxury Group, Kimball Orthodontics, Ballesteros Real Estate Group, Hobie Surf Shop, and The Ranch at Laguna Beach joined as Court Sponsors. The popular event raised $10,000 for SchoolPower, the non-profit education foundation that has raised money for Laguna Beach public schools since 1981.

Repeated throughout the afternoon was an appreciation for how the event brings people together. Jill Nugent, parent of players on Oompa Loompa and Ball Busters teams (both division winners), highlighted that the event connects kids in a special way, saying, “It’s fun to see the kids coming together for a great cause and playing a game they don’t usually get to play. The kids and parents involved all had a blast!” Thurston student Dylan Simchowitz also embraced the teamwork that the sport required. “I enjoy connecting with friends,” he said, “and having the opportunity to play dodgeball.”

Competition was fierce and colorful in all four divisions: grades 3/4, grades 5/6, grades 7/8, and high school. Top of the World student Annika Kedhar of the Skeleton Crew was up for the challenge and for the tournament’s zany spirit. “I like wearing the costumes!” she said.

Beyond bragging rights, champions from each division won up to $500 in prize money to designate to a teacher or school program of their choice.

Special shout-out to event photographer Candice Dartez who donated her time and captured some amazing shots of all the teams. And to volunteer Peter Black who caught even more action on camera. View and download photos.


CONGRATS TO THE DODGEBALL XI CHAMPIONS
3rd – 4th Grade Champions: Your Mom Dot Com
5rd – 6th Grade Champions: Oompa Loompas
7th – 8th Grade Champions: Ball Busters
High School / Adult Champions: Owls

BRAGGING RIGHTS FOR THE BEST DRESSED TEAMS
3rd – 4th Grade Best Costume: Ballerinas United
5th – 6th Grade Best Costume: Dead Dodgers
7th – 8th Grade Best Costume: Shaka Shooters
High School Best Costume: Ballers

THANK YOU!

EVENT CHAIRS & VOLUNTEERS
Huge kudos to dodgeball chairs Brian and Christy Rayburn for learning the ropes Dodgeball and their unwavering energy! Dodgeball would not be possible without the support of LBHS (special thanks to Assistant Principal Dale Miller and Athletic Director Denise Selbe!), and the over 500 players, coaches, referees, scorekeepers and organizers who rally each year. It’s truly a community event!

SPONSORS
Dodgeball XI is made possible by our Sponsors. Huge thank you to Hueston Hennigan for their support of SchoolPower as our Presenting Sponsor and our court sponsors in both gyms.