Over 370 costumed players on 48 teams blasted, bounced, and bumped balls on Tuesday, October 15 for SchoolPower’s 13th Annual Dodgeball Tournament. SchoolPower, the non-profit education foundation that has raised money for Laguna Beach public schools since 1981, hosts this popular, community-connecting event every fall at Laguna Beach High School.

“[What] great fun, good people, and lots of energy. We are new to town and dove right into a wonderful community that was welcoming,” said parent coach Dr. Pedram Shojai. “The dodgeball tradition is alive and well in Laguna Beach.”

SchoolPower partnered with CORE Athletic Training, a local youth sports academy, to enhance the tournament experience by leveraging their background as a trusted provider for the elementary After School Program. Responding to community feedback, SchoolPower encouraged players to register as either individuals or teams this year. To build excitement and skills for all interested players, CORE provided a dodgeball clinic at LBHS on September 22. Utilizing their expertise and ties to USA dodgeball, CORE introduced updates to the tournament format to maximize on-court time during pool play, incorporated professional referees, and implemented a live game-scheduling and league standings app for a seamless experience.

“It’s always special when you see youth sports bring a community together,” said Jon Bohrer, the President and Founder of CORE Athletic Training. “We immediately recognized how important this event was to the community, so we wanted to take everything to the next level. We’re honored to be part of this special Laguna Beach tradition by partnering with SchoolPower.”

Tuesday’s event, championed by Dodgeball chairs and SchoolPower trustees Shannon Nash and Megan Hilliard, could not have taken place without the enthusiasm of hundreds of parent coaches, cheering spectators, and volunteers, many of whom were LBHS students.

Thurston 8th grade student Charlie MacGillivray embraced the teamwork spirit of the event. “I like playing in the dodgeball tournament because it is a fun way to hang out with friends. Thanks to all of the people that made this happen,” he said.

Exuberant costumes including tutus, sparkles, wild wigs, fur and eye-popping color could be seen from every angle in North Gym and Dugger Gym. DJ and parent Budd Moyer of RoseBud Entertainment pumped up the energy in the LBHS courtyard, plus players and fans enjoyed Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, tacos, and snacks. “Super fun day, all those cute kids absolutely love it,” said community member Shirlyn Kesler of Handel’s Ice Cream. “The younger kids who watch are dying to be a part of it when they get older. Great success again.”

Competition between teams was fast and furious across all three divisions, focus was fierce, and cheers erupted from team tribes at each match rotation.

“I love it when you can witness memories being made. This event is such a fun way to bring our community together and do something memorable, with a purpose,” said Kelsey Irving, coach of the 5th-6th team Laguna Dodgetrotters. “Our team had four kids from Top of the World and four from El Morro. They had such a blast together.”

Dodgeball XIII was presented by CORE Athletic Training. Livel Real Estate | Meital Taub Luxury Group, Ballesteros Real Estate Group, Willhoit Construction, Providence Mission Hospital Raising Healthy Teens, DiGiovanni Orthodontics, MacGillivray Freeman, Truly Pizza, Hueston Hennigan, Hobie Surf Shop, The Ranch at Laguna Beach, Karavas Kiely Schloss Whitman, Nirvana Kitchen+Pantry by Chef Lindsay, and Slunks joined as sponsors.

“Seeing everyone excited and working together [for the event] makes me grateful for being a part of this community,” said TOW parent Claudia Morris. Echoing the sentiment of the crowd, Dr. Shojai’s son Sol, a 5th grader at TOW, said: “I want to do it again every year!”

Shout-out to event photographer Christina Shook who donated her time and captured amazing shots of the teams. Christina’s photos are available

Special thanks to Stephanie Romero of LBUSD who caught even more action on camera. View Stephanie’s photos.

CONGRATS TO THE DODGEBALL XI CHAMPIONS
3rd – 4th Grade Champions: The Dodgers
5rd – 6th Grade Champions: Ballerinas
7th – 8th Grade Champions: 8Balls

BRAGGING RIGHTS FOR THE BEST DRESSED TEAMS
3rd – 4th Grade Best Costume: Dodging Underdogs
5th – 6th Grade Best Costume: The Greeters
7th – 8th Grade Best Costume: The Wizards of Dodge

THANK YOU!

EVENT CHAIRS & VOLUNTEERS
Huge kudos to dodgeball chairs Shannon Nash and Megan Hilliard for their unwavering energy! Dodgeball would not be possible without the support of LBHS (special thanks to Athletic Director Denise Selbe and the amazing custodial staff!), and the over 500 players, coaches, and volunteers who rally each year. It’s truly a community event!

SPONSORS
Dodgeball XIII is made possible by our Sponsors. Huge thank you to CORE Athletic Training for their support of SchoolPower as our Presenting Sponsor and partner for this event.