A Barton County Youth Crew committee is meeting weekly to organize the many moving parts of their annual Kick the Habit Kickball Tournament, while also seeking donations to the upcoming event.
The tournament is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at the Great Bend Sports Complex, 41 McKinley in Great Bend.
Participants must be in grades 6-12 but those who graduated from high school in May also are eligible.
Each team has eight players, who can be all boys, all girls or co-ed with a mix of ages. There is no entry fee but registration is required.
“We encourage those interested in this fun competition to organize their teams and register soon,” said Tyler Morton, prevention advocate at Juvenile Services. “Also, we hope members of our communities mark their calendars for the event.
“Spectators are an important ingredient. Youth Crew members put their own personal touches on this event to make it enjoyable for their peers, families and the community. When they have spectators in the stands, they know their time and dedication is appreciated.”
More information
The fundraising goal is $3,000. So far, about $1,200 has been raised from a few dozen contributors. Some prizes also have been donated.
“We truly appreciate each and every donor,” Morton said. “This kickball tournament has become extremely popular and we are trusting in a good turnout.
“These young people are giving it their all and we hope the community shows its support before and during the event.”
Teams are encouraged to register soon because the number will be limited based on time factors and the number of fields available.
For more information or to register, call 620-793-1930.
The origin of the tournament was a grant made possible through the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Task Force, under the umbrella of the Central Kansas Partnership.
At the time, the focus of that task force was tobacco cessation. However, the tournament now raises awareness about all substance use, mental-health advocacy and kicking bad habits.
20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake & Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.
