Dodge ball tournament benefits Cedar Rapids police K-9 program

CEDAR RAPIDS - Students at Harding Middle School are doing their part to make sure Cedar Rapids police K-9 officers have the equipment they need.

On Wednesday, the school hosts its annual Kids vs. Cops Dodge Ball Tournament. This year marks the 11th year of competition, which benefits the police department's K-9 program.

Cedar Rapids public safety spokesman Greg Buelow said Harding students, faculty and staff have raised almost $20,000 in the last decade. Last year, Harding raised $2,000 for the K-9 program.

'Police officers have used funds for training opportunities and the purchase of ballistic protective vests,” Buelow said.

James Franta, student leadership adviser at Harding, said the tournament began when Cedar Rapids police officer Tim Davis approached the school to see if they'd be interested in helping out the K-9 unit.

'Our kids are active in the community, saw the need and felt that they could come up with a way to help,” Franta said. 'Students brainstormed and eventually focused on a series of dodge ball games in which students played the police.”

Franta said the event typically draws about 150 players and 500 spectators. Close to a dozen Cedar Rapids police officers participate in the dodge ball tournament, Buelow said. All participants and spectators pay $3 for the event.

In addition to raising important funds for the department, Buelow noted that squaring off against the students helps foster relationships and build trust between police and area youth.

This year's tournament takes place from 1 to 2:50 p.m. in the Harding Middle School Gym, 4801 Golf St. NE.

The tournament features representatives from the police department and the dogs will be in attendance, as well, Buelow said.

IF YOU GO

What: 11th annual Kids vs. Cops Dodge Ball Tournament

When: 1 to 2:50 p.m. Wednesday

Where: Harding Middle School, 4801 Golf St. NE, Cedar Rapids

Cost: $3

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com