WOODLAKE – The Boys and Girls Club hosted a showdown on Wednesday between first responders and local teens, who went head-to-head during a game of dodgeball.

The first responders of Woodlake faced off against the kids of the Boys and Girls Club for a night of dodgeball on Wednesday, Oct. 26. The game took place from 4-5 p.m. and provided local teens between ages 13 to 18 with a chance to interact with the police and fire in a fun way.

“One of my goals is: I want these teams to not be so defensive when it comes to police officers, I want them to feel comfortable,” Boys and Girls Club serve prep coordinator, Teresa Farsan said. “Once they have some type of relationship with the first responders, I’m hoping that it’ll affect them in a positive way.”

Farsan noted that she hopes dodgeball with first responders will turn into an annual event, even if it is not always part of the Lights on After School program like it is this year.  The program is an event the club uses to raise awareness for the fun and safe activities school students can enjoy in their free time.

The club’s Lights on After School is a nationwide event that highlights the importance of after-school care programs for America’s children, families and communities.