While the football team has recently focused on service to others, visiting Children’s Hospital Central California, they will hold a season kick-off dinner to raise funds for the team as well as several other causes, Aug. 29.

The event will not only endorse school sports, including football and cheerleading, but contribute to the Salazar family who recently lost their children in a car accident. The day will begin at 3 p.m. on the North Field for a youth football game versus Orange Cove, and enjoy a variety of attractions.

During the game, booths with food and games will be set up with two bounce houses, a rock water slide, a cakewalk, face-painting, a “Putt for Charity” putting event, a sports memorabilia silent auction, carnival food and more. A dunk tank will also be included, where participants get the chance to dunk teachers and new principal Todd Bennett.

Food and booths will be staffed by athletic teams to raise funds. Later, introductions of the fall sports teams will be made, along with a cheer routine and a performance by the band and choir led by music director Michael Ogdon.

“It’s the official beginning of the new season, and it’s also the first time the students and the parents meet the team as a whole,” senior Daniel Hopper, football player, said. “It’s a fun way to generate excitement for football and other activities.”

The event, which is organized by the sports teams, is also recognized as a social event.

“I’m excited [for the kick-off] because it supports the school in a fun way; you get to see all your friends and go to a carnival,” cheerleader Juliet Jaksch, ’13, said. “We’re performing our camp routine and it’s really cool that people get to see it, since we usually only perform it at camp.”

Youth football game tickets are available for $3 each. To participate at booths, carnival tickets may be purchased for 50 cents. Each booth will post ticket requirements.

Athletic director Cynthia Ward says she has high hopes for the event, which is in its fourth year.

“In addition to being a fundraiser, it is a time to bless the Orange Cove family and enjoy fun and fellowship with the FCS family,” Ward said. “We are all there to support each other, our teams, and the school; so we know it will be a great time.”

For more information, e-mail Cynthia Ward or read the Aug. 21, 2008 article, Sports BBQ ignites new season.