On March 14, Antioch Upper Grade School held their first Dodging for Dollars dodgeball tournament in order to raise money for their athletic and fine arts departments, and one third of their earnings are being donated to the melanoma cancer research program.

The dodgeball tournament was brought up by AUGS’s student group “Why are you Here?”. The group was started by AUGS social studies teacher and head coach of the girls track and field team Jake Henkel.

“Our company wanted to host this because we wanted to raise money for our school and charity, but also bring community members together. I personally wanted people to feel good about coming to AUGS. We have a great school that has had its share of issues over the past few years. We want AUGS to be a bright spot in the community,” said Henkel.

With over 10 teams, ranging from ages eight to 50, and non-stop dodgeball games from 10 a.m to 4 p.m the community raised over $1,500.

Sue Nolan volunteered her time to do a face painting. The kids, and a few adults, took advantage of it. Ray Speck donated all concessions. It was really just an overall community event. We had several District 34 schools participate in the staff division. Shirts were for sale that were made by the students in our company. It was an all-around community event,” said Henkel.

Many students from Antioch Community High School participated in the event as well as teams representing Lakes Community High School. Former Emmons students joined in the fun, as well as former Millburn West students.  

Dodging for Dollars is the beginning of hopefully several other fundraisers happening in the next upcoming years.

“In the future I would like to do things like basketball three-on-three tournament, a volleyball tournament or a talent show. My hope is the new group of 8th graders can build off the success and accomplishments of this year’s group, but also this year’s group can help spread awareness as they enter high school,” said Henkel.