Junction City is serving as the host site this past weekend for a major youth volleyball tournament. Teams competed at Junction City High School, City Middle School and the 12th Street Community Center.
One of the coordinators, Leslie Goodwin, explained after the matches on Saturday at the high school that the tournament benefits charities. "Great response from the club teams that were here, they want to come back. They loved the idea of it being for charity." Goodwin noted that the first day in one of the buildings 347 items were donated for the Food Pantry of Geary County. And Susan Jagerson with Live Well Geary County confirmed that over the weekend items weighing 1,514 pounds were donated to the Food Pantry. Other charities or organizations being served included Live Well Geary County, Kids at Risk, Breaking Bread of JC, Play JC and the 12th Street Community Center.
Preparing for a future event like this and what needs to be done better Goodwin said on Saturday just spread the word. "Things kind of went went without a hitch. It was great and nice, and if people want to come back they're going to tell their friends about us. " Teams competing in the tournament came from as far as Hays, Topeka, Salina and near Wichita.
Jennifer Craft noted that organizers plan to do one big tournament every year to give back to charities.
There are no local youth volleyball teams in Junction City right now but this kind of event could boost interest and momentum. Goodwin stated, "We're hoping so. This year we had absolutely zero teams for our club ( Momentum Volleyball Club ) but we still want to do something for the community and that's what we're doing." Some youth from Junction City and Geary County do compete on other teams that are located in the area.
Craft said more local interest is needed. "We have player interest. The problem is finding adults who are willing to coach the kids. " If you are interested you can go to the Momentum Volleyball Club Facebook page.
A total of 62 volleyball teams made the trip to Junction City to play in the tournament. There is the possibility that number could be increased for next year. There would be space available.
