Florence cops will be participating in what might become a yearly event, a ‘Dodge-A-Cop’ tournament to raise funds for the Special Olympics.
Internationally, more than 85,000 officers take part in these events for the benefit of their local Special Olympics programs. Depending on how it goes, the first Dodge-A-Cop dodgeball tournament may join the annual DHL Plane Pull in being a local part of that program.
Dodge-A-Cop was the brainchild of Lt. Tony Steimle, a member of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport Police Department. The idea came to Steimle last year and police officers from the airport, Boone County, Covington and Florence police departments were quick to offer their support.
Until this year, when the Boone County High School offered to donate the use of its gymnasium, a place to hold the event could not be found. In addition to providing a venue, other assistance from the school was forthcoming with Chris Combs, school resource officer, assisting in getting a bouncy house and the football team stepping up to sell concessions. No doubt poster printing has played a role in boosting awareness.
The event takes place this Saturday, July 25, with check-in for teams at 10:00 am and the tournament play beginning at 11:00 am. Cost per team is $100 and admission is $2. All proceeds will benefit Kentucky Special Olympics programs.
