by Robel Wondimu ’13

Senior Kevin Pham organized Project Change to host a dodgeball fundraiser that raised $730 for the Betty Ann Krahnke Center (BAK), a nonprofit domestic abuse shelter in Montgomery County. On February 7, 16 teams of 10 people competed in a single elimination tournament, which “Channel Four News Team,” an underdog group of freshman, ended up winning.

Channel Four News Team was led by its captain Shayaka Gahima, and upset the “Muff Huckers,” a squad of seniors that included varsity pitcher Patrick Kemper, who were the clear-cut favorites. While it isn’t often that freshman beat seniors at anything, Channel Four was able to prove that dodgeball is a game of wits and teamwork rather than size and power.

During the course of events a moment of mayhem ensued when disgruntled players, who disagreed with referees over a ruling, became verbally and physically unruly, knocking over a table and trash can. The situation ended as quickly as it began and while it was a minor altercation it deflected from the purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness of and prevent domestic violence.

There is a chance another dodgeball match will be held in the Spring, because of favorable turnout to this one, but that is in jeopardy because the brief skirmish may have left administrators skeptical and reluctant to allow something like this to happen again.

While it may have been ironic that a dodgeball match was being held to benefit a domestic abuse shelter, the sport played isn’t what is important but the outcome is. With the proceeds raised at this event, emergency shelter can now be provided to four women and their children at the center, seven children can be fed for one week, or emergency supplies like food, gas, and clothes can be provided for up to 14 families.