It’s kids versus cops in dodgeball for a cause

Students from across Colorado Springs matched up against multiple police departments and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office for some friendly dodgeball for a cause.

Wasson Academic Campus took first place, with Pine Creek High taking second, Coronado taking third and Sand Creek High taking fourth. More than $1,400 was raised for teen suicide prevention.

Fifteen high schools came together to support suicide prevention and work together to be there for each other. Over the past year, suicide rates have increased dramatically.

“Research has shown that after a lot of deaths, people, especially young people, need a way to express it and that this is a positive way. So they’re able to have fun and do something positive at the same time to make a difference,” said Janet Karnes, director of Pikes Peak Suicides Prevention.

The event was hosted by the Chief’s Youth Advisory Council at Coronado High School.

Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention is a nonprofit organization that provides support groups for those who have attempted suicide, their families, children left behind by suicide, and training for first responders, educators, and community members to be aware of the signs and prevention of suicide.

High school teams scheduled to participate included Coronado, Doherty, Manitou Springs, Mitchell, Pine Creek, Rampart, Sand Creek, Sierra, Vista Ridge, Wasson Academic Campus and Widefield, along with cadet programs from the Colorado Springs Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and Fountain Police Department.