Streetsboro Middle School (SMS) held its annual Turkeyball tournament, combining competitive fun with community service as students competed in dodgeball while supporting local families in need. The tournament always takes place on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving break.
The event evolved from a previous Turkey Trot walk around the high school track that was led by SMS Teacher Laura McNicholas. Due to unpredictable Ohio weather conditions, organizers moved the activity indoors and transformed it into Turkeyball, a dodgeball tournament that has become a student favorite.
This year, 25 student teams totaling approximately 180 participants competed in the tournament. To enter, each team donated either 20 canned goods or $20. Students who preferred to watch rather than play attended by donating one canned good for admission. All donations go to the Streetsboro Community Pantry.
“The kids are overjoyed to be able to help local families with their donations,” said Seventh Grade Social Studies Teacher and Master of Ceremonies Joseph Brock. “We will be sending more than $350 in cash and over 450 canned goods. It's a nice way for kids to come together as a school to help those less fortunate, and hit teachers with dodgeballs. It's a win-win.”
The tournament's most popular feature came at the end when the winning student teams faced off against a staff team. Students enthusiastically cheered for their teachers and classmates, enjoying the annual student vs. staff match-up.
The combination of athletic competition and charitable giving teaches students about community responsibility while providing an entertaining break from regular classroom activities. Middle school staff members enthusiastically participate in the tournament each year, joining students in the festive fun. 
