Penn-Trafford High School’s gymnasium was filled with energy and excitement on Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the community came together for the annual Make-A-Wish Dodgeball Tournament. This highly anticipated event saw over 600 students from grades K-8 participating in a full day of friendly yet competitive dodgeball matches, all to support a great cause.
The tournament raised funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with proceeds generated from entry fees, admission tickets, concession sales, and raffles. In total, $17,119 was collected and donated to support the foundation’s efforts in granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses.
The event has become a tradition at Penn-Trafford, emphasizing sportsmanship and community involvement. Participants engaged in a series of dodgeball matches throughout the day, with staff, students, and families attending in support.
“This is such a fun event to watch grow every single year for such a great cause,” commented organizer Mrs. Amber Bertosh. “I think it’s great to show our children that it is fun and easy to give back! Our community comes together year after year and supports this event. It would be nothing without them!”
A special visitor was on hand to greet students
Sunrise 2nd-grader Nicky Gladkowski
McCullough 2nd-graders Avonlea Mee and Lillian McCauley
McCullough 3rd-graders Mariella LaFisca, Lilyana Nedev, Mallory Stank, and Madison Nichols
The 3rd-grade team ‘Slay Queen’ prepares for the start of the game: Kendall Amorose, Danica Ruane, Clara Suchy, Taya Lebe, Rylee Stanonik, and Tierney Rayburg
Brooks Goydich, Jade Snyder, Addison Kress, and Kennedy Stanton prepare for their game
Amber Bertosh, event organizer, and her 1st-grade son, Dylan Bertosh (Harrison Park)