Teams square off in AFAF Sports Day competition

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Maeson L. Elleman
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Fifty people amassing 12 teams gathered at the Risner Fitness Center here April 12 with one common process on their minds: compete, control ... and contribute.

Teams from all around the base shelled out cash as donations to the Air Force Assistance Fund for their chance to dominate the courts in each of the tournament's separate competitions.

Though the contest sported three events - dodgeball, volleyball and basketball - only two teams claimed separate champion titles. The 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron prevailed in volleyball while airmen from the 18th Wing Public Affairs office triumphed over two of their own matches.

"When we first started to play, I felt like we'd be amazing in the competition," said Airman 1st Class Keith James, 18th Wing Public Affairs photojournalist and dodgeball participant. "We have good teamwork, we know each other, and we have that flow. I felt like we wouldn't be beaten."

It was a premonition that came through as PA ducked, dove and dunked their way to victory over both the basketball and dodgeball tournaments.

"We could've caught the ball much better than we did, but in the end everything worked out well," James said about the dodgeball tournament. "We worked as a team and communicated well. There was no weak link. We rotated and made sure everybody played a key role at one point or another. If this challenge ever presents itself again, we'll be ready."

While the units were pitted against one another in a friendly battle, it was that mentality of taking care of one another that led donations to soar quickly for the AFAF, making the competition a success.

"Our squadron alone has raised about $500 towards AFAF," said Staff Sgt. Tiffany Kendrick, 18th Force Support Squadron assistant NCO in charge of employments who volunteered as an AFAF representative and Sports Day coordinator this year. "The AFAF is important because its main focus is helping Airmen when they are in the military or when they (are, or have) retired. It's reassuring to know that we have programs that will help us when emergencies occur or even programs that will take care of our dependents if there was something to happen to us."

Whether or not Kadena hosts another sports event like this one next year, Staff Sgt. Jessica Calkins, 18th Comptroller Squadron financial analyst and fellow AFAF volunteer, said it's important for Airmen help with the cause.

"You never know when you will need help," she said. "The AFAF helps Airmen, and that's important to the overall morale and strength of the Air Force. It's better to help those that need help now so they will be there for you when you need help."

The AFAF is scheduled to continue accepting donations until May 3. Kadena Airmen have raised more than $79,000 so far, but the wing hopes to raise at least $118,500.

For more information on how to donate to the Air Force Aid Foundation, contact your unit AFAF representative.