The Mt. Bethel varsity volleyball team will open their season on Saturday, August 10th, when they host the third annual Volley for the Kids Tournament on the LS/MS Campus. Not only does this event kick off the volleyball season, but it also serves as a fundraiser for FaithBridge Foster Care.

“The tournament represents our first matches of the season, so we definitely jump in with both feet and quickly learn where our strengths and weaknesses lie. It's great to host an event like this and begin the season at home, too,” said head varsity coach Paul Stevens

However, more important to Stevens may be the impact the tournament makes on FaithBridge and our community.

“My wife (Genevieve) and I were foster parents for many years, and we worked directly with FaithBridge. Over the years, we fostered 12 different children, and the support that FaithBridge gave to us during that time was nothing short of amazing. Without them, I don't think we would have made it as foster parents,” Stevens said.

The first two tournaments have raised over $5200 for the non-profit, with the hope that this year's event can raise over $3000.

“FaithBridge is a Christian organization that truly does God's work. It never ceases to amaze me how many children enter the foster care system each year, even right under our noses here in East Cobb. It is a blessing to be able to partner with a group that serves children in foster care in their time of greatest need, as well as the families that care for them,” Stevens continued.

 

The tournament features eight teams and bracket play will get underway at 9 am when Mt. Bethel faces Walker. Other matches for the Eagles include Atlanta Classical Academy (noon), and Dominion Christian (1 pm). The other pool will feature Fellowship, Holy Innocents, Johnson Ferry, and McEachern. Bracket play is scheduled to begin at 3:30 pm, with the championship match slated for 6:30 pm.

There is no admission fee for the tournament, but fans are highly encouraged to donate to FaithBridge. Additionally, there will be a bake sale, and games - including the always popular “Serve up a Slice” sponsored by Papa John's. Participants will have an opportunity to serve a volleyball over the net, and if they hit one of the pizza boxes, they win the prize inside.