The Ceres Seahawks Youth Football & Cheer Organization staged its 12th annual skills camp, July 26-28, at Blaker-Kinser Jr. High.

A total of 130 boys and girls, aged 6-14, participated.

Ceres athletes braved the heat and poor air quality.

“We had to go easy with the fires and smoke,” President Willie Solorio said. “We made the best out of it by adapting to the conditions. We kept the kids hydrated. Every 10-15 minutes, they were taking water breaks.”

Seahawk players and cheerleaders executed drills under the direction of coaches.

Each session lasted two hours, 6-8 p.m. the first two days and 8-10 a.m. the final day.

“We had a great turnout,” Solorio said.  “We used part of the camp for conditioning.”

Ceres’ Punt, Pass & Kick competition was held on July 28.

Roland Brown (varsity), Amir Drakeford (junior varsity), Kaleb Wright (rookies) and Jake Oliver (starts) all placed first in their respective age divisions.

“They got to compete in front of everybody,” Solorio said. 

Hot dogs, chips and Capri Suns were provided to campers following the conclusion of the camp.

A dunk-tank booth was also set up.

“The kids had fun,” Solorio said. “It was a kickoff for the season.”