Coaches offered frequent water breaks during the Fifth Annual Ceres Jr. Bulldogs Football & Cheer Skills Camp.

"The safety of the kids is the top priority," said Joseph Estrada, the organization's president.

The free clinic was staged, July 19-21, at Smyrna Park.

Approximately 140 boys and girls, aged 5-14, participated.

"I'm really pleased with the turnout," Estrada said.

Each camp session lasted two hours (6-8 p.m.).

Football players and cheerleaders completed warmup drills before receiving instruction.

"We wanted to give the kids a head start," Estrada said. "They got to meet their teammates and coaches."

The 2017 season got underway on Monday as first official practices were held from 6-8 p.m. at Cesar Chavez Jr. High.

"The talent level is amazing," Estrada said. "Hopefully, we can keep these kids in our program so they can help our high schools out."