Imperial Valley Firefighters Association to host flag football tournament

Imperial Valley Firefighters Association will host a flag football tournament to benefit the Central football program.

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - First responders from across the region are set to take the gridiron for Public Safety Flag Football Tournament, hosted by the Imperial Valley Firefighters Association (IVFA). Taking place next Saturday at Cal Jones Field, the event will bring together firefighters, law enforcement officers, border patrol agents, and other public safety professionals or a worthy cause.

"We're firefighters who love helping people, and this tournament is just another way for us to make a difference...beyond fighting fires or providing medical aid," said Steven Monreal from the IVFA.

But make no mistake, this isn't just a casual pickup game. The athletes hitting the field are bringing serious intensity.

"It's going to be intense. A lot of us stay active, we love sports, and our jobs keep us moving, so expect some high-energy football out there," Monreal added.

The tournament serves to raise money for the Central football program, ensuring Spartan athletes in the community have the resources they need to compete and grow.

"We're incredibly grateful to have our local first responders not only participating in this tournament, but also giving back," Central head football coach Rookie Pena said. "Many of them are alumni, and they still call this community home. This event is about more than football...it's about bringing people together."

The tournament kicks off on Saturday, April 5 at Cal Jones Field. There's still room for a few more public safety professionals to reach out to Steven via email: stevenmonreal@hotmail.com

For those who just want to enjoy the action, admission is $5. The event will also feature food vendors and raffles.

With competition, community, and charity at the heart of the event, this year's tournament promises to be a memorable one.