07/23/2025
Ludington, July 23 – Friends of Ludington Police (FOLP) is pleased to announce two new games that are being installed at Stearn’s Park and Beach this summer; 9 Square In The Air and Gaga Ball. Both of these games are initiatives that our local Youth Advisory Council (YAC) recommended to support youth in Mason County. Through the support of the Community Foundation of Mason County matching funds with a grant, the FOLP was able to bring these games to our city.
Both games will be accessible at the south end of Stearn’s Park and Beach, near the playground equipment which is to the south of the concession stand at the beach.
The game 9 Square In The Air is a game that combines volleyball and 4-square into a game that gets everyone playing together, regardless of skill level. The goal of the game is to advance through the 9 squares of the game to the center square, where one tries to remain as long as possible. Players simply hit the ball above and out of their square to any other square to stay in the game. If the ball falls through your square and hits the ground or if you hit the ball out of the game structure, then you are deemed “out’ and you move to the end of the line. All other players then advance one square forward. The player in the center square serves the ball to begin play. This game is installed and ready to be played. Interested parties can get the ball needed for the game from the Ludington Area Jaycee’s Mini Golf Course during the hours of 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Gaga Ball is a fast-paced, dodgeball-like game played in an octagonal pit. Players use their hands to hit a ball, aiming to strike opponents below the knee. The last player remaining in the pit wins the game. It's a popular activity, especially at summer camps, known for being a relatively safer and more inclusive alternative to dodgeball. We plan to have this game installed and ready by the end of next week, July 31st. The balls needed for this game will also be available from the Jaycee’s Mini Golf during the same hours.
Police Chief Chris Jones says “I am very pleased that the FOLP, YAC and the Community Foundation were able to bring these two games to the park in Ludington. This allows more activities for both youth and adults in our area to be active and involved with others. The rules for each of the games will also be posted by them so that everyone can understand how to play.”
The Friends of Ludington Police would like to thank the following organizations for all of their help in making this initiative possible; Youth Advisory Council, The Community Foundation of Mason County as well as Visscher Construction for help in installing the games.
The Friends of Ludington Police organization is committed to strengthening and supporting the Ludington Police Department. Our mission is to enhance community safety and well-being by providing targeted support for essential programs, such as the K9 Unit, advanced officer training, and community policing initiatives.
