MARYSVILLE, Wash. — The Second Annual “Buddy Bowl” kicks off Saturday at 2 p.m. in Marysville and the founder is hoping you’ll join the cause.
The Buddy Bowl is an annual football game meant to raise awareness about anti-bullying.
Preston Dwoskin was born and raised in Marysville and has spent the last several years touring local schools as a public speaker. Dwoskin has special needs and says he was bullied in school and wants to save other kids from the torment he faced.
“My message is that no kid should be bullied. No matter your age or who you are. That’s why we call it the Buddy Bowl because someone on the other team is your buddy.”
Dwoskin admits the game is just a fun excuse to invite a crowd of people to gather for fun and to champion his anti-bullying message. The first event was held at Everett Memorial stadium 2 years ago but was canceled last year due to the Pandemic.
Dwoskin is excited to kick off another event with his buddy Jeff Mattson who helped him come up with the idea for the Buddy Bowl.
“What’s happening is pretty cool, I think. It’s something I’ve never seen done before,” Mattson said.
Mattson is a sports official. He met Preston around 10 years ago when he was officiating a football game.
Preston has always dreamed of being a head referee and Mattson helped him make that happen. Mattson runs the Snohomish County Football group the officiates games in the fall.
Preston was invited to join them a few years ago and showed up to work every single game. From there, Mattson helped Preston develop the idea for his own event.
“It’s free to the community and anyone who wants to join us for a great message!” said Dwoskin.
The Mayor of Marysville is set to make a proclamation making Dec. 11 "Buddy Bowl Day" within the city, and the exhibition game will feature second and third-grade teams from Marysville and Stanwood.
“My message is that no kid deserves to be bullied and everyone deserves a buddy," Dwoskin said.
Pregame festivities with guest speakers get underway at 1:30 on Saturday in Marysville.