Beyond the Badge, Featured Stories, Sports in CDCR

Centinela holds first Dodgeball Tournament

September 30, 2026

The first Centinela State Prison Dodgeball Tournament was held as a fundraiser for Officer Aguilar, a staff member battling illness.

Organized by Officers E. Zamudio Jr. and L. Guzman, the Sept. 26 event kicked off with an opening ceremony at a local park. There, Aguilar was presented with a custom team jersey. Organizers and staff participated in the event on their own time.

Staff and family members hold hands over hearts during the pledge of allegiance during opening ceremonies at the first Centinela State Prison Dodgeball Tournament.

In all, there were 10 teams, eight representing Centinela’s facilities and watches while two other teams were formed from local law enforcement agencies. All volunteer players stepped up to the line ready to duck, dip, dive and dodge.

Referees and staff at the first Centinela State Prison Dodgeball Tournament.

Institutional staff also suited up as referees to keep the games running smoothly. Meanwhile, a DJ kept the energy high with music and announcements throughout the day.

Officer Aguilar being presented with a custom sports jersey. — Officer Aguilar was presented with a special team jersey during the opening ceremonies of the first Centinela State Prison Dodgeball Classic. From left are Sgt. J. Lopez, Lt. M. Ramos, Officer Aguilar, CCPOA M. Madueno, Officer E. Zamudio and Officer L. Guzman.

The event drew strong backing from community and union leadership. The California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) and individual staff members donated funds, gift cards and electronics for prize drawings.

“The day was a resounding success, filled with laughter, camaraderie and joy,” said organizers. “Officer Aguilar expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved.”

In total, staff raised over $11,000 for Officer Aguilar and his family. Organizers said they hope this will become an annual event.

Story by Lt. M. Ramos and Officer R. Leyvas
Photographs by Officer R. Leyvas, J. Montoya and A. Duarte.