Vestal Boy Scout Builds Gaga Ball Pit for Kirkwood Summer Camp

Kids at a Broome County summer camp are going to benefit from a Vestal High School student's Eagle Scout project.

Michael Juriga II, a member of Boy Scout Troop 221, decided to construct a "gaga ball pit" at Camp Sertoma, The camp on Johnson Road in the town of Kirkwood is operated by the Boys and Girls Club of Binghamton.

Gaga ball is a bit like dodge ball. It's been played in the United States for decades and has been growing in popularity in recent years.

Juriga has played gaga ball for several years. In the past at Camp Sertoma, temporary pits were set up using tables. He concluded a permanent pit would be better.

The 16-year-old Juriga developed plans for the octagonal wooden structure that serves as the pit. He received support for project from other scouts, leaders and family members.

The 16-year-old Juriga worked to raise the money for the wood and other materials needed to build the durable gaga pit. The total cost of the supplies exceeded $1,000.

The project was supported through the community's support of popcorn sales and pasta dinners.

An unveiling ceremony to mark the completion of the gaga ball pit is planned for Friday.

Camp Sertoma was established 70 years ago.

MORE ON THE PROJECT: Check out the video to see the new gaga ball facility.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.