The sound of bean bags thudding against wooden boards and the cheers of friendly competition filled Fireman’s Field at South Side High School as the Independent Order of Odd Fellows’ Rockville Centre Lodge hosted its sixth-annual cornhole tournament fundraiser.
Proceeds from the June 13 event benefited several local organizations that support children and families, including SIBS Place, The Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation and the Rockville Centre Mayor’s Community Fund.
Cornhole, once considered a simple backyard pastime, has grown into one of the nation’s fastest-growing recreational sports. The game is played by tossing small fabric bags filled with corn kernels or synthetic pellets toward an elevated board with a hole near the top. Players score points by landing bags on the board or through the hole, with matches often featuring a mix of strategy, accuracy and friendly rivalry.
The sport’s accessibility has helped fuel its popularity, attracting participants of all ages and skill levels at parks, tailgates, breweries and organized tournaments across the country.
Beyond the competition, the Rockville Centre tournament offered a festival-like atmosphere. Families enjoyed live music, food and beverages throughout the day, while local Long Island breweries provided craft beer selections for attendees.
The tournament is organized by the Rockville Centre Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal organization with roots in the village dating back to 1888.
