The deaf and c/koda communities of Massachusetts came ready to compete at KODAheart’s game show event! On March 25th, five teams completed mental and physical challenges that tested their ASL, Deaf community, and Coda knowledge. All the teams; Team Marvel, Togawelis, Savage KODAs, Apples, and Patriots, battled to keep their grip on first place. Each team worked together with their teammates to try to keep the lead through several grueling rounds.
![[Image description: The state of Massachusetts in solid dark blue is behind yellow and green hands signing the word "Game" in ASL. At the top of the image the words “The KODAheart” are in black. Under the text is the words “Game” and “Show” each letter in white text inside of different multicolored boxes. Black text at the bottom reads, “March 25, 2017 1-4pm Attleboro High School Culinary Arts Room 100 Rathbun Willard Dr. Attleboro, MA 02703.”]](http://kodaheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Gameshow-MA-255x300.jpg)
Emboldened by an early lead and handfuls of cookies, the young Savage KODAs brought unprecedented energy to each round, answering questions with lightning speed! However their lead wasn’t enough, close behind were the Patriots, true to their name, wouldn’t let a large point deficit get them down- scored big during the picture match challenge. Team Marvel dug deep during the physical challenges blowing everyone in the dust by completing the “Face the Cookie” with unheard of speed. Team Apple was the silent but deadly team- racking up points quickly with their skillful knowledge of ASL handshapes that couldn’t be matched. Unfortunately that wasn’t enough to hold the Togawelis back, during the penny hose challenge they dominated the competition with a mix of athletic prowess and wiggle power snagging the needed pennies to score. In the final round of the afternoon, every competitor was tested. The stakes were raised and each correct answer was worth double the points! In a surprising upset, the Togawelis surged ahead, from the middle of the pack, to steal the win from the Savage KODAs.
Following the emotional rollercoaster of announcing the winner of the game show, members of the community met with the KODAheart team for great discussions about deaf-koda families and the unique concerns of the Massachusetts community. We truly appreciate everyone who took the time to share your thoughts and experiences with us- your contributions will allow us to develop the best resources for koda families and the community!
Despite the rain, it was a fun-filled afternoon reconnecting with old faces and meeting new ones and we cannot wait to come back! Thank you to everyone who came out and keep your eyes peeled for future collaborations within the Massachusetts community!