Hunting season connects young people, police, boas and youth workers
Some 300 young people participated in the third edition of Hunting Season in the Water District on Wednesday 20 April. During the popular game, they tried to stay out of the hands of police and boas. The event was not only about excitement and speed, but mainly about contact, trust and a safe neighbourhood.
White suits through the streets
The first participants reported early to Treasure Island, where they were handed their white suits. With two 'lives' - visibly pinned on their backs - the youngsters took off. Soon the lawn near the playground filled with white suits. Even before everyone was well underway, policemen and boas on bicycles chased the youngsters. Amid loud cheers and the sound of a police siren, the starting gun was fired for the third edition of Hunting Season in Lelystad.
Along the way, the young people were able to catch their breath at three stamping points in the district before continuing on their way. The first ones returned to Treasure Island after about 20 minutes without lives. There was no time for boredom there: the Sports Company organised activities, a DJ provided music and catering the Neighbourhood Boys was present with scoop ice cream.
Popular among young people
'Hunting season is an activity that many young people in Lelystad look forward to every year,' says youth worker Vinay of Welzijn Lelystad. 'As soon as it is over, young people are already asking when the next edition will take place. Moreover, the idea for Hunting Season originated several years ago from young people themselves.'
The game brings young people into contact with police and boas in an approachable way. This was also visible afterwards, when young people played ball on the lawn with policemen and enforcers. Hunting season fits within the approach Prevention with Authority and the programme Samen Lelystad Oost, in which parties work together to create a safe and involved neighbourhood.
Collaboration
The organisation of Hunting Season was again a joint effort of several partners this year, including the police, Lelystad municipality, Welzijn Lelystad youth work team, young people themselves, volunteers from Schateiland, first aid workers, Sportbedrijf Lelystad and several sponsors.
Youth boa Naomi looks back with satisfaction: 'It is great to see how an event like Hunting Season ensures that barriers are lowered. Young people connect with us in a different, positive way - and that's exactly what we do it for.'
Photo caption: Hunting season connects young people, police, boas and youth work. Sjors Evers Photography
Hunting season in focus
