Rose Creek, population 354, is the kickball capital of Mower County.

Friday afternoon, parents and kids arrived in droves for Rose Creek Fun Days’ seventh annual kickball tournament. It’s been getting bigger every year.

“I think it’s because there aren’t a lot of these tournaments that go on,” said Bob Sheehan, tournament organizer.

While many town celebrations have softball tournaments, kickball tournaments allow a chance for the younger kids to enjoy the festivities. About 10 teams of kids in two different divisions — 10 and younger and 14 and younger — covered all sides of the park’s field in Rose Creek while games took place simultaneously.

“The kids love it because they play it in gym class, and they play it with their friends,” Sheehan said about allowing the kids their own tournament.

Though the tournament draws roughly 100 youngsters, it’s the adult tournament at night that really kicks things off — literally. Sheehan had about 15 adult teams in the tournament, with more wanting to sign up in the early afternoon Friday. The event draws more players and spectators than Rose Creek’s total population.

Because of its success, the kickball tournament will continue to be held every year at Rose Creek Fun Days, where any teams are allowed to sign up.