The fresh-pressed cider was barely poured into cups before several students at Floyd C. Fretz Middle School anxiously grabbed them and slurped down the sweet healthy juice in one gulp.  This was just one of the wonderful opportunities students had during the annual kick off for the Fuel Up to Play 60 program. Organizers said the entire day of activities was held to promote health and the spirit of youth at the school.

The program is also a “great way to get students to become more aware and responsible for their own health and making healthy choices … and was the beginning of many wonderful and successful activities” that will involve the Fuel Up program this year.

At the apple press station, students were shown how to operate the antique press to create a drink that is a traditional fall refreshment.

Organizers said students from sixth to eighth grade were divided in small groups and had time to visit many of the eight stations in the program. The stations were operated by teachers from all curriculums. One of the stations was staffed by health and physical education students from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.

In addition to the apple press station, the students learned how to blend tasty smoothies, create healthy snacks, play games for nutritional information, toss a football and walk as much as a mile outside. A computer station was also set up to give students an opportunity to sign up for the Fuel Up program online.