MOSES LAKE - It's not an easy task to feed more than 60 football players.

MOSES LAKE - It's not an easy task to feed more than 60 football players.

Moses Lake firefighters were up to the challenge. They treated both teams for the East versus West All-Star game to a barbecue lunch Thursday before the players headed back to practice.

The Moses Lake Firefighters Local 2052 hosted teams and coaches from across the state Thursday at the fire station on East Third Avenue. Firefighter Jay Morris said the event, which was also held prior to last year's game, gives the players a chance to see more than just the hotel room and also provides fire fighters a chance to interact with the players."

"It's fun for the fire fighters," Morris said, adding the barbecue will likely be an annual event if the game continues to be held in Moses Lake.

Kamiak High School football head coach Dan Mack, who is the head coach for the east team, said he and the players were impressed by the firefighters' welcome. It's an honor for the athletes to participate, he added.

"Some of these kids might want to be firefighters after this event," he said. "It's just a blessing in so many ways. The kids have great respect for these guys and what they do."

The players, with full stomachs, headed back to Lions Field following the barbecue to continue practicing before tonight's game. It kicks off at 7 p.m. at Lions Field in Moses Lake. Tickets cost $10.