By Paige Gurgainers
Youth baseball and softball teams from across the region will soon take the field for a cause much bigger than the final score.
The Minden St. Jude Diamond Open is set for June 20-21 at the Minden Recreation Complex, bringing together athletes, families and supporters for a weekend dedicated to raising money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of Stanton Haynes.
Hosted by the Haynes family, the annual tournament has become a meaningful tradition in the community, combining America’s pastime with a mission to help children battling life-threatening illnesses. This year’s event will feature baseball and softball competition in the 6U, 8U, 10U and 12U divisions.
The tournament is held in memory of Stanton Haynes, who passed away in 2005 just days before his fourth birthday after battling cancer. Stanton received treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where his family says they were given precious time they otherwise may not have had.
Over the years, Stanton’s story has inspired countless community members to support St. Jude’s mission. The Haynes family has remained actively involved in fundraising efforts, helping ensure that other families facing childhood cancer receive the same care, treatment and support they experienced.
The Diamond Open has grown into one of several local events benefiting the Minden St. Jude effort, which has earned national recognition for its longstanding commitment to the hospital. Minden’s annual St. Jude Auction and related fundraising events have generated millions of dollars for childhood cancer research and treatment over the decades.
Tournament organizer Jeff Haynes said the event is about much more than baseball and softball.The weekend is designed to honor Stanton’s legacy while providing hope for children and families currently facing serious illnesses. The event’s message is simple: competition on the field, hope off the field.
Games will be played at the Minden Recreation Complex, located at 1001 Recreation Drive in Minden. Teams and families interested in participating can find registration information at the Minden Diamond Memorial website or contact Jeff Haynes at (318) 465-1938.