Here at Line Drive Softball, we love and support events that benefit the community and have an important purpose along with presenting great softball.

This Saturday (April 13, 2024), USA Softball of Mississippi will hold its Autism Awareness event, a first-year venture that will see 33 teams take the field at Shiloh Park in Brandon, Miss. involving teams from 8U up through 14U.

The Autism Awareness event will feature nine autistic individuals throwing out the first pitch of each game starting at 8 am.

Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities and to the Arc of Mississippi.

As people enter the gate, they will also be handed postcards with awareness information about Autism.  Experts estimate that three to six children out of every 1,000 will have autism, which is a developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact and impacts the nervous system.

Tournament Director Chase Belk explains the goal of this Saturday’s event.

“USA Softball of Mississippi hopes to be able to use its platform to raise awareness and contribute to those making a difference in the lives of those affected with autism,” he begins.

“The game of softball gives young women an outlet to play and learn many life lessons. USA Softball of Mississippi hopes to lead by example and show these young players that they can also use this platform to affect the community positively.”

It’s a cause that is important to Belk personally as well.

“I have some in my family that have autism and I wanted to find a time to raise awareness and do a little something to give to a great organization that benefits those with autism.”

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball