JOURNAL SPORTS
The Northwest Louisiana Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, the City of Shreveport, and the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission with Visit Shreveport-Bossier will host the 47th Annual Sickle Cell Softball Tournament beginning today and running through Sunday at Cargill Park.
This year’s competition is expected to bring more than 1,300 participants and their families to Shreveport-Bossier.
“The Sickle Cell Softball Tournament is a proud tradition that brings our community together in a meaningful way,” says Sara Nelms, Director of Sports for the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission with Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “It’s events like this that not only celebrate local pride but also bring a measurable economic boost, as visitors spend at our hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions.”
The community is invited to join the festivities of this national softball tournament, sanctioned by the American Softball Association, including a kid’s zone, Senior Play, Home Run Derby, Long Ball, and fireworks tonight. Regular tournament play will continue Saturday and Sunday.
“We’re inviting our friends and community to come out and support the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc., Northwest Louisiana Chapter,” said Herman Vital, tournament director. “Teams from across the south are coming together, and we’re looking forward to a great weekend of softball, good weather, and even better company. This tournament isn’t just about the game—it’s about raising awareness and funds for the fight against Sickle Cell.”
The SCDAA NWLA was originally founded in 1974 at time when little was known about sickle cell disease in the U.S. In the beginning organization began with a focus on community education, but now its mission has expanded to include client support services, advocacy, and awareness initiatives. Today, the chapter continues its work to help individuals with sickle cell conditions live stable, productive lives through leadership, education, and impactful programs.
The tournament and activities schedule can be found here.