Youth baseball and softball players will take the field June 20-21 as the 2026 Minden St. Jude Diamond Open returns to the Minden Recreation Complex for two days of competition and fundraising.
The tournament, themed “Swinging for a Cure,” will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Held annually in memory of Stanton Haynes, the event combines youth sports with a mission to support children and families facing serious illnesses.
Organizers describe the event with the slogan, “Competition on the field. Hope off the field. Making a difference together.”
Teams from across the region are expected to participate in a weekend that blends athletic competition with a charitable purpose. Divisions include 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U baseball and softball.
“This tournament is more than baseball and softball. It’s about honoring a legacy, supporting families, and helping make a difference for children battling cancer,” said founder Jeff Haynes.
Funds raised through the tournament will support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which provides treatment and conducts research for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Families receiving care at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.
The Minden St. Jude Diamond Open has grown over the years through the support of local businesses, volunteers, players, coaches, and families who participate each year to help advance the hospital’s lifesaving work.
Organizers encourage the community to attend and support the young athletes and the cause throughout the weekend.