Rain once again proved to be a challenge for the Minden St. Jude Diamond Open, but organizers, players, and families persevered through the weather to support a cause larger than the games themselves.
The 2026 tournament, held June 20-21 at the Minden Recreation Complex, brought together youth baseball and softball teams from across the region for the annual fundraiser benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event is held in memory of Stanton Haynes, affectionately remembered by organizers as the tournament’s “Angel in the Outfield.”
Periods of rain affected play throughout the weekend, forcing organizers to adjust schedules and work around wet field conditions. Despite the interruptions, teams and supporters remained committed to the tournament’s mission.
“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,” organizer Jeff Haynes said before the event.
The tournament, themed “Swinging for a Cure,” featured baseball and softball competition in multiple youth age divisions while raising awareness and funds for St. Jude. Organizers promoted the event with the message, “Competition on the field. Hope off the field. Making a difference together.”
For many participants, the weekend served as a reminder that the tournament’s impact extends far beyond wins and losses. Players competed, families gathered, and volunteers worked through challenging weather conditions in support of children and families facing life-threatening illnesses.
Funds raised during the event will support the work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.
Now in its eighth year, the Minden St. Jude Diamond Open continues to unite the community in memory of Stanton Haynes while providing an opportunity for young athletes to play for a purpose.
Though rain clouds hovered over much of the weekend, the tournament’s spirit of generosity and community support remained on full display.
