Tonight, head down to Victory Field to see local celebrities take part in the 3rd annual Caroline Symmes Memorial Celebrity Softball Challenge. The event is hosted by Pacers center Roy Hibbert and Colts defensive end Robert Mathis.
This is a special event with a great celebrity turnout—plus the group definitely puts on a good show.
The game is put on by The Tony Stewart Foundation, benefiting the Indiana Children’s Wish Fund. This group helps bring to life the biggest dreams of young Hoosier children between the ages of 3-18 suffering from life-threatening illnesses.
My mentor Anthony Calhoun of WISH-TV and the Pacers radio voice, Mark Boyle, will serve as The Masters of Ceremony.
I have been to the event the first two years and it was a lot of fun. Unfortunately the crowds weren’t as big as I thought or I’m sure they would like, but everyone in attendance had a blast.
Two years ago was unique to me because just as the game began, Peyton Manning walked into the dugout and sat down next to me. Working with all the athletes I have, I wasn’t star-shy by any means but it was pretty neat the best NFL player popped a squat and we proceeded to have a small chat.
All of the athletes were very comfortable and relaxed in the environment, joking catching up with each other in the dugouts. Then between innings, most of the celebrities were very good about going around and signing autographs. After all, it’s for the kids.
The softball game is long enough to enjoy but not so long that is drags on. The 5-inning game includes local players from the Colts, Pacers, Fever, Butler along with mascots, media personalities and other sports personalities.
Confirmed Pacers and Fever representatives are Paul George, Josh McRoberts, A.J. Price, Lance Stephenson, Katie Douglas, Shyra Ely, Quinn Buckner, Chris Denari, Darnell Hillman and Clark Kellogg.
An interactive children’s game area lasts from 5-7:00pm, a Home Run Derby at 6:00pm and the official Celebrity Softball Game begins at 7:00pm. Tickets are only $5.00 and are available at www.indyindians.com or at The Victory Field Box Office.
For more details or to donate, visit the Indiana Children’s Wish Fund.