The “Spirit of the Sandhills” girls softball tournament returns to Broken Bow this week. KCNI/KBBN radio visited with Tom Griffith, president of the Custer County Diamond Youth Organization, about this year’s event. Organizers are planning on 36 teams for this year’s tournament with competition taking place in three divisions (12 & under, 14 & under, and a combined 16-18 & under division). The majority of the games will be played at the Melham Park and Sports Complex with some games taking place at Tyke Arnold Field as well. According to Griffith, interest in the tournament has been so high that some teams who have inquired about the tournament have had to be turned away.
Griffith told Central Nebraska’s Sport Source that it is very exciting to have the tournament back for the 2nd year.
Having the tournament this year did not look very promising 2-3 months ago because of the coronavirus pandemic. Griffith said that organizers stayed vigilant in hopes that the tournament would be able to take place.
Griffith praised the community and area businesses for the way they have supported the tournament. Griffith also stated that it takes a lot of volunteer help to put on an event of this magnitude and if anyone is interested in helping with the event for any amount of time their assistance would be greatly appreciated.
The Broken Bow Spirit will have teams competing in each division. Griffith said that the teams have been playing well this year and are excited about competing this weekend.
The tournament begins Friday and concludes on Sunday.
Interview with DYO President Tom Griffith
