By Jeanni Ritchie
Jodie White was a de facto grandpa to youth ball players in Central Louisiana for decades, including my own. I got to know him well when my children’s father worked for him at the Parks and Recreation Dept. for the City of Alexandria. I have such fond memories.
His passing last month was a great loss for our community. But even in his death, his commitment to Cenla’s youth lives on.
An Incrediball memorial tournament has been organized in his name for this weekend at Wardville Ballpark, Hickory Street, Pineville.
The co-ed bracket play tournament is organized by Joseph Daigrepont and features teams from all over the state. Beginning at 8 AM Saturday, May 4th, the two-day tournament encourages citizens to join as player or spectator to pay tribute to the man who devoted his life to the youth of Central Louisiana.
“I’ve been amazed at the stories,” granddaughter Tori White shared with me when I told her my own Jodie White stories. “He was just such a great grandfather to us that I never thought about how other people had their own incredible memories of him.”
That’s why the tournament means so much to the friends and family of Mr. Baseball.
His family has organized a Jodie White team for those either not already on a team or interested in trying out a new sport. Incrediball is to softball what pickleball is to tennis: energetic fun that’s easier for non-athletes like myself!
The Jodie White team still needs players. If you are interested, call 337-345-9414. The family is covering the entry fees for their team members. Bring the gear you have, the rest will be provided.
In addition to the games, there will be raffle items, concession stands, and food plates available for purchase. The proceeds will benefit a local youth organization in Jodie White’s name.
For more information or to register your team for the tournament, visit https://facebook.com/
To donate raffle items for this tournament, contact Joseph Daigrepont at 318-528-0888.
Jeanni Ritchie is a local journalist from Central Louisiana promoting community events. She can be reached at jeanniritchie54@gmail.com.