Swingin’ for Sandi Tournament Expands Impact, Combines Youth Sports and Cancer Support in Grand Island

Grand Island, NE — What began as a personal mission has grown into a powerful community movement. The annual Swingin’ for Sandi Tournament, created in honor of a mother’s battle with breast cancer, is entering its third year with expanded participation, greater fundraising goals, and a renewed commitment to supporting cancer patients and their families.

The tournament was founded three years ago after organizer Shawn VanWormer’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Wanting to make a difference for those facing similar battles, he launched the event to raise funds and awareness for individuals fighting cancer and dealing with the financial strain that often accompanies treatment.

In its first year, the tournament hosted 12 teams and raised $1,000 for cancer support efforts. By year two, participation more than doubled to 32 teams, again generating a $1,000 donation. Now, in its third year, the tournament continues to grow in both scale and purpose.

This year, 32 teams will not only compete on the field but also take part in a fundraising challenge. Each team is working to sell “K’s for Cancer” signs, with proceeds going directly to cancer foundations that assist patients with treatment-related expenses. The team that raises the most funds will be awarded a team bat, adding a competitive and meaningful incentive to give back.

“Our goal is simple,” said VanWormer. “We want to help as many cancer warriors as we can and ease some of the financial burden they face during treatment.”

The Swingin’ for Sandi Tournament is held in conjunction with a major youth fastpitch softball event hosted by Edge Softball, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The tournament will take place May 16–17 in Grand Island and is expected to feature approximately 32 teams from across Nebraska and the surrounding region.

Participating teams will travel from as far east as Omaha and as far west as North Platte, with several communities in between represented, highlighting the tournament’s growing statewide reach.

Edge Softball is dedicated to developing young athletes through competitive play while fostering teamwork, discipline, and confidence. Proceeds from sponsorships and event support go directly toward tournament expenses, including field rental, umpire fees, field preparation, and championship awards.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Local businesses and community partners are invited to support the tournament through a variety of sponsorship opportunities, including:

-Tournament Title Sponsor ($1,000) – Premier branding and event recognition
-Field Sponsor ($400) – On-site signage and promotional visibility
-Dugout Sponsor ($200) – Dugout signage and social media recognition
-Award Sponsor ($250) – Recognition tied to championship teams
-Community Support Sponsor ($100) – Sponsor board and social media acknowledgment

Sponsorship provides businesses with meaningful exposure while supporting youth athletics and a cause that directly impacts local families. As a nonprofit organization, contributions may be tax-deductible.

“This tournament is about more than softball,” VanWormer added. “It’s about community, compassion, and stepping up for people who need support.”

For more information about sponsorship opportunities or to get involved, contact:

Edge Softball
Shawn VanWormer
Phone: 402-604-0446
Email: [email protected]