Kickball tournament to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The Troy University chapter of Circle K International is organizing a kickball tournament to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society.

According to the National MS Society’s website, MS is described as an “unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body.” Their vision is a world free of MS.

Matthew Powers, a sophomore hospitality, sport, and tourism management major from Wicksburg and president of the Circle K, has organized events like this for several years.

“I did the event back in high school, so I’m just renaming it because it’s the first time I’ve done it with this group,” Powers said.

This tournament is to help the National MS Society with their yearly, springtime fundraising campaign in the Wiregrass, Powers said.

In addition to their continued support of the National MS Society, Circle K clubs also promote service and leadership through their members as they work to benefit several organizations such as the March of Dimes, UNICEF and many others.

Powers works to help the society because his mother has MS.

“It’s personal to me,” he said.

Powers said he expects roughly 80 to 100 people to play in the tournament.

“It’s set up like any normal kickball tournament,” he said. “And there’s going to be referees that, you know, are in charge of the regulations and stuff.”

Those who are unable to play, but still wish to participate, are welcome to make donations and attend the games. The guest entry fee is $3 and there will be concessions available including Smoothie King.

The Troy Sportsplex is donating the field space for the tournament. Bart Pettus, the adult activities coordinator at the Sportsplex, said that he and the Sportsplex often offer discounts or free space for charity events like this tournament.

There will be prizes for the winning teams and all registered players will receive a free entrée voucher valid at the Troy Chick-Fil-A. In addition, the registered players will also be entered to win raffles donated by 2nd & Charles in Dothan.

Patty Hines, manager of 2nd & Charles, said she supports the National MS Society, “mostly because my sister has MS… I was raised to give back to people. Throughout the years, my family experienced things where we needed help from other people, years ago, and I’ve always wanted to give back when I could.”

She and several of her employees at 2nd & Charles volunteer at the National MS Walk every year by providing a booth that helps take care of kids during the walk.

“Matthew has done this for a couple years now, and he keeps getting more successful with it…I know it’s a passion of his to see a cure for his mom. They’re getting closer to a cure. Hopefully we’ll see it soon.”

The tournament will start at 8:30 am on Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Troy Sportsplex. The registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 17, and the cost is $10 per player.

Those interested are encouraged to gather a team of 8-11 players and contact Circle K at CKITroyUniversity@gmail.com to register.