Memorial softball tournament set for Saturday
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STEUBENVILLE -- It's all systems go for the first "Tennis Shoe Ernie" Memorial Co-ed Softball Classic, set for Saturday at Belleview Park.
Hollinger, a lifelong resident of Steubenville, died Feb. 1 after his scooter was struck by another vehicle on Sunset Boulevard. Known throughout the community for his window-cleaning business as well as his passion for sports, Hollinger was 80.
Organizer Patrick McLaughlin said he's had to turn teams away for the first softball classic, figuring he'd keep it small and "just … pay a little tribute" to his long-time friend.
"Everybody just wants to be part of this to celebrate Ernie's life," McLaughlin said. "I can't tell you how much I appreciate that."
The festivities will begin at 11 a.m. with the unveiling of an 8-foot-by-8-foot aluminum composite plaque printed by Nelson Gifts featuring Hollinger's image on one side and his life story on the other.
The Rev. Jason Elliott, pastor at First Westminster Church, will offer the opening prayer. Hollinger was a Steubenville High School alumnus, and the Big Red Band will be on hand to perform the National Anthem, the school's alma mater and "a few others songs," McLaughlin said.
M&M True Value Hardware's Scott Campbell, another of Hollinger's longtime friends, will throw out the first pitch.
"There's going to be food trailers, and Target Shop will be selling T-shirts," he said, adding Enzo's is hosting a reception for tournament participants, sponsors and volunteers.
The Target Shop's Rita Bates said shirt sales have been steady in the days leading up to the tournament.
"I've even had (orders) from Columbus, Florida, Nevada," she said.
Brody Stutzman, master carver and chief craftsman at Nelson's Gifts, created the winner's trophy -- a faux bronze tennis shoe. McLaughlin also credited Nelson's founders Mark and Gretchen Nelson for their involvement, including the placards promoting the event.
Arnold Brown serves as the tournament director.
"So many people wanted to be involved," McLaughlin said. "It's going to be a great day."
Proceeds from the event will be donated in Hollinger's name to the Big Red Band to help defray costs for members who can't otherwise afford to go on the band's trips.
McLaughlin said he'd found out too late that 25 kids can't be part of the band's 2023 trip to Disney World. The band's leaving in a couple weeks so there's nothing they can do to help the kids this year, "but we can earmark that money for next year's trip," he said. "The goal is to make sure we have enough money next year."
Donations are welcomed, he said.