Hickory, N.C. — The Second Annual Catawba County Easter Softball Classic highlighted more than just strong competition on the field. It also delivered meaningful support to local high school athletic programs through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Sports Matter Grant Program.
Through the partnership, a total of $5,000 in grant funding was awarded to the participating schools, with each of the five teams receiving a $1,000 donation to support their athletic programs. The funding helps provide resources for equipment, uniforms, and other needs that strengthen opportunities for student-athletes.
Tournament organizers expressed their appreciation to Dick’s Sporting Goods for investing in high school athletics and helping make the event possible. The Sports Matter Grant support not only enhanced the tournament experience but also ensured that the participating schools directly benefited from the event.
On the field, Bunker Hill captured the tournament championship, defeating Hibriten in the title game to successfully defend its crown from the inaugural event. Freedom secured third place with a victory over St. Stephens in the consolation game.
Bunker Hill pitcher Serena Thurman was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive year. Thurman earned three wins during this year’s tournament and recorded 31 strikeouts. Throughout the first two years of the event, she has totaled 60 strikeouts in six tournament games, establishing herself as one of the tournament’s most dominant performers.
The Catawba County Easter Softball Classic continues to grow as both a competitive showcase for area teams and an opportunity to invest back into local high school athletic programs.
Teams interested in participating in next year’s event or seeking additional information about the Catawba County Easter Softball Classic can contact tournament organizer Jeff Taylor at 828-514-5029.
For hotel and area information, 