Youth Baseball Tournament Goes on in Louisiana Despite Pandemic

According to the policies set for by Governor Edwards this gathering of young people, parents, and coaches from around the country here in Louisiana is okay. Still, there are others that question holding any event that brings people from different destinations to gather together in crowds during a pandemic. No matter what you think, it's happening and it's happening in Lake Charles this weekend. 

The Future Stars Series National Tournament is one of the nation's largest state-sponsored baseball events in the country. Lake Charles earned the right to host the multi-week event by besting bids from Nashville, Las Vegas, and Houston, where the event has been held the past three years.

The recent uptick in COVID-19 cases across the state has given more than a few parents cause for concern. However, guidance from the CDC and Governor Edwards office does allow for youth sports to go on.

As you might imagine the organizers of the event in the Lake Area are going above and beyond in making sure that players, coaches, parents, and fans are mindful of the safety precautions in place. For example, dugouts will be cleaned and sanitized before and after each game. Tournament staff will all be wearing face masks. And the crowd, usually between three and four thousand will likely be one-tenth of that.

Organizers will encourage fans to practice social distancing at each of the ballparks that are hosting games. In the Lake Charles area games are being played at Barbe and Sam Houston High, McMurray Park, Legion Field, and Joe Miller Ballpark on campus at McNeese State.

The tournament will take place on a recurring basis Tuesdays through Saturdays from now until July 25th.