"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokees Seek Slow-Pitch Softball Teams

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation is looking for slow-pitch softball teams who are ready for a little friendly competition. The Cherokee Nation’s annual Slow-Pitch Softball Tournament will be held in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday on Friday, August 31, Saturday, September 1 and Sunday September 2, at the Sequoyah Softball Fields located four miles south of Tahlequah on the campus of Sequoyah Schools.

“We hope to recruit teams from all over the United States,” said George Roach, tournament director. “Each year, the tournament has grown. Last year, we had teams from as far away as North Carolina, Florida and Mississippi.”

The deadline to enter the competition is Friday, August 24. The entry fee is $175 and must be paid by cash or money order made payable to the Cherokee Nation Slow-Pitch Softball Tournament. Players must have a Certificate Degree of Indian Blood card, although each team may have up to four non-Indian players. “We have a lot of teams coming from all over the United States, giving the area teams competition,” said Neesie Littledave, assistant tournament director. “I encourage everyone to come to the tournament and take part.”

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the rich history of the Cherokee Nation, which spans 169 years, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can in effect help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For a complete list of tournament rules or to enter the tournament contact Neesie Littledave, phone: 918-453-5341 or by email: nlittledave@cherokee.org or George Roach, phone: 918-458-0577 or by email: groach@cherokee.org.