Band of Brothers: Arizona’s Softball League Kicks Off Exciting New Season

A veterans-based softball league is set to kick off its season on Friday in Lake Havasu City. The Echo Group Band of Brothers, established more than a decade ago in California, focuses on suicide prevention among veterans. Recently, Stacy Lee, a Desert Storm veteran, joined the nonprofit’s leadership; she now serves as Arizona’s chapter president after being named co-president earlier.

Friday’s event will feature the league’s annual opening game, a chance for players to connect with teammates and engage with the community. This season has seen around 70 players register, building on the inaugural season that welcomed numerous local supporters last fall.

Lee highlighted the significance of the opening game, stating, “It’s more of a showcase for our community.” As part of the ceremony, league members will participate in a color guard presentation, and Tenille Werner from Kevin Jackson and the Midnight Sun Band will perform the national anthem. Players will also receive their jerseys, a reward for their commitment to community service.

To promote camaraderie, complimentary hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Proceeds from merchandise sales and donations will help fund future seasons, with games scheduled to follow the opening ceremonies.

Lee explained that players earn their jerseys by actively participating in community service projects. This past summer, members contributed to their first lake cleanups. Such initiatives provide veterans with a sense of purpose, contributing to the organization’s mission to prevent suicide, a goal maintained since 2013.

The league typically spans ten weeks, with breaks in between. Lee noted that “We have approximately three seasons per year,” with plans for community service events during the summer hiatus from mid-June through September.

Following the opening game, regular gameplay will transition to Rotary Park Field 3, though adjustments may be necessary depending on the park’s field seeding schedule. If conflicts arise, games will remain at SARA Park.

Gameplay is slated for Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m., with Friday’s opening ceremony commencing at 6:30 p.m. The entire event will conclude around 8:30 p.m. at SARA Park Field 3, located off Dub Campbell Parkway.

For more details or to register, interested parties can reach out to Outreach Coordinator Katie Martine at 928-230-7500 or visit the organization’s Facebook page at facebook.com/EchoVetsArizona.