Winter Baseball Classic in Topsham to Help Maine’s Homeless Veterans

There's no crying in baseball, and usually not wool-lined jeans!

Maine is known for its brutal winters that can be blistering cold. This winter has been a bit of a pass, but still not the weather for baseball. Or is it?  This is the only game that does not have a rain date because neither do the homeless.

February 18 will be the 9th annual Winter Classic Softball charity event. They are trying to raise 15,000 dollars to fight Veteran homelessness here in Maine. Last year they almost hit that goal well surpassing their 2022 goal of $10,000.  At any given time there are between 80 to 120 homeless Veterans living in Maine. This is shameful. The Corey E Garver American Legion Post 202 in Topsham, has and will continue to make a huge positive impact on Maine's heroes.

100% of the funds raised go directly to helping Veterans. So any cost associated with putting the tournament on is donated. Including the free hot chocolate and hot apple cider to keep you warm!

Because this is baseball in the winter, it's an abbreviated version of softball with a double-elimination tournament style. American Legion posts, churches, actual softball teams, and others have gotten involved! The games are 6 innings each and the batter steps up to the plate with 2 strikes so that all the teams can play. Plus it's February and most are helping out, not professional players! The first game starts at 9 am at Legion Post 202, 79 Foreside Road in Topsham.

The winner of the tournament does get a trophy at the end of the day. And the cost of the trophy, balls, spray paint, or anything else needed does not come out of the money raised. 100% of the money raised is donated towards homeless Veterans. Each team donates $200 towards the event. Once you play, you'll want to every year!