News Summary

Chandler is set to host the fourth annual Team Emery Classic, a charity baseball tournament dedicated to raising funds for critically ill children. From September 11-14, the event will not only feature local high school teams but also community activities and a fanfest. Proceeds will support families like Jake Romaine, a leukemia survivor, and baseball coach Oscar Romero, who is battling liver cancer. Join the spirit of compassion and community while enjoying exciting baseball games.

Chandler Prepares for Heartwarming Charity Tournament for Critically Ill Children

Get ready, Chandler! The countdown is on for the fourth annual Team Emery Classic, a spectacular charity event set to take place from September 11-14 at the renowned Tempe Diablo Stadium. This isn’t your average baseball tournament; it’s a heartfelt mission born from a beautiful cause that’s made a remarkable impact in our community.

From a Kind Heart to a Lifesaving Mission

The brainchild behind this noble effort is none other than Emery Miller, a Chandler native who started her charity while she was just in fifth grade. She has dedicated her life to collecting and distributing teddy bears to children battling chronic illnesses. Miller’s journey began with a simple desire to bring a smile to those in need and has blossomed into a full-fledged nonprofit organization, Team Emery.

Over the years, this compassionate initiative has raised more than $150,000 and distributed an astonishing 95,200 teddy bears to families with critically ill children, proving that even a small act of kindness can carry a mighty impact.

A Tournament with a Purpose

The Team Emery Classic is not just about sports; it’s about making a real difference. This year, half of the proceeds from the tournament will benefit the family of Jake Romaine, a former Desert Vista baseball star who has been courageously battling leukemia. Although he triumphantly went into remission in March 2023, his cancer returned this past July, making the need for support even more critical.

The other half of the funds raised will go directly to Oscar Romero, a 50-year-old baseball coach who is fighting his own battle against non-alcoholic liver cancer. Both stories exemplify the strength and resilience of individuals facing monumental challenges.

A Chance to Enjoy Baseball and Community

Expect a jam-packed schedule of events at the Team Emery Classic, with games kicking off at 2:30 p.m. on September 11 and running throughout the day on September 12-14. Tickets are an affordable $10 per person, making it easy for everyone in the community to participate and enjoy the games. Baseball teams from local high schools—including Mesa Public Schools, Scottsdale Unified, Gilbert Public Schools, Tempe Union, Higley Unified, and Chandler Unified—will compete for glory while also rallying support for noble causes.

Mark your calendars for the big Fanfest, which is set to take place from 6-9 p.m. on September 13. This lively gathering promises to be a highlight of the event, featuring music, delicious food trucks, fun-filled games, and exciting raffles. Attendees can also participate in a silent auction featuring coveted sports memorabilia, including a bat donated by Gabby Moreno and a jersey from Brock Purdy, the 49ers quarterback.

Community Spirit Shining Bright

The Team Emery Classic isn’t just a tournament—it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of combining sports with compassion. Emery Miller’s own experience growing up with a congenital heart condition inspired her to create an event that teaches young athletes to play for something greater than themselves.

Both Jake Romaine and Oscar Romero have moved the hearts of many, demonstrating the importance of community support and resilience in the face of adversity. As the tournament approaches, community members are encouraged to come together, raise awareness for critically ill children, and have a blast enjoying the competitive spirit of high school baseball.

So gather your friends and family, and get ready to cheer on these talented young athletes while supporting a fantastic cause. The Team Emery Classic is more than just baseball; it’s an uplifting event that will surely leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.

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