About Us
Our staff & volunteers
Our team of volunteers is made up of a variety of Don's and Donette's from throughout the community. We could not make this possible without their endless hard work and determination to make this the best event possible!
Our history
This is an event that, we in the Kenosha softball community hold very close to our hearts. Our dear friend and lifelong softball player, Steve “Blade” Hess, was taken from us far too soon after a short battle with aggressive pancreatic cancer.
In originally planning this tournament, we pulled together all things that Steve loved - his family, his friends, his community, softball, bags, food, drinks, and helping others. Steve was the type of person that led by example, showing his friends and teammates how to, not only be exemplary on the field, but also to do the same in the field of life. Today, the HESS Memorial Foundation’s purpose is to carry forth his legacy.
We are approaching our 7th annual event, and we are extremely grateful for the way the community continues to come together to support each other!
2026 Mission
This year we have chosen to support a lifelong Kenosha resident Deana("Dee") Smith.
In May 2024, after her annual mammogram, Dee was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in her right breast. Triple-negative breast cancer is an aggressive form and has a higher likelihood of recurrence than other forms of cancer.
On July 1, 2024, Dee underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction. She then completed four rounds of high-dose chemotherapy and "rang the bell" in November 2024. At that time, everything looked good, and her care plan shifted to checkups every six months.
Fast forward to January 2026, Dee began experiencing pain in her right neck and shoulder. An MRI, followed by an ultrasound and multiple biopsies of the lymph node modules, confirmed that the cancer has returned. A full-body PET scan then revealed that it has spread to her lymph nodes, bones and both lungs.
Dee's cancer is not curable, but it is treatable, with the goal of giving her more time. What that time looks like will depend on how the cancer responds to treatment.
Right now, Dee is feeling okay. She has chosen to continue working and living her life to the fullest while she can, spending time with her husband, Kevin, her children, Gavin and Sydnee, and with family and friends.
In Dee's own words: "April , 2026, the day I received the 'not curable' news, marked the first day of the rest of my life. One of the blessings in all of this is that I have a chance to say, 'I love you' and 'I'll see you late.' Not everyone gets that!"
Please join us in our support of Deana in these difficult times!