Softball Tournament Honors Fallen Hero

The Southern Biscuits won last year’s Sgt. Cory Maynard Memorial Scholarship Tournament held at Ted Ellis Field in Chapmanville. This year, 14 teams will compete on August 10th for the championship title.

LOGAN COUNTY, WV. – In Logan County, West Virginia, the valorous legacy of State Police Sgt. Cory Maynard, who tragically fell in the line of duty in Mingo County on June 2nd, 2023, remains a beacon of honor and remembrance within the community.

More than a year after his untimely demise, efforts to immortalize Sgt. Maynard’s legacy has only gained momentum. A poignant example of this is the establishment of a memorial scholarship in his honor by Southern WV Community & Technical College, aimed at supporting first responders and their immediate families.

The Cory Maynard Memorial Scholarship Tournament, which debuted last year, is making a return this year at Chapmanville’s Ted Ellis Baseball Field on Saturday, August 10, from 9 am to 9 pm. This year’s tournament has seen an expansion, now featuring 14 teams competing not only for the championship title but also for a unique set of championship rings for each team member.

The enduring goal of this event is to celebrate Sgt. Maynard’s memory and contribution to a noble cause by generating funds for the scholarship that bears his name. Crystal Cook, the Development Coordinator at Southern, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community and law enforcement. “Every story that is shared about Cory paints the picture of a man of exceptional character, making this cause deeply personal for many,” she said.

During the event, Sgt. Maynard’s legacy will be further honored as his daughter, Zoe presents the scholarships, and his son, Finn, has the privilege of throwing the first pitch.

Sgt. Jamie Harris, the commander of the Logan WVSP detachment and a dear friend of Maynard, highlights the event as an opportunity not just for remembrance but for community engagement and enjoyment in the spirit of a much-loved public servant. “This event is a special occasion for us to collectively remember Cory, share in joy, and contribute to a cause that’s close to our hearts,” Harris commented.

With a nominal admission fee of $5 for individuals or $15 for families, participants can expect a day full of competitive spirit and camaraderie. Attendees will also find police cruisers, food trucks pledging 20% of their profits to the scholarship fund, and custom T-shirts for sale.

Under the guidance of Crystal Cook and her goal of reaching a $50,000 fundraising milestone to sustain Sgt. Maynard’s enduring legacy through educational opportunities for aspiring law enforcement officers, the community is close, with only $17,000 remaining to meet this target.

The event organizers are also ensuring a comfortable experience for attendees by providing cooling stations (courtesy of United Rentals and Blackhawk Mining), ample parking, and shuttle services.

This heartfelt initiative not only pays homage to Sgt. Maynard’s ultimate sacrifice also fosters a sense of solidarity and backing within the community, a true testament to the enduring influence of his service and commitment.