Dozens participate in 3rd Annual DYS Strike Out Child Abuse Softball Tournament

The community came out in full force to strike out child abuse in the 3rd Annual DYS Strike Out Child Abuse Softball Tournament at the Capital Hill Softball Field from Mar. 9-13.

Despite the rain throughout the week, a champion was crowned on the final day—Team Bridge Capital after beating Team Blue Jays in the last game, 22-20. The Blue Jays beat the undefeated Bridge Capital, 23-14, in their fast match up, which forced the final game. Third place went to Team Warriors.

Mariah Barcinas from the Child Protective Services under the Division of Youth Services said that since the first event in 2024, it has grown so much. “We are so, so proud of this initiative that we started back then. The reason for that is to continue to spread awareness of child abuse and neglect herre in the CNMI.”

With the rainy weather throughout the week, Barcinas said that the teams and players all came out and brought positive vibes. “They were down to play in the mud and all of that—it was really nice. And, we all remembered the cause which is to strike out child abuse here in the CNMI.”

On how the tournament went, she said that the first night on Mar. 9 was really “lit. We had a minimum of 150 people every night show up and we are just so, so proud of that because it shows us that our community cares. Shout out to Ben Ki and Island Grindz as well, they were our vendors for this year, our partner agencies, and everybody for making this event possible.”

She then thanked everyone for giving them the opportunity to serve the community, protect the children, and serve families. “We want to continue to encourage everyone to call us. Call us when you need help, call us when you need us—we got you.”

This year, there were 11 teams that participated.