Hopkinsville Hosts Inaugural Blitzball Tournament

Community event brings together players of all ages for fast-paced fun and fundraising.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The first-ever Blitzball Tournament took place this weekend at the Planters Bank-Jennie Stuart Health Sportsplex in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. The event brought together players of all ages to compete in the new fast-paced sport, while also serving as a community fundraiser organized by the Hoptown Hoppers baseball organization.

Why it matters

The Blitzball tournament was an opportunity for the Hopkinsville community to come together around a new sporting event, while also supporting the Hoptown Hoppers' efforts to host youth players during the summer baseball season. The event aimed to create lasting relationships and provide a fun, challenging activity for participants.

The details

Ten teams competed in the inaugural Blitzball tournament, including a squad from United Southern Bank. The new sport combines elements of basketball and football, offering a fast-paced and physical gameplay experience. Organizers say the first tournament was smaller than hoped, but they are optimistic about future events.

  • The first-ever Blitzball Tournament took place this past weekend (March 1, 2026).

The players

Charlie Henderson

Board member and former president of the Hoptown Hoppers organization.

Travis Martin

President of the Hoptown Hoppers.

Amy Jones

Player on the United Southern Bank team.

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What they’re saying

“Blitzball combines elements of basketball and football, offering a fast-paced and physical gameplay experience.”

— Charlie Henderson, Board member and former president of the Hoptown Hoppers (wkdzradio.com)

“The Blitzball tournament was both a fundraiser and a way to bring the community together.”

— Travis Martin, President of the Hoptown Hoppers (wkdzradio.com)

“The game offered both a challenge and a chance to enjoy a classic pastime in a new way.”

— Amy Jones, Player on the United Southern Bank team (wkdzradio.com)

What’s next

Organizers say they are optimistic about hosting future Blitzball tournaments in Hopkinsville, with plans to expand the event and attract more participants.

The takeaway

The inaugural Blitzball tournament in Hopkinsville demonstrated the community's enthusiasm for new sporting events that bring people together, while also supporting local youth programs and creating lasting relationships.