Former New Orleans Saints fullback Heath Evans is putting on his black-and-gold jersey again – for a good cause.
Evans is hosting his annual charity softball game on Wednesday, May 16 at Zephyr Field in Metairie with more than 30 current Saints players expected to participate.
The third annual Heath Evans Softball Showdown features a fun-filled Home Run Derby at 6:30 p.m. followed by a game with the Saints Offense playing the Saints Defense.
Drew Brees, who in 2011 won the Home Run Derby for the second consecutive year, led the Offense's 25-13 rout of the Defense last year in front of almost 10,000 spectators.
The game is open to the public. Admission is $12 and tickets are available at the Zephyr Field box office in Metairie and on TicketMaster.com.
"Last year's softball game was a huge success thanks to the fans and the Saints players," said Evans, who spent 10 years in the NFL and retired prior to the 2011 season and is currently an analyst for the NFL Network. "Everyone had a lot of fun and this year's game will be even better with some surprises we have planned. It's family-friendly for the fans and we're raising money for a good cause, helping victims of childhood sexual abuse. This is a cause that my wife and I strongly believe in and are passionate about. I really appreciate the fans and my former teammates rallying to help us this epidemic."
After the game, there will be an entertaining fireworks extravaganza produced by AFX Pro of New Orleans, which has also created spectacular displays at the Saints home games, as well as nine Super Bowls and for the NBA's Hornets, Rockets and Thunder.
Proceeds from the game and the raffle will benefit the not-for-profit 501(c)(3) Heath Evans Foundation, which is dedicated to fostering hope and healing in the lives of children and families affected by sexual abuse.
Evans said the foundation provides access to a variety of programs, treatments and services, including free, professional and anonymous counseling in the New Orleans area and in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he grew up.
Title sponsors include Boh Bros. Construction Co., Peba Oil & Gas, First NBC and the Home Run Derby is sponsored by Acme Oyster House, BigEasy Sportsplex and H&R Block. Other major sponsors include AFX Pro of New Orleans, Miken Sports and New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood restaurants.
For information regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact Glenn Martin, President of the Heath Evans Foundation at (561) 876-9317 or by email at glenn.martin@HeathEvans.org.
