Taylor Atteberry, daughter of the late Joshua Atteberry, steals third base after an overthrown ball to second during the Joshua Atteberry Memorial Family Softball Tournament in 2025. Trevor Horn is pictured in the background. Photo by Seti Long

BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Family, friends and community members will gather in Biggs on Saturday, July 11, for the 21st annual Joshua Atteberry Memorial Family Softball Tournament, a longtime tradition that celebrates the life of Joshua Atteberry while raising money for scholarships and community programs.

The event will begin at 9 a.m. when players assemble and teams are selected "sand lot style," with games to follow. Organizers encourage people of all ages to participate, from preschoolers to grandparents, continuing the family-centered softball gatherings that Joshua enjoyed throughout his life.

The tournament benefits the Joshua Atteberry Memorial Fund, which has provided scholarships for Biggs High School graduates since 2003 and, more recently, scholarships for Butte College welding students. The fund also supports Vacation Bible School at Biggs United Methodist Church, the Biggs Elementary School Chess Club and the Gridley High School Band.

Over the years, the tournament has become known as much for its spirit of fun as for its competition. Special rules help ensure that younger participants can enjoy the day. Young children are never called out, and organizers encourage players to focus on fun, sportsmanship and family participation rather than winning.

Adults are invited to participate with a suggested donation of $15 per player, while children younger than 18 may play free of charge. Organizers note that donations are appreciated but not required, emphasizing that participation and community involvement are more important than fundraising totals.

In addition to the softball games, the event traditionally includes raffle opportunities, volunteer support and community fellowship throughout the day.

The memorial tournament was established in honor of Joshua Atteberry, whose love of softball and time spent with family and friends inspired the annual gathering. Organizers say the event continues to serve as a way to celebrate his memory while investing in future generations through scholarships and local youth programs.

The Joshua Atteberry Memorial Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible. Organizers invite the community to join them for a day of softball, remembrance and support for local students and organizations.

For more information, visit the Joshua Atteberry Memorial Family Softball Tournament page on Facebook.