Hundreds support Kearney Little League at regional tournament fundraiser

KEARNEY, NE — Kearney Little League families are feeling better about the financial side of the team’s postseason journey after a fundraiser on Monday.

Hundreds turned out for a barbecue, raffle and silent auction in the Hilltop Mall parking lot. The patrons were supporting the state champion 12 and under team, which is preparing to head to the regional tournament in Indiana. Manager Dane Tobey says the donations will help with travel costs for players and families.

“Whether it be $20 or $50 or $100, just to see that money roll in in support of, not only these players, but their families," Tobey said. "What these players are about to experience is pretty special and so the importance of having their family members there to experience that with them is incredible.”

The team has also been collecting donations through Venmo with the account @kearneymajors. If Kearney Little League wins the eight-team regional in Whitestown, Indiana, it qualifies for the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

The tournament starts on Friday.