It’s been two years since his passing, but Ryan Teixeira’s name and legacy continues to live on through his non-profit, 17 Strong. But now, another local organization has formed to further serve and provide for Ryan’s greatest passions.
Friends of Ryan Teixeira (FORT) was created by a group of Ryan’s lifelong Arroyo Grande buddies and teammates a year and a half ago.
This weekend at the Pismo Beach Sports Complex, FORT is hosting its inaugural FORT Baseball Classic with all proceeds to be used for future community events.
The two-day tournament will consist of 16 teams from the Central Coast and Bakersfield that are split up into three divisions – 10U, 11U, and 12U.
FORT president Tyler Auerbach is excited to bring the community together for the organization’s first big event.
“This tournament is huge for FORT because it’s kind of a kickoff for us to be able to get out there and involved in the Central Coast,” Auerbach said. “You know, Ryan was so passionate about baseball growing up and this is his backyard. He grew up here, we met him on these fields, so it’s a great opportunity for us to be able to bring the community together.”
The tournament will run Saturday and Sunday from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M. For more information, visit FORT on the web.