Quinnipiac University
Yale University
QU Softball to Play Annual Chris's Game Against Yale on Wednesday
4/11/2017 10:43:00 PM | Softball
HAMDEN, Conn. - The QU softball team will be playing in the second annual Chris's Game against Yale on Wednesday, April 12 at 4 p.m. at Dewitt Family Field in New Haven.
The game was originally scheduled to be a doubleheader, but due to impending weather, it was changed to just one game.
This is the second year where Quinnipiac will be taking on Yale in Chris's Game, as the Bobcats will honor the memory of Chris Labbadia. On Jan. 16, 2016, assistant coach Lynn Labbadia's 19 year old son was tragically killed in a car accident. At the time, Brittney Labbadia was a senior softball player at Yale. Both programs were impacted by his untimely death.
"Every year, we are hoping keep Chris's memory and life alive by recognizing his spirit, love for life, loyalty and laughter," Quinnipiac softball head coach Jill Karwoski said. "We will have a moment of silence and a few words spoken by Rocco to those in attendance."
"It is a tremendous feeling to know that Chris's Game is a day that not only helps to remember Chris and all that he was, but it also gives us a great opportunity to thank the Yale and Quinnipiac Softball organizations for how much they care," Rocco Labbadia said. "They are our extended families and have been a wonderful support in a time when we all need it the most. We miss Chris everyday and when there is a chance to smile, laugh and enjoy each other's company - well, he would be happy to know that we are doing just that."
Chris passed away in a single-car accident not far from his home, as he was returning home from returning a wallet to a friend in another town that left it behind. He lost his life after engaging in one final act of kindness, and his family asks supporters to give acts of kindness to others to honor Chris.
"We have encouraged all that we know to dedicate 2017 as a year to do something good for someone by taking the #ChrisCaresChallenge," Rocco added. "One act of kindness, random or not, can make a difference. Please take the challenge, post it like so many others have and then pass it on by challenging 3 more friends to do the same. We can make the world a better place... one small act of kindness at a time."
First pitch at Chris's Game is set for 4 p.m. at Hewitt Family Field in New Haven.
