Nashville’s Folds of Honor match funds military scholarships

Country stars brought plenty of energy to the softball field, despite the humid summer heat, for the sixth annual Folds of Honor Rock ‘N Jock Celebrity Softball Game.

The event at First Horizon Park brought together artists, comedians, influencers and fans for a night of friendly competition benefiting Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.

For Robbie Goldsmith, president of Folds of Honor Tennessee, the event’s growth has been remarkable.

“Year one, I think we sold 1,800 tickets,” he said, gesturing to a stadium that seats roughly 8,500 people. “To see this completely sold out and everyone in red, white and blue, patriotic, it’s a dream, honestly, for us.”

Last year’s game raised more than $670,000, and organizers hope the event will eventually become a million-dollar fundraiser for the organization. Local celebrities like comedian Danae Hays and former NFL quarterback Jay Cutler took the field.

“Anytime something is benefiting the families of those men and women, bet your ***, I’ll be there,” said country music singer Parker McCollum.

“I love giving back to the people that give back to this country,” said Rob Rausch, star of “Love Island” and “The Traitors.”

Country music singer Zach Top, who returned for his second year at the event, said he was honored to be included and planned to keep coming back “as long as they invite me.”

Country singer Priscilla Block, known for her penchant for Southern rock, said supporting the cause was an opportunity for artists to make a difference away from the stage.

Country-pop singer Cooper Alan echoed the sentiment.

“Veterans and the military should be celebrated every single day,” he said. “It should be honored every single day.”

Bryan West is a music reporter at The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.