New York Giants, Brian Burns Host Celebrity Softball Game To Raise Awareness For Autism

Short N Sweet Ent

Photo Credit: quincy_media

The 2026 NFL season is fast approaching, but before the New York Giants players officially hit the field, they are doing what matters the most: giving back.  

On Saturday, May 30^th, hundreds of fans poured into Clover Stadium in Pomona, New York, to attend New York Giants linebacker, Brian Burns Celebrity Softball Game.   

Over 100 former and current players came together and raised over $100k for the Hype 4 Life Foundation & Brian Burns Family Charities. Brian Burns and his brother Stanley McClover, a former NFL player, co-founded the Hype 4 Life Foundation and, as a non-profit organization, they are focused and dedicated to bringing awareness and donating to families and friends who are impacted by Autism. This is personal for Burns and his family. His nephew, Champ, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at a young age, and since then, Burns has done everything to help. “Today means a lot to me. We still have more guys coming through. To have fans come out and embrace this movement means a ton. Being there for my family, providing information, and finding the necessary resources to help means everything to me, Burns stated.  

Powered by ISO Unlimited, co-founders Amanda Shinn, Brian Nealon, and Jackie Nunes created one of the best offseason events that will be talked about for a lifetime. The day was filled with competition, entertainment, autographs, and photo opportunities. The tournament consisted of three sections: a dodgeball game, a home run derby, and ended in a thrilling softball game. In attendance were Jameis Winston, Jaxson Dart, Malik Nabers, Cameron Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr, Colton Hood, Francis Mauigoa, Jonathan Casillas, Kevin Boss, Hakeem Nicks, Darius Slayton, and many more.   

In an interview with the host Brandon London, Malik Nabers stated, “It feels good, you know, to see the former players come out to support the guys that are here. It’s good that Burns is doing this for the community to get a lot of guys out here to see us. We have the kids involved, and we are supporting my guy Brian, and that’s the best thing that we can do”.

In an interview with Chase Couburn, a sports announcer, Jaxson Dart expressed what this event meant to him. “It’s special to see the fans support and being out here for Burns and the whole organization. You don’t get this everywhere, and today is special”.

Photo Credit: royallensmedia

Dart was right when he said that the day was special because it was exactly that. Dj Wallah was on the 1’s and 2’s spinning the best records that are out today while keeping the energy up from start to finish. New Jersey’s own emerging young artist, Dom Innarella, sang the National Anthem and set the tone off right before the players started the softball game. This was a community event for the people, and the support was felt throughout. Vendors lined the stadium with merchandise and customized treats that allowed fans to feel more connected to their favorite players.

The second the players touched home base the energy was unmatched. They stepped to the plate, hoping to get all home runs, but quickly was met with an unexpected level of competition. Courtney Wyche, a New York Rise Softball Pitcher, nearly struck out all the players and had an interview with on-air talent, Bianca Peart. She spoke about her 1^st experience pitching against Giants players and stated, “It was my first time playing against any grown men, and I have a lot of respect for them being professional football players. It’s amazing. I was a little nervous in the beginning, but once I got settled in, it’s just another game. I did my job”.

 Photo Credit: royallensmedia

When Odell Beckham Jr. stepped on the field, the crowd went crazy with love and support. Brandon London caught up with him, and Odell expressed what it meant to be back with the guys. “It feels great, you know it’s a place I never wanted to leave, and it’s a special place in my heart. I’m happy just to see all these Big Blue Jerseys. I have relied on my faith, and I am hoping for the best”. On Monday, June 1^st, the Giants signed Odell, and it’s officially a Welcome Back Home season.

At the end of the evening, the players got the swing of things and started having fun and truly enjoying themselves. Cam Skattebo hit a major home run and of course, had one of the best celebratory dances, and ended it with a bold backflip. Both Jameis Winston and Malik Nabers also turned it up a notch with their victory dances but all in all, the camaraderie and brotherhood is what this season is going to be about. 

These players are FAMILY, and if you missed out, don’t worry because you can always catch them on the field. Their first game is September 13^th, against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium.

The New York Giants fans are excited for this season, but I am more excited to see how much they give back to the causes that matter the most.

Written By: Shauntay Hallett

Until Next Post... Coach Tay