Cats & Dawgs Kirkland Classic
August 1, 2026
KIRKLAND'S BIGGEST DAY IN SPORTS
Every August, the world’s best young female softball players come to Kirkland for the Junior League Softball World Series, one of only eight global Little League World Series events. Kirkland has hosted this event since 1999. As the host, the winner of District 9 represent our community on the world stage – right here at Everest Park.
The Cats & Dawgs Kirkland Classic is the celebration that kicks it all off. On August 1, ten teams from five countries prepare for competition by being spectators first. The 150 players will be honored on-field for the Welcome Rally and ceremonial first pitches in front of thousands of Kirklanders.
Then the real rivalry starts.
Marcus Trufant
Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback. Washington State legend. Team captain of Tru’s Cougs, the Crimson squad. Marcus is a community philanthropist through the Trufant Family Foundation and supporting other organizations who share his mission.
Terry "T-Holla" Hollimon
Co-host of The Barbershop Show and beloved UW media icon. Terry brings the energy, the crowd, and the Purple. He never lets Crimson have the last word.
" Everything I do outside of football comes back to creating opportunities for young people to believe in themselves, and that especially matters when it comes to young women in sports. As a father of four daughters, this is personal for me. The Cats & Dawgs Kirkland Classic is more than a community event, it's a chance to show these young athletes from around the world that their work, commitment, and love for the game matter. Marcus Trufant Former Seattle Seahawk
" These are the best young female athletes on the planet, and they deserve a world-class stage. That's exactly what we're building with the Cats & Dawgs Kirkland Classic — a celebration that puts them front and center, raises real money and awareness for this tournament, and yes, settles the Cougs-Huskies debate once and for all. The fans make this thing. When I look up in those stands and see Kirkland showing out — families, kids, die-hard Husky fans, even a few misguided Coug fans — that's when I know we've built something special. Don't sleep on us. Holla's Huskies are bringing the energy, and we're bringing the W. Terry "Terry Hollimon Former Husky Player
Proud Sponsors
This event is made possible by the businesses and organizations that show up for Kirkland’s girls.
From the Field
Become a Sponsor
Put your brand on the field alongside some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved athletes. Sponsorships start at $500.
Built for Kirkland