The Lakeland Prep High School community will gather on Friday, April 17, for the 3rd Annual Brave Like Brody Baseball Classic, an event dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Brody Townsend. The games will take place on the Lakeland Prep campus, with the junior varsity matchup scheduled for 4:30 p.m., followed immediately by the varsity contest.
While the event features a full evening of baseball, its purpose extends far beyond competition. The annual classic serves as a tribute to Brody Townsend, a former Lakeland Elementary student whose courage and resilience left a lasting impact on the community.
Brody was diagnosed in December 2021 with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. After an arduous seven-month battle, he passed away in July 2022. His strength during that time continues to inspire those who knew him.
Central to that inspiration is Brody’s motto, “Toughen Up,” a phrase that has become a rallying cry for students, families, and supporters. Organizers say the event reflects the spirit of perseverance and unity that defined Brody’s life, encouraging the community to embody what it means to be “Brave Like Brody.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Brave Like Brody Memorial Scholarship, administered through The University of Tennessee Foundation. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a Lakeland student, with the inaugural recipient set to be announced later this month.
Community members are encouraged to attend, wear blue in support, and participate in an evening that blends athletics with remembrance and purpose. Organizers hope the event will continue to grow as both a celebration of Brody’s life and a meaningful way to support future students.
“The Townsend family continues to be humbled and honored by the support from the Lakeland community,” said Nick Townsend, Brody’s father. “Brody loved baseball and Brody loved all things Lakeland, which makes the Brave Like Brody Baseball Classic the perfect way to honor his memory.”
