Stephanie’s Tournament – Softball tournament honoring local teen brings out-of-state competition to Lander

August 5, 2025

CLC02971 — Team T2R, made up of softball players from all over Wyoming held up a championship sweater, that has a photo of Stephanie Bearstail printed on the back, after their tournament win Sunday night. The tournament was held in honor of Stephanie Bearstail, a beloved local softball player who tragically died last Winter, as her family and friends continue to seek justice. h/t Carl Cote, County 10

(Lander, WY) – A softball tournament was held in Lander last weekend in honor of Stephanie Bearstail, a local teen and softball player whose tragic passing back in March has led family members to continue to seek justice for her death and raise awareness for the cause. With contributors from all over Fremont County, Steph’s aunt Allison Quiver Warren organized the tournament with Brenda Balderston, bringing 10 teams from Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming.

A player rounded first on his way to a double Sunday in Lander at the first annual Stephanie’s Tournament. 10 teams traveled to play from Montana, Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming in honor of Stephanie. h/t Carl Cote, County 10

Stephanie’s mother and father, Nikki Day Ferris and Kevin Ferris, were both in attendance for the tournament on Sunday. Day Ferris expressed her thanks for the community showing support for her daughter.

“Steph was really excited to play adult softball,” Day Ferris shared. “What better way to celebrate her than to play a tournament for her… She had such a strong spirit.”

Money raised by team entry fees and concessions were donated to the family of Bearstail, who are still seeking justice for their daughter. Anyone with information about Stephanie’s case is encouraged to call the anonymous tip line at 307-335-7559.

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Players from the Playmakers and T2R gave hugs and high fives after T2R emerged victorious in the championship game of the first annual Stephanie’s Tournament in Lander. h/t Carl Cote, County 10

Organizer Allison Quiver Warren would like to thank Brenda Balderston for dreaming up the tournament and donating $750 and her time to the family. She wanted to thank Pauline Warren, Katherine Warren, Sonya Warren, Taryn Howell, Anna Miller, and their helpers for cooking and serving at the tournament.

Brenda Balderston added that she would like to give special thanks to Aaron Oldman, Mike Aurand, and Tam Myers for playing umpire, and to her daughters, Kyleigh, Kindree, and Charlee Balderston. She also wanted to extend a “big thanks” to Ryan Bell and Skyler Dixie for designing the championship hoodie and for donating six all-star prizes.