Twenty-four men’s softball teams will flood Snyder Fields this weekend for the Albert Lea Eagles American Softball Association National Invitiation Tournament.

The tournament will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday.

This is the first time Albert Lea has been able to host the tournament.

Tournament coordinator Matt Dugstad said roughly 4-500 people will be in town for the event.

In addition to softball, there will be a home run derby and a bean bag tournament on Saturday.

The softball sign-up has ended, but sign-up for the derby and bags tournament will run through Saturday morning and is open to the public.

Food will be served at Snyder Fields including hamburgers, hot dogs, walking tacos and pizza.

Following the games Saturday, there will be a dinner at the Eagles Club and a beer bash.

Proceeds from the weekend will be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation and also to Callen Seberson, a friend of the Eagles, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last year.

The following sponsors have donated to the tournament: Albert Lea Eagles Club, Hy-Vee, Innovance, Krieger Beverage and America’s Best Value Inn.

Dugstad said if the weekend goes smoothly, Albert Lea will be able to host again.

He added there are only five tournaments held all year.