MLB Star, SMC Alum Orlando Hudson Presents the Third Annual C.A.T.C.H. Weekend Extravaganza

DARLINGTON, SC – San Diego Padre and Spartanburg Methodist College Pioneers alum Orlando Hudson will host his annual charity weekend to benefit his C.A.T.C.H. Foundation. This will be the third year that Orlando hosts these fun and exciting events during MLK Weekend, to create awareness and generate funds for youth and families coping with Autism.

The C.A.T.C.H. Foundation was founded by Orlando Hudson, an 8 year MLB veteran, All Star and 4 times Gold Glove Recipient. The 501c3 non-profit foundation is headquartered in Darlington, SC, and takes pride in its continued commitment to provide resources and a support system for youth coping with Autism in his home state of South Carolina.

The C.A.T.C.H. Weekend will be fun for the entire family and will feature a charity basketball game at Hudson's former high school, Darlington High, with the areas legendary athletes playing and celebrity coaches. The weekend will also include a charity bowling fundraiser at Southgate Bowling Center.  "We're excited to have tremendous support from the community, and the number of families we get to assist throughout the year because of this weekend," said Hudson.

Hudson, a 1998 graduate of SMC, recently signed a two-year, $11.5 million contract with the San Diego Padres on Dec. 20, 2010.

Hudson played on the Minnesota Twins' 2010 roster, hitting .268 with six home runs and 37 RBIs. He was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 43rd round of the 1997 draft.

C.A.T.C.H. WEEKEND EVENTS:

STRIKE OUT! AUTISM BOWLING FUNDRAISER – Saturday, January 15th, 7pm at Southgate Bowling Center in Florence, SC, Lane Sponsorship is $500 for up to 6 bowlers, includes food, beverages, logo placement, autographed memorabilia and photograph. This event is open to the public; attendees can pay $20 to bowl and $10 to spectate.

CROSSOVER BASKETBALL GAME– Sunday, January 16th, begins at 3:00 pm at Darlington High School in Darlington, SC.  Attendees will be wowed by a National Anthem performance and an action packed basketball game played by Darlington and Florence basketball veterans. Two celebrity coaches will lead the teams and the half-time show is sure to pump up the crowd. Admission: $5/adults and $3/children (12 and under).

Orlando Hudson is committed to making a difference and providing the tools for youth and families coping with Autism to move forward.  Hudson created the C.A.T.C.H. (Curing Autism through Change and Hope) Foundation, to be an active volunteer for organizations which promote autism research advancement, information and resources for the cause.

For more information about the C.A.T.C.H. charity weekend, please visit www.orlandohudson1.com or email events@orlandohudson1.com.   

Media Contact:  
Tabitha Grant, Insights Marketing
404.872.9899 or tg@insights-mpc.com