The Henryetta Lions Club once again brought the community together over Labor Day weekend for the 6th Annual Jared Been Memorial Cornhole Tournament, a heartfelt tradition honoring the memory of Jared Been, a former Lions Club member. With two days of spirited competition, community fellowship, and fundraising, the event highlighted both friendly rivalry and the shared purpose of giving back.
— A Family Legacy
The tournament was first started in 2020 by Jared and Kerry Been, both devoted members of the Henryetta Lions Club. After Jared’s passing, the Lions Club, his family, and the community have carried the tradition forward each year. Kerry remains an active member along with his wife, Billie Been, and the tournament has grown into a family affair, blending the Been family, the Lions Club family, and the FBI-BWC Cornhole Club, a local Henryetta club that plays a key role in organizing and competing.
— The Work Behind the Scenes While the competition draws the spotlight, the success of the tournament was made possible by Henryetta Lions Club members who spent weeks preparing – knocking on doors, gathering raffle items, and securing sponsorships. Their dedication ensured the event not only honored Jared but also raised vital funds for Lions Club projects that benefit the community. Lions Club members Sherri Crosby, Lindsey McKinney, Ashley Morris, Amber Mordecai, Starla Bush along with others were instrumental in gathering over 40 baskets for the raffle.
This year’s tournament brought in almost $6,000 in sponsorships along with more than $2,000 from raffle donations, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals.
— Saturday – Sponsor Tournament & Community Play Saturday’s sponsor tournament drew strong participation from local businesses, with teams battling it out for bragging rights.
• Sponsor winners were: 1st Place: Larry Hall and Ryan Hall – Gerdau; 2nd Place: Jeff Wolhart and Jason Benavidez – QuickMed; and 3rd Place: Bryson Miller and Collin Lewis – Burnett Furniture The day also featured the Switch Tournament, where players paired with rotating partners.
• Lower Switch Winners: 1st – Jared Bunner and Ghost; 2nd – Jake Walker and Ghost; and 3rd – Sonte Lena and Connie Taylor of Arkansas.
• Upper Switch Winners: 1st – Eric Taylor and Billie Milligan Been; 2nd – Sheri Palmer Freeman and Amber Riddle; and 3rd – John Kerry Been and Travis Truax of Moore.
• The younger players had their moment to shine in the Cubs Classic: 1st – Silas Been; 2nd – Rylee Cantrell and 3rd – Connie Zemlicka.
— Sunday – Memorial Tournament Championships On Sunday, the marquee event – the Henryetta Lions Club Jared Been Memorial Cornhole Tournament – took center stage with two competitive brackets.
• 13.5 Cap Winners: 1st – Brian Foley and Jerry Foley, both of Holdenville; 2nd – Larry Hall and Collin Lewis of Louisiana; and 3rd – Marshall Dillon of Seminole and Dwayne Lowe of Wetumka.
• 15.5 Cap Winners: 1st – Brian Proctor and Eric Taylor; 2nd – Michael Dawkins and Doug King, both of McAlester; 3rd – Felix Lor and Boun Mee Moua, both of Tulsa; 4th – Keith Green and Joe Pinkston of Checotah; and 5th (tie) – Marshall Been and Bryson Miller; Fute Yang and Gavin Ashford, both of Tulsa.
• The tournament also featured Open Singles play: 1st – Gary Bearpaw of Grove; 2nd – Art Brown of Hulbert; and 3rd – Danny Thornton of Bartlesville.
— A Touch of Patriotism
Adding a heartfelt moment to the competition, Jared’s youngest daughter, Avery Been, performed the national anthem both days, her voice echoing the legacy and spirit of her father.
— Community Impact
The 6th Annual Tournament was a true team effort, with Lions Club members, local businesses, and community partners working hand-inhand. Special recognition was given to Henryetta Public Schools and the Oklahoma Cornhole Association for their support in making the event a success.
The Henryetta Lions Club expressed gratitude to everyone who helped keep Jared’s memory alive while supporting meaningful projects that continue to make a difference in the Henryetta community.
