• Stories by Subject
  • Stories by State
  • COMMENTS/SUGGESTIONS

Fireflies Announce Third Annual Mason’s Jingle Jog 5K

November 17, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – Today the Columbia Fireflies announced details for third annual Mason’s Jingle Jog which will take place Saturday, December 17 at Segra Park. Registration for the festive holiday run is now open. Runners will begin the race inside Segra Park at 8am, running through the flourishing BullStreet District and finishing the race on-field after running through some Fireflies Holiday Light displays. Gates and day-of registration will open at 7:30 am.

Fans can register for the race through Strictly Running online here. The registration fee for the race is $55 and includes entry to the race, a bib, a long-sleeve dry-fit shirt and new for 2022, a ticket to the Fireflies 2023 Opening Night Game on Thursday, April 6 vs the Augusta GreenJackets. After registering, runners can pick up their bibs at Strictly Running Friday, December 16.

“This 5K around the ballpark is a fantastic way to showcase all the incredible progress around the BullStreet District that has taken place since our season ended in September,” Team President Brad Shank said. “It’s also a nice way to allow the community to get out and together right before the holidays to exercise and win some great prizes.”

This year, the age brackets for the event have been updated to 19-and-under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60+. The top two male and female finishers in each age bracket will earn a prize, with the top overall female and male racer winning a grand prize of two seven-game ticket packages for the 2023 Fireflies season.

For more information on holiday events at Segra Park, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com. Fireflies Holiday Lights is the Midlands’ newest holiday tradition, featuring over one million Christmas lights, as well as great activities and festive food for the whole family at Segra Park. Learn more about the lights at FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Kansas City Royals, Promoting Health/Fitness, South Carolina { }

Fireflies Announce Holiday Lights Community Initiative 

November 10, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will host Six Weeks of Giving during Fireflies Holiday Lights. Six Weeks of Giving is a series of holiday drives benefitting six local community organizations. Each organization will host a week-long drive that guests can support by bringing donation items with them to Fireflies Holiday Lights to help aid those in need this holiday season. For the inaugural Six Weeks of Giving, the Fireflies have partnered with Toys for Tots, Oliver Gospel Mission, Epworth Children’s Home, Harvest Hope, Edventure and Pawmetto Lifeline.

“Christmas and the holidays are a season of giving, and we wanted to make sure that we kick off the Fireflies Holiday Lights tradition with a way for our community to give back to those in need,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “Our team always wants to serve our community in everything that we do, and we are excited to partner with these six great organizations to provide an opportunity for our guests to be able to give while they are out enjoying this amazing light show.”

The schedule for the drives is as follows:

  • November 21-27: Toy drive benefitting Toys for Tots
  • November 28-December 4: Clothing drive benefitting Oliver Gospel Mission
  • December 5-11: Cleaning supplies drive benefitting Epworth Children’s Home
  • December 12-18: Canned food drive benefitting Harvest Hope
  • December 19-24: Book drive benefitting Edventure Children’s Museum
  • December 26-31: Pet food drive benefitting Pet Soup from Pawmetto Lifeline

Detailed lists of items needed for each drive can be found on Fireflies social media channels and on FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Holiday Lights attendees can also expect to hear bells ringing as they approach Segra Park every evening as the Fireflies have partnered with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign to be a kettle host site during all 42 nights of lights this holiday season.

Fireflies Holiday Lights starts at Segra Park November 19 and run through December 31. The lights will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tickets for all 42 nights of lights are on sale now. For tickets or more information about the event, including ticket pricing and promotions, visit FirefliesHolidayLights.com.

Tagged as : Animal Shelters/Rescue, Book Drives, Carolina League, Children's Health and Development, Columbia Fireflies, Faith-Based Organizations, Food Banks, Food Insecurity, Kansas City Royals, Shelters/Housing, South Carolina, Supporting the Community, Toy/Clothing Drives, Toys for Tots { }

Mason’s Monster Mash Returns to Segra Park October 27

October 5, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will be hosting the second annual Mason’s Monster Mash at Segra Park Thursday, October 27 from 6-8 pm. Mason’s Monster Mash will utilize Segra Park’s outdoor concourse to allow kids to trick-or-treat around the ballpark with family and friends.

In addition to trick-or-treating, there will be crafts for children, a limited concessions menu will be sold including alcoholic beverages for parents, some inflatables from the SCU Kids Zone will be open and Mason will be in costume to take pictures with trick-or-treaters.

General Admission tickets for the event are available for $5 and children two and under can enter for free. Tickets are now available to purchase online here. This event will follow Segra Park’s cashless policy. Mason’s Monster Mash sold out in its inaugural year at 500 attendees and the event is expected to sell out again this year.

Chris Lane comes to Segra Park Saturday for the Big Red Barn Retreat Fall Jam sponsored by Sonic Drive-In. Tickets start at $25. Fans can purchase tickets for the concert here. For more information about events at Segra Park, please visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Children's Health and Development, Columbia Fireflies, Family Relief/Resources, Kansas City Royals, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Carolina { }

Fireflies to Host Skills Camp at Segra Park in August

July 5, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that the team will host a three-day Summer Skills Camp at Segra Park August 4-6 from 9 am-12 pm each day. The camp will be run by Fireflies players and coaches, so children can receive the top instruction available in the Midlands for the camp and is open to register for children age 6-14.

The camp will cost $100, but members of the Fireflies Kids Club will be able to register for $80. The cost includes nine hours of close instruction from Fireflies coaches and players, a lunch provided each of the three days of the camp and a ticket for each participant for the August 6 game vs the Charleston RiverDogs at Segra Park, which will have a fireworks show following the game. Participants will also receive a form to purchase more tickets if they would like to.

Registration for the camp will begin at 8:30 am each day and the instruction will begin promptly at 9 am and go until noon when lunch will be served. No cleats are allowed and camp participants must bring their own bat, helmet and glove to the camp each day.

To register for the camp, you can fill out this form or call Aydan Fields. For any additional questions or information about the camp, please reach out to Aydan Fields via phone at 803-888-3014 or email at [email protected].

Tagged as : Baseball Camps/Instruction, Carolina League, Children's Health and Development, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, Youth Sports { }

Fireflies Searching for Military Heroes to Recognize In-Game

June 13, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Nominate an Active Duty, Reserves or Veteran to be honored July 7

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies are looking for eight local military heroes to honor in-game as the Heroes of the Inning for Military Appreciation Night July 7 at Segra Park at 7:05 pm. Any current or former member of any branch of the military can qualify to be honored.

Fans can submit their nominations online here. Those selected as “Heroes of the Inning” will be contacted directly by a Fireflies representative. Honorees chosen will be given two reserved tickets to the July 7 game vs the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Submissions are due by Monday, June 27.

The Fireflies are home until June 19 playing the Carolina Mudcats (Class-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The homestand includes a Budweiser Thirsty Thursday and the return of Negro League Weekend. We’ll have appearances from former Negro Leaguer Russell “Crazy Legs” Patterson and Josh Gibson’s Great-Grandson along with a fireworks show and a t-shirt giveaway to help celebrate those who played in the Negro Leagues. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, Military & Veterans, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Carolina, Ticket Donations { }

Fireflies Searching for First Responder Heroes to Recognize In-Game

June 1, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies are looking for eight local First Responders to honor in-game as the Heroes of the Inning on First Responders Night June 16 at Segra Park at 7:05 pm. A First Responder qualifies as any firefighter, law enforcement officer, paramedic, emergency medical technician or any other professional who responds to fire, medical, hazardous material or other similar emergencies.

Fans can submit their nominations here. Those selected as “Heroes of the Inning” will be contacted directly by a Fireflies representative. Honorees chosen will be given two reserved tickets to the June 16 game vs the Carolina Mudcats. Submissions are due by Friday, June 10.

The Fireflies return home for a two-week homestand June 7-19 that includes two Budweiser Thirsty ThursdaysTM, two Freebie Fridays, two firework shows and the return of Negro League Weekend! Tickets for the upcoming games, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now and can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, First Responders, Frontline Heroes, Kansas City Royals, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 

May 31, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – KultureCity has partnered with the Columbia Fireflies to make Segra Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits Segra Park.

The certification process entailed the staff at Segra Park being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Segra Park who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Segra Park. With its new certification, the Columbia Fireflies are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Segra Park.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Segra Park.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that the Columbia Fireflies are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Segra Park to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.

“We are excited to partner with KultureCity and make Segra Park a more accommodating place for guests that have sensory challenges,” said Brad Shank, Fireflies Team President. “A ballpark can be overwhelming with a lot of sensory input, and by providing options to help in situations where some of our fans are feeling over-stimulated our team continues to strive to make Segra Park inclusive for everyone and Fun For ALL.”

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 900 sensory-inclusive venues in 5 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

Tagged as : Autism Awareness, Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Disability Assistance, Family Relief/Resources, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina { }

Fireflies to Host Free MLB Play Ball Clinic for Kids Age 4-18

May 25, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they will host Major League Baseball’s Play Ball Clinic run by Fireflies players and coaches at Segra Park Saturday, June 11 from 9 am to 11 am. The clinic is free for all kids ages 4-18. All kids wishing to participate in the Play Ball Clinic must register online in advance. The Play Ball Clinic is a part of MLB’s Play Ball Weekend initiatives that the Fireflies are taking part in June 10-12.

Once at Segra Park, the children will rotate between five different skills stations, where they will receive instructions from the Fireflies staff about how to improve their game. Fans can register for the Play Ball Clinic here.

The first 200 kids to register will receive a Franklin bat and ball set and a free reserved ticket for the game vs the Augusta GreenJackets at Segra Park that night, June 11, at 6:05 pm. The game will feature a post-game firework show. All members who participated in the clinic will be invited on-field pregame as recognition for their completion of the Play Ball Clinic.

Questions about the event can be sent to Aydan Fields at [email protected].

For tickets or more information about events at Segra Park this summer, please visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

Tagged as : Baseball Camps/Instruction, Carolina League, Children's Health and Development, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina, Youth Sports { }

Fireflies Launch Baseball Legends Creativity Contest

May 23, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

   

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that they are launching a Baseball Legends Creativity Contest for children from kindergarten to 12th grade. The Baseball Legends Creativity Contest encourages children to learn more about local baseball legend Larry Doby and the impact he had on the game of baseball. Based on what they learned about Larry Doby, kids will then creatively express how Doby’s story has encouraged them to overcome challenges they may face in their own lives. Three contest winners, one from each age bracket, will be selected and recognized in-game during Negro League Weekend Friday, June 17.

The creative expression can take any form; including but not limited to essays, poems, spoken word, paintings or drawings. Submissions must answer the following prompt: “What challenges did Larry Doby face throughout his life and baseball career, how did he overcome those challenges, and how has he influenced you to overcome the challenges you may face in your life?”

Larry Doby is best-known for breaking the American League color barrier with the Cleveland Indians a few months after Jackie Robinson broke the National League color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Doby was also the second black manager of any Major League club, after Frank Robinson accomplished the task a few years before him.

If that weren’t enough trailblazing, Doby also broke the ABL color barrier. The ABL was a precursor to the NBA. Despite the hardships Doby was placed under, he became one of the most decorated baseball players of all time. He was the first black player to homer in the World Series. He became a seven-time MLB All-Star with five-100 RBI and eight-20 HR seasons, which helped prompt his spot in Cooperstown. The infielder was inducted in the MLB Hall of Fame in 1998, five years before his death.

Children participating will be broken into three groups based on grade level: Kindergarten – 5th grade, 6th grade – 8th grade, and 9th grade – 12th grade. One winner will be selected from each group.

Children looking to participate in the contest must register online. After registration, completed creative expressions must be emailed to Devin Johnson at [email protected] by 5:00pm EST Wednesday, June 8. Larry Doby educational resources can also be found online.

 

Tagged as : Arts Appreciation, Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Diversity/Inclusion, Education/Teacher Support, Honoring History, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina { }

Fireflies Seeking Stand Up To Cancer Warriors of the Inning Nominees

April 14, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced that they are searching for Cancer Warriors of the Inning to be honored during Stand Up To Cancer Night at Segra Park Thursday, May 19. The Fireflies will recognize local Cancer Warriors: those who are survivors, currently fighting or who have lost their lives to the fight against cancer.

Fans can nominate Cancer Warriors online by sharing their Warrior’s story. Nominations must be submitted by midnight Sunday, May 8. The Fireflies will be recognizing eight warriors during the game on Stand Up To Cancer Night. Each warrior who gets selected will receive two complimentary tickets to the Fireflies game May 19 vs the Myrtle Beach Pelicans at 7:05 pm.

The Fireflies return home April 19 to face-off against the Down East Wood Ducks for the first time in franchise history! When the Texas Rangers affiliate comes to town, the Fireflies will host their first Trash the Poop Dog Day of Summer, pass out a t-shirt giveaway and will blast-off a spectacular fireworks display.

Tickets for the upcoming games next week, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now and can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, South Carolina, Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) { }

The Blood Connection, Columbia Fireflies Partner to Increase Blood Donation in the Midlands

April 12, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Blood Connection and the Columbia Fireflies are proud to announce a new partnership in 2022 that will encourage blood donation in the Midlands and bring baseball fun to blood donors across the region. The Columbia Fireflies will now join the Lifesaver League – a group of minor league sports teams committed to serving their community through hosting blood drives and encouraging blood donation.

“We are proud to partner with The Blood Connection as part of the Lifesaver League to encourage Fireflies fans to help our local community by donating blood at one of the Blood Drives at the ballpark this summer,” said Ashlie DeCarlo, Director of Marketing for the Columbia Fireflies. “There is a critical need for blood donations right now and just one moment out of your day can help save a life.”

The Fireflies have called Columbia home for six years and were a perfect partner for The Blood Connection as the organization begins to service more hospitals in the Midlands region. The Blood Connection is the community blood center serving the Carolinas and Georgia, and supplies blood products to Prisma Health – Richland, MUSC Columbia, and Lexington Medical Center, along with more than forty others across South Carolina.

“Our Lifesaver League partnerships are a longstanding tradition within The Blood Connection, and we are excited to enter into this venture with the Columbia Fireflies,” said Delisa English, President and CEO of The Blood Connection. “We’re looking forward to reaching more potential blood donors across the Midlands by bringing our blood donation opportunities to Fireflies fans and Segra Park. Local hospitals certainly need their donations desperately.”

The Blood Connection and the Fireflies will hold three blood drives throughout the 2022 season:

– Thursday, April 14 from 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Raglan t-shirt, a clear bag, and two tickets to a future Fireflies game. All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package.

– Sunday, June 26 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Lifesaver League hat, a Dri-Fit t-shirt, and two tickets to a future Fireflies game. All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package.

– Thursday, September 8 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

o All blood donors will receive a Dugout mug and two free tickets to a future Fireflies game.

All donors will also be entered for a chance to win a VIP Ticket package. Potential donors can make an appointment to donate blood with the Fireflies by going to thebloodconnection.org/fireflies. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Tagged as : Blood Drives, Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina, Supporting the Community, Ticket Donations { }

Fireflies Launch New Volunteer Fundraising Opportunity

March 22, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies today announced a new in-game volunteer program to help benefit local organizations seeking ways to fundraise. The Fireflies are looking for dedicated volunteers who are passionate about giving back to the community to join the Fireflies game day team. Organizations who participate in the Volunteer Fundraising Program will work alongside Fireflies staff members in a concession stand or in the SCU Kids Zone during Fireflies games to raise money for their organization, event or cause. Organizations eligible for the program include, but are not limited to, Parent Teacher Associations, Booster Clubs, Community Event Planning Committees, Rotary Clubs and other Non-Profit Organizations.

The Volunteer Fundraising Program requires each organization to provide a minimum of six (6) volunteers to work four (4) games during the upcoming 2022 season. After volunteers complete their four games of service, the Fireflies will donate $750 to their organization in recognition of their time. Should organizations have more than six volunteers, the Fireflies will donate an additional $125 for each volunteer who participates in the program.

“This program provides a unique opportunity for fans to see what it’s like to help make life-long memories at Segra Park from our Game Day worker’s perspective,” said Fireflies Team President, Brad Shank. “It is also a great way for us to give back to different non-profits and organizations in our community. We’re really excited to have a positive impact on a lot of different organizations in the Midlands through the launch of this volunteer program.”

Fireflies home games are primarily staffed by the Fireflies Game day Experience Team who help make a trip to Segra Park an unforgettable experience for hundreds of thousands of fans each year. Volunteers in the Volunteer Fundraising Program will work right alongside Game day Experience Team members. In concessions, volunteers will work in various locations throughout the ballpark running registers and assisting with food and order preparation. In the SCU Kids Zone, volunteers will assist with Kids Zone ticket sales and will work to ensure the safety of children on the inflatables.

Organizations can learn more and sign up for the new Volunteer Fundraising Program online here.

The Fireflies 2022 season begins at Segra Park Friday, April 8 at 7:05 pm vs the Augusta GreenJackets (the Class-A Affiliate of the World Series Champion Atlanta Braves) and features a post-game firework show. Tickets for Opening Night, and all 2022 Fireflies home games, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at FirefliesTickets.com, by calling the Fireflies Box Office at 803-726-4487 or by visiting the Fireflies Box Office in-person at Segra Park. Individual game ticket prices range from $5 to $12 and premium seating options are available starting at $14 per person. All tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis and are based upon availability.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Fundraising Opportunities, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina, Supporting the Community { }

Top Five Black Players in Columbia History

February 4, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

To celebrate Black History Month, the Columbia Fireflies are joining MLB in naming the top five black players to play baseball in the Midlands region. Columbia has a decorated baseball history that first saw professional baseball in the late 1800’s. The first Major League team to make an official relationship

To celebrate Black History Month, the Columbia Fireflies are joining MLB in naming the top five black players to play baseball in the Midlands region. Columbia has a decorated baseball history that first saw professional baseball in the late 1800’s. The first Major League team to make an official relationship with Columbia was the Cincinnati Reds, who announced their affiliation with the city in 1954.

Across the expansive list of players, this is the group that stands out over the rest.

5.) Our countdown starts with Ron Washington. While Washington didn’t play in Columbia, many people don’t know Washington for his eight-year Major League career in the middle infield, they know him for his time as a Manager and coach. His coaching career began with the Capital City Bombers, where he manned the helm in 1993 and 1994. Washington led the Bombers to 123 wins across those two seasons before getting an offer from the Oakland Athletics to help out their Major League staff during the start of the Moneyball era. Washington is credited as teaching Scott Hatteberg how to play first base after Billy Beane signed him. The Louisiana native began his Major League coaching career in 2007 with the Texas Rangers. In parts of eight seasons with the Rangers, Washington led the club to the World Series in 2010-11 and to a third playoff berth in 2012. He would finish his managerial career with a 664-611 record after resigning from his post with the Rangers in 2014. In 2016, he made his return to coaching in Major League Baseball, this time as a third-base coach for the Atlanta Braves. Washington was finally able to win his first World Series when the Braves took home the title in 2021.

4.) Next up, the first former player in Columbia to make the list is Mo Bruce. While Bruce never played in the Majors, he had a profound impact on the last championship season in Soda City. The middle infielder played for the Capital City Bombers in the 1998 campaign and led the League with a .341 average in 126 games. Hickory’s Jimmy Terrell was second in the league with a .337 clip. Bruce wasn’t selected until the 54th round of the 1994 draft, but he did more than provide an elite average for Capital City. He also clubbed 15 homers and drove in a team-high 74 RBI on Capital City’s chase for the South Atlantic League crown. Over the course of his career, Bruce spent six seasons in the minors, including two in AAA. He held a career average of .289 and had 38 total homers. His input was a big reason why Baseball America ranked that Bombers’ team first overall in the last 1998 power ranking they put out that season. Bruce also had an intangible that added to the team’s success: his veteran presence. A lot of guys in that line-up viewed Bruce as a third coach on the field. Bruce was a year or two older than most of the other players on that roster. That magical season at Capital City Stadium is where Bruce put together his top power and average numbers to help culminate in a ring, and that’s why he clocks in at number four in our list.

3.) Simeon Woods-Richardson is the only pitcher in the top-five, but Woods-Richardson has established himself, not only as one of the top pitchers in Columbia history, but one of the top young, exciting prospects in all of baseball, all before his 22nd birthday. Prior to the 2021 season, Baseball America ranked the righty as the 60th-best prospect in baseball. The magazine gives credit to his control of all four of his pitches and most believe he will make his Major League debut some time this season. He wasn’t ignored by the other top publication in baseball scouting. MLB.com Pipeline called Woods-Richardson the 87th-best prospect in baseball prior to the 2021 season. In Columbia, the Sugar Land, Texas native racked up strikeouts at an incredible rate. He started all 20 of his appearances for the Fireflies, punching out 97 batters in 78.1 frames. That’s 11.15 K/9 IP! His overall numbers have been hampered by a lot of the hype around him that has led to Woods-Richardson being involved in two blockbuster trades in the last three seasons. First, he was traded with LHP Anthony Kay for All-Star Marcus Stroman in 2019. Next the wheels brought him to Minnesota where he was traded with SS Austin Martin for All-Star Jose Berrios. While Woods-Richardson has had to adapt to playing in three different farm systems, his talent was recognized when he was selected to pitch in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and was awarded a silver medal for his participation with team USA. Simeon Woods-Richardson’s career is far from over, but what he’s accomplished already is enough for him to end up at number three on this list!

2.) Our next candidate never played baseball professionally in the Midlands, but it would be a crime to leave someone so impactful off our list. Larry Doby was born in Sumter, less than 50 miles from Segra Park. When Doby was young, his family moved to New Jersey, where he would eventually play for the Negro League Newark Eagles from 1942-1944. Like many others in that era, Doby stepped away from baseball to join the war effort at the peak of World War II. The star ballplayer joined the Navy and when he came back to the states in 1946, he played again for the Newark Eagles. He didn’t stick to baseball though, Doby broke the color barrier in the ABL, a precursor to today’s NBA and then he helped the Eagles win a championship in 1946 before the Cleveland Indians signed him in 1947. Later that season, Doby followed Jackie Robinson to become the second black player in Major League Baseball. He broke the color barrier in the American League, and then followed it with plenty of accolades. The next year, on his way to winning a World Series with the Indians, Doby became the first African American to hit a homer in a World Series game. Then, in 1952, on another run that saw Cleveland finish second in the American League, Doby became the first black player to lead a league in homers. He hit 32 homers in the campaign, beating teammate Luke Easter by a single homer for the league lead. Over the course of Doby’s career, he played in seven All-Star games and tallied five-100 RBI seasons and eight-20 home run seasons. Doby was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1998. His impact on the game of baseball will never be forgotten.

1.) Now it’s time for our top spot on the list. There are plenty of people who had incredible careers in Columbia and beyond, but when you combine the impact a player had in the Midlands with a Major League impact, you have to hand the top award to Frank Robinson who spent parts of two summers playing for the Columbia Reds in 1954-55. During his time in Columbia, The Judge paced the 1954 team with a .336 average and 25 homers in 132 games. In 1955 he added 12 more homers in 80 games before getting the call straight to the majors in 1956 where he won the National League Rookie of the Year award as a 20-year-old. After a decade with the Reds, Robinson was traded to the Orioles during the 1965 campaign. In his first season on the East Coast, Robinson won the AL Triple Crown, blasting 49 homers to pair with a .316 average and 122 RBI. That season, Robinson won the AL MVP award, four years after he won the NL MVP award with the Reds, thus becoming the first player to win the MVP for both leagues. The slugger also tallied a World Series MVP in 1966. He was the heart of the Orioles lineup that won three AL Pennants from 1969-71. All-in-all, Robinson was a 14-time All-Star and has the most walk-off hits (26) in Major League history. Robinson’s 586 homers are the 10th-most all-time. Robinson wasn’t done there though. After his playing days ended in Cleveland, Robinson became the manager for the Indians, making his way as the first black manager in Major League Baseball. He would manage for the Giants, Orioles, Expos and Nationals before retiring and took home the hardware for the 1989 American League Manager of the Year. Robinson truly was one of the all-time greats, and that’s why he leads our list of top black players to come through Columbia.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Diversity/Inclusion, Honoring History, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina { }

Minor League Baseball Announces “The Nine,” a New Initiative to Celebrate, Engage and Welcome Black Fans

February 1, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 1, 2022 — Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) today announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

Tagged as : Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Diversity/Inclusion, Honoring History, Kansas City Royals, Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI), South Carolina, Supporting the Community, Youth Sports { }

Fireflies in Search of 2022 National Anthem Performers

January 28, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that they are seeking singers and musicians of all ages to perform The Star-Spangled Banner before Fireflies home games this upcoming season. Fans are invited to audition live to be anthem performers on certain designated days in February. Soloists and groups are both welcome to audition. Auditions are held by reservations only.

National Anthem auditions will take place in the Club Lounge at Segra Park Saturday, February 12, Wednesday, February 16 and Thursday, February 17. Those interested in auditioning and learning about specific audition times that are available must call or email Devin Johnson at 803-888-3013 or [email protected] to set up an audition time. Walk-ups are not welcome; auditions must be scheduled with Devin in advance. National Anthem auditioners under the age of 18 must be accompanied to auditions by a parent or guardian.

Performance groups of more than 15 people are welcome to perform the National Anthem prior to a Fireflies game but will see a different audition process. If a band or group larger than 15 people would like to perform, they must contact Halle Wade at 803-888-3007 or [email protected] to audition.

The Fireflies will play 66 home games in 2022. Limited performance dates are available throughout the season, and not all who audition are guaranteed a scheduled game date. Those who have previously performed the anthem at Segra Park are required to audition again. A Fireflies representative will reach out to those selected to perform in late February, after the conclusion of the audition process. Those who are selected to perform will receive four complimentary tickets to the game for the night of their performance.

Opening Night for the Fireflies 2022 campaign is slated for Friday, April 8 at 7:05 pm vs the Augusta GreenJackets, an Atlanta Braves affiliate. For more information on the Fireflies upcoming 2022 season or events happening at Segra Park, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

Tagged as : Arts Appreciation, Carolina League, Columbia Fireflies, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Kansas City Royals, South Carolina { }

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Next Page »

Welcome to clubphilanthropy.com!

Minor League Baseball clubs have been actively involved in their communities for many years. For the first time, their activities and contributions will be chronicled on this site.

Clubs don’t publicize all of their activity, so these stories represent a mere fraction of the contributions MiLB clubs make to their communities every year.

Categories

  • ►Aberdeen Ironbirds (3)
  • ►Akron RubberDucks (32)
  • ►Albuquerque Isotopes (24)
  • ►Altoona Curve (22)
  • ►Amarillo Sod Poodles (18)
  • ►Arkansas Travelers (2)
  • ►Asheville Tourists (5)
  • ►Auburn Doubledays (4)
  • ►Augusta GreenJackets (29)
  • ►Batavia Muckdogs (15)
  • ►Beloit SkyCarp (19)
  • ►Biloxi Shuckers (23)
  • ►Binghamtom Rumble Ponies (4)
  • ►Birmingham Barons (16)
  • ►Bluefield Blue Jays (5)
  • ►Bluefield Ridge Runners (3)
  • ►Boise Hawks (9)
  • ►Bowie Baysox (28)
  • ►Bowling Green Hot Rods (13)
  • ►Bradenton Marauders (22)
  • ►Bristol Pirates (4)
  • ►Bristol State Liners (1)
  • ►Brooklyn Cyclones (22)
  • ►Buffalo Bisons (46)
  • ►Burlington Bees (6)
  • ►Burlington Royals (3)
  • ►Burlington Sock Puppets (2)
  • ►Carolina Mudcats (21)
  • ►Cedar Rapids Kernels (39)
  • ►Charleston Dirty Birds (2)
  • ►Charleston RiverDogs (100)
  • ►Charlotte Knights (30)
  • ►Charlotte Stone Crabs (6)
  • ►Chattanooga Lookouts (3)
  • ►Clearwater Threshers (43)
  • ►Clinton LumberKings (5)
  • ►Colorado Springs Sky Sox (20)
  • ▼Columbia Fireflies (48)
    • Fireflies Announce Third Annual Mason’s Jingle Jog 5K
    • Fireflies Announce Holiday Lights Community Initiative 
    • Mason’s Monster Mash Returns to Segra Park October 27
    • Fireflies to Host Skills Camp at Segra Park in August
    • Fireflies Searching for Military Heroes to Recognize In-Game
    • Fireflies Searching for First Responder Heroes to Recognize In-Game
    • Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 
    • Fireflies to Host Free MLB Play Ball Clinic for Kids Age 4-18
    • Fireflies Launch Baseball Legends Creativity Contest
    • Fireflies Seeking Stand Up To Cancer Warriors of the Inning Nominees
    • The Blood Connection, Columbia Fireflies Partner to Increase Blood Donation in the Midlands
    • Fireflies Launch New Volunteer Fundraising Opportunity
    • Top Five Black Players in Columbia History
    • Minor League Baseball Announces “The Nine,” a New Initiative to Celebrate, Engage and Welcome Black Fans
    • Fireflies in Search of 2022 National Anthem Performers
    • Fireflies Seasonal Job Fair Postponed to January 29
    • Internship Fair Takes Place at Segra Park January 19
    • Fireflies Host Annual Job Fair January 22
    • Submit Your Favorite Teacher for a Neon Apple Award
    • Pride Night on tap for Thursday, June 24
    • First Responder ‘Hero of the Inning’ Nominations Open
    • The Fireflies Play Host to Early Juneteenth Event
    • Fireflies Team Up with Prisma Health on In-Game Vaccination Site
    • Fireflies Search for 2021 National Anthem Performers
    • Fireflies to Host MLB Youth Skills Competition & Home Run Derby
    • Fireflies to Host Job Fair March 20
    • Fireflies to Host Holiday Themed Virtual 5K; Mason’s Jingle Jog
    • Live Baseball & Movie Screening in Honor of 100th Anniversary Celebration of Negro Leagues
    • SC Philharmonic Dining Experience Comes to Segra Park
    • Fireflies Launch "We Are Fireflies" Jersey Campaign
    • Throwback Columbia Shirsey Pre-Sale to Benefit Columbia Urban League
    • Fireflies T-Shirts Result in Donation for "Peace of Mind"
    • Columbia Fireflies Join Minor League Baseball's CommUNITY First Campaign
    • Fireflies Seek 2020 National Anthem Performers
    • Fireflies Now Accepting Nominations for Fourth Annual Military Hero Card Set
    • Fireflies to Host Job Fair January 11
    • Mason in Search of a Trick-or-Treating Partner
    • Mason in Search of Friend to go Trick-or-Treating With
    • Minor League Teams Across Carolinas Unite For Storm Relief
    • 'Pack the Park for Midlands Gives' Raises $9,000 for Local Non-Profits
    • Fireflies and BUSH'S Beans Are Teaming Up Against Hunger
    • Fireflies Launch Campaign to Retire SC Veteran Medical Debt
    • Fireflies Seek Candidates for 2nd Annual Military Baseball Card Set
    • Columbia Fireflies to Donate to The Miracle League of Columbia on Giving Tuesday
    • Fireflies Reading Program Receives National Recognition
    • Fireflies Seek Candidates for Military Baseball Card Set
    • Trick-Or-Treat with Mason this Halloween!
    • Fireflies Launch Food Drive Fridays to Aid Harvest Hope Food Bank
  • ►Columbus Clippers (9)
  • ►Connecticut Tigers (14)
  • ►Corpus Christi Hooks (36)
  • ►Danville Braves (16)
  • ►Danville Otterbots (2)
  • ►Dayton Dragons (161)
  • ►Daytona Tortugas (21)
  • ►Delmarva Shorebirds (61)
  • ►Down East Wood Ducks (3)
  • ►Dunedin Blue Jays (15)
  • ►Durham Bulls (19)
  • ►El Paso Chihuahuas (23)
  • ►Elizabethton River Riders (1)
  • ►Elizabethton Twins (5)
  • ►Erie SeaWolves (12)
  • ►Eugene Emeralds (10)
  • ►Evansville Otters (1)
  • ►Everett AquaSox (15)
  • ►Fayetteville Woodpeckers (22)
  • ►Florida Fire Frogs (3)
  • ►Fort Myers Miracle (25)
  • ►Fort Wayne TinCaps (58)
  • ►Frederick Keys (19)
  • ►Fredericksburg Nationals (28)
  • ►Fresno Grizzlies (17)
  • ►Frisco RoughRiders (31)
  • ►Grand Junction Rockies (2)
  • ►Great Falls Voyagers (2)
  • ►Great Lakes Loons (28)
  • ►Greeneville Flyboys (1)
  • ►Greeneville Reds (1)
  • ►Greensboro Grasshoppers (5)
  • ►Greenville Drive (146)
  • ►Gwinnett Stripers (53)
  • ►Hagerstown Suns (3)
  • ►Harrisburg Senators (16)
  • ►Hartford Yard Goats (12)
  • ►Hickory Crawdads (26)
  • ►Hillsboro Hops (13)
  • ►Hudson Valley Renegades (16)
  • ►Idaho Falls Chukars (6)
  • ►Indianapolis Indians (35)
  • ►Inland Empire 66ers (13)
  • ►Iowa Cubs (7)
  • ►Jackson Generals (9)
  • ►Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (47)
  • ►Jersey Shore BlueClaws (152)
  • ►Johnson City Cardinals (5)
  • ►Johnson City Doughboys (2)
  • ►Jupiter Hammerheads (2)
  • ►Kane County Cougars (41)
  • ►Kannapolis Cannon Ballers (20)
  • ►Kingsport Axmen (1)
  • ►Kingsport Mets (2)
  • ►Lake County Captains (11)
  • ►Lake Elsinore Storm (5)
  • ►Lakeland Flying Tigers (12)
  • ►Lancaster JetHawks (7)
  • ►Lansing Lugnuts (3)
  • ►Las Vegas Aviators (9)
  • ►Lehigh Valley IronPigs (43)
  • ►Lexington Legends (69)
  • ►Louisville Bats (29)
  • ►Lowell Spinners (15)
  • ►Lynchburg Hillcats (17)
  • ►Mahoning Valley Scrappers (42)
  • ►Memphis Redbirds (8)
  • ►Midland RockHounds (5)
  • ►MiLB (37)
  • ►Mississippi Braves (34)
  • ►Missoula Paddleheads (19)
  • ►Mobile BayBears (6)
  • ►Modesto Nuts (10)
  • ►Montgomery Biscuits (2)
  • ►Myrtle Beach Pelicans (40)
  • ►Nashville Sounds (33)
  • ►New Hampshire Fisher Cats (33)
  • ►New Orleans Baby Cakes (5)
  • ►New York Boulders (5)
  • ►Norfolk Tides (20)
  • ►Northwest Arkansas Naturals (49)
  • ►Norwich Sea Unicorns (2)
  • ►Oklahoma City Dodgers (82)
  • ►Omaha Storm Chasers (53)
  • ►Orem Owlz (3)
  • ►Ottawa Titans (1)
  • ►Palm Beach Cardinals (4)
  • ►Pawtucket Red Sox (67)
  • ►Pensacola Blue Wahoos (63)
  • ►Peoria Chiefs (12)
  • ►Portland Sea Dogs (52)
  • ►Princeton Rays (8)
  • ►Princeton Whistlepigs (1)
  • ►Pulaski River Turtles (1)
  • ►Pulaski Yankees (18)
  • ►Quad Cities River Bandits (24)
  • ►Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (9)
  • ►Reading Fightin Phils (76)
  • ►Reno Aces (45)
  • ►Richmond Flying Squirrels (40)
  • ►Rochester Red Wings (28)
  • ►Rocket City Trash Pandas (11)
  • ►Rocky Mountain Vibes (2)
  • ►Rome Braves (27)
  • ►Round Rock Express (38)
  • ►Sacramento River Cats (25)
  • ►Salem Red Sox (14)
  • ►Salem-Keizer Volcanoes (8)
  • ►Salt Lake Bees (38)
  • ►San Antonio Missions (18)
  • ►San Jose Giants (39)
  • ►Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (60)
  • ►Somerset Patriots (22)
  • ►South Bend Cubs (65)
  • ►Spokane Indians (30)
  • ►Springfield Cardinals (42)
  • ►St. Lucie Mets (19)
  • ►St. Paul Saints (8)
  • ►State College Spikes (27)
  • ►Staten Island Yankees (16)
  • ►Stockton Ports (19)
  • ►Sugar Land Space Cowboys (6)
  • ►Syracuse Mets (16)
  • ►Tacoma Rainiers (6)
  • ►Tampa Tarpons (35)
  • ►Tennessee Smokies (25)
  • ►Toledo Mud Hens (47)
  • ►Trenton Thunder (28)
  • ►Tri-City Dust Devils (2)
  • ►Tri-City ValleyCats (31)
  • ►Tulsa Drillers (28)
  • ►Vancouver Canadians (28)
  • ►Vermont Lake Monsters (22)
  • ►Visalia Rawhide (7)
  • ►West Michigan Whitecaps (8)
  • ►West Virginia Black Bears (1)
  • ►West Virginia Power (11)
  • ►Wichita Wind Surge (12)
  • ►Williamsport Crosscutters (54)
  • ►Wilmington Blue Rocks (31)
  • ►Winston-Salem Dash (32)
  • ►Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (84)
  • ►Worcester Red Sox (48)