Cougars Partner with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK ® to Help Moms In Need

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that Northwestern Medicine Field will serve as a donation drop-off site for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® program through Friday, May 11.

Thousands of mothers across the country are overlooked each Mother’s Day due to circumstances that force them to live in shelters as a result of domestic abuse or homelessness. That’s where TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® steps in to ensure that these women receive the love and appreciation they deserve this Mother’s Day. Donations collected through the Movers for Moms® program will be provided to women staying Lazarus House in St. Charles, Ill.

Fans are encouraged to bring donations of the following essential care items: body spray, soaps, hair styling products, towels, make-up brushes, pajamas, large tote bags and umbrellas.

Click here for a full list of much-needed items.

A donation bin is located inside the atrium of the Cougars front office at Northwestern Medicine Field for fans that would like to drop off donation during regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For every two items donated to the Movers for Mom® program, fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2018 regular season Cougars game. There is a maximum of 10 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan. Donations will be accepted through Friday, May 11.

For more information about the Movers for Moms® program, visit twomenandatruck.com/moversformoms.

The 2018 season of Cougars baseball begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including a full 2018 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Make History With “A Million Smiles Campaign”

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars charitable arm, the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. has launched a historic fundraising goal known as “A Million Smiles Campaign” for the upcoming 2018 season. Today’s announcement makes the Cougars the first team in Minor League Baseball (MiLB) to set a charity fundraising goal.

This season, the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. will work towards reaching a donation total of one million dollars, with each dollar donated providing a much needed smile for those in need. As the first campaign of its kind in the history of MiLB, President and CEO Pat O’Connor is excited to see the charitable work that the team will accomplish this season.

“I am very proud of the lengths which our Minor League Baseball teams go to give back to their local communities, as the Kane County Cougars have now publicly pledged to do at an extraordinary level. Should the Cougars reach this ambitious goal, they will certainly be one of the most charitable of Minor League Baseball’s 160 teams and I commend them for their efforts.”

As members of the Midwest League, the Cougars are building upon the tradition of giving back that has been a part of the League for the last 72 years. “I applaud the initiative being taken by the Kane County Cougars to commit to this extraordinary philanthropy,” said Dick Nussbaum, President of the Midwest League. “It is consistent with the Midwest League’s leadership in Minor League Baseball. Proceeds from each ticket sold to our four million fans each year ends up as a charitable contribution by our Clubs. The collective power of this giving is consistent with the generosity shown by those of us who live in the Midwest and the Cougars are taking this tradition of giving to another level.”

One way fans can help provide a million smiles includes purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets with proceeds benefiting various local charities including Mutual Ground, Northern Illinois Food Bank, BraveHearts for Kids and CASA Kane County. Additional opportunities to contribute include participation in the Pitch In for Charity promotion, benefiting Loaves and Fishes CARES, on fireworks nights, purchasing a Legacy Brick to be displayed at the main entrance of the ballpark, selecting the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. as your favorite charity on AmazonSmiles as well as registering for the 7th Annual Cougars 5K on May 19 with proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Illinois.

“Kane County is proud to be represented by the Cougars as they embark on this awesome charitable campaign,” said Chris Lauzen, Chairman of the Kane County Board. “The community has benefitted greatly from having a team that is passionate about reaching families beyond just the baseball field.

Additional charitable opportunities will be announced throughout the year including collection of donation items for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Mom® program, the annual Winter Coat Drive and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan charitable jersey auction to benefit a local Hispanic organization.

“The City of Geneva could not ask for a better representative of what this town stands for than the Kane County Cougars,” said Kevin Burns, Mayor of Geneva. “This incredible charitable initiative will benefit our community in so many positive ways. We look forward to seeing the impact the Cougars will make this season.”

The 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. Follow the Cougars onFacebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on all charitable initiatives as well as tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Announce Charitable Partners for 2018 Season

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the four local organizations that will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. including Mutual Ground (April-May), CASA Kane County (June), Northern Illinois Food Bank (July) and BraveHearts for Kids (August-September). In addition, through a partnership with Acres Group, the Cougars have announced that Loaves and Fishes Community Services will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this year’s Pitch-In for Charity promotion in which fans purchase and toss numbered tennis balls at a target on the field to win a prize following select games.

Mutual Ground (mutualground.org) – Located in Aurora, Mutual Ground is a safe place where people can come together to break the cycle of domestic violence and sexual abuse while providing education, awareness and life-changing services that empower individuals, families and communities.

CASA Kane County (casakanecounty.org) – CASA is a non-profit volunteer organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the juvenile court system since 1988.

Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org) – Each week, Northern Illinois Food Bank provides more than 71,000 people with nutritious food and hope through their innovative feeding programs and partnerships across Northern Illinois.

BraveHearts for Kids (braveheartsforkids.org) – BraveHearts for Kids provide one-on-one mentoring, information and emotional support for children diagnosed with pediatric cancer as well as their families.

Loaves and Fishes CARES (loaves-fishes.org) – Located in Naperville, Loaves and Fishes Community Services provides groceries and essential support services to more than 2,000 families each month. Additional programs include job search support, skill-based classes and public benefit assistance to assist and empower clients towards a life of self-sufficiency.

The Cougars 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full schedule of theme nights, entertainment acts and giveaways scheduled, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars 7th Annual 5K to Raise Funds for Special Olympics

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars announce the 7th annual Cougars 5K Run/Walk, presented by Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center, which will take place on Saturday, May 19 at Northwestern Medicine Field beginning at 8 a.m. As the Cougars continue to grow their charitable outreach, proceeds from the race will benefit Special Olympics Illinois.

Registration is now open at kccougars.com and raceroster.com.

“It feels like a natural fit to team up with the Cougars for their 5K,” said Member Services Manager, Debra Neari. “We are proud to partner with them and continue our efforts to promote health and wellness for families throughout our community.”

The Cougars 5K, which features chip timing, will follow a course along both Kirk Road and Fabyan Parkway.

Children through age 12 can also register for the Cougars “Inside the Park Dash”, a half-mile fun run, which will take place at the conclusion of the 5K for $5 per child.

“We’re excited to carry on the tradition of the Cougars 5K for another season,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “As we continue to grow our charitable outreach beyond the baseball field, we’re looking forward to contributing towards all the wonderful programs Special Olympics has to offer to their athletes and families.”

Open to competitive runners and recreational walkers, the Cougars host one of the most unique 5K events in the Chicagoland area with the finish line located at home plate inside Northwestern Medicine Field. Participants can be seen on the ballpark videoboard through a live-feed camera while high-fiving team mascots, Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar, down the final stretch of the race course. Families with children are encouraged to participate as strollers are permitted on the course with a discounted rate for participants between the ages of 5-18 years old.

Those registered by May 10 are guaranteed a commemorative race t-shirt featuring the Cougars 5K logo while all participants will receive a complimentary ticket voucher for a 2018 Cougars game. The top three male and female finishers in 14 age groups will receive a custom race medal courtesy of Creative Awards and Products, Inc. in Bartlett, Ill.

Following the race, participants can enjoy a variety of refreshments including a complimentary hot dog or brat and beer for those 21 & older.

For updates on tickets and promotions for the 2018 season, follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. Releases Annual Report for 2017

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. is proud to present the third Annual Report to the Community detailing the charitable outreach completed in 2017. The report lists the extensive accomplishments of the foundation and the notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

Five new foundation programs were added in 2017 including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund, the D-backs Give Back partnership, AmazonSmile, Highland Salutes and the Es Divertido Ser Un Fan campaign which saw the Cougars selected as one of four teams out of 160 Minor League Baseball teams to participate in this historic Hispanic outreach program.

The annual 5K Run/Walk hosted by the Cougars was re-branded in honor of First Responders. A total of $2,000 was donated to local departments including Geneva Police and Fire, St. Charles Police and Fire, Batavia Police and Fire as well as the Kane County Forest Preserve Police and the Kane County Sheriff’s Department.

Ozzie’s Reading Club was also re-branded, with the addition of our new mascot Annie, to the Cougars Reading Club. Each year the program encourages over 130,000 local area students to meet reading goals with incentives such as game tickets, food vouchers and a drawstring backpack. In-kind donations for the Cougars Reading Club totaled $646,190 in 2017.

The 50/50 Raffle, presented by Bret Brizzolara your local Country Financial representative and the Acres Group Pitch-In for Charity are two in-game programs from which a portion of the proceeds benefit specific charities selected by the Kane County Cougars Foundation. In 2017, these two programs generated over $29,000 to support local causes including Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Food for Greater Elgin, Holiday Heroes, Naperville Alive and DuPage PADS.

For every home run that was hit by a Cougars player at home, Paramount Fence made a donation to Emmanuel House which was then matched by the Cougars through the Home Run for Charity program. In 2017, the donation totaled $2,400.

Through a variety of military organizations including the Illinois National Guard, Operation Support Our Troops, Rolling Thunder and the Veteran Tickets Foundation, the Kane County Cougars Foundation presented in-kind donations for Military Recognition totaling $16,844 in 2017.

Various in-kind donations, community appearances, high school seminars, clinics and events show the Cougars on-going commitment to the surrounding community through programs such as the Library Summer Reading Program, senior citizen half-price tickets and food vouchers, the Winter Coat Drive and a partnership with Two Men and a Truck to collect items through the Movers for Moms program.

“Each year we strive to find new ways to give back to local organizations,” said Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich. “With the additional programs added under the Kane County Cougars Foundation we were able to assist the surrounding community in more ways than we ever have before.”

“We’re dedicated to creating a legacy for the Kane County Cougars that goes far beyond the game of baseball,” added Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The Cougars are committed to making Kane County and the surrounding area a better place to live and work through the efforts of the Kane County Cougars Foundation.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Holding Winter Coat Drive Through December 15

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced their annual Winter Coat Drive. Now through December 15, fans are welcome to stop by the Cougars administrative office at Northwestern Medicine Field (34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, IL 60134) on week days between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to donate winter coats for those in need this holiday season

Donations of new or gently-used winter coats for infants, children and adults are all encouraged. Fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2018 regular season Cougars game with each donated item. There is a maximum of 10 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan.

In partnership with the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, all donated coats will be given to local families and individuals in need of cold-weather outerwear this winter.

The Cougars are requesting that all new or gently-used winter coats be donated by Friday, December 15 at 4 p.m. For more information, contact the Cougars front office at 630-232-8811.

Ticket packages for the 2018 season are now on sale including the Cougars Christmas Pack. From now until December 31, purchase the Christmas Pack for just $89 and you’ll receive four (4) box seat ticket vouchers valid for any game during the 2018< season, one (1) general lot parking pass, $60 in Cougars cash plus two (2) reserved seat ticket vouchers for Opening Night on Thursday, April 5. That’s a savings of over 40% which makes it the perfect gift for the baseball fan on your shopping list this holiday season. Visit kccougars.com for more information or to purchase your Christmas Pack today.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions for the 2018 season About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars to Honor First Responders on July 29

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that they will honor first responders at Northwestern Medicine Field on Saturday, July 29. Tickets are on sale now at kccougars.com or by calling the box office at 630-232-8811.

First responders who wish to attend the game can purchase a buy one, get one free reserved seat ticket deal in person at the Cougars box office beginning today through July 29. Proof of identification must be presented at the time of purchase. There is a limit of 10 tickets per order. Offer is not valid on previously purchased tickets.

In addition, there will be local first responder vehicles displayed outside the gates for fans to admire including patrol cars and fire engines.

For the game, the Cougars will sport limited edition First Responder Night jerseys. One half of the jersey is fire engine red with yellow and orange flames running down the sleeve to represent our heroic firefighters while the other half of the jersey features an armored look to represent the police officers who protect us.

Before the game, St. Charles police officer John Losurdo will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Officer Losurdo, named the top police officer in Kane County, was presented the 2016 Louis Spuhler Award for his outstanding police work. Additional first responders will be honored throughout the game including an in-game presentation for the Meijer Hometown Hero.

Graduates from the Kane County Sherriff’s Office Junior Deputy Program (JDMP) will also be in attendance and honored on the field. The JDMP helps students between the ages of 14-17 build their self-esteem while providing insight into the professional life of law enforcement officers in an effort to build trust between the Sherriff’s Office and the community.

Other highlights for First Responders Night include a pre-game performance by Beatles tribute band, American English, in the Acres Music Garden from 4:45-6 PM while the always hilarious ZOOperstars! will provide in-game entertainment. Gates will open at 4:30 PM.

For updates throughout the season on tickets and promotions follow the Cougars on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 157 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Operation Support Our Troops Concert Moves to Northwestern Medicine Field

GENEVA, Ill. – Operation Support Our Troops – America has announced that Rockin’ for the Troops, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, will take place at Northwestern Medicine Field – home of the Kane County Cougars – on Saturday, July 22. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.kccougars.com.

Visit www.RockinForTheTroops for additional information about the concert including FAQ’s, volunteer opportunities and more.

Both OSOT-America and the Cougars are excited to announce Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd as the headlining band. Motown tribute band, The Voices, will also perform along with Ayla Brown and Empty Pockets. Brown will perform patriotic inspired songs and country music while Empty Pockets rounds out the lineup with rock and roll. Gates will open at 2 p.m. with stage entertainment beginning at 2:30 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a fireworks display, courtesy of Melrose Pyrotechnics. Attendees are encouraged to bring donation items for Christmas stockings that will be sent to troops serving overseas.

Fans can purchase various ticket package options including a Meet & Greet for $300 which comes with one premium box seat ticket, an exclusive preshow meet & greet with Lynyrd Skynyrd, specially designed Lynyrd Skynyrd tour shirt, collective tour lithograph and more. The Free Bird VIP package is also available for $150 and includes multiple perks such as one premium box seat ticket, exclusive Free Bird trucker hat as well as a Lynyrd Skynyrd koozie and bottle opener set.

“The Cougars organization is honored that Northwestern Medicine Field will be the site of this year’s Rockin’ for the Troops,” said Vice President and General Manager of the Kane County Cougars, Curtis Haug. “We are constantly striving to find ways to support both active duty military and veterans so we are thrilled to be hosting an event that not only benefits OSOT-America, but features such an iconic performer in Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Proceeds from each ticket will help support the programs of OSOT-America.

“This is an exciting year for OSOT-America with moving Rockin’ for the Troops to Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, along with a different main act,” said Jamie Nelson, Executive Director of OSOT-America. “We are hard at work to continue with the tradition of a day of support for our Military Community. Rockin’ for the Troops helps us to raise the necessary funds to continue our mission of providing comfort and care for deployed troops. These funds are critical to our mission to cover the cost of shipping our comfort and care packages, provide one-time grants to veterans under financial stress and help our families of the fallen. We appreciate the continued support of our local communities.”

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

About Operation Support Our Troops – America

The mission of OSOT America is to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to all involved both while deployed and the soldier’s return. As a volunteer-based non-profit organization, OSOT-America provides the opportunity for community members to express their appreciation and also offer support for our troops. Engaged in the longest war of our country’s history, and with our servicemen and women completing multiple tours of duty, OSOT-America is committed to showing them that “We Have NOT Forgotten.” Volunteer opportunities are available. Visit www.osotamerica.org for more information.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Partner With TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® To Help Mothers In Need

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that Northwestern Medicine Field will serve as a donation drop-off site for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® program beginning on Opening Night, April 6.

Thousands of mothers across the country are overlooked each Mother’s Day due to circumstances that force them to live in shelters as a result of domestic abuse or homelessness. That’s where TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® steps in to ensure that these women receive the love and appreciation they deserve this Mother’s Day. Donations collected through the Movers for Moms® program will be provided to women staying at Mutual Ground in Aurora, Ill. and Lazarus House in St. Charles, Ill.

Beginning April 6, fans are encouraged to bring donations of the following essential care items: body spray, soaps, hair styling products, towels, make-up brushes, pajamas, large tote bags and umbrellas.

Click here for a full list of much needed items.

Representatives from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® will be collecting donations inside of Gate 3 on April 6, April 17, April 27 and May 8. A Movers for Moms® donation bin will also be located inside the atrium of the Cougars front office at Northwestern Medicine Field for fans that would like to drop off donations during regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Donations will be accepted through Friday, May 12.

For more information about the Movers for Moms® program, visit twomenandatruck.com/moversformoms.

The 2017 season of Cougars baseball begins on Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including a full 2017 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars, Paramount Fence Team Up for Charitable Cause

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and Paramount Fence of Batavia have announced they will team up again this season as part of the Home Runs for Charity initiative.

A program that was launched for the Cougars 2016 season, Paramount Fence of Batavia has pledged to make a $50 donation to Emmanuel House in Aurora, Ill. for each home run hit by a Cougars player at Northwestern Medicine Field. The donation will then be matched by the charitable arm of the Cougars organization, The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc.

Last season a total of $1,900 was donated to Emmanuel House which strives to break the cycle of poverty through a financial model called Networked Saving that helps working families save for a down payment on a home.

“Paramount Fence is proud to support a local charity that does so much to improve the lives of those who are especially in need,” said Steve Gall, President at Paramount Fence of Batavia. “Emmanuel House in Aurora helps transform lives through home ownership and helping these families with the Cougars home run charity brings attention to an incredibly worthy cause. Together we can help disrupt the cycle of poverty in our community.”

“We’re thrilled that our partners are as equally committed to charitable initiatives as the entire Cougars organization” added Curtis Haug, Vice President/General Manager of the Cougars. “Last year’s launch of the Home Run for Charity program was very successful and all parties are looking forward to contributing to the wonderful work that Emmanuel House does again this season.”

The Cougars 2017 season begins on Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full 2017 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Announce 2017 Charitable Partners

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced a community partnership for the 2017 season in which four local organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. The four organizations will be Alive Naperville (April-May), Holiday Heroes (June), Fox Valley Wildlife Center (July) and Food for Greater Elgin (August-September). In addition, through a partnership with Acres Group, the Cougars have announced that DuPage PADS will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this year’s Pitch-In for Charity promotion in which fans can purchase and toss numbered tennis balls at a target on the field to win a prize following select games.

Alive Naperville (alivenaperville.com) – Alive is a teen-led, teen-driven center that works to empower local youth to become leaders through after school and summer programs, classes and events that build confident and resilient teens.

Holiday Heroes (holiday-heroes.org) – In partnership with hospitals and businesses throughout the Chicagoland area, Holiday Heroes works to provide parties and celebrations for children who are suffering from critical or chronic illnesses.

Fox Valley Wildlife Center (fvwc.org) – Located in Elburn, Ill. the Fox Valley Wildlife Center serves the sick, injured or orphaned animals throughout Kane County and the surrounding areas.

Food for Greater Elgin (www.foodforgreaterelgin.org) – The largest client-choice food pantry in the areas of Elgin, South Elgin and East Dundee, Food for Greater Elgin strives to combat hunger by providing fresh and nutritious food for their clients.

DuPage PADS (dupagepads.org) – Committed to the promise of ending homelessness in the local community, DuPage PADS is the largest provider of interim and permanent housing as well as support services to assist individuals who are working towards a life of self-sufficiency.

“The Cougars organization has consistently strived to give back to our surrounding community and these initiatives allow not only our organization, but our fans to give back in multiple ways,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added owner Chery Froehlich, “We have been very fortunate with the support that the community has shown us for the last 27 years and it’s important that we continue to show our thanks by contributing to these wonderful organizations.”

For more information about the 2017 season, which begins on April 6 against the Clinton LumberKings, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Support Local Military Organizations Through Grant Donation

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced they were selected as a grant recipient from Highland Capital Management, located in Dallas, Tex. The grant, designated to the Cougars through the “Highland Salutes” program, will be donated to support two local charities, Operation Support Our Troops and SALUTE Inc., which are focused on supporting both active duty military and veterans.

Operation Support Our Troops, based out of Naperville, Ill., provides comfort and care at home and away for active duty military, veterans and their families. They accomplish this through care packages that contain items not readily available during deployment as well as personal letters and notes of encouragement from the surrounding community.

Founded in 2003 by a military family from Arlington Heights, Ill., SALUTE, Inc. was born from their desire to give back to other military families faced with the many hardships experienced during a deployment. Through their efforts, SALUTE, Inc. provides financial, physical and emotional support for military members, veterans and their families.

“We are humbled that Highland Capital Management has chosen the Kane County Cougars Foundation as the recipient of this grant through the ‘Highland Salutes’ program,” said owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The entire Cougars organization is dedicated to giving back and supporting the men and women of our military who have sacrificed so much. Through this grant, we are able to continue those efforts to support local organizations that carry out that same mission.”

“Highland is delighted to support the Kane County Cougars Foundation and the local initiatives that serve our veterans and their families,” said Brad Ross, President of Highland Capital Management Fund Advisors.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Donate Foundation Funds to Benefit Local Community Programs

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the three local organizations that will be receiving a monetary donation on behalf of the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. in conjunction with the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. Focusing on the three pillars and areas of need in which the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation was built on, the Cougars will be donating to organizations involving children’s programs, homelessness and indigent healthcare.

“The Cougars would like to thank the Arizona Diamondbacks for their generosity,” said owner Cheryl Froehlich. “As we continue to grow our charitable initiatives through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. we are constantly looking for additional areas where we can make a difference. This donation from the D-backs will enable us to expand our community service programs.”

In the area of children’s programs, the Cougars will be making a contribution to the Kane Excellence in Education Partnership (KEEP). The KEEP program supports and assists the academic and social emotional needs of children throughout the Kane County area. Through collaborations with districts, businesses, government agencies and education organizations, KEEP provides scholarships, educational activities, at-risk programming and necessary educational services to schools in Kane County.

To assist homeless families in the area, the Cougars will make a donation to Bridge Communities located in Glen Ellyn, Ill. The mission of Bridge Communities is to help transition homeless families into a life of self-sufficiency by providing mentoring, housing and supportive services.

Community Nurse Health Center, in LaGrange, Ill. will be receiving the final portion of the donation to help assist the healthcare needs of the local community. Since 1921, Community Nurse Health Center has served residents of the western suburbs by providing direct medical and dental care as well as health education including medical preventive services, chronic disease management, acute illness services, prenatal case management and oral health treatments for low income children and adults.

“The Kane County Cougars are a true asset to their community and share similar values to us at the Arizona Diamondbacks,” said D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall. “We are extremely proud of their efforts and know that initiatives such as this help teach young players the importance of giving back. In doing so, it is our hope that when they do reach the Major Leagues, their approach is aligned with ours. We applaud the efforts of Dr. Bob and Cheryl Froehlich as well as the entire Cougars front office.”

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About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars and Mueller Team Up to Provide Memorial Scholarship Fund

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and Mueller: Certified Public Accountants have announced a new scholarship that will benefit deserving accounting college students in honor of Al Mueller, founding partner of the accounting firm Mueller & Co., LLP now known as Mueller.

Alfred “Al” E. Mueller passed away last March, but left a lasting legacy for his employees, clients and the local community through his many civic and philanthropic endeavors.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Kane County Cougars organization to launch the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund,” said David J. Nissen Managing Partner at Mueller. “Al would have been pleased to hear of these efforts to support and encourage students to pursue their education in the field of accounting and would be so honored to hear that the scholarship was in his name.”

The Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide five scholarships to deserving accounting college students at Mueller. Each of the honored students will receive $1000 towards their education.

“Mueller has been a tremendous supporter of the Kane County Cougars organization,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “We are thrilled to be able to contribute to the continued education of these hardworking students in honor of our dear friend Al Mueller.”

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date information on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Rebrand Annual 5K To Honor Local First Responders

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the 6th annual 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 3 at Northwestern Medicine Field beginning at 8 a.m. The charitable event will take on a new look from years past as the Cougars organization continues to grow their charitable outreach. Renamed the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders, presented by Planet Fitness, a portion of the proceeds from the race will benefit the TriCity (Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles) Police and Fire Departments, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Department.

Registration is now open for the event at kccougars.com as well as raceroster.com.

“Planet Fitness is very excited to be sponsoring this year’s Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders,” said Mike Horan, Managing Partner at Planet Fitness. “We would like to thank First Responders for all they do in our community. Planet Fitness is looking forward to promoting health and fitness throughout the community.”

The Cougars 5K, which features chip timing, will take on a new course along both Kirk Road and Fabayan Parkway. Additional course details will be announced at a later date.

This year’s event will also include the “Cougars Inside the Park Dash” for children through age 12. The roughly half-mile fun run, held inside the ballpark, will take place at the conclusion of the Cougars 5K Run/Walk for just $5 per child.

For the first time in the history of the Cougars annual 5K event, Kane County Board Chairman, Chris Lauzen, will be serving as the Official Starter for the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders.

“We’re very excited about the new direction that the Cougars 5K has taken on,” said Cougars owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The additional element of honoring first responders continues to expand our charitable outreach throughout the community while allowing us to continue the Cougars tradition of hosting family-friendly events.”

Open to both competitive runners and recreational walkers, the Cougars host one of the most unique 5K events in the Chicagoland area. The finish line, located at home plate, allows participants to be seen on the ballpark’s videoboard through a live-feed camera while also receiving high-fives from Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar down the final stretch of the race course. Families with children are encouraged to participate as strollers are permitted on the course with a special discounted rate for participants between the ages of 5-18 years old.

Those registered by May 24 are guaranteed a commemorative race t-shirt featuring the new Cougars 5K logo while all participants will receive a complimentary ticket voucher valid for any game during the 2017 season. The top three male and female finishers in 14 age groups will receive a custom race medal featuring the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders logo, courtesy of Image Awards, Engraving & Creative Keepsakes, Inc. of Geneva.

Following the race, participants can enjoy a variety of refreshments including a complimentary hot dog, brat and beer for those 21 and older.

Individuals who register by March 24 can take advantage of early bird pricing with a special $28 fee. Following the early bird registration, pricing will increase to $33 until May 31 and then $38 until race day on June 3.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up to date information regarding tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.