Spikes join MiLB’s CommUNITY First campaign

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The State College Spikes today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Spikes fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the State College Spikes as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Happy Valley community. For every $10 donated, the Spikes will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“The Spikes have always been a place where the Happy Valley community comes together to create lasting memories, and now more than ever we are dedicated to continue that mission” said General Manager Scott Walker. “We are committed to joining our Minor League Baseball family across the country in using our resources to help sustain the lives of our neighbors and of millions of people in need.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Spikes fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting State College Spikes at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

The Spikes are entering their 15th Season of Making Deer Friends across Happy Valley, and the 2020 schedule is slated to begin on Thursday, June 18 with a matchup against the Williamsport Crosscutters (Philadelphia Phillies). Fans can now order Season Ticket Memberships, Flex Books, and group and hospitality experiences for every home game by calling (814) 272-1711. More information can be found at StateCollegeSpikes.com.

About Feeding America

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Local Program Recipient of Phillies Charities, Inc. Grant

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The Philadelphia Phillies recently announced that their charity arm, Phillies, Charities, Inc., has awarded a $15,000 grant to Favors Forward Foundation of Lycoming County.

The mission of Favors Forward Foundation is to provide a network of volunteers uniting their time, talent, and treasures to serve children and adults in Lycoming County facing life-changing hardships. The focus is individuals and families that are NOT receiving ongoing assistance from other agencies and organizations. The organization requires clients to complete a contract that they will “Pay it Forward” once they are back on their feet and able to do so.

“Each year, Phillies Charities reaches out to us to provide information about worthy charities in our area,” said Sarah Budd the Crosscutters Director of Ticket Operations & Community Relations. “We are elated they chose to recognize and support Favors Forward, an organization that helps so many in need in our community.”

Representatives from the Favors Forward Foundation, accompanied by Crosscutters representatives, were in attendance on Tuesday, December 3 at the Phillies Charities, Inc. Holiday Giving Party at Citizens Bank Park. At that event they, and other award recipients, were recognized and saluted by the Phillies for their charitable efforts.

In the past year, more than $1.2 million was awarded by Phillies Charities, Inc. to charitable organizations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and near the Phillies spring training and minor league affiliates. Phillies Charities, Inc. serves as the fundraising arm of the Phillies organization and awards grants to a variety of charitable organizations each year. For more information on Phillies Charities, Inc. please visit www.phillies.com/community.

The Crosscutters 2020 home opener is Friday, June 19 against the State College Spikes.

Bring the kids to Safe and Seen on Sunday, Oct. 27

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The State College Spikes are once again partnering with Centre LifeLink EMS to give fans a chance at free family fun for the Halloween season with Safe & Seen at the Ballpark. The family trick-or-treating event is scheduled for Sunday, October 27 from 3-5 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, rain or shine.

Safe & Seen will feature the opportunity for families to bring their young trick-or-treaters to the ballpark in costume for a safe Halloween event that will include many fun activities for fans of all ages. Admission and parking are free.

Youngsters can also bring a bag or bucket to be filled by area organizations stationed throughout the ballpark as they go “door-to-door” to collect treats and other fun items.

Several community groups will be on hand to help bring an array of family-friendly fun at the ballpark with stations along the trick-or-treat route. Fans young and old can experience ambulance tours, fall crafts, kids games, Spikes mascot meet-and-greets, and more.

Local organizations still interested in being part of Safe & Seen in the Ballpark can contact Joe Putnam of the Spikes at [email protected]

Fans are also encouraged to bring a donation for Centre LifeLink EMS in support of their life-saving services.

Medlar Field at Lubrano Park will play host to even more fun in 2020 when the Spikes’ home schedule begins on Thursday, June 18 against the Williamsport Crosscutters (Philadelphia Phillies).

Fans can catch every moment of the family fun and exciting entertainment of the 2020 season and enjoy numerous benefits with Spikes Season Ticket Memberships. Season Ticket Members get early entry into the ballpark for every game, giving them the first opportunity at many of the Spikes’ fantastic giveaways.

In addition, fans committing to Season Ticket Memberships before Friday, October 25, will be entered in a drawing which could give them their 2020 season seats for free. Fans purchasing one-year memberships will receive one entry per account, while fans committing to three-year memberships will receive three entries per account.

To purchase a Season Ticket Membership and enjoy amenities that last all year long, call a Spikes ticket representative at (814) 272-1711, or click here for more information on Season Ticket Memberships.

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

Safe & Seen trick-or-treat set for October 29

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

The State College Spikes are once again partnering with Centre LifeLink EMS to give fans a chance at free family fun for the Halloween season with Safe & Seen at the Ballpark presented by State College Community Land Trust. The family trick-or-treating event is scheduled for Sunday, October 29 from 3-5 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Safe & Seen will feature the opportunity for families to bring their young trick-or-treaters to the ballpark in costume for a safe Halloween event that will include many fun activities for fans of all ages. Admission and parking are free.

Youngsters can also bring a bag or bucket to be filled by area organizations stationed throughout the ballpark as they go “door-to-door” to collect treats and other fun items.

Penn State Health will also be on hand to give a mini-pumpkin from Shuey’s Market in State College to each youngster, as well as a decorating kit. Plus, fans young and old can experience ambulance tours, fall crafts, kids games, Spikes mascot meet-and-greets, and more.

Local organizations still interested in being part of Safe & Seen in the Ballpark can contact Ben Love of the Spikes at [email protected].

Fans are also encouraged to bring a donation for Centre LifeLink EMS in support of their life-saving services.

Medlar Field at Lubrano Park will play host to even more fun in 2018 when the Spikes return for an All-Star summer, with the 2018 NYPL All-Star Game serving as the centerpiece of what promises to be a jam-packed schedule. To find out more about Season Seat Memberships, Value Plans, Flex Books and a variety of different group packages and experiences for the 2018 season, call the Spikes at (814) 272-1711. Additional team and ticket information can also be viewed by visiting State College Spikes.com.

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

Castano, pink jerseys power Spikes to win

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UNIVERSITY PARK, PA – Daniel Castano delivered 7 2/3 strong innings on the mound, and Tyler Lancaster homered to produce the eventual game-winning run as the State College Spikes defeated the Auburn Doubledays, 2-1, on Sunday night at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

The Spikes (21-17) also helped the fight against breast cancer by donning Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys as part of Paint the Park Pink Night, presented by Mount Nittany Health. The jerseys went up for bids in a Jersey-off-the-Back Auction that raised $3,500 for the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, with more to be raised through additional jersey auctions through MiLBAuctions.com and two more Spikes 50/50 Raffle drawings during the course of the season.

Castano (7-1) notched his league-leading seventh win as he yielded just two hits, two walks and a hit batsman while recording five strikeouts. The left-hander has now struck out 51 batters, most in the New York-Penn League, and walked just seven over 52 1/3 innings this season.

State College took the lead in the seventh as Yariel Gonzalez reached base on a two-base outfield error, then scored on Bryce Denton ‘s single to right. Denton was the lone Spike with multiple hits in the game.

Lancaster then gave the Spikes an insurance run as he slugged a 1-1 pitch from Auburn reliever Jeremy McKinney over the right-field wall for a solo homer, his second of the season. State College produced just three hits total on the night.

Auburn (15-24) threatened in the eighth by loading the bases, but could not score. The Doubledays then got within a run in the ninth when Jeyner Baez singled to the left side, but stranded runners on first and second to end the game.

Spencer Trayner (2) pitched the last 1 1/3 innings for the Spikes to earn the save. Trayner allowed a run on two hits and a walk, with his lone strikeout finishing the victory.

Doubledays starter Nick Raquet (0-1) was tremendous in his return home, as the State College Area High School alum allowed just one unearned run on two hits over a career-long five innings of work. The Nationals’ 2017 third-round draft choice also produced a strikeout in the effort, but took a tough loss.

Monday, the Spikes and Doubledays meet at 7:05 p.m. for the middle game of a three-game series at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. 6’6″, 19-year-old Cuban righthander Johan Oviedo (0-0) will make his first start of the season for State College. Oviedo is currently rated as the 23rd-best prospect in the Cardinals organization by MLBPipeline.com.

Auburn is slated to send left-hander Yonathan Ramirez (2-2) to the hill for his second start of the year against the Spikes.

The fun continues with Monday Buck Night, presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ. Fans can get into the park with $1 Outfield Bleacher seats, then enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 small sodas and $1 peanut boats throughout the game.

The homestand concludes on Tuesday with the annual Super Splash Day game at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, as Ike’s Kids Zone turns into the Splash Zone for kids of all ages. First pitch between the Spikes and Doubledays will be at noon, and fans can enjoy another $2 Walking Taco Tuesday, presented by B94.5.

Kids will also have the opportunity to run the bases after Tuesday’s game thanks to Wonderland Charter Schools.

Tickets for Monday and Tuesday’s games, as well as every game remaining on the Spikes’ 2017 home schedule, are currently on sale through the Spikes Ticket Office by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting in person. Fans can also buy and download single-game tickets by visiting StateCollegeSpikes.com.

Catch all of the action on Monday via the Spikes Radio Network, presented by Penn State Sports Medicine, Official Healthcare Provider of Penn State Athletics, at 6:35 p.m. with Spikes Live, presented by Mount Nittany Health, on the air from Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. The Spikes’ radio broadcast can also be heard worldwide through the “Listen Live” link on StateCollegeSpikes.com, provided by the club’s flagship radio home, Newsradio 1390 WRSC, as well as the TuneIn Radio app.

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

Paint the Park Pink, Super Splash Day on Spikes slate

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

The State College Spikes return home Sunday to begin a three-game homestand at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park that runs through Tuesday. Highlights of the trio of games include the annual Paint the Park Pink Night, presented by Mount Nittany Health on Sunday, as well as Super Splash Day at Tuesday’s noon game.

The Auburn Doubledays (Washington Nationals) will provide the opposition for all three games, starting with Sunday’s 6:05 p.m. as the Spikes and Mount Nittany Health will team up once gain to raise funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer on Paint the Park Pink Night.

The Spikes will take the field in special Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys, to symbolize the fight against breast cancer an honor those who have engaged in the fight. These jerseys will then go up for bids in a Jersey-off-the-Back Auction to benefit the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, which supports the work done by the Breast Care Center at Mount Nittany Medical Center.

In addition, the first 1,000 fans through the gates when they open at 5 p.m. will receive a Pink Team Poster, featuring a photo taken with the Spikes’ Opening Day roster in the Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jerseys. Plus, the skies will light up with a Spike-tacular FIREWORKS show after the game.

The fun then continues with Monday Buck Night, presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ, as the Spikes take on the Doubledays at 7:05 p.m. Fans can get into the park with $1 Outfield Bleacher seats, then enjoy $1 hot dogs, $1 small sodas and $1 peanut boats throughout the game.

The homestand concludes on Tuesday with the annual Super Splash Day game at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, as Ike’s Kids Zone turns into the Splash Zone for kids of all ages. First pitch between the Spikes and Doubledays will be at noon, and fans can enjoy another $2 Walking Taco Tuesday, presented by B94.5.

Kids will also have the opportunity to run the bases after Sunday’s game, as well as a special chance after Tuesday’s game, thanks to Wonderland Charter Schools.

Tickets for all three games, as well as every remaining game on the Spikes’ 2017 home slate, can be purchased online at StateCollegeSpikes.com, by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park Ticket Office. Ticket Office hours are 9 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Saturday and Sunday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on non-game days.Information on all Spikes single-game, season and group ticket packages is available at StateCollegeSpikes.com.

A complete list of promotions is below:

Sunday, July 30 – 6:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Paint the Park Pink, Pink Boxing Robe Themed Jersey-off-the-Back Auction, Pink Team Poster Giveaway (First 1,000 Fans, All Ages), and FIREWORKS presented by Mount Nittany Health
  • Kids Day presented by First National Bank
  • Pre-Game Catch on the Field (5:00-5:30)
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School
  • Kids Eat & Play Free presented by Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (First 250 Kids, 12 & Under)

Monday, July 31 – 7:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Monday Buck Night presented by 95.3 FM 3WZ

Tuesday, August 1 – 12:00 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Super Splash Day
  • $2 Walking Taco Tuesday presented by B94.5
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School

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

Military salute, FIREWORKS, $1 beers on tap

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

The State College Spikes are home for another big weekend at the ballpark through Sunday, July 9. Military Appreciation Night and FIREWORKS presented by Lion Country Kia, a special $1 Beer Saturday, the All-American BBQ, and much more will pack the promotional schedule at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

The Spikes will host the Auburn Doubledays (Washington Nationals) for all three games, beginning with a 7:05 p.m. matchup on Friday night. The Doubledays will also bring a familiar face with them as State College Area High School graduate Nick Raquet returns home after being selected as the Nationals’ third-round draft choice this year.

The fun starts on Friday with Princess Night and Daddy-Daughter Date Night that evening, featuring a Post-Game Family Dance. Plus, fans can purchase the 4 for $44 Friday Northwest Family Value Ticket Package, with four of our best seats, four hot dogs and four small sodas available for just $44.

Saturday, get a big day in Central PA started at the ballpark with the All-American BBQ as the Spikes face the Doubledays at noon. It’s also a special $1 Beer Saturday at the ballpark, with 12-oz. domestic draft beers available for just $1 apiece from 11-1.

Plus, the All -American BBQ will give fans a special opportunity to purchase individual all-you-can-eat seats in the Pepsi Picnic Pavilion, starting at $17 for kids 12 and under and $24 for adults.

The All-You-Can-Eat buffet at the Pepsi Picnic Pavilion features classic All-American BBQ items like hamburgers, hot dogs and barbecued chicken. Sides include chips, baked beans, potato salad and, new for 2017, mixed greens salad. Soda, water and cookies are also available as part of the buffet.

Seats in the Pepsi Picnic Pavilion also come with free access to Ike’s Kids Zone in left field for kids 12 and under, as well as free ice cream sandwiches in the seventh inning.

The homestand concludes on Sunday with one of the best nights of the season as we pay homage to those men and women who have served and continue to serve our country on Military Appreciation Night, presented by Lion Country Kia. Fans can join the Spikes in a variety of tributes throughout the night, with military vehicles also on hand to see and touch.

In addition, fans can place their bids in a Patriotic Hat Auction benefiting Local Military Personnel presented by Lion Country Kia. The Spikes have autographed the special patriotic hats they wore on July 3, and each hat is up for bids to help those who have ensured our freedoms. After the game, the skies will light up with a Spike-tacular FIREWORKS show.

Sunday is also WHVL Day at the Ballpark, as the first 500 fans receive Spikes Koozies presented by WHVL-TV. WHVL-TV will also broadcast Sunday’s game live with Steve Jones providing the play-by-play.

Kids can also run the bases after all three games this weekend thanks to Wonderland Charter School.

Tickets for all three games from Friday through Sunday, as well as every game on the Spikes’ 2017 home schedule, can be purchased online by clicking here, by calling (814) 272-1711 or by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park Ticket Office. Ticket Office hours are 9 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to the end of the game on game days Saturday and Sunday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on non-game days. Information on all Spikes single-game, season and group ticket packages is available by clicking here.

A complete list of promotions is below:

Friday, July 7 – 7:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Princess Night
  • Daddy-Daughter Date Night with Post-Game Family Dance
  • 4 for $44 Friday Northwest Family Value Ticket Package Night presented by Northwest and MAJIC 99
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School
  • BB&T Books & Baseball Night
  • Fitness Friday presented by East Coast Health & Fitness

Saturday, July 8 – 12:00 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • $1 Beer Saturday (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
  • All-American BBQ
  • Country Day
  • Scratch n’ Win Saturday presented by P.J. Harrigan’s and WOWY 97.1
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School

Sunday, July 9 – 6:05 p.m. vs. Auburn – TICKETS

  • Military Appreciation Night, FIREWORKS and Patriotic Hat Auction  benefiting Local Military Personnel presented by Lion Country Kia
  • WHVL Day at the Ballpark featuring WHVL Spikes Koozie Giveaway (First 500 Fans)
  • Kids Day presented by First National Bank
  • Pre-Game Catch on the Field (5:00-5:30)
  • Post-Game Kids Run the Bases presented by Wonderland Charter School
  • Kids Eat & Play Free presented by Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (First 250 Kids, 12 & Under)
  • WHVL-TV Live Game Broadcast

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

Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic is this Saturday

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

Kids can learn baseball fundamentals from the pros at the Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic, presented by Penn State Health, this Saturday, July 1. The clinic is free with a ticket to Saturday night’s 7:05 p.m. Spikes game, and will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Spikes players will help kids sharpen their basic skills, including pitching, fielding and hitting, at the clinic. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m., and participating kids will have the opportunity to get autographs from the players at the end of the clinic.

The Youth Baseball Clinic starts a jam-packed day at the ballpark, as the Spikes face the Auburn Doubledays at 7:05 p.m., on Youth Baseball Night, presented by Boyles Insurance. Plus, the first 250 kids ages 12 and under will get free ‘dippin dots thanks to Boyles Insurance.

It’s also a Scratch n’ Win Saturday, presented by P.J. Harrigan’s and WOWY 97.1. Every Spikes fans will be a winner as each fan receives a scratch-off card with a great prize or discount on it, including the grand prize of 2018 Season Tickets!

Tickets for Satuday’s game, as well as every game on the Spikes’ 2017 home slate, can be purchased by clicking here, by calling (814) 272-1711, or by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park Ticket Office.

Information on all Spikes single-game, season and group ticket packages is available by clicking here.

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

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Donate blood at the ballpark Wednesday for Spikes tix

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

The State College Spikes and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a Blood Drive in Suite 519 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, and we need your help, Spikes fans!

In addition to helping our neighbors by increasing regional blood supplies, any presenting donor that comes to the ballpark on Wednesday will receive two (2) Bullpen Box tickets for a Spikes home game of their choice this summer.

Walk-ins are welcome, but fans can also make an appointment with the Red Cross at RedCrossBlood.com.

The American Red Cross urges those who have never given blood before – as well as those who haven’t given recently – to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now and help sustain a sufficient community blood supply this summer.

While the need for blood is constant during the summer months, the Red Cross experiences a drastic decline in new donors. Nationwide, about one-third fewer new donors came out to give last summer than during the rest of the year. Additionally, many schools where blood drives are held – and where new donors give – are not in session, and current donors often delay giving due to summer vacation plans.

While about 38 percent of the population is eligible to give blood, less than 10 percent of those eligible actually do. The blood donation process takes about an hour with the actual donation only taking about 10 minutes.

So be sure to join us Wednesday between 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. here at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park as the Spikes and the American Red Cross team up for Blood Drive at the ballpark!

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

Fans to literally Paint the Park Pink on Aug. 2

Medlar Field going pink to raise funds, awareness for breast cancer fight

statecollegespikes_2015-05-12

The State College Spikes’ annual Paint the Park Pink event, presented by Mount Nittany Health, will take on a whole new dimension in 2015. Fans will be offered the opportunity to literally “Paint the Park Pink” to help the fight against breast cancer on Sunday, August 2 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

For the first time, fans that make a donation to the Breast Care Center at Mount Nittany Medical Center through The Foundation for Mount Nittany Medical Center will have the chance to paint designated areas of the ballpark pink to honor those who have fought and those who continue to fight breast cancer. The event will take place during the Spikes’ 6:05 p.m. game against the Lowell Spinners (Boston Red Sox).

In addition to painting the ballpark pink, fans can bid on the special Pink Camouflage Jerseys the Spikes will be wearing to benefit The Foundation for Mount Nittany Medical Center. The Jersey-off-the-Back Auction will take place during the night, with all winners receiving their jerseys immediately after the game.

Plus, there will numerous other ways for fans to donate to the fight against breast cancer throughout the night, including special pink balloons, a 50/50 drawing, and more.

Check out the Spikes’ complete 2015 promotional schedule!

“Paint the Park Pink has always been one of our most popular and impactful promotions throughout the past nine seasons,” said Spikes General Manager Scott Walker. “We have been privileged to be able to partner with Mount Nittany Health to raise over $60,000 for the fight against breast cancer. This year, our fans can not only continue to help that fight, but leave an indelible mark on the ballpark that will last more than just one night.”

The fun of Paint the Park Pink Night also includes a Replica Pink Camouflage Jersey Giveaway for the first 1,000 fans of all ages, presented by Mount Nittany Health, and a fantastic post-game FIREWORKS show to close the evening.

Single-game tickets for all 38 regular season home dates between June 19 and September 6, are currently on sale through the Spikes Box Office and online at StateCollegeSpikes.com. Fans can visit the Box Office in person weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call (814) 272-1711. Fans purchasing online have the ability to print their tickets using a home computer and printer.

Season Tickets, Value Plans, McDonald’s Flex Books and an array of group and corporate hospitality options are currently on sale for the 2015 season and can be reserved by calling (814) 272-1711. Additional information on all club ticketing options, as well as team news and schedule info, can be viewed at www.StateCollegeSpikes.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Spikes announce 2015 school programs

Outreach programs provide lessons to over 15,000 Central PA students

statecollegespikes_2014-04-30

The State College Spikes are pleased to announce the team’s roster of 2015 school programs. Each program has a unique theme and focus, with the common goal of using the Spikes brand to supplement classroom curriculum in the areas of reading, writing, exercising, eating healthy and conserving water. These programs are always offered free of charge to area schools.

Most programs are implemented through school assemblies and involve mascots, players and front office staff. All programs offer K-8 students the opportunity to earn free tickets to a Spikes’ home game upon completion of one of the fun and educational school programs. The Spikes annually reach over 15,000 Central Pennsylvania school children in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Juniata Counties through community outreach programs.

New for the 2015 season is the “Head Above Water” program presented by the State College Borough Water Authority. The program teaches water conservation and its positive effects, with a free Spikes ticket offered upon completion of the program.

Below are capsules of the Spikes 2015 school programs:

Healthy Home Runs presented by Mount Nittany Health
The Spikes and Mount Nittany Health are offering this school program, which is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle by creating awareness of the importance of proper nutrition and physical activity. Ike the Spike and representatives from Mount Nittany Health will visit schools to hold a kick-off assembly, which can be held outside or inside. During the assembly, K-6 students will be educated on the importance of exercise and nutrition before having the opportunity to take “Ike’s Fun Fit Challenge.” Students who complete the simple and fun physical fitness challenge will be rewarded with one complimentary Bullpen Box ticket and an on-field recognition ceremony during the Spikes’ Healthy Home Runs Day at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Sunday, August 2.

Books and Baseball Program presented by National Penn Bank
The Spikes and National Penn Bank have partnered for the Books and Baseball Reading Program for the 2015 season. This program encourages students to complete a reading program by rewarding them with free Spikes tickets upon completion. Participating students will receive a special bookmark to keep track of the books they read. Any participating student that reads four books under the supervision of their teacher or parent will earn one free ticket for a designated Books and Baseball game during the 2015 season. At those games, participants will be honored from the field for their participation and completion of the programs. The program includes a free assembly and reading presentation with the National Penn Bank Nook Monster at any of the participating schools. Books and Baseball is designed for students in grades K-8.

Spikes Essay Contest presented by the Centre Daily Times
The Spikes Essay Contest is for K-8 students to creatively share their experiences and thoughts about the State College Spikes through pictures or essays. The contest is divided into three different grade levels: K-1, 2-4 and 5-8. Students in kindergarten through first grade are encouraged to include drawings along with one sentence for the theme “If I were Ike the Spike.” The second to fourth grade group will be asked to write a short essay entitled “If I coached the Spikes.” Fifth to eighth graders will be encouraged to write a 300 word or fewer essay entitled “If I could create a new food item for the Spikes, it would be (blank).” A winning essay will be chosen in each of the three age groups and those winners will earn tickets to a 2015 Spikes home game for their entire grade. The submission deadline for the Spikes Essay Contest is June 1.

“Head Above Water” presented by the State College Borough Water Authority
All new for 2015 – the State College Borough Water Authority and the Spikes have partnered to implement a youth water conservation awareness program, “Head Above Water.” Ike the Spike, along with a representative from the State College Borough Water Authority, will be educating students on the importance of water conservation and the effects it can have. The program is an initiative that will encourage students to practice good water conservation habits by rewarding them with a free Spikes ticket upon completion of the program. Participating students will receive a special baseball card to help remind them how to conserve water. Any participating student that completes the water conservation program under the supervision of his or her teacher and/or parent will earn one free ticket to a 2015 Spikes baseball game. The program includes a free assembly and water conservation presentation with Ike the Spike and the State College Borough Water Authority at any of the participating schools.

There is no cost for schools to participate in any of the Spikes school programs. Teachers or administrators interested in participating in any of the State College Spikes School Programs can contact Bobbi Jo Davidson, Spikes Community Relations Assistant at (814) 272-1711 or [email protected].

The Spikes, defending New York-Penn League champions, begin their 38-game home schedule with Opening Night on Friday, June 19 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, and the slate continues through September 6.

Single-game tickets for each game in the 2015 season will be available starting at TicketFest 2015 on Saturday, May 2 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Season tickets, McDonald’s Flex Books and an array of group and hospitality options for the 2015 season are currently on sale by calling the Spikes at (814) 272-1711. Additional information on all club ticketing options can be viewed here.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Safe & Seen trick-or-treat event set for Oct. 26

3rd annual kids Halloween event at Medlar Field

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State-College-SpikesThe State College Spikes, Centre LifeLink EMS and B94.5 FM are once again teaming up to present this year’s safest and most fun children’s trick-or-treating event in the State College area.

The Third Annual Safe & Seen in the Ballpark will take place on Sunday, October 26 from 4-6 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, the home of the Spikes. This free admission event is designed for young trick-or-treaters and their parents and will include many fun activities for children and their families.

Centre-LifeLink-EMS-logoEach child is invited to wear his or her favorite Halloween costume and bring their bag or bucket to be filled by area non-profit agencies or community supporters stationed throughout the ballpark. Trick-or-treaters will be invited to go “door to door” to visit each participating group to collect treats and other fun items.

Families can also enjoy ambulance tours, fall crafts, kids games, meet and greets with Spikes mascots and more. The event will be held rain or shine as most of activities and trick-or-treat stations will be under cover.

Anyone attending the event is encouraged, but not required, to bring a donation for Centre LifeLink EMS in support of their life-saving services.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Spikes set to Paint the Park Pink on Sunday

Join the fight against breast cancer with Jersey Auction, more

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State-College-SpikesJoin the Spikes and Mount Nittany Health to raise funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer at the annual Paint the Park Pink Night on Sunday, August 3rd! Game time for the Spikes’ matchup against the Hudson Valley Renegades (Tampa Bay Rays) is set for 6:05 p.m.

The Spikes will wear special Pink Ribbon Jerseys for the event, which will be up for bids in a Jersey-off-the-Back Auction to benefit the Breast Care Center at Mount Nittany Medical Center through The Foundation at Mount Nittany Medical Center. The silent auction will begin when ballpark gates open (4:45 p.m. season ticket holders; 5 p.m. general public) and will continue through the conclusion of the sixth inning.

Mount-Nittany-HealthThe fan with the highest bid on each Spikes player or coach jersey will receive his or her jersey directly from the player or coach as part of a special on-field ceremony after the game.

In addition, the first 1,000 fans of all ages through the gates will receive a Pink Ribbon Drawstring Bag, presented by Mount Nittany Health.

After the game, fans will enjoy a fantastic post-game FIREWORKS display, presented by Mount Nittany Health and WHVL-TV that will light up the skies over Central PA!

The Spikes are also partnering with Pink Zone at Penn State and the Penn State Lady Lions to promote the battle against breast cancer on Sunday. Lady Lions head coach Coquese Washington will throw out a ceremonial first pitch as part of the evening’s activities, and members of the Lady Lions will sign autographs during the night.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

Free Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic Saturday from 11-1

Kids 12 and under can learn baseball skills from Spikes players & coaches!

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State-College-SpikesKids can learn baseball fundamentals from the pros at the Spikes Youth Baseball Clinic, presented by Penn State Sports Medicine, on Saturday, June 12. The clinic is free with a ticket to Saturday night’s 7:05 p.m. Spikes game, and will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Spikes players will help kids sharpen their basic skills, including pitching, fielding and hitting, at the clinic. Kids and parents will also receive tips on injury prevention from a Penn State Sports Medicine physician. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m., and participating kids will have the opportunity to get autographs from the players at the end of the clinic.

The Youth Baseball Clinic starts a jam-packed day at the ballpark, as the Spikes face the Staten Island Yankees at 7:05 p.m., with FIREWORKS after the game presented by Penn State Sports Medicine as well. It’s also a Scratch n’ Win Saturday, where every fan will be a winner as each fans receives a scratch-off card with a great prize or discount on it. In addition, one lucky fan will receive the chance to win a new Kia car with the Lion Country Kia Dice Roll.

After the game, kids can run the bases thanks to Clinical Outcomes Group, Inc.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the State College Spikes. Click here to view the original story.

2014 NYPL Scholarship Contest

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The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Download Application Form »

Now in its sixth year, the 2014 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a divisional round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the divisional/final round. The 14 finalists will then be separated by the division of the team they represent. The winning application from each of the NYPL’s three divisions (McNamara, Pinckney and Stedler) will receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the sixth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

High school seniors interested in entering the 2014 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application from their local NYPL club, or by visiting the league’s official website, New York-Penn League.com.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 27, 2014. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in late July and honored at a game in August.

Download Application Form »

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Aberdeen IronBirds. Click here to view the original story.