Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation, Inc. Releases 2019 Annual Report

 

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation, Inc. proudly presents the 5th Annual Report to the Community detailing the organization’s charitable outreach in 2019. Each year, the report lists the extensive accomplishments of the Foundation as well as the notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

It was another record-setting year for the Cougars Foundation as giving exceeded the $1 million mark, making 2019 the second consecutive year charitable giving was above the $1 million milestone. In addition, the Cougars moved into the top five among all Minor League Baseball (MiLB) teams in charitable giving following the release of the MiLB Charity Report for 2018. The Cougars are currently ranked fifth out of all 160 teams, marking the second consecutive year the team was ranked in the top ten for charitable giving.

The Foundation achieved additional milestones as the five-year record giving streak has soared over 1,500% since 2014. Individual programs supported by the Foundation have reached a total of 24, while cash contributions were provided to 32 community organizations, the largest number of programs and organizations that have benefited from the Foundation in its history. Program highlights include the Cougars Reading Club which now reaches over 450 schools and 138,000 students with the Summer Reading Program now including 89 libraries and over 5,400 student participants. The Foundation also operates two scholarship programs, issuing grade school level scholarships to six local students and five college-level scholarships. Military Outreach continued to see growth, reaching over 1,100 current and former military service members while the Senior Citizens Outreach touched over 2,500 local seniors age 65 and over.

In addition to the expansion of current programs, new programs were added such as Mental Health and Deaf Awareness Night. The Foundation teamed up with local charities that focus on improving the quality of lives for those who deal with mental illness and hearing impairments. For each strikeout recorded by a Cougars pitcher during select nights, the Foundation made a donation with a portion of the total proceeds benefiting the selected charities.

The highlight of the year for the Foundation came at Baseball Winter Meetings in San Diego, Calif. Ballpark Digest selected the Cougars Foundation out of all 160 MiLB teams to receive the prestigious Ballpark Digest Commitment to Charity Award for the 2019 season. Following the announcement that the Cougars had been selected, the Foundation received a congratulatory message from NASDAQ on the famous MarketSite Tower that illuminates Times Square. This marked the first time a MiLB Foundation was featured on the MarketSite Tower.

Across all 24 programs, the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation’s charitable giving reached a total of $1,054,980.

“None of these accomplishments would be possible without the commitment of our Foundation’s sponsors, donors and partners,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Their willingness to step up for our community is seen each and every year that we’re able to expand our outreach. It’s amazing to watch the impact of the Foundation stretch far beyond the baseball field.”

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 180 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber and Willson Contreras.

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

Durham Bulls to Host Seasonal Job Fair

 

The Durham Bulls, in conjunction with Headway Workforce Solutions, will host their annual Job Fair on Saturday, January 25 to fill part-time game day positions for the 2020 season. The fair is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the PNC Triangle Club at Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

Interviews will be held that day for seasonal, part-time positions available in game entertainment, stadium operations, sports turf, retail, seating bowl hosting, picnic area hosting and ticket operations.

Bull City Hospitality – the team’s Food and Beverage company – will also be conducting interviews that day, aiming to fill a number of concession stand positions including managers, stand attendants, catering staff, cooks, bartenders and more.

Applicants should be energetic, friendly and dependable, and look forward to contributing to the welcoming atmosphere of Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Those interested in a position with the Bulls or Bull City Hospitality can see a listing of jobs and are encouraged to register for the job fair in advance by clicking here.

The Bulls look to start the 2020 season strong at their home opener on Thursday, April 9, 2020. Season memberships and group outings are available now at durhambulls.com or by calling 919.956.BULL.

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

R-Phils Bring Players, Fans Together with Celebrate Your Faith Nights

 

Throughout Minor League Baseball, faith plays an ever-important role in the lives of many of those working their way toward the Major Leagues.

On Celebrate Your Faith nights at FirstEnergy Stadium, players and fans come together to reflect on the impact that their respective faiths have had on their journeys.

The R-Phils will be hosting three Celebrate Your Faith Nights during the 2020 season. The first will take place on Thursday, June 4th, with two others scheduled for Sunday, July 26th, and Sunday, August 2nd.

“Celebrate Your Faith nights have become a fun forum for Reading Fightin Phils fans to learn about the lives of professional baseball players and how they are able to incorporate their faith into a lifestyle that makes it very difficult to stay connected with their friends, family, and their places of worship,” said Joe Bialek, Reading Fightin Phils Executive Director of Sales. Bialek moderates the discussions on Celebrate Your Faith Nights, and is also the liaison between the team and Baseball Chapel.

“The players enjoy sharing their stories of faith as much as the fans enjoy hearing them. It’s truly an inspirational program for everyone involved.”

During Celebrate Your Faith Nights, faith-based groups can enjoy a post-game concert followed by a faith discussion and Q&A with R-Phils players. Several Fightin Phils players share the role their faith plays in their lives as professional athletes, and fan involvement in the discussion is encouraged.

The discussions are non-denominational, and all faiths are welcomed. The 2020 season will be the 18th year of the program’s existence.

Groups of 20 or more interested in attending one of the R-Phils Celebrate Your Faith Nights can contact the Fightins Group Sales Department at 610-375-8469 or by emailing Director of Groups Jon Nally (jnally@fightins.com).

2020 R-Phils Celebrate Your Faith Nights:

Thursday, June 4th – 7:10 p.m. vs. Altoona

Sunday, July 26th – 5:15 p.m. vs New Hampshire

Sunday, August 2nd – 5:15 p.m. vs Binghamton

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

Mudcats to Partner with Marbles Kids Museum for 2020 Season

 

ZEBULON, N.C. – Marbles Kids Museum to become new presenting partner of Carolina Mudcats Education Day games at Five County Stadium for the upcoming 2020, 30th anniversary season in Zebulon, NC. Education Day games, designed to provide local area students with a day of learning and baseball, will now feature new educational content presented by Marbles Kids Museum.

“This partnership is going to make for an incredible and engaging 30th season in Mudcats history,” said Mudcats Vice President and General Manager Joe Kremer. “We can’t wait to show all of our fans and local area families how much this will mean for them.”

The exciting new partnership will see Marbles Kids Museum provide educational content, including interactive exhibits, at each of Carolina’s three Education Day games scheduled throughout the 2020 season. Marbles Kids Museum Education Day games are scheduled for April 15, April 29 and May 13 with each game beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Five County Stadium. The Marbles Kids Museum staff will also be on-hand for Carolina’s “Super Splash Day” game on July 29 vs. Lynchburg at 10:30 a.m.

Marbles Kids Museum Education Day Games:
Wednesday, April 15 vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks, 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, April 29 vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans, 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, May 13 vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks, 10:30 a.m.

Fans and students in attendance for Marbles Kids Museum Education Day games this season at Five County Stadium will have a chance to receive free and discounted Marbles Kids Museum and IMAX tickets. Marbles Kids Museum will additionally treat local area Hispanic families to a Pescados de Carolina game at Five County Stadium as part of the museum’s school readiness program, Ready Set School.

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Marbles serves a diverse population of families, school groups and community organizations with dozens of themed exhibits, summer camps, IMAX documentary and feature movies and special events year-round.

The Mudcats will celebrate 30 years of baseball in North Carolina when they begin the upcoming 2020 season by hosting the Winston-Salem Dash on Thursday, April 9 at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, NC.

Season ticket packages, group ticket packages and the latest mini plans for the upcoming 2020 season are all available now by visiting the Five County Stadium front office in Zebulon, by calling (919) 269-CATS (2287) and by visiting carolinamudcats.com.

About the Carolina Mudcats
The Carolina Mudcats are the proud Carolina League, Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. First established in 1991, the two-time Southern League Champion Mudcats are entering their 30th consecutive season of baseball at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, N.C. The Mudcats are owned and operated by the Milwaukee Brewers.

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

Shuckers To Host Job Fair On January 28 at MGM Park

 

The Biloxi Shuckers will host their sixth annual job fair on Tuesday, January 28 at MGM Park in the home clubhouse from 4-7 pm. The Shuckers are looking for qualified, hardworking candidates, with an emphasis on customer service skills who want to help provide fun, family entertainment for our guests. Spectra Food Services, the official concessionaire of MGM Park, will also be conducting interviews.

A variety of seasonal positions are available and vary based upon skill set. The Shuckers are seeking staff that can work all home games and additional events as needed at MGM Park. Most games are held in the evening hours during the week and weekend. Candidates must be able to accommodate the schedule, stand for long periods of time and must be able to work outdoors.

Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first serve basis. Applicants are encouraged to bring a resume and dress for a job interview. Applicants that arrive prior to 7:00 pm will be guaranteed an interview.

The following Biloxi Shuckers part-time seasonal positions are available:

  • Access Control
  • Promo Team
  • Grounds Crew
  • Schooner’s Fun Zone
  • Mascot
  • Ticket Seller
  • Sparklight Club Waitstaff
  • Ticket Taker
  • Retail
  • On-Field Emcee
  • Press Box
  • Bat Boy/Girl
  • Usher

The following Spectra Food Services part-time seasonal positions are available:

  • Experienced Prep Cooks
  • Catering Attendants
  • Bartenders
  • Beer Servers
  • Experienced Concessions Cashiers
  • Kitchen Utility Support: Warehouse, Ware Washing

The Biloxi Shuckers staff will conduct interviews with each applicant. Secondary interviews will be scheduled for February and March. Those that wish to apply may view and print the 2020 job application here or by visiting biloxishuckers.com and clicking on ‘Employment’ under the ‘Club Info’ tab. The complete 2020 Biloxi Shuckers schedule is available here.

With the 2020 Biloxi Shuckers schedule announced, Full Shuck Nation Memberships, Half Shell Shuck Nation Memberships, flex plans and group outings for the 2020 season are available by calling 228-233-3465 or by visiting the Biloxi Shuckers front office. The Shuckers will open their sixth season on April 9 at MGM Park against the Montgomery Biscuits.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS:

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.

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

Job Fairs Scheduled for Seasonal Game Day and Concessions Positions

Positions available for Pirates Spring Training and the Bradenton Marauders’ season

Bradenton, Fl. – The Pittsburgh Pirates will hold two (2) job fairs at LECOM Park to hire seasonal staff for Pirates Spring Training and the Bradenton Marauders’ season. Game day staff and concessions positions are available. Interviews will be conducted on the spot at both hiring events.

The first hiring event will be held on Thursday, January 9 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The second will be held on Tuesday, January 14 from 1 p.m. -7 p.m. LECOM Park is located at 1611 9th Street West in Bradenton. Parking will be available in the gated lot along 17th Avenue West.

All positions for Pirates Spring Training and the Bradenton Marauders’ season are posted online at Careers.Pirates.com. Prospective employees who cannot attend the hiring events can apply online for consideration.

The Pirates will play a 16-game home schedule at LECOM Park this spring, beginning with a matchup against the Minnesota Twins on Saturday, February 22. Season tickets and groups tickets are available now by calling 941-747-3031. Single game tickets are on sale now at the LECOM Park box office, by phone (1-877-893-2827), and online through www.Pirates.com.

The Bradenton Marauders play a 70-game home schedule beginning on Thursday, April 9, running through Labor Day.

For more information about employment with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.bradentonmarauders.com, or email Marauders.Info@Pirates.com.

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

Registration Open for National Anthem Tryouts

 

DAYTON, OHIO – A traditional sign that baseball season is just around the corner in the Miami Valley is National Anthem Tryouts, presented by the Dayton Daily News. Tryouts for national anthem performers for the 2020 season will take place on Saturday, February 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Mall at Fairfield Commons.

Finalists will perform the national anthem at Dragons games throughout the season, with the grand prize winner performing on Opening Day 2020 before the Dragons host the Great Lakes Loons on Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.

Pre-registration is now underway at www.daytondragons.com/nationalanthem. The first 200 entrants who pre-register for this event will receive a scheduled tryout time. In the event that all of the allotted spots are filled, you could still have a chance to perform at the tryouts on a stand-by basis.

To register as a stand-by performer, you must come to the Saturday, February 22 tryouts at the Mall at Fairfield Commons. You will receive a stand-by number that will be called when a spot becomes available. Standby performers are not guaranteed a chance to tryout so, interested performers are strongly encouraged to sign up at www.daytondragons.com/nationalanthem.

A panel of local citizens including media personalities, city officials, and community leaders will be judging the event. The panel will make its selections based on voice quality, creative style, stage presence, and appearance.

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

SMOKIES INVITATIONAL WILL BE FRIDAY, MARCH 13

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Smokies have announced their Smokies Invitational on March 13, 2020, held at Three Ridges Golf Course (6101 Wise Springs Road, Knoxville, TN 37918). The day’s events begin at 11:30 a.m. with lunch followed by a 1:00 p.m. tee time. Smokies Invitational will feature a round of golf, 50/50 raffle, men’s and women’s longest drive competitions, hole-in-one contest, and closest to the pin contest.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. The donation will include 100% of the proceeds from the silent auction, purchases made for red tee shot and more. Tim Volk, Smokies General Manager, explained, “We are excited to be partnering up with Smoky Mountain Service Dogs again this year. For all they do in our community, this is our way to help them succeed.”

There are three (3) different options for Smokies Invitational registration all including, lunch, green/cart fees, and donation to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs. Two of the options come in teams of four (4) ranging from $750/each-$500/each. The third option is individual players who will later be placed onto a team of four costing $150/each.

To register or find more information on the Smokies Invitational please visit www.smokiesbaseball.com/invitational2020 or direct any questions to events@smokiesbaseball.com.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

ABOUT SMOKIES MOUNTAIN SERVICE DOGS

We believe that through appropriate utilization of a public access tested/approved, highly trained service dog, individuals with physical and/or psychological disabilities can often become increasingly self-sufficient and independent. We believe that a large percentage of disabled individuals can experience a higher level of societal and community involvement and acceptance through effective use of a service dog.

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

Knights Hiring for Upcoming 2020 Season

The Charlotte Knights are now hiring a number of seasonal positions for the upcoming 2020 season. The team kicks off the upcoming campaign — their seventh in Uptown Charlotte — on Thursday, April 16 at 7:04 p.m. against the Durham Bulls at BB&T Ballpark.

Currently, the Knights have seasonal positions available in Promotions, Grounds, and Kids Zone. Additionally, Professional Sports Catering — the Official Food Service Provider of the Charlotte Knights — are in search of dedicated team members in a number of areas.

For more details, or to apply for any of the positions, please click on the job positions listed below:

GROUNDS
PROMO TEAM
KIDS ZONE
FOOD SERVICE

For additional openings on TeamWorkOnline, click here —> EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

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

Segra Stadium to Host Inaugural Armed Forces Invitational

 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Inaugural Armed Forces Invitational, presented by the Walsingham Group, Inc., will be played at Segra Stadium in downtown Fayetteville starting February 28 until March 1.

The three-day tournament consists of two games per day, with each team playing at least once Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. A post-game fireworks show will follow the conclusion of the last game on both Friday and Saturday night. The schedule with matchups, dates, and times are listed below.

Friday, February 28th
2 p.m. – Army vs. Air Force
6 p.m. – Army vs. Campbell

Saturday, February 29th
1 p.m. – Air Force vs. Campbell
5 p.m. – Air Force vs. Army

Sunday, March 1st
11 a.m. – Campbell vs. Army
3 p.m. – Campbell vs. Air Force

Army West Point Baseball Head Coach James Foster 
“We are very grateful for the opportunity to play in the Armed Forces Invitational with Air Force and Campbell. It will be a great weekend of baseball at a beautiful venue. The most exciting part is that we will be playing close to Fort Bragg and hopefully those in the military can come out and watch the games. We are truly honored to be able to play in front of those serving our country.”

Walsingham Group, Inc. Chairman Ed Petkovich
“Walsingham Group is proud to sponsor the Inaugural Armed Forces Invitational. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to showcase and pay tribute to the men and women who will lead our forces.”

Tickets for the Armed Forces Invitational start at $10 and are now on sale. Ticket options include single day passes or discounted three-day passes. All current and former military will receive a discount for all three days of the tournament.

Fans can purchase tickets by visiting the BB&T Box Office or by clicking here.

For information on luxury or hospitality seating please contact the Woodpeckers at [email protected]

ABOUT WALSINGHAM GROUP, INC.
Walsingham Group, Inc. has partnered with the government since 2008 to deliver flexible, responsive, effective solutions for their most challenging problems. Walsingham performs comprehensive operations and maintenance support; intelligence related services; full-cycle logistics support; personal recovery; aviation support; and specialized staffing in worldwide locations for classified and unclassified requirements.

ABOUT THE FAYETTEVILLE WOODPECKERS
The Houston Astros own and operate its Class A Advanced minor league affiliate, the Fayetteville Woodpeckers. The Astros agreed to a 30-year lease and are invested in the long-term success of the City of Fayetteville. The team’s direction focuses on creating a culture of success with an accessible management team, building the best young talent in baseball, engaging with fans, and connecting the community with an exciting, family-friendly experience. For more information on the Woodpeckers, please visit http://www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com

ABOUT THE HOUSTON ASTROS
The 2017 World Champion Houston Astros have been Houston’s hometown baseball team since 1962, when the Colt .45s first took the field in Colt Stadium. Three years later, the team became the Houston Astros as a tribute to America’s “Space City” and will be entering their 58th season in Major League Baseball. In 2013, the Astros moved to the American League West Division, becoming the first franchise to move from the National League to the American League. The Astros are also the only team in MLB history to have won both an American and National League pennant. For 81 regular season games a year, the Astros can be found on their home field at Minute Maid Park, where families and friends come together to enjoy America’s favorite pastime in one of baseball’s most comfortable and fan-friendly ballparks. In addition to striving for success on the field, the Astros take pride in their local community and are committed to making Houston a better place by honoring our nation’s military, combatting homelessness, aiding in the fight against cancer and supporting youth baseball and softball through the Astros Foundation’s cornerstone programs. For more information on the Astros, please visit www.astros.com.

ABOUT SEGRA STADIUM
Segra Stadium, named a Ballpark Digest ‘Ballpark of the Decade’, is a $40 million state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue is a catalyzing economic development tool that attracts and retains business, provides national exposure, increases civic and community pride, and provides for an improved quality of life for residents. Designed for baseball, concerts, and a host of other activities the venue seats 5,242 for baseball and up to 10,000 for major outdoor events. It features natural grass, a 25×70 LED scoreboard, six luxury suites, four field boxes, a premium club level, outdoor party deck, a kids zone, and more. For more information please visit, www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com

ABOUT THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.
Fayetteville is proud of its rich role in our nation’s history and holds fast to the friendly feel of a true hometown, while providing the cultural and entertainment amenities of bigger cities. The city boasts sophisticated restaurants, museums, musical and sporting events, and nearby Fort Bragg – the nation’s largest military installation – that solidifies the city’s deep roots in all things military. Fayetteville is the sixth-largest city in the state and home to more than 208,000 residents. For more information, please visit www.fayettevillenc.gov.

ABOUT THE CAROLINA LEAGUE
The Carolina League consists of 10 teams and is within the Class A-Advanced level of Minor League Baseball. Founded in 1945, the Carolina League strives to provide a first-class baseball experience for its players and fans. For more information on the Carolina League, please visit www.carolinaleague.com

– WOODPECKERS –

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Books With Ballplayers Brings Family-Friendly Fun To Bodacious Bookstore And Café

 

In conjunction with the Twins Winter Caravan Pensacola, Minnesota Twins prospects Jordan Balazovic and Mark Contreras will visit the Bodacious Bookstore and Café on Thursday, January 16th for an afternoon of family-friendly fun at the first ever Books With Ballplayers event. From 3:00-4:00 PM, Balazovic, Contreras, and Blue Wahoos mascot Kazoo will read with children in attendance and participate in a question and answer session. The event is free to the public. Interested participants are encouraged to arrive early as space is limited.

The Bodacious Bookstore and Café opened in August 2019 at 110 E. Intendencia Street in downtown Pensacola offering a wide selection of books for both children and adults, a children’s area highlighted by a replica lighthouse, and a full menu of coffee, tea, smoothies, and café-style food.

Following the Books With Ballplayers event, Contreras and Balazovic will head to Blue Wahoos Stadium for the second annual Twins Winter Caravan Pensacola. Held from 5:00-7:00 PM on January 16th, the event will feature autographs, question and answer sessions, a team yard sale, behind-the-scenes photo opportunities, a sneak-peek of the Blue Wahoos 2020 promotional schedule, and more. The Twins Winter Caravan Pensacola is free and open to the public.

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

Education Days Offer Real-World Learning…and a Ballgame

On three midweek days in the month of May, the gates at FirstEnergy Stadium are open before noon. Scores of children file in, chatting excitedly as they make their way through the halls of Reading’s historic ballpark.

Education Days at FirstEnergy Stadium provide a special atmosphere. The adults in the stands are outnumbered by Elementary and Middle School-aged children. The cheers are always louder.

“The excitement level in the ballpark on Education Days is unmatched. You can feel it in the air as the first buses arrive in the morning,” says Fightins Chief Director of Promotions Todd Hunsicker. “Thousands of students from across the region have been working hard in the classroom all year, and this field trip represents an opportunity to reward and celebrate their achievements.”

The Fightin Phils will host three Education Days during the 2020 season, with the first on Tuesday, May 12th at 12 p.m. against the Trenton Thunder. The second will take place on Wednesday, May 20th at 12 p.m. vs. the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, and the final one will be vs. New Hampshire on Thursday, May 21st at 11:35 a.m.

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Education Days not only offer a chance for local children to enjoy a baseball game with their classmates, but also provide a great opportunity to make connections between classroom learning and real-world examples.

Gameday features include a standards-based activity guide for teachers that highlights key concepts across grade levels and subject areas, a worksheet for students that keeps them engaged and focused on activities throughout their visit to the ballpark, an on-field academic challenge, and educational presentations from organizations such as the Lehigh Valley Zoo, Reading Public Museum, PSU Berks Chemical Society, and more.

Among the most popular pregame educational presentations is one from the PSU Berks Chemical Society. In a demonstration of the power and energy that can be released when substances quickly change from a liquid to a gas, PSU Berks uses liquid nitrogen to dramatically launch hundreds of ping pong balls high above FirstEnergy Stadium.

“These types of large-scale demonstrations are impossible to achieve in the classroom, but I’m thrilled we can provide such an attention-grabbing science demo for the Education Day school groups at our ballpark,” Hunsicker says.

Throughout the game, students enjoy singing and dancing to their favorite songs, trying to catch hot dogs from the ostrich-riding Crazy Hot Dog Vendor, rooting for their favorite contestant in the Vegetable Race, and other countless fun-filled activities at America’s Classic Ballpark.

Prior to the game, students also have the chance to hear from a pair of Fightin Phils players on their journeys in the game of baseball, and even take part in a Q&A session.

Tickets are only $8 per student, with an option of adding a bagged lunch for a total of $12.

“The R-Phils have been hosting field trip games for over 20 years, and are proud to offer the best field trip experience in Berks County,” Hunsicker says. “From the reservation process, to the experience at the game, until the final bus departs, we are dedicated to making every school’s experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.”

Schools interested in scheduling a class field trip to FirstEnergy Stadium can contact the R-Phils Chief Director of Promotions Todd Hunsicker by email at thunsicker@fightins.com, or by calling 610-375-8469, ext. 206.

2020 R-Phils Education Days:

Tuesday, May 12th – 12 p.m. vs. Trenton

Wednesday, May 20th – 12 p.m. vs New Hampshire

Thursday, May 21st – 11:35 a.m. vs New Hampshire

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

Nashville Sounds Foundation Now Accepting Applications for 2020 Scholarship Program

 

For the fifth consecutive year, the Nashville Sounds Foundation will award four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in fall of 2020.

The program, which began in 2016, has awarded $40,000 in scholarships and is designed to help deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students help pay for college tuition during their freshman year.

“The Nashville Sounds Foundation is proud to continue our scholarship program into its fifth year,” said Nashville Sounds Foundation Executive Director Destiny Whitmore. “To be able to help Middle Tennessee students pursue their dream of a college education is extremely fulfilling. The continued support of our fans through fundraising efforts makes this possible. We’re thankful for the ongoing generosity.”

Interested seniors must complete the application process at www.nashvillesounds.com/community/scholarship. The process includes submitting a 250-or-less word essay explaining a project the student developed or participated in to change their community.

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/or coach, and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s school work, extracurricular activities and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select 2020 Nashville Sounds game of their choice and a special surprise from the Nashville Sounds Foundation. The deadline to be considered for the 2020 scholarships is Friday, February 14, 2020. Scholarship winners will be notified no later than March 27, 2020.

Winners from 2019 include Emmi Allen (University of Tennessee), Joshua Garretson (University of Tennessee), Ian Hall (Stanford University) and Faith McPhearson (East Tennessee State University).

The 2020 season begins on Thursday, April 9 when the Sounds host the Iowa Cubs at 6:35 p.m. 2020 season ticket memberships are on sale through the Nashville Sounds ticket office. For more information on membership packages, call 615-690-4487, or e-mail tickets@nashvillesounds.com.

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to utilize baseball to positively impact the communities throughout Middle Tennessee by emphasizing the importance of social responsibility, education and the power of sport to transform lives.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

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

Part-time positions available for 2020 season

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are in search of energetic and responsible people for part-time employment for the 2020 season. Applications may be picked up during regular business hours (Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm) at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium or on the team’s website.

There are openings in all departments, but the team is in special need of ushers, food & beverage workers, parking attendants, and ticket office and Snake Pit Team Store personnel. The Timber Rattlers are particularly interested in people who can begin in April. Applicants must turn 16 years of age on or before April 8, 2020.

Completed forms should be returned to Mary Robinson at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium in person or through the mail:

Wisconsin Timber Rattlers
ATTN: Mary Robinson
PO Box 7464
Appleton, WI 54912

The Timber Rattlers will begin the 2020 season at home against the Burlington Bees on Thursday, April 9. Game time is 6:35pm.

Ticket packages for 2020 are available from the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers ticket office by calling any of the new members of our team at (800) WI-TIMBER or (920) 733-4152, stopping at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium, or online at timberrattlers.com. April games are free with the purchase any ticket package this year. The ticket office is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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

Chris Ray selected as recipient of 2020 Paul Keyes RBI Award

 

RICHMOND, Va. – Former MLB pitcher and co-founder of Center of the Universe Brewing Chris Ray has been named the recipient of the 2020 Paul Keyes RBI Award, the Richmond Flying Squirrels announced on Thursday.

Ray will be presented with the award during the Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet on Wed., Jan. 22 at the Siegel Center. Tickets, tables and sponsorship packages for the annual Charity Hot Stove Banquet are available now here.

The Paul Keyes RBI (Richmond Baseball Impact) Award is given annually in memory of the late VCU baseball coach Paul Keyes to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the game of baseball within the Richmond community or from the Richmond community.

“I am honored to be this year’s recipient of the Paul Keyes RBI Award and to be part of such an amazing group of previous winners that can only aspire to be good representations of who Paul Keyes was and what he stood for,” Ray said.

After playing collegiately at the College of William & Mary, Ray was selected in the third round of the 2003 MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles. He went on to play six seasons in the majors with the Orioles, Texas Rangers, San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners. Ray was part of the Giants’ World Series title run in 2010.

Ray made 283 appearances in the majors, going 18-19 with a 4.10 ERA and 51 saves, including a career-high 33 saves as the Orioles’ closer in 2006.

“Chris Ray is a success story all throughout his life, at William & Mary, as a professional baseball player, as a business owner and now in the Richmond region while he raises his family and is involved actively in many things,” Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “Chris is the total package and a perfect choice for this year’s Paul Keyes Richmond Baseball Impact Award.”

Following his playing career, Ray returned to Virginia and partnered with this brother, Phil, to open Center of the Universe Brewing Company (COTU) in Ashland in 2012. Since its founding, Center of the Universe has donated over $200,000 to various charitable organizations throughout Virginia.

Ray also co-founded Hops for Heroes, a nationwide craft brewery effort that raises money for Soldiers’ Angels through the production and sale of Homefront IPA.

In the Ashland community, Ray is on the board of directors for the Ashland Theatre, serves on the board of directors for the Downtown Ashland Association, helps organize community events in Ashland and serves annually as a volunteer coach and sponsor with Ashland Little League.

Ray and his wife of 15 years, Alice, have two children, Virginia (9) and Thomas (7).

Paul Keyes RBI Award Recipients

2011 – Eddie Kasko

2012 – Johnny Grubb

2013 – Gene Alley

2014 – Tracy Woodson

2015 – Sam Ayoub

2016 – Cla Meredith

2017 – Shawn Stiffler

2018 – Tony Beasley

2019 – Ray Hedrick

2020 – Chris Ray

The Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet will be held on Wed., Jan. 22 at the Siegel Center. The event includes special guest Brian Jordan, a former two-sport star for the Richmond Spiders prior to his career in the National Football League and Major League Baseball. Tickets, tables and sponsorship packages are available now at SquirrelsBaseball.com.

-SQUIRRELS-

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