Ballpark Digest Honors Cougars for Commitment to Charity

 

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars, minor league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been announced as the 2019 Ballpark Digest Commitment to Charity Award winner. Since 2015, the award has been handed out to the team that has shown growth in their charitable giving and community programs making the Cougars one out of 160 teams across the country to be recognized by Ballpark Digest for their charitable outreach this season.

In 2018, the organization announced A Million Smiles campaign with a fundraising goal of $1 million. The goal was surpassed thanks in part to over 20 local programs that have been put into place via the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation, including the Cougars Reading Club and the Summer Reading Program which helped raise over $750,000.

This season, two new programs were implemented to expand the organization’s community outreach with Mental Health Awareness and Deaf Awareness Night. Local charities were selected 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 those two nights, the Kane County Cougars Baseball Foundation made a $100 donation with a portion of the total proceeds provided to the selected charities.

Another unique program that was recently implemented is in partnership with AmazonSmiles. Fans who purchase items on Amazon can select the Kane County Cougars Foundation as their desired charity to receive one percent of the purchase and assist in the expansion of the Foundation’s local reach.

“Our goal has always been not only to give back to our community, but also to honor the people of our community,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Each of our programs is focused on how we can give back and it has helped us to strengthen our community relationships. When people hear the name Kane County Cougars, they know that we are about more than just baseball.”

The Cougars 30th anniversary season kicks off on Thursday, April 9 at 6::30 PM against the Cedar Rapids Kernels. For updates 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 180 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez, 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.

VA Medical Center, Curve host veterans recognition event

 

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve and James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center will hold a joint veterans recognition event on Friday, November 8 at 9 a.m. in the second floor auditorium at the VA’s Pleasant Valley Boulevard location.

The Curve will present a donation to assist in approving the quality of life of veterans who use the local VA. The money was raised during the team’s June 7 jersey auction when Curve players and coaching staff wore specialty uniforms to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

“The 75th Anniversary of D-Day game was one of the most memorable nights of our 2019 season,” said Curve general manager Derek Martin. “In addition to the special uniforms that were worn, we had a World War II Stuart Tank and reenactors at the ballpark that night, which really brought to life the sense of pride we have for our veterans. Our partnership with the VA Medical Center on the D-Day jersey auction was a perfect fit and we couldn’t be more grateful for what they do for our community’s veterans.”

“The Altoona Curve have been one of our strongest community partners,” said VA Medical Center Director Sigrid Andrew, “they have demonstrated a strong commitment to our Veterans and to our local VA hospital.”

The Curve have partnered with the VA Medical Center for many years and has included the recognition of veterans at games, hospital visits by the players and staff in addition to donated tickets for disabled veterans living at the VA.

Friday’s event is part of a week-long recognition that includes 15 speaking engagements, three parades, and events at each of the VA’s five community-based outpatient clinics. The week wraps around Veterans Day (Monday, November 11) and concludes on Saturday, November 16 at 7 p.m. with the Saint Francis men’s basketball team hosting American University in their Military Appreciation Day, which they have partnered with the VA Medical Center for the past two years.

For more information, please call the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center Public Affairs at 814-943-8164 ext. 7404 or 814-569-3386.

The Altoona Curve, 2010 and 2017 Eastern League Champions, have been the Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1999. For tickets or more information, visit AltoonaCurve.com, call 877.99.CURVE or stop by the PNG Field box office. Additionally, the Stockyard Team Store is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on non-gamedays and online 24/7/365. 

 

-CURVE-

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

BlueClaws Charities Releases 2019 Community Impact Report

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities have released their 2019 Community Impact Report including information on BlueClaws Charities, presented by DiFeo Kia, grant recipients and club community involvement throughout the year.

“BlueClaws Charities and the entire BlueClaws staff is proud to be a key part of the community throughout the year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “From BlueClaws games themselves to events and fundraising around the area 12 months a year, to supporting a series of tremendous Community Partner organizations, being a leading member of the community is something that we take great pride in. We look forward to expanding our involvement further in 2020!

To read the 2019 Community Impact Report, click here.

BlueClaws Charities handed out cash grants to 39 Community Partners in 2019 and all organizations that applied received a grant. These organizations, ranging from local branches of national charities to smaller local organizations, each create a positive impact in the community in a different way.

“Our BlueClaws Charities Community Partner organizations are helping lead the way around the Jersey Shore in working with the underserved and underprivliged around the area,” said BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations Jim DeAngelis, also the Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “We are proud to note that all grant money stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and is put to great use locally.

“We thank our great sponsor, DiFeo Kia, and everyone that supported BlueClaws Charities events and fundraising efforts to make these grants possible.”

Grant fundraising included special events, both in and outside the stadium, throughout the year.

In May, the BlueClaws hosted their 19th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event, benefiting the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Phillies. This year’s event was held at Quaker Steak & Lube in Brick. The Celebrity Waiter Event has raised over $120,000 for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia in its history.

In August, BlueClaws Charities hosted their annual golf outing at Lakewood Country Club. The 10th annual event, a “Nine and Dine” format, includes golf, dinner, and special auctions plus appearances by BlueClaws players and coaches.

Additional funding came from the nightly 50/50 raffle which took place at all BlueClaws home games. Each pool total averaged over $2,000 with an average of more than $1,000 being returned to winners.

BlueClaws Charities also raised money through BlueClaws jersey auctions during the year. In 2019, the BlueClaws did the following jersey auctions for BlueClaws Charities: Players Day, Grateful Dead, Margaritaville Night at the Park, BruceClaws, Military Appreciation Night, and Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese. A special pink jersey auction on Breast Cancer Awareness Night benefitted the American Cancer Society. Fans were able to bid either online or through a mobile device, enabling bidding from all over the world. This process raised additional funds for BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

The BlueClaws and BlueClaws Charities partner with OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation on several programs that benefit area military personnel. The Home Runs for Heroes program, which just completed its 11th year, generates a donation from OceanFirst Foundation to a local military-based non-profit for each BlueClaws home run hit at FirstEnergy Park. In 2019, the program raised $38,000 for local organizations. Further, through the Vets Night Out program, presented by OceanFirst Bank, tickets are donated to military members through accredited channels.

Additional events during the year included a Challenger Clinic at which the developmentally disabled were able to learn baseball from BlueClaws players and Major League alumni. Troop and School Supply Drives were held at the ballpark during games and the 19th annual Breakfast With Buster holiday food and toy drive was held in December, collecting non-perishable food and unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Through the Phillies Step-Up Program, BlueClaws players participated in over 261 hours of community service during the year. This included events at the ballpark and around the community such as a free clinic put on by the Ocean County Parks Department featuring BlueClaws players.

BlueClaws staff members served on event committees for nine different area non-profit organizations. Staff members served on the Board of Directors of seven different non-profit organizations and five Chambers of Commerce.

The BlueClaws fundraising program also proved profitable for area organizations and event committees. In 2019, over $143,000 was raised through the BlueClaws fundraising program, through which organizations purchase BlueClaws tickets and re-sell them to their constituents to raise money. For additional information on that program, contact a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

In-Kind donations included ticket vouchers or other contributions to 924 organizations plus 65 additional packages including merchandise or hospitality outings.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 of the Lakewood BlueClaws. The organization supports its Community Partners in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with cash grants and other organizations with in-kind donations throughout the year.

The Lakewood BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com. Opening Night of the 2020 season is on Thursday, April 16th.

– BlueClaws –

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

Weyauwega Baseball Diamond Receives Makeover from Rattlers Grounds Crew

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – The Weyauwega Community Baseball Field received a makeover courtesy of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers before the snow started to fall. The field was chosen in a random drawing of participants in a fundraising program that was available to youth baseball programs during the 2019 season.

The Timber Rattlers grounds crew edged the diamond, leveled the playing surface, and cleaned up the fence line at the Little League field.

“The City of Weyauwega is very grateful to have been selected for this work and for the graciousness of the Timber Rattlers to use their time and talents to better community ball fields such as ours,” said city administrator Jeremy Schroeder. “We extend a huge thank you to the Timber Rattlers and their staff for the work at the community park ball diamond.”

The fund raising program in 2020 will allow youth sports leagues and eligible non-profit organizations to purchase undated Timber Rattlers ticket vouchers at $7, resell the vouchers for $12, and keep the difference for their group.

There are some exciting new additions coming to the 2020 fund raising program this offseason. Contact Kyle Fargen at (920)733-4152 Ext. 225 or kfargen@timberrattlers.com for the latest information on how you can participate next season.

Ticket packages for the 2020 season are available online through timberrattlers.com, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER or in person at the Timber Rattlers Box Office located at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. The box office is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

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

Applications being accepted for 2020 Youth Field Renovations

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats are currently accepting applications for the 2020 ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project, which will take place in April and feature infield overhauls of four youth baseball/softball fields. It’s a milestone year for the renovation program, as the number of fields renovated reaches 40 since the program’s inception.

The ValleyCats continue their strong partnership with Hannaford Supermarkets and BlueShield of Northeastern New York on this impactful community initiative. The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“Our mission for this project since day one was to fulfill our duty as ambassadors of the game by impacting as many youth ballplayers in our communities as possible,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We are extremely thankful to our tremendous partners in this endeavour, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets. Together, we have helped to provide safe and well-maintained ball fields for thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.”

“Each year, BlueShield employees alongside volunteers from the Tri-City ValleyCats and Hannaford Supermarkets roll up their sleeves and rally around this program,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As we approach a milestone year for 4 in 24, BlueShield is as proud as ever to be part of this extraordinary initiative that continues to impact the communities where we live, work and play.”

“As a committed community partner, Hannaford is thrilled to be a part of a program that has such a positive and long-lasting impact on our local neighborhoods. Improving these fields not only provides kids with a safe place to play ball, but also provides an opportunity to discover a love of an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue to partner with the ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York during a milestone year for this outstanding initiative.”

Youth baseball and softball organizations interested in having their field renovated may submit an application online at tcvalleycats.com, and are encouraged to send in current photos with their submissions prior to any snowfall.

The ValleyCats began assisting with youth field renovations since 2003, renovating one ballfield each year. In 2011 the program grew into the ambitious “4 in 24” project, with the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners renovating four local youth playing fields in a 24-hour time period.

APPLY ONLINE>>

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

Stripers Launch New “Veterans Pack” for Veterans Day

 

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – In honor of Veterans Day, the Gwinnett Stripers have created a new “Veterans Pack” for 2020, available for purchase by service men and women and their families only at Coolray Field on November 11 and 12.

Each pack includes one Field Box ticket to four patriotic-themed Stripers games (Opening Night on April 16, Salute to Armed Forces on May 22, Memorial Day on May 25, and Independence Day on July 4), plus a Stripers camo cap, all for just $55 (a value of $97).

The Veterans Pack is available to all service members and their dependents who provide a military ID or other proof of service at the Coolray Field Ticket Office on November 11 and 12. The Stripers camo cap will be available at Bobby’s Tackle Team Store immediately upon purchase, while the tickets will be available for pick-up during the Stripers Preseason Party on March 8.

Also, in observance of Veterans Day, the Stripers will give fans the opportunity to sign a giant card thanking our local military for their service. The card will be available to sign at Bobby’s Tackle Team Store from Thursday, November 7 through Tuesday, November 12.

“In addition to our season-long military ticket offer, we wanted to create a ticket pack that shows our appreciation for all service members and their families by offering them a special price on a prime seat to our most patriotic games,” said Stripers Vice President and General Manager Adam English. “The Veterans Pack is one of many ways we plan to honor our local military at Coolray Field in 2020.”

The Coolray Field Ticket Office will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 11 and Tuesday, November 12 for Veterans Pack purchases. Fans with questions can email striperstickets@braves.com or call 678-277-0340.

The Stripers also offer a military and first responder price for every Stripers home game, available for purchase at GovX.com.

For information about all Gwinnett Stripers ticket options for 2020, including Memberships, Groups, Youth Parties, and more, visit GoStripers.com.

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

TinCaps Auctioning Off Game-Worn Jerseys

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off game-worn jerseys at TinCapsJersey.com. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the TinCaps CARE program.

The jerseys up for auction are the team’s San Diego Padres jerseys that were worn by players and coaches during Sunday games at Parkview Field from 2017-19. The jerseys are white with navy piping and “PADRES” across the chest. The uniform numbers 1-39 are available, with the exception of 6, 19, 31, and 35, which are retired by the Padres.

The TinCaps’ Padres jerseys were sported by some of baseball’s top prospects, including nine who’ve already reached the major leagues. See list below.

NOTE: The No. 23 jersey worn by Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2017 is not up for auction. The team is preserving that jersey for historical purposes. As an 18-year-old, Tatis set the franchise’s single-season home run record with 21. He made San Diego’s roster in 2019 and instantly became one of the most exciting players in the big leagues. The team issued a new No. 23 jersey worn by players in 2018 and ’19. That jersey is available to bid on. 

The jersey auction is live and runs through 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Fans are encouraged to bid on jerseys regardless of their location. Winners who live outside of the area can make arrangements to have their jersey delivered by mail.

Thanks in part to financial support from the Padres, the TinCaps CARE program allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that benefit members of the community facing hardships. In 2019, the TinCaps donated more than 1,000 tickets to 18 different non-profits.

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Players Who’ve Reached the Major Leagues

  • No. 11: RHP Pedro Avila
  • No. 14: RHP Ronald Bolanos
  • No. 16: LHP Adrian Morejon
  • No. 24: RHP Andres Munoz and RHP David Bednar
  • No. 25: LHP Nick Margevicius
  • No. 26: LHP Logan Allen and RHP Michel Baez

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Current Top 30 Padres Prospects

  • No. 3: INF Gabriel Arias
  • No. 4: C Luis Campusano
  • No. 8: LHP MacKenzie Gore
  • No. 9: INF Xavier Edwards, INF Gabriel Arias, and OF Buddy Reed
  • No. 12: INF Esteury Ruiz and C Blake Hunt
  • No. 13: INF Owen Miller
  • No. 15: INF Tucupita Marcano
  • No. 18: OF Jeisson Rosario and RHP Reggie Lawson
  • No. 20: INF Hudson Potts
  • No. 22: LHP Joey Cantillo and RHP Mason Thompson
  • No. 25: LHP Ryan Weathers
  • No. 26: RHP Luis Patino
  • No. 28: OF Tirso Ornelas and RHP Mason Thompson

A complete rundown of who wore each jersey is available at TinCapsJersey.com.

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

Chihuahuas Team with El Paso Electric to Host Career Prep Series for High School Students

 

EL PASO – November 4, 2019 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have teamed with El Paso Electric to offer high school students a look into the sports industry. The El Paso Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric gives students a chance to learn about some of the careers within the sports industry outside of the playing field.

The career prep program, which take place at Southwest University Park, provides students with an inside look into the Chihuahuas organization. The one-day program is a classroom-style setting with instruction from Chihuahuas front office employees. It is designed for students interested in business, marketing, operations or other careers in the sports industry.

Throughout the day-long program, students will practice problem solving skills, create a in-game promotion, and get an inside understanding of the sports industry.

“It is a privilege to partner with El Paso Electric to provide such an incredible learning opportunity for high school students in our region,” said MountainStar Sports Group Sr. Vice President and General Manager Brad Taylor. “We all want these students to start looking for careers they will love.”

The program aims to prepare students who attend with the skills and knowledge for continuing education and the importance of internships and experience in the industry in an effort to prepare them for future success.

“El Paso Electric is a firm believer in the importance and value internships can have on a student’s education and career choice, which is why the Company offers various internship opportunities, including high school students in the region,” shares El Paso Electric Interim CEO Adrian J. Rodriguez. “With expanding industries in the borderplex area, our youth can explore a variety of career options all while staying local and helping move our community forward.”

The Chihuahuas Career Prep Program presented by El Paso Electric is open to high school students who are participating in a business and/or marketing class. Schools may apply for the program and classes will be chosen on a first come first served basis. Teachers may request dates beginning November 4th through December 6th (excluding November 27-November 29), and January 6th through January 31st.

For scheduling information, contact Kate Lewis at (915) 242-2029 or klewis@epchihuahuas.com.

Dates & Schools are listed below.

November 4 Socorro High School
Novemver 17 Pebble Hills High School
November 19 Chapin High School
December 2 Parkland High School
December 6 Canutillo High School
January 8 Del Valle High School
January 17 Bel Air High School
January 23 Austin High School

FirstEnergy Stadium Pays Tribute to All who Served with Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will celebrate and honor those who served on Monday, November 11thin hosting the sixth annual Veterans Day ceremony at FirstEnergy Stadium. The R-Phils, in partnership with Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, will be presenting the Veterans Day Wreath in front of the Veterans Monument at FirstEnergy Stadium at 1 p.m.

All veterans and military members are encouraged to attend, and the event is open to the general public.

Local community leaders will join R-Phils front office members at the ceremony, in which the American Legion Gregg Post 12 will lay a wreath in front of the ballpark’s dog tag monument near the entrance to FirstEnergy Stadium. The monument pays tribute to all members of the United States military who sacrificed to protect the United States of America.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided by the Fightin Phils upon conclusion of the ceremony in the Steve Moyer Subaru Team Store.

Originally called Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium was completed in 1951 and was named in honor of the servicemen and women who risked their lives in defense of their country. In 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of the stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

Beginning with the 2014 season, the Fightins have honored a specific veteran at each home game with a ceremonial flag service. The veteran, or his or her family, is recognized with a video tribute and ovation prior to the start of the game. The flag flies by the dog tag statue at the stadium’s main entrance, and is given to the veteran or veteran’s family following the game.

Prior to the start of the 2016 season, the Fightin Phils also unveiled a permanently unoccupied black seat in FirstEnergy Stadium. This seat pays tribute to the tens of thousands of military service personnel who were prisoners of war or have been declared missing in action.

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

South Bend Cubs Host Fourth Annual Polar Plunge

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – Leap year will take a whole new meaning this February as the South Bend Cubs will host the 4th annual Michiana Polar Plunge. This event will benefit Special Olympics Indiana and will take place on Saturday, February 29, 2020. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. the with the plunge starting at 12:00 p.m. After taking the plunge, participants are invited to celebrate at the After-Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

DONATE TO THE SOUTH BEND CUBS PLUNGE TEAM BY CLICKING HERE

The Polar Plunge is an event that is held across Indiana as well as across the country. Special Olympics Indiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower those with intellectual disabilities. As explained by President and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, Jeff Mohler, “The vision of Special Olympics Indiana is that sports will open hearts and minds towards individuals with intellectual disabilities and create inclusive communities across the state.” By putting on events like the Polar Plunge, Special Olympics Indiana is able to raise funds that will improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. The funds that are raised at the Polar Plunge will be used to support the thousands of Special Olympics athletes in Indiana.

“One way we accomplish our vision is through fantastic community partners, the South Bend Cubs are one such partner,” stated Mohler. “From their owner, Mr. Berlin, to their general manager, to the players, and every staff member. The South Bend Cubs are a premier organization. We are excited to partner with them again next February for the 2020 Polar Plunge. Go Cubs!”

Special Olympics Indiana has succeeded in raising over $55,000 in the last three years. The 2019 Polar Plunge raised over $20,000, and Special Olympics Indiana and the South Bend Cubs are looking to you to help reach the 2020 goal of $24,000.

“Every year, our fans and fellow plungers have helped exceed our fundraising goal for Special Olympics Indiana,” said South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “To help us get to $24,000, we’re adding a couple of prizes for our top fundraisers. The individual who raises the most money will receive a free outdoor suite to a South Bend Cubs game in April and the chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. To the group that raises the most money, they will each receive a ticket voucher good for any April South Bend Cubs game.”

Fans who do not wish to plunge can also donate to the South Bend Cubs front office team. Fans who donate at least $15 will be entered to win a set of four tickets to a South Bend Cubs game. Three lucky winners will be chosen after February 29. Donate by visiting SouthBendCubs.com or clicking this link.

To participate in the 2020 Michiana Polar Plunge, individuals or groups must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 in pledges. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics Indiana. Participants can register as an individual or gather friends, family members, co-workers, civic group or school group and register as a team. Register by visiting soindiana.org and clicking on the events page. Funds raised by this event will help local athletes train and compete at local, area and state level.

About Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, reaching more than 16,000 athletes across Indiana. The organization receives no federal- or state-appropriated funds, is not a United Way agency and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations. For more information about Special Olympics Indiana, call (317) 328-2000 or visit www.soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Hartford Yard Goats Win Top Community Award from Minor League Baseball

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

Yard Goats Win John Henry Moss Award for Top Community Service Team in Minor League Baseball

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, has won the top community award from Minor League Baseball in 2019, the John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The award is given to the club which demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership. The Yard Goats were selected from a field of 160 minor league clubs across America and are the youngest franchise ever to win the award in just their third season at Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The John Henry Moss Award will be presented by Minor League Baseball in December at the 2019 Baseball Winter Meetings in San Diego, California.

“When we were creating the Hartford Yard Goats brand, we spent a great deal of time talking about the kind of organization we wanted to be,” Yard Goats team owner Josh Solomon said. “We wanted our actions and our commitment to community to be so demonstrative that people associated us as much with our philanthropy as our baseball. Our community programs are vital to the Yard Goats organization, and we feel that it is our job to welcome in our neighbors and connect them with professionals who offer training, career, and higher education opportunities so they can reach their goals.”

The Yard Goats established the “Aetna Community Center” at Dunkin’ Donuts Park as a base for several youth community programs sponsored by the Yard Goats. These programs include the Young Ambassadors Program, Youth Performing Arts Program, Youth Culinary Arts Program, Fitness Program, and Dance Team.

The Yard Goats open the 2020 season on April 9th (7:10 PM) against the Red Sox affiliate, the Portland Sea Dogs. Yard Goats season tickets are available by calling 860-246-GOAT (4628), or in person by visiting the Click It or Ticket Box Office at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.

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

Sponsor Spotlight: Navy Federal Utilizes Blue Wahoos Stadium For Employees’ Event

 

The versatility for holding events at Blue Wahoos Stadium was recently exemplified during a partnership with Navy Federal.

In its annual “Big Day Out” employee appreciation event, Navy Federal was able to provide a festive, carnival-style setting for the company’s Pensacola employees and their friends and families.

More than 4,000 attended the Oct. 19 event, exclusive for Navy Federal employees, families and guests. It included live bands, inflatable slides and bounce houses, live reptiles provided by Reno’s Reptiles of Pensacola, a mechanical bull, face painters, a pumpkin patch, balloon artists, various food and vendors and bingo and casino-style games for adults.

All of this happening at the same time on a Saturday afternoon.

“It’s our biggest private event by a longshot,” said Shannon Reeves, the Blue Wahoos’ events sales manager. “We just turn the stadium into something it normally isn’t. There’s just so much happening and it creates a fun experience for everyone.”

Navy Federal is a charter partner, joining as sponsor with the Blue Wahoos’ inaugural 2012 season. In addition to an outfield fence sign, the company’s partnership has been visible in a variety of other ways throughout each year, including as a game-day sponsor during the Blue Wahoos home schedule.

The “Big Day Out” event has been a signature element of the partnership.

“We’re grateful to be connected,” Reeves said. “They’re so good and it’s fun seeing them grow. I feel like we’ve been able to grow this event with them.

“Their communications team has been fantastic. They have a great team of planners there.”

With its 7,500-plus employees in the Pensacola area, Navy Federal has become a huge economic engine for the region. Blue Wahoos Stadium has been a natural venue the company’s appreciation day.

“We really start planning the next one this right after the (current) event ends,” Reeves said.

A prior forecast of rain this time added to the challenge. Fortunately, the weather cleared by noon, the sun returned and the event was another big success.

“Everything worked out, other than I lost sleep,” said Reeves, laughing. “But in the events world, this happens. I was a wedding planner for a long time.. more than 10 years…. so I certainly have been one to watch the weather and refresh a weather app about 40 times a day.

“We wanted to do everything we could to keep it on the planned date.”

As Reeves emphasized, Blue Wahoos Stadium can be utilized for these types of events for other companies as well.

When built, the bayfront stadium was designed to be a multi-use facility. It’s something available for other employee appreciation days on smaller-scale levels.

“While we have limited dates, we open the stadium or the grounds to the community almost every single weekend,” Reeves said.

On Navy Federal’s “Big Day Out,” children and their parents were able to enjoy the entire grounds. For the first time, Reno’s Reptiles and staff were able to put a few of its species on the field.

A sizable, African spur-thigh tortoise, crawled on the infield grass a few feet from an Albino Burmese python. Both creatures were main attractions for kids and picture-takers and weren’t fazed by the amount of people around.

“That was obviously a big hit,” Reeves said. “We had a lot going on. If you can imagine it, we can do it. The stadium lends itself to being a concert venue, a festival fair, a picnic, a place for kids to play, all at once.”

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

Toys for Tots Drive Kicks Off November 4

 

FREDERICK, MD – For the eighth straight year, the Frederick Keys are partnering with the Toys for Tots Program. Starting on November 4, the Keys will be collecting new and unwrapped toys which will then be handed out to less fortunate children on Christmas Day. This year’s Toys for Tots Drive runs through Wednesday, December 11.

“Everyone deserves to have a great Christmas and that’s we are excited to continue our partnership with Toys for Tots,” said Frederick Keys Director of Marketing Erin Lawson. “Last year’s support from our fans and community members was awesome and we are excited to help out local children again in 2019.”

One of Frederick County’s top donation destinations, Nymeo Field will be open for drop off from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. To drop of a toy(s) fans should visit the main office (adjacent to the main stadium gates). Anyone who makes a contribution will receive a Keys hat and a pair of tickets to a game in 2020. Prize packs are awarded one per person.

Fans will also be able to bring toys to the Keys Holiday Event on Saturday, December 7 which runs from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. This event will include a CooKEY contest, a chance to meet Keyote Claus and much more. Further details about this event will be announced at a later date.

In 2018, 25,405 toys were distributed to children across Frederick County, supporting over 3,600 children. Toys for Tots began in 1947, while there are more than 150 Marine reserve sites as well as more than 800 local Toys for Tots programs across the country.

A link to the entire schedule for the Keys 2020 season is available here. Fireworks dates and a full Keys promotional schedule for 2020 will be announced at a later date. To stay tuned for the latest team news and for ticket information fans can visit frederickkeys.com and follow the team on Twitter (@frederickkeys), Facebook and Instagram (@frederickkeys.com).

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

Salt Lake Bees Join Utah Sports Figures in “Lead Together”

 

SALT LAKE CITY (October 25, 2019) – Joined by sports franchises, universities and athletes representing the state of Utah, the Salt Lake Bees today unveiled “Lead Together,” a long-term commitment to cultivating and promoting a community culture of inclusion and belonging.

“Lead Together” is introduced by a video, which will be played in sporting venues across the state, featuring Jazz players Bojan Bogdanović, Mike Conley, Rudy Gobert, Joe Ingles and Donovan Mitchell; Los Angeles Angels outfielder and former Salt Lake Bees player Mike Trout ; Real Salt Lake players Kyle Beckerman and Nedum Onuoha; Utah Royals and World Cup players Verónica Boquete, Kelley O’Hara, Christen Press and Becky Sauerbrunn; professional golfer Tony Finau; Olympic figure skater Nathan Chen; Utah State University head football coach Gary Andersen; Weber State University head football coach Jay Hill; University of Utah head football coach Kyle Whittingham; and Brigham Young University head football coach Kalani Sitake.

“We need to take responsibility when the words we hear cause pain, anger and divisiveness. Be mindful of what you say. If you hear something wrong, offensive or hateful, speak up,” said members of the “Lead Together” video, who pledged to stand against discrimination, inequality, injustice and racism.

“Everyone who walks through the doors of a sporting event, whether it’s a fan, staff member, coach, player, or guest, should expect courtesy, respect, common decency and civility,” said Gail Miller, owner and chairman of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies and the Utah Jazz. “We are united in our values, and we’re all joining together as citizens of our communities and the state of Utah to make a clear statement about who we are and what we’re about. Words matter. No one wins when respect goes away.”

“In sports, we’re always looking for ways to improve and get better, and this is no different. There have been too many negative instances in our community, and we all felt a shared responsibility to act. We hope ‘Lead Together’ sparks conversations in locker rooms, classrooms, board rooms and across kitchen tables about how we treat each other,” said Don Stirling, executive vice president of Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment. “Fundamentally, this isn’t about the volume of our cheering, but about the words we choose to say. The era of, ‘I didn’t know these words were hurtful,’ has passed.”

The Utah-based collaboration leans on the success of the “Take The Lead” initiative established by New England sports teams. The Jazz consulted with the Boston Red Sox, including President Sam Kennedy and Vice President of Fan Services and Entertainment Sarah McKenna, to learn best practices and help craft state-wide messaging as well as Tanisha M. Sullivan, president of the Boston branch of the NAACP, who played a key role in helping shape New England’s effort.

Locally, the Jazz enlisted assistance and input from diversity, inclusion and belonging thought-leaders across the state. Emma E. Houston, inclusion director for Salt Lake County’s Office of Diversity Affairs, said, “We appreciated the willingness of the Utah Jazz organization to not only seek advice but embrace it. Our conversations were frank, instructive and productive.”

“Respect is something to be shared and we are all responsible for our own words, deeds and actions. We should enthusiastically cheer for our favorite teams to win. However, words used to disparage the other team create a disrespectful environment that no one should be a part of. We all need to be courageous enough to speak up by taking the lead against disrespectful conduct,” Houston added.

The 60-second “Lead Together” video is available upon request at leadtogetherutah.org for sports organizations at all levels to download and feature at their games. In addition to professional and collegiate athletics, the Jazz have partnered with the Utah High School Activities Association and its 155 member schools to assist with promoting an inclusive, safe and friendly in-venue environment at their activities.

Junior Jazz, which serves more than 60,000 players across seven states, will also use “Lead Together” to add to the youth league’s message of sportsmanship, fair play and respect on the court.

“When we first started having conversations as a group across Utah sports, we realized that our experiences were all too common,” said Elaina Pappas, vice president of marketing and fan development for the Jazz and a former student-athlete. “We created ‘Lead Together’ after we looked in the mirror and realized we could all do better. We understand the platform we have and the power of joining together in a unified voice, and we hope this is just the beginning of an ongoing effort to re-examine the way we conduct ourselves in sporting venues and throughout society.”

A core principle of “Lead Together” is the development and introduction of programming that fosters a positive culture in the workplace and throughout the community. The Jazz are planning to conduct a series of “Let’s Talk” town hall events for community education and outreach on diversity, inclusion and belonging with actionable steps that can be taken by both individuals and organizations.

The Utah sports organizations and athletes will employ the hashtag #LeadTogether to continue the conversation on social media, where players, coaches and fans can show how they are promoting the values and mission of “Lead Together.”

For more information, please visit leadtogetherutah.org.

Indians Specialty Jersey Auctions Break Records

 

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians announced today the team and its fans raised $55,461 through specialty jersey auctions in 2019, a record-breaking total for one of the club’s most popular promotions every season. The funds were raised through in-park auctions benefiting seven different nonprofit organizations.

“Specialty jersey auctions have held a prominent place on the Indianapolis Indians promotions calendar for the past ten years, which speaks to their popularity among our fans and partners,” said Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “It’s important we use our platform as a long-standing community partner to lift up those around us. We’re focused on helping Central Indiana youth and families, and the Victory Field experience is one way we can do it.”

The 2019 beneficiaries were Folds of Honor Indiana (May 3 – Indy 500), Indiana National Guard Relief Fund (July 4 – Stars & Stripes), Children’s TherAplay Foundation (July 6 – Spider-Man), Teachers’ Treasures (July 20 – Prospects Night), Riley Children’s Foundation (August 3 – The Incredible Hulk), Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana (August 17-18 – PAW Patrol, August 23-24 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), and Special Olympics (Postseason – Circle City).

Earlier this offseason, the Tribe announced the creation of Indianapolis Indians Charities, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping youth and families grow stronger together, learn more and live healthier lives. It will support organizations across Central Indiana who serve in youth development, family success, education and neighborhood development. Established in 1902, the Indians are formalizing their community outreach for the first time in franchise history.

For more information or to purchase a 2020 ticket package, visit IndyIndians.com or call (317) 269-3545.

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