San Antonio Missions Recognized by Minor League Baseball with Best Community Event 

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SAN ANTONIO – Minor League Baseball announced on Monday the winners of the 2022 Golden Bobbleheads for top promotional activities and events in six categories. The San Antonio Missions were awarded the Golden Bobblehead for “Best Community Event” from the Uvalde Community Healing Night.

The following excerpt is from the official MiLB press release:

After the unspeakable tragedy at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, last May that took the lives of 21 students and teachers, the Missions immediately went into action, planning Uvalde Community Healing Night. The club worked with Uvalde city officials and the Uvalde Superintendent’s office to plan a memorable night for the Uvalde community that featured the Missions wearing uniforms that were replicas of Uvalde High School’s baseball uniforms.

The Uvalde High School baseball team joined the Missions on the field for a pregame team picture, and the game was attended by nearly 2,000 more fans than the Missions’ nightly average. The Missions won the game on a walk-off base hit and the families of the two slain teachers joined the team on the field for a moment of prayer and reflection after the win. The Missions auctioned off the game-used uniforms and raised $50,357, which was donated to the Robb Elementary Memorial Fund to assist the families of the victims. The club provided the Uvalde superintendent with a framed team-signed jersey that will be included in a tribute to Robb Elementary.

“This award really caps the event for what we were trying to do, which was put the spotlight on the community of Uvalde,” said Missions General Manager Dave Gasaway. “We wanted to do something for that community and having a lot of them join us at the ballpark and many of them told us it was the first time since the incident that had been able to smile, which really meant a lot to us.”

The full article containing the remaining five winners can be viewed here.

Flying Squirrels win MiLB CommUNITY Champion Award

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SAN DIEGO, Calif. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels have been named the recipient of the 2022 Minor League Baseball CommUNITY Champion Award, MiLB announced on Sunday night.

The CommUNITY Champion Award recognizes a Club that demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and the baseball industry. The award was presented during the Opening Night Reception and Awards Program of the Baseball Winter Meetings at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.

“Making an impact in the community is a pillar of our organization,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We strive to be a valuable community partner and aim to use our platform to make positive impacts in the Richmond region. We are grateful for this recognition from Minor League Baseball and for our community.”

In 2022, Flying Squirrels Charities expanded its areas of focus in an effort to fully encompass all the ways the Flying Squirrels impact the greater Richmond community. The newly rebranded Flying Squirrels Charities focuses on four pillars: Education, Athletics, Social Determinants and Inclusion. Flying Squirrels Charities raises funds through a number of avenues including in-stadium initiatives during the season and events around the region all year.

With Flying Squirrels Charities this year, the team has partnered to support local organizations including Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Richmond, Friendship Circle of Virginia (FCVA), Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL), Fox Elementary School and more.

The Flying Squirrels are visible in the greater Richmond community well beyond the baseball months. Mascots Nutzy and Nutasha have made more than 400 community appearances this year around the Commonwealth of Virginia. Additionally, Flying Squirrels front office staff, players and coaches have volunteered this year with organizations and events including children’s hospitals, Miracle Leagues, Feed More, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Salvation Army and others.

The Flying Squirrels continue to promote educational causes in schools around the Richmond region, including the “Go Nuts for Reading Program,” which challenges elementary and middle school students to read eight books over a two-month span to receive a free ticket to a Flying Squirrels game. This year, more than 10,000 students from 68 participating schools completed the challenge.

The Flying Squirrels launched their Executive Trainee Program, offering opportunities to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities the opportunity to gain hands-on, professional experience working in various capacities with the team. The program is designed to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce with the goal of elevating more minorities into leadership positions throughout the professional baseball industry.

Through these and many other initiatives, the Flying Squirrels aim to make Richmond a better, more inclusive place, while simultaneously helping grow the game of baseball.

The Flying Squirrels open the 2023 season on Friday, April 7 at The Diamond against the Reading Fightin Phils. Ticket packages for the 2023 season are available now at SquirrelsBaseball.com.

MetroWest YMCA Honors Larry and Stacey Lucchino with Inaugural “Dream Big Award”

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On Wednesday, November 9, the MetroWest YMCA presented Larry Lucchino, chairman and principal owner of the Worcester Red Sox, and wife Stacey Lucchino with the inaugural “Dream Big Award” at their gala & auction at the Verve Hotel in Natick.

Nearly 200 people, including a handful of WooSox front office members, were on hand to support Larry, Stacey, and the YMCA’s worthy mission of empowering youth throughout the MetroWest region.

The MetroWest YMCA serves the towns of Ashland, Framingham, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Sherborn, Sudbury, and Wayland—all of which are towns that the WooSox seek to be more active in, Larry stated when accepting his award.

“Stacey and I are humbled to receive the inaugural ‘Dream Big Award’ from the MetroWest YMCA,” he said. “It’s our pleasure to be supporting this worthy cause, and the WooSox look forward to building an enhanced connection with communities throughout the MetroWest region as we prepare for 2023 and beyond.”

In addition to the WooSox Foundation’s Platinum sponsorship, the WooSox donated two suites for games in 2023, which each raised more than $3,000 during the live auction. WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg generously donated his personal suite as one of them, which he made available as a surprise to a lucky bidder.

“I’m proud to have the MetroWest YMCA be an official member of WooSox Nation and look forward to exploring new ways that the WooSox and the Y can work together,” said MetroWest YMCA President Rick MacPherson. “Having three World Series trophies and Smiley Ball in attendance also provided some added fun and made the evening that much more special.”

The WooSox plan to recognize the MetroWest YMCA at a game in 2023 to be announced later this offseason. Fans can visit www.woosox.com for all marketing and promotional updates.

Trenton Thunder Recognized with Governor’s Award for Honoring Veterans

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(Trenton, NJ) – Your Trenton Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance Group, are proud to have been presented with an award recognizing ongoing efforts to honor veterans at Trenton Thunder Ballpark. The award commends the Thunder “for their dedication to the values of our State, and ensuring our Veterans are recognized, honored, and valued for their bravery.”

The New Jersey’s Governor “We Value Our Veterans” Employer Award was awarded by NJ Governor Phil Murphy during a ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum on November 11th. Trenton Thunder President and General Manager Jeff Hurley accepted the award at the ceremony Friday, where Hamilton Township and Mercer County were also honored, along with other municipalities and businesses.

The Trenton Thunder have a long-standing tradition of honoring veterans at the ballpark during games with our annual Hometown Heroes Night, featuring a pregame ceremony recognizing military veterans, first responders, and local heroes. They also honor a local hero every game during the 7th inning just prior to the singing of God Bless America.

The award reads:

“In grateful appreciation of your extraordinary efforts to promote a military friendly environment for the Veterans of our great State. As Governor of the State of New Jersey, I commend Trenton Thunder for their dedication to the values of our State, and ensuring our Veterans are recognized, honored, and valued for their bravery.” – Philip D. Murphy, Governor of the State of New Jersey

You can learn more about the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum on their website here: https://www.njvvmf.org/

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New Jersey’s Baseball Team | Big League Futures. Major League Fun.

The Trenton Thunder have drawn over 10 million fans over 28 years and have won the three major awards that Minor League Baseball teams can win; the Johnson Trophy for the “Nation’s Best Franchise”, the Larry MacPhail Trophy for Outstanding Club Promotion, and the Bob Frietas Award for Long-Term Success, given by Baseball America. The team has given back over $7.5 million worth of goods, services, and monetary donations through Trenton Thunder Charities, under the Grand Slam We Care Foundation umbrella. The Thunder can be found online at trentonthunder.com, facebook.com/trentonthunder, twitter.com/trentonthunder, and on youtube.com/AATrentonThunder.

Honored: Gades recognized for commitment to Veterans

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Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (October 18, 2022) – The Hudson Valley Renegades, the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, were recognized for their dedication and commitment to veterans throughout the Hudson Valley at the Veterans of Foreign Wars state conference in Albany on Saturday, October 15.

The Renegades were honored for their Veteran of the Game program, sponsored by AARP New York. At each game from July through the end of the 2021 season, the Veteran of the Game program hosted active and retired military families and honored them with a special on-field ceremony and jersey presentation in the third inning.

“While we can never fully pay back the sacrifices that our veterans have made to ensure our freedom, the Veteran of the Game program was something special that we could do to show a small token of our appreciation,” said Marcella Costello, Renegades Community Partnerships Manager. “It was one of the most moving parts of our games, and we are looking forward to continuing the program for years to come.”

“AARP NY was proud to show our support for the brave men and women who serve our country through the Renegades’ Veteran of the Game program,” said Robyn Haberman, associate state director of Community Engagement for AARP. “There are so many selfless heroes deserving of recognition, and AARP is committed to not only helping tell their stories but to providing resources and information that empower them as well.”

The proclamation from the VFW states: “The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States express our sincere appreciation of your support to our veterans through community work of the Hudson Valley Renegades in honoring and highlighting local veterans at team events.”

The Renegades are committed to supporting veterans in the Hudson Valley in ways beyond the Veteran of the Game program, hosting an annual Veterans Appreciation Night, where the team re-brands as the Hudson Valley Veterans with military-inspired uniforms. Thousands of veterans in surrounding counties come to Dutchess Stadium for special pre-game ceremonies and the game that evening. The specialty jerseys are then auctioned off to support the Mental Health America of Dutchess County’s Vet2Vet program and their myriad services for local veterans.

Service to veterans was also a key cornerstone of the Renegades’ participation in the Yankees’ HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel). Renegades players, coaches and front office staff all visited the residents at Liberty Station in Poughkeepsie, a housing complex for veterans which offers a supportive living environment in the company of other vets.

More information on the Veteran of the Game sponsored by AARP New York can be found here. More information on the Renegades Community Program presented by Westchester Medical Center Health Network can be found here.

ABOUT THE HUDSON VALLEY RENEGADES

The Hudson Valley Renegades are the High-A affiliate of the New York Yankees in the South Atlantic League. The Renegades begin their 2023 season at home on Friday, April 7 with a three-game series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. For more information, please visit hvrenegades.com or call 845-838-0094.

ABOUT DIAMOND BASEBALL HOLDINGS

Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH) was formed in 2021 to support, promote and enhance Minor League Baseball Clubs affiliated with Major League Baseball through professional management, best practices, innovation and investment (DiamondBaseballHoldings.com).

Leadership Akron Awards Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks ‘The Read Family Difference Maker’ Award

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Akron, OH (October 6, 2022) – Leadership Akron presented the 2022 Read Family Difference Maker Award to Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks at a ceremony on September 28, 2022. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

In January 2015, Ken Babby launched a monthly speaker series for Leadership Akron Alumni members and Torchbearers called Leadership on Main. This speaker series highlights change-making leaders from different sectors each month, and it has become an essential monthly event for many Leadership Akron alumni members.

“Ken Babby and the Akron RubberDucks have been instrumental in advancing Leadership Akron’s work since Ken Babby took over ownership of the team ten years ago,” states Justin Hilton, President & CEO of Leadership Akron. “The Akron RubberDucks host hundreds of Leadership Akron participants each year, helping inspire, strengthen, and empower leaders to create a greater Akron.”

The Read Family Difference Maker Award, created in July 2017, honors the Read family, Roger, Judy, and Scott, in recognition of their involvement in advancing the mission and work of Leadership Akron, promoting community leadership, and strengthening the Akron community’s well-being. Each year, the award recognizes an individual or group of individuals whose efforts have been instrumental in expanding the scope or impact of Leadership Akron’s mission and work.

To show gratitude, two sculptures were created by Zeber Martell, one for the Akron RubberDucks to display in its offices at Canal Park and a second for Ken Babby. And, as Scott Read noted when presenting the award, “…this event has been a work of love by the entire Akron RubberDucks staff that is greatly appreciated by the alumni of Leadership Akron.”

Leadership Akron would like to also thank the organizations that have been involved in the preparation and maintenance of the site for the Read Family Difference Maker Award, including the City of Akron, Summit Metro Parks, Cascade Locks Park Association, Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, and Environmental Design Group, as well as Michael Marras, who created the original sculpture at the site, titled “Together We Grow.”

For more information on Leadership Akron, please visit LeadershipAkron.org.

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About Leadership Akron: Since its founding in 1984, with the purpose to connect leaders to advance community, Leadership Akron has served over 1300 graduates who remain involved in the community. The Leadership Akron Alumni Association serves as an ongoing hub for leaders to connect and collaborate. Its graduates share a common commitment to serving the community and working together to strengthen the Akron area. Visit leadershipakron.org to learn more about Leadership Akron program offerings.

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. The RubberDucks season at Canal Park begins on Thursday, April 6 against the Erie SeaWolves. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit akronrubberducks.com/. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram @akronrubberducks.

Mayor Proclaims September 27 “Charleston RiverDogs Day”

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Mayor John Tecklenburg proclaimed September 27, 2022 as “Charleston RiverDogs Day” in Charleston during a city council meeting on Tuesday night. The proclamation followed another historic season in the Holy City that was capped by the team winning a second consecutive championship.

“We appreciate this gracious gesture from Mayor Tecklenburg and the city”, said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our relationship with the city of Charleston is a huge part of what makes us successful on an annual basis. We have already turned our attention to planning for another exciting season in 2023 that we hope turns into a three-peat”.

In the proclamation, the mayor referenced several noteworthy accomplishments from the 2022 RiverDogs. These achievements included winning the Carolina League championship, finishing the regular season with a franchise record 88 wins, drawing 251,000 fans to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, including over 10,000 for two playoff games and leading the Carolina League in home runs for a second consecutive year.

Within the proclamation, the mayor also congratulated the RiverDogs on these achievements and commended the team for “both their perseverance and dedication to the Charleston commmunity”.

Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are available at riverdogs.com/tickets. The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information. The brand new RiverDogs Food Truck is available for your next event! Contact the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS) for more information.

Bluefield Ridge Runners announced as recipient of Lee Landers Community Service Award

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that the Bluefield Ridge Runners have been named the recipient of the 2022 Lee Landers Community Service Award. The Lee Landers Community Service Award is presented to the club that demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

The staff of the Bluefield Ridge Runners has contributed $259,307 in cash and in-kind services through July 31, along with 866 hours to various community organizations. The Ridge Runners participated in Project Graduation, charity car shows, concerts, food drives and flood relief efforts. The Ridge Runners have also contributed to community organizations such as Rotary International, the Chamber of the Two Virginia’s, Sacred Heart Catholic Church Food Bank, Bluefield Area Little League, the Union Mission, the annual Mountain Festival, the Bluefield Restoration Committee and the Bluefield Beautification Committee.

“The Bluefield Ridge Runners are honored to be presented the Lee Landers Community Service Award for 2022,” said Ridge Runners general manager Rocky Malamisura. “The receipt of this award affirms the efforts of the club to be an integral part of the surrounding community.”

This season, Ridge Runners players volunteered a recorded 370 hours in the community at places like food pantries to reading programs and autograph sessions. Two baseball camps were provided by the Ridge Runners at no cost to the participants, which allowed more than 70 children to benefit from these camps. The Bluefield Club also participated in the Play Ball initiative with area Little Leagues and Vet Tix.

ThAdditionally, Ridge Runners catcher Parker Redden (Delaware) was named the Appalachian League Humanitarian of the Year. When the Ridge Runners were in town, Redden drove approximately 35 miles each way to volunteer at Freedom Farms, a nonprofit, faith-based organization for at-risk youth in West Virginia.

“It is especially satisfying to uphold the values of the award’s namesake Mr. Lee Landers,” Malamisura added. “Service before self is a trademark of what we value here with the Ridge Runners. Our staff, coaches, players and patrons strive to give back to the community that has itself given so much to us.”

Lee Landers served as the Appalachian League president from 1996-2018 and passed away May 17, 2021. Lee always placed others first and encouraged all clubs and staff to become involved and give back to their communities. Lee’s involvement over the years included: Roman Cultural Society, Jaycees, Police Benevolent Association, D.A.R.E, Senior Olympics Board, Baseball Chapel, American Heart Association and Springfield Chamber of Commerce.

Redden named Appalachian League Humanitarian of the Year 

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that Bluefield’s Parker Redden (Delaware) was named the Humanitarian of the Year. The Humanitarian of the Year award is given to the Appalachian League player that has been judged to have made the most notable contributions in his community during the season through active participation in community service projects.

Redden works closely with Freedom Farms, a nonprofit, faith-based organization for at-risk youth in West Virginia. When the Ridge Runners were in town, Redden drove approximately 35 miles each way to help with meal preparation, maintenance, agricultural activities and his mentoring opportunities. Redden also delivered leftover food to Freedom Farms as quantities allowed so that waste was minimized. Baseball and softball lessons are an integral part of his focus with the youth. Redden and his family have also worked to establish a 4H club as an outlet for the kids from their day-to-day trials.

“Parker unselfishly gives of himself to others and conducts himself in such a way that you know that he understands that the game will end but his mission in life will continue,” said Ridge Runners general manager Rocky Malamisura. “Parker is the epitome of what we cherish most in athletes and what baseball teaches those who pay attention. We are so proud to have had such a young man as a member of the Ridge Runners.”

During the 2022 season, Redden volunteered for each of the Ridge Runners community service projects that were scheduled. The projects included working at local food pantries, stadium walkabouts with fans and autograph sessions. Redden also worked both kids camps as an instructor, mentored several local at-risk children and provided baseball lessons for numerous little league children.

“Parker was a catalyst in helping our organization educate and encourage the attitude and spirit of giving back,” said Bluefield manager Mike Weatherford. “Once his teammates recognized Parker’s contributions in Bluefield and the surrounding communities, it became enjoyable for our players to routinely volunteer. Parker was a leader in getting teammates involved off the field and that dedication to others followed him on the field.”

The 20-year-old catcher from Shady Spring, W.V., is heading into his sophomore year at the University of Delaware. Redden played in 15 games for the Ridge Runners this summer after he played for the Burlington Sock Puppets in 2021.

Johnson City Doughboys win 2022 Appy League Patriot Award

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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — The Appalachian League has announced the Johnson City Doughboys as its award winner for the Patriot Award for the 2022 season. The Patriot Award is awarded to the club that exhibits outstanding support of and engagement with the United States armed forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community.

The Doughboys hosted the Spring Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands charity softball game at TVA Credit Union Ballpark at no charge to help raise funds to send local veterans to Washington D.C. at no cost to them. During the season the Doughboys offered a military discount on tickets at the box office, Salute to Heroes Night, and hosted military branches to visit the ballpark to meet fans. They also allowed the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network to set up a booth on the concourse free of charge so they can meet fans and give out information for their program for military veterans. The Doughboys introduced a new weeknight promotion in 2022, U.S. Army Wednesdays. The U.S. Army recruiting office came out to each Wednesday night home game to interact with fans and promote the U.S. Army.

“In appreciation for all who have served and are currently serving, we are honored to show our support to all branches of the military,” said Doughboys general manager Kiva Fuller. “We look forward to growing the outreach for all military services offered in the Johnson City area and beyond at our JC Doughboys 2023 season home games.”

“I am thrilled for our team and front office staff to have won this award,” stated Boyd Sports vice president Jeremy Boler. “Our Johnson City staff has done an exceptional job working with our military veterans in our community. Having a military name like the Doughboys, it is very important to us to build relationships with and be involved with our veterans. We will continue to build off of this momentum and will continue our work with our local military veterans.”

RiverDogs Named “Small Business of Year” by Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce

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The Charleston RiverDogs have been selected as the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce’s “Small Business of the Year”. The award is presented annually to an outstanding small business who has demonstrated value in community engagement, entrepreneurship, employee relations, leadership and performance.

“We are humbled to receive this honor from the Chamber of Commerce. As we work with many other small businesses in the Lowcountry on a daily basis, we know that there are a myriad of great candidates for an award like this,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our success is based in large part on our partnerships with other businesses in the area and the community that supports us every season.”

Following the cancellation of the 2020 season and significant restrictions for the 2021 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the RiverDogs have enjoyed an incredible bounce back year in 2022. Attendance figures are returning to pre COVID-19 numbers, and the Segra Club is exceeding expectations for booking special events, allowing the organization to launch the RiverDogs Food Truck, while also increasing the number of full time RiverDogs staff.

The 2022 campaign has also allowed the RiverDogs to return to active community engagement. The RiverDogs have quickly re-established their leadership role with area youth baseball programs, local military, diversity and inclusion initiatives, literacy and advocating for children’s health.

“We are thrilled to announce the Charleston RiverDogs as our 2022 Small Business of the Year,” said Bryan Derreberry, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber. “The RiverDogs have had an incredible impact on our community and continue to demonstrate incredible leadership.”

The RiverDogs and other award recipients will be celebrated at The Honors event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, September 7 at the American Theater. Throughout the evening, the Chamber of Commerce will present The Honors Awards, honoring companies and individuals who have provided exceptional advancements to the Charleston region, including the prestigious Joseph P. Riley Leadership Award.

Tickets for all RiverDogs games are still available! Visit riverdogs.com to secure your seats now. Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are available at riverdogs.com/tickets. The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information. The brand new RiverDogs Food Truck is available for your next event! Contact the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS) for more information.

Hot Rods Chosen to Receive Truist Spirit of Community Award 

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*Bowling Green, Kentucky *– On Sunday, the Volunteers in Action executive committee recognized the Bowling Green Hot Rods as their 2022 Truist Spirit of Community Award winner. The Hot Rods join other local businesses and organizations that have won the award including Tony Rose, Crocker Law Firm, Houchens Industries, Chick-Fil-A, and American Legion – Post 23.

Eric C. Leach, Hot Rods General Manager and COO, and Kyle Wolz, Assistant General Manager, received the award at the Warren County Public Library on behalf of the Hot Rods organization on Sunday. The team has been involved in various community initiatives since its start in 2009. The Hot Rods have volunteered and partnered with local organizations like Boyz to Men, the Stuff the Bus Foundation, Kids on the Block, Norton Children’s Hospital, Down Syndrome of Southern Kentucky, Norton Children’s Hospital, and numerous other charitable organizations.

Most recently, the Hot Rods jumped in to aid the community after the devastating tornados that laid waste to Bowling Green and the surrounding areas. The front office assisted in cleaning up from the storm’s damage while also spearheading a charity auction featuring items from all over the country that were donated by various sports teams, colleges, and organizations. On April 10, the team also had #BGStrong day where the Hot Rods wore special jerseys on the field which were auctioned off following the game. All of the proceeds went to continued tornado relief efforts in the area.

“The community of Bowling Green has given us so much since we opened our gates in 2009,” Leach said. “We’ve been able to develop a beautiful ballpark downtown thanks to this amazing city and all the people in it. We’re incredibly honored and humbled to receive this award. It’s a testament to the hard work everyone at our organization has done and continues to do, to make sure we’re always trying our absolute best to be an active member of the community.”

The Hot Rods have also taken on various causes at Bowling Green Ballpark during the season, including hosting an annual Easter Egg Hunt, hosting a community organization of the night at each game, and introducing the Bolidos de Bowling Green alternate identity to celebrate Hispanic heritage in the community.

The Hot Rods proudly accept the 2022 Truist Spirit of the Community award and can’t wait to continue their partnership and work with the South Central Kentucky community!

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*Hot Rods Baseball *


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Blue Wahoos Receive Sports Tourism Award At Pensacola Sports Awards Banquet 

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During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the Blue Wahoos became innovators and award winners.

Those elements were honored Feb. 24 during the annual Pensacola Sports Awards Banquet at the Pensacola Yacht Club, sponsored by Cox Communications.

The Blue Wahoos received the Sports Tourism Award for 2020, after creating the nation’s first Airbnb experience at a ballpark in a year without baseball, along with the other creative ways to bring people to Blue Wahoos Stadium and fulfill the team’s mission to improve the quality of life in the Pensacola community.

Blue Wahoos vice president Alex Sides accepted the award on a special night celebrating the varied success stories with athletes and teams in the Pensacola area. Pensacola Sports was founded in 1955 and is the oldest sports association in Florida.

Pensacola Sports created the Sports Tourism Award several years ago as a way to recognize an organization or group of individuals who make a significant contribution to generating tourism to Pensacola and advancing the community’s awareness.

The Blue Wahoos were able to do that in a number of ways in 2020, after all levels of Minor League Baseball were cancelled prior to the 2020 season due to the first onslaught of COVID-19. The team’s front office staff went to work to transition into an events company and Airbnb experience.

In a time where family entertainment options were greatly limited, the Blue Wahoos staged more than 200 events, along with the 75 nights of Airbnb guests from 30 different states.

It earned the Blue Wahoos the Bob Freitas Award from Baseball America as the Double-A organization of the year. The Blue Wahoos also earned the prestigious Golden Bobblehead Award for best overall promotion during the MILB Innovators Summtt, held virtually in 2020.

At the Feb. 24 Pensacola Sports banquet, event emcee Dan Shugart recognized all of the achievements and provided the gathering with awareness of how the Blue Wahoos survived a year without baseball.

The team also won other awards that year.

Team owners Quint and Rishy Studer decided in April 2020 not to reduce staffing or lay off employees and were able to keep the entire front office staff employed the entire year.

The Blue Wahoos have been able to attract visitors from across the country, either to attend games, or simply visit the stadium during non-event days to browse in the team store or simply walk around and experience the bayfront stadium.

The Blue Wahoos were joined by Five Flags Speedway, winner of the 2021 Sports Tourism Award, in earning recognition for impact in the community.

Minor League Baseball Announces 2021 CommUNITY Champion WooSox Capture Coveted Award from MiLB

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NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 6, 2021 — Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced the Worcester Red Sox as their 2021 CommUNITY Champion Award winner. Nominees from each league were selected by their peers and were candidates for the overall award.

(Left to Right) Dan Rea, WooSox Executive VP & GM, team President Dr. Charles Steinberg, and Brooke Cooper, Vice President Marketing, after the WooSox received Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion Award during the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL.

CommUNITY Champion Award – Worcester Red Sox (Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)

In their inaugural season in Worcester, the Worcester Red Sox took every opportunity available to become a valued member of their new community. Whether they were hosting baseball clinics for children, building awareness for charities or providing scholarship opportunities, the WooSox always went above and beyond.

Since the announcement in August 2018 that the Worcester Red Sox were moving to Polar Park, the valuable perspective of fans and community leaders has been instrumental in shaping the franchise’s goals and values. The WooSox show their appreciation for those in their community on a nightly basis, using pregame ceremonies like “Hometown Hero,” “Heart of Worcester” and the ceremonial first pitch to recognize and honor the contributions of community leaders and unsung heroes.

Their nightly “In Debt to a Vet” promotion honors the sacrifice and bravery of local veterans, and all fans are invited onto the playing field following Saturday and Sunday games to enjoy the Polar Park experience with a game of catch or running the bases with friends and family.

In celebration of the diverse identities and cultures of the City of Worcester, the team introduced “Los Wepas de Worcester” in 2021 and highlighted a different Spanish-speaking country in each of the Copa de la Diversion games. From Mexico to Puerto Rico to El Salvador, Polar Park transformed into a hub of that country’s local culture, music and food during “Los Wepas” games. Hispanic and Latinx leaders were honored in pregame ceremonies, the national anthem of the featured country was performed, local vendors were invited to sell their food at concession stands and the on-field “Worcester Red Sox” jerseys were replaced by “Los Wepas de Worcester” jerseys, with “Wepas” being a Spanish expression of excitement.

In an effort to strengthen the organization’s spirit of empathy and inclusion and create a clearer understanding of how they can make baseball more inclusive and celebratory of differences, the club played host to several events throughout the season. In July, the WooSox hosted “Autism Acceptance Night,” where the volume of public address announcements and music was turned down across the ballpark to reduce stimulation and highlighted Polar Park’s Unum Sensory Room, which offers a quiet space for fans to take a break on the comfortable couches, borrow noise-reduction headphones and play with kinetic sand, fidget spinners and coloring books. In August, “Peanut Allergy-Friendly Nights” were introduced to allow a safe, stress-free experience for fans with peanut allergies to enjoy a game at Polar Park, and in September “Deaf Awareness Night” included an interpreter on the videoboard to communicate pregame ceremonies, in-game promotions and PA announcements.

The WooSox took advantage of the extended season by supporting Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and “Going Gold” in September 2021. The WooSox put the spotlight on children, families and heroes who are helping to conquer cancer. Dressed in gold, children and families in the battle as well as their nurses and doctors gathered in center field in the shape of a ribbon as fans raised gold signs from the stands to honor loved ones who are currently in, or have lost, their battle with cancer. In their inaugural season, the team and the WooSox Foundation collectively donated over $50,000 to UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which works to treat and cure cancer and provide resources and comfort.

The WooSox Foundation also launched the “WooSox Scholars” Program to provide college scholarships to ensure young students’ dreams of education are funded. In July 2021, four Worcester Public Schools eighth graders stepped onto the field in front of a crowd of cheering fans and were presented with various gifts from the team and a certificate honoring their achievement. The WooSox have already invested $40,000 into the college funds of local students in just one season.

The WooSox introduced the “WooSox Book Nook” in the Worcester Public Library — a collection of baseball-themed books donated by WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg and WooSox Chairman of the Board Larry Lucchino. The Book Nook provides young readers a chance to learn the history of baseball and the power of sports in community while developing their reading skills.

“We are so happy, so proud, and so grateful to so many for recognizing the special bond between the Worcester Red Sox and the Greater Worcester community,” said Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “Larry Lucchino has established charitable foundations with every franchise he has led, and he has committed that we would be active participants in the community; we are thrilled to honor that commitment. In particular, our thanks go to the leaders and the residents of ‘The Heart of the Commonwealth.’ Their compassion and excitement inspire these synergistic collaborations. May this year, our rookie year, only be the beginning.”

Sherman Johnson Awarded With Twins Harmon Killebrew Award For Community Service

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

ST. PAUL, MN (October 1, 2021) – The Minnesota Twins today announced the 2021 Harmon Killebrew Award winners for outstanding minor league community service. Following the Hall of Famer’s death in 2011, the Twins have annually recognized a player from each of the organization’s full-season affiliates. Each player is nominated by their respective general manager for their service within the affiliate’s community. A plaque is awarded, in addition to an on-field presentation during spring training. Though opportunities for community involvement were limited in 2021 due to COVID restrictions, this year’s winners made the best of the circumstances to make an impact in their respective cities.

Infielder Sherman Johnson has been named the winner of the award representing Triple-A St. Paul. Johnson is passionate about reading and promoting literacy, and was active in the Saints’ Reading Tree program this past season. The program took place on the outfield grass prior to Sunday home games and featured a Saints player and a local author/illustrator reading books to kids. Johnson, 31, signed a minor league contract with the Twins on May 12 and began the season at Double-A Wichita, before being transferred to St. Paul on June 1. He batted a combined .202 (45-for-223) with 10 doubles, two triples, five home runs, 33 RBI, 36 runs scored and 46 walks in 75 games for the Saints and Wind Surge.

Right-handed pitcher Hector Lujan has been named the winner of the award representing Double-A Wichita, his third time earning the honor (2014 – Cedar Rapids and 2019 – Pensacola). The 27-year-old was recognized by the Wind Surge front office as the first player to reach out about community engagement opportunities, despite the limits imposed by the pandemic. Lujan was also quick to engage and interact with fans by signing autographs, and was always willing to assist the front office whenever needed. He went 3-2 with a 3.62 ERA (32.1 IP, 13 ER), nine walks and 33 strikeouts in 18 games for the Wind Surge, missing time due to injury.

Catcher Alex Isola has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Cedar Rapids. Isola volunteered with the local Meals on Wheels chapter during the 2021 season, delivering meals to those in need in his free time and encouraging his teammates to do the same. The 23-year-old also spent significant time signing autographs for fans whenever possible, using the bullpen area as his base. Isola spent the entire 2021 season with the Kernels, his first full professional campaign, hitting .243 (88-for-362) with 15 doubles, 17 home runs, 52 RBI, 47 runs scored and 53 walks in 98 games.

Catcher Jeferson Morales has been named the winner of the award representing Single-A Fort Myers. Morales was recognized by the Mighty Mussels front office as a player who went above and beyond regarding fan interaction during the season, noting his constant willingness to interact with fans and sign autographs whenever he could. The 22-year-old split the 2021 minor league season between Fort Myers and Cedar Rapids, batting a combined .255 (84-for-329) with 24 doubles, 12 home runs, 53 RBI, 12 stolen bases and 54 runs scored in 96 games.