Carolina League – Page 17

Ege wins second annual Bruce Dal Canton Service Award

September 2, 2014

Award given to player with significant contributions to community

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are pleased to announce that left-hander reliever Cody Ege was named the second-ever recipient of the Bruce Dal Canton Service Award for his efforts in the community this season. He was given the award before the Pelicans regular season finale on Monday at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Catcher Pat Cantwell won the award in 2013.

The award is presented to a player that has demonstrated significant contributions to the Grand Strand community, the Carolina League and the baseball industry as a whole. Cody showed an ongoing commitment to charitable service throughout the season with his involvement in the Pelicans 3-Day Youth Clinic as well as school and summer camp appearances, just to name a few.

“Cody has been an excellent influence on all of the young children that he has worked with this season,” explained Pelicans Senior Director of Marketing Jen Borowski. She went on to add, “most importantly, from our end, he has helped us with every activity that we have asked of him and done it with a smile on his face. I am sure that, if the award was not involved, he still would have been willing to help out; that’s the kind of personality he has-always willing to help out, and he’s a great community leader.”

This award is named after the late Bruce Dal Canton. Bruce Dal Canton was the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Pitching Coach from the inaugural season in 1999 until his passing in 2008. Before joining the Pelicans, Dal Canton was a Major League pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves and Chicago White Sox. He coached for 26 years, including ten with the Pelicans, until he prematurely passed away due to esophageal cancer on October 7, 2008. Dal Canton was heavy involved in charitable endeavors and constantly striving to make the community a better place to live, work and play. In 2009, the Pelicans named the home clubhouse after him and retired his number 43, one of just two past Pelicans retired numbers.

Ege was not alone. The Pelicans players and coaches donated countless man-hours in the community with events like the Home Run for Autism Camp, a day with Grand Strand Miracle Leagues, the 3-Day Youth Clinic, the Sanofi Healthy Living outings to two local YMCAs and the Boys and Girls Club of the Grand Strand, as well as food packing initiatives with the Lowcountry Food Bank and the Help4Kids’ Backpack Buddies program.

On a nightly basis, Pelicans players volunteered time before the games to sign autographs to fans behind home plate and caught ceremonial first pitches prior to each Pelicans home game. The Pelicans front office is grateful for all their hard work. Although Ege’s accomplishment is an individual award, the impact that the 2014 Pelicans achieved in the community mirrored the tremendous success of the group on the diamond.

On the field, Ege sported 3.88 ERA and a 4-1 record in 37 outings out of the bullpen for the Pelicans during the regular season. He punched out 76 batters and walked just 17 and had a 46-to-4 strikeout-to-walk ratio during the second half. He did not allow a run in 10 1/3 August innings.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Weekend Proves Successful for Charities at Pelicans Ballpark

August 7, 2014

Fierce Fallon & Pink in the Park Combine for a $10,000 Weekend

The reason behind Vice President & General Manager Andy Milovich’s in-game prostate exam on July 24 came full circle this past Saturday with Coaches vs. Cancer Night. Milovich agreed to the exam if the team could raise Fierce Fallon’s Facebook Page to 10,000 ‘Likes’. Saturday night acted as a fundraiser for Fierce Fallon and featured a mini-football giveaway, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and more with all proceeds benefiting Fallon. All-in-all the night raised over $6,500. The highlight of the night however, came before the anthem was even sung.

Fallon made her grand entrance to the ballpark with family and friends in the back of a pick-up truck as her favorite song, Katy Perry’s Roar, boomed throughout the stadium. Once arriving to the home dugout she made her way to the pitcher’s mound for a ceremonial first pitch. Moments later, after player introductions, Pelicans starter Chad Bell took his place on the mound and prepared to face the first hitter of the night, Fierce Fallon. One pitch from Bell was all it took as her baseball debut went down in the books as a solo home run and one of the most memorable knocks at TicketReturn.Com Field. She took her victory lap around the bases to a standing ovation and roaring crowd.

A video of Fallon’s first pitch and home run can be seen below or on the Pelicans’ YouTube Channel.

“She is such a fighter and has inspired so many people over the past ten months,” stated Milovich. “The fact that we had the opportunity to not only help raise money but provide her with a memorable night is very special to me and our entire staff.”

The Saturday night post on Fallon’s page included a video of her home run with the comment, “Fallon had the most amaz-wing time tonight at the Myrtle Beach Pelicans game. Here she is hitting a HOME RUN at her first ever at bat! Thank you to everyone that made this possible!!!” Fallon also told her mother that “It was the best day of my life.”

Saturday was only the start of the Pelicans’ charitable efforts this past weekend. Sunday was Pink in the Park with a focus on breast cancer awareness. The night featured a mini-base giveaway with the words “Save 2nd Base” to the first 1,000 ladies. Additional highlights included a silent auction with pink bats and bases. All proceeds from the auction, 50/50 raffle sales and more benefited the Mary Kay Foundation. That number exceeded $4,000.

Sunday also marked the end of the Pelicans Strike Out Cancer Series. The series featured one night each month, April through August, and highlighted five different forms of cancer (esophageal, skin, testicular, prostate and breast). On each night the team dawned special jerseys which have been up for auction all season at myrtlbeachpelicans.com. The auction concludes next Friday, August 15th at 5:00 PM. The auction includes jerseys worn by Joey Gallo, Jorge Alfaro, Manager Joe Mikulik and more.

For tickets to Pelicans home games please call (843) 918-6002, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com, or visit the Pelicans box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Birds rally on Prostate Cancer Awareness Night

July 24, 2014

Pelicans GM gets prostate exam while serenading the fans

Myrtle Beach Pelicans General Manager Andy Milovich during his prostate exam while singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame." (Graham Jenkins / Myrtle Beach Pelicans) — Myrtle Beach Pelicans General Manager Andy Milovich during his prostate exam while singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” (Graham Jenkins / Myrtle Beach Pelicans)

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, won the series finale with the Frederick Keys 5-4 on Thursday night at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” while receiving a prostate exam during the seventh inning stretch in front of a sellout crowd of 6,599 to raise awareness of the need for annual prostate exams.

The Pelicans (18-17, 62-41) struck first in the bottom of the first inning. With one out, Chris Garia singled and advanced to second on a Nick Williams walk. In the next at-bat, Royce Bolinger scored Garia with an RBI single to center field. Pelicans led 1-0 after the first.

In the bottom of the fourth the Birds increased their lead to 2-0. After Edwin Garcia grounded out, Christopher Bostick singled to center field. With two outs, Luis Mendez drove a double to center field, allowing Bostick to score from first. Mendez was thrown out trying to advance to third on the hit by right fielder Chih-Hsien Chiang to end the inning.

The Keys (16-17, 48-52) scored two runs in the top of the fifth to tie the game. After Joel Hutter walked and Tucker Nathans doubled to begin the inning, Johnny Ruettiger scored Hutter and advanced Nathans to third base with an RBI fielder’s choice. Two batters later, Trey Mancini hit an infield single to the shortstop, scoring Nathans. Pelicans starter Luis Parra walked Chiang to put runners on first and second with two outs, but escaped the inning when Chiang was thrown out in the ensuing play. Jason Esposito singled on a line drive to left field, but Chiang was caught in between second and third base when Garia’s throw came to Mendez, who ran and tagged Chiang trying to retreat back to second.

Frederick took the lead in the sixth inning. With two outs, and Wynston Sawyer and Nathans on base, Ruettiger lined a triple down the right field line, scoring Sawyer and Nathans to give the Keys a 4-2 lead.

Myrtle Beach answered with a run of its own in the bottom half of the sixth on an RBI infield single by Mendez.

In the bottom of the seventh the Pelicans took the lead for good, scoring all of their runs with two outs. After Garia and Williams flew out, Bolinger and Preston Beck walked to put runners on first and second. In the next at-bat, Garcia slammed a 1-0 pitch off the left field wall, scoring Bolinger and Beck. The Pelicans took a 5-4 lead.

After pitching a scoreless eighth, Pelicans reliever Abel De Los Santos (8) came back out for the ninth to complete the two-inning save.

Cody Ege (4-1) allowed the go-ahead runs in the sixth but earned the win in relief. Keys reliever Jimmy Yacabonis (0-3) took the loss, allowing the go-ahead double from Garcia in the seventh.

Andy Milovich passed his prostate exam with no problems.

Video of the event, including his rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” is available on YouTube.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

‘Recycling Pays’ Nights at The Pfitz to Demonstrate Importance of Recycling

July 18, 2014

The Potomac Nationals are excited to announce a pair of “Recycling Pays” nights at Pfitzner Stadium sponsored by the Prince William County Recycling Program. The first recycling appreciation night is scheduled for Friday, July 18th as the Nationals take on the Wilmington Blue Rocks (Kansas City Royals), and the second evening in which recycling will be in the spotlight is Friday, August 15th in a P-Nats contest against the Carolina Mudcats (Cleveland Indians).

P-Nats fans will get the opportunity to save money and the environment with these events thanks to Prince William County Solid Waste Division’s Recycling Program. All fans who show up to the Potomac Nationals Ticket Office on each game day with recyclables in hand will receive half-off general admission tickets. In addition, everyone who tweets or posts to Facebook a picture of themselves recycling inside the ballpark during the July 18th game will receive a ticket to the second recycling night on August 15th.

On August 15th, the P-Nats’ faithful may also bring recyclables to receive 50% off GA tickets for that evening’s game and can tweet or post to Facebook the act of recycling at The Pfitz to receive an undated ticket voucher for the 2015 season.

About PWC Solid Waste Division
The Prince William County Solid Waste Division (SWD) provides solid waste management, recycling, composting and waste resource education to over 400,000 residents. The division employs more than 50 people and operates the only active Extraordinary Environmental Excellence (E4) rated landfill in Virginia, the highest level of certification awarded by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality‘s (DEQ) Environmental Excellence Program (VEEP). In 2013, the SWD also earned the Governor’s Gold Award for Environmental Excellence for its Sustainability Program. The SWD is a part of the Prince William County Public Works Department, an accredited agency of the American Public Works Association.

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

P-Nats and INOVA to Host Blood Drive at Pfitzner Stadium

June 24, 2014

Woodbridge, VA — The Potomac Nationals are proud to partner with INOVA for a blood drive at Pfitzner Stadium on Sunday, June 29th from noon to 4:00pm as a part of the P-Nats Good Deeds Night.

Fans who complete the donor screening process and donate blood will receive two grandstand tickets to the P-Nats game that night.

To make an appointment to donate blood, fans can either call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (256-6372) or visit the link below:

https://www.inovabloodsaves.org/index.cfm?group=op&step=2&opid=11602.

During the blood drive, the Nationals will have the Kids Zone open and Uncle Slam will also make an appearance.

Requirements to donate blood: must be 17 years and older (16 with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 pounds, also need to be in good health on day of donating blood.

For additional eligibility requirements fans may go online to: http://www.inova.org/get-involved/blood-donor-services/donate-blood/eligibility-requirements.

Inova is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that serves more than two million people each year from throughout the Washington, DC, metro area and beyond. Governed by a volunteer board of community members, Inova has grown from one hospital in 1956 to a nationally recognized, comprehensive network of hospitals, outpatient services and facilities, primary and specialty care physician practices, and health and wellness initiatives serving the Washington, DC, metro area.

The Potomac Nationals of the Carolina League play at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, Virginia, and are the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Washington Nationals. The Potomac Nationals have claimed four Carolina League Championship titles (1982, 1989, 2008, and 2010) and eight division championships. Most recently, the P-Nats earned a 2013 Carolina League Northern Division pennant. P-Nats 2014 season tickets and mini plans are now on sale. Sponsorship opportunities for the 2014 season and beyond are available. Plan your corporate outing now for the 2014 season to see the future stars of the Washington Nationals at The Pfitz as the P-Nats offer discounted group rates and all-inclusive picnic options. Visit the P-Nats online at www.potomacnationals.com or call the Potomac Nationals Ticket Office at 703-590-2311 for more information!

— Potomac Nationals —

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

P-Nats Military Night Auction To Benefit Wounded Warriors

June 19, 2014

The Potomac Nationals are turning Military Appreciation Night into a “can’t miss” event on Sunday, June 22^nd. In addition to honoring all military members, along with appearances by former Redskin Dexter Manley and Congressman Rob Wittman, the P-Nats will hold a silent auction during the game with dozens of iconic baseball memorabilia items thanks to Reality Realty and Mammoth Global Partners.

The centerpiece of the items is a Stephen Strasburg autographed inaugural game ticket collage, which will be raffled off for free for all military attendees. Other coveted items available for bid by the general public will be a Cal Ripken Jr. autographed bat and a signed Willie Mays photo and baseball. All of the money raised in the auction will go to Arms Outstretched Ministries benefitting the wounded warriors of Bethesda and Belvoir.

A complete list of the items in the silent auction can be found below:

Stephen Strasburg Autographed Inaugural Game Ticket Collage (to be raffled off for all military attendees)
Cal Ripken Jr. Autographed Bat
Willie Mays Autographed 16×20 Photo
Willie Mays Autographed Baseball
Stephen Strasburg Autographed 16×20 Photo
Sports Illustrated Magazine Signed by Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan
Cachet Collage Signed by Cal Ripken Jr. and Cal Ripken Sr.
Orioles “Golden Boys” Photo signed by Cal Ripken Jr., Jim Palmer, Bobby Grich, Davy Johnson, Brooks Robinson, Paul Blair and Roberto Alomar
Replica Redskins Helmet Signed by Doug Williams
Alfred Morris Autographed 16×20 Photo
Michael Oher Autographed Football
Joe Theismann Autographed 8×10 Photo
Frank Robinson Autographed Baseball
Duke Snider Autographed Baseball
Whitey Ford Autographed Baseball
Eddie Murray Autographed Baseball
Jim Palmer Autographed Baseball
Cal Ripken Jr. “Ironman” Giclee
Manny Machado Autographed Baseball

Pregame festivities will feature player autographs in the concourse and a pre-game ceremony for military persons in attendance. Post game will feature Sunday staples with fireworks and kids run the bases presented by Glory Days Grill. First pitch is set for 6:05 ET against the Salem Red Sox.

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

Virginia529 Good Report Card Night is June 23rd

May 30, 2014

The Lynchburg Hillcats and Virginia529 College Savings Plan have teamed up to reward high academic achieving students in the local area. All elementary, middle school, and high school students with a report card with all A’s and B’s, can come to the Lynchburg Hillcats Box Office to earn a free GA ticket for the game on Monday, June 23 at 7:05. (Ticket may only be used for the student). Simply fill out this form and bring it along with your report card to the Hillcats Box Office prior to the event anytime Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, or the day of the game to earn your free ticket.

Good Report Card students may also participate in a parade on the field before the game! To participate, register at the Virginia529 table on the concourse between 6-6:30pm. The parade will begin at 6:35pm.

Virginia529 College Savings Plan is the Official College Savings Plan of the Lynchburg Hillcats. Virginia529 offers four flexible, affordable and tax advantaged programs to help you save in advance for higher education. Visit www.Virginia529.com to learn how you can tame the Tuition Monster.

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

Swing For A Cure Will Have City Stadium Seeing Pink

May 7, 2014

The Hillcats will have everyone wearing pink on Saturday, May 17th will the 8th Annual “Swing For A Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center! Proceeds from this event will benefit the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation.

General admission tickets for the 6:05pm game against the Wilmington Blue Rocks will be $10, with a portion of each ticket being donated to the fight against cancer. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive a free pink t-shirt! All Hillcats players will don pink commemorative jerseys which will then be up for bid during a silent auction during the game.

It’s estimated that there will be 232,670 reported new cases of invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2014 and as many as 1 in 800 women in Virginia alone, may be diagnosed each year. The Susan G. Komen Foundation was created in 1982 by Komen’s sister and has since raised $2.5 billion for research, treatments, and support for survivors.

The Hillcats would like to thank the following sponsors of the Swing For A Cure for their support and donations: Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center as the title sponsor; ABC 13; Allergy Partners of Lynchburg; Appalachian Orthodontics of Lynchburg; Apple Ford of Lynchburg; CELEBRATION-Downtown Lynchburg; Central Virginia Family Physicians; Central Virginia Imaging; Central Virginia Oral and Facial Surgery; Central Virginia Surgery- Drs. Kittrell, Guglielmetti, McClung, Beverly, Clay; Dr. Kim Combs; Flowers Baking Company; High Peak Sportswear; Lynchburg Gynecology; Lynchburg Hematology-Oncology; Medical Associates of Central Virginia; Medical Care Center; Pathology Consultants; Physicians Treatment Center; Piedmont Community Health Plan; 97.9 FM The Planet; Seven Hills Surgical Associates-Dr. Robert Bass and Dr. Peter Ploch; Star Country/Q99/K92/WLNI; WIQO/ESPN Radio; WJJS; and Women’s Health Services.

To purchase tickets to the “Swing For A Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or go online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).

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

Keys to Collect Baseball Gear for Baseball Miracles

May 1, 2014

Donation Drive to Take Place on May 11

The Frederick Keys will be holding a baseball equipment donation drive on Sunday, May 11, prior to the team’s 2 p.m. game against the Winston-Salem Dash. Fans are encouraged to bring new or old gloves, baseballs, softballs, whiffle balls and bats, which will be donated to Baseball Miracles.

A non-profit organization, Baseball Miracles provides boys and girls with economic and environmental disadvantages the chance to play baseball. Founded by John Tumminia, the group also provides professional instruction to children learning how to play baseball.

Every fan who donates a piece of equipment will receive one free ticket to the May 11 game. Meanwhile, all donations will support the organization’s upcoming trip to Kenya, which will take place from November 4-5.

Among those going on the trip, will be the Keys Director of Marketing, Bridget McCabe. In addition to her work with the team, Bridget serves as the Softball Coordinator for Baseball Miracles. To learn more about Baseball Miracles, visit baseballmiracles.org.

Frederick’s next homestand begins on Thursday, May 8 when the Winston-Salem Dash make their first trip to Harry Grove Stadium in 2014. For ticket information, please call 301-815-9939 or visit frederickkeys.com.

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

City Stadium Will See Purple on May 2nd!

April 28, 2014

The Lynchburg Hillcats are teaming up with Relay for Life of Lynchburg and the American Cancer Society on Friday, May 2nd at 6:05pm for the 3rd Annual Paint the Park Purple Night and T-Shirt Giveaway for the first 1,000 fans presented by Gastroenterology Associates of Central Virginia!

Gates will open at 5pm and general Admission Tickets for the game will be $10 with a portion of every ticket sold benefiting the American Cancer Society. Relay for Life of Lynchburg will be held on May 30, 2014 at Heritage High School and is an overnight relay style walk-a-thon that raises money for the American Cancer Society, as well as honors cancer survivors and remembers those lost to cancer. Local participants have been able to sell tickets to Paint the Park Purple Night as a part of their fundraising for their relay team. Fans will also be able to participate in a 50/50 raffle during the game, proceeds of which will also benefit the American Cancer Society.

Approximately 1,596,000 people were diagnosed with some form of cancer in the United States last year and it is estimated that over 41,000 new cancer cases will be reported in 2013 for the state of Virginia alone. The American Cancer Society raises funds worldwide for research programs to find cures for all forms of cancer, and helps those diagnosed to find treatments and support. Visit www.cancer.org to learn more about staying healthy and preventing cancer, as well as ways to donate or volunteer.

The Hillcats thank the following Paint the Park Purple sponsors: Gastroenterology Associates of Central VA (Title Sponsor); Appalachian Orthodontics of Lynchburg; Cintas; Merrill Lynch; 97.9 FM The Planet; Scott Insurance; STEVE FM; Star Country/Q99/K92/WLNI; Virginia Foam Insulators; Westover Dairy; WIQO/ESPN Radio.

To purchase tickets for the Paint the Park Purple Night, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or go online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).

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

Pelicans team up with HTC and Backpack Buddies

April 18, 2014

Partnership renewed to bring much-needed essentials to underprivileged youth

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are working with HTC for a second straight season to bring Backpack Buddies Monday to TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The program invites fans to bring certain essentials to the ballpark for donation on Monday home games. Those donating will receive half-price admission on their Monday game ticket.

Starting in 2004, the Backpack Buddies program aims to provide schools with nutritious, child-friendly, self-serve food designed to put in a backpack and feed a child over the weekend. The program began with a pilot program of approximately 300 children. Now, a decade later, the program provides over 1,500 meals a week across Horry County.

The Pelicans are pleased to bring back the program after a successful first year with a valued partner in HTC. To participate, fans can bring the following items to Monday night home games for half-priced admission: powdered drink mix, Ramen Noodles, Pop Tarts, individual servings of pudding, individual servings of apple sauce, fruit cups, jelly (plastic container), peanut butter (small jars), Beanie Weenies, Vienna Sausage, canned meats, cereal, raviolis (pop-top cans), mac and cheese, snack crackers, chicken noodle soup (pop top cans), and unopened containers of mustard, ketchup, and mayo.

“The Help 4 Kids organization that runs Backpack Buddies is an incredible group and we’re honored to help them in their fight to ensure that the 2400+ local children have the food and nourishment the kids need,” remarked Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich. “Barb Mains and her staff give these kids a chance to succeed in the classroom and life. She’s a true hero and we’re fortunate to be in a position to assist her in helping kids throughout our community.”

In 2013 the Pelicans raised nearly $400,000 for various local charities. The Backpack Buddies program saw over $9,400 of those funds. This year the Pelicans have set a goal of raising $500,000 total for local charities and $10,000 for Backpack Buddies

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

6th Annual Autism Awareness Night April 19th

April 15, 2014

With 1 in 110 children in the United States diagnosed with some form of Autism, the Hillcats are lending a hand to offer awareness and support to this cause in 2014. The 6th Annual Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is scheduled for Saturday, April 19th and will raise money for Commonwealth Autism Services.

As many as 75,000 in Virginia are affected with this developmental disability and Commonwealth Autism Services is an organization that strives to enrich the lives of those in Virginia with autism, throughout their entire lifespan through statewide services. GA tickets are $10 and two dollars of each ticket sold for April 19th’s game will be donated to this organization.

This year’s Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is slated for 6:05pm when the Hillcats will take on the Potomac Nationals at City Stadium. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates that evening will receive a free commemorative t-shirt! Along with donating a portion of the ticket costs, proceeds from a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and sponsor donations will also be donated during an in-game check presentation. Last year’s Autism Awareness Night raised $11,000!

The Hillcats thank the following Autism Awareness Night Sponsors:

Physicians Treatment Center as the title sponsor; Lynchburg Project Lifesaver, Inc; Sam’s Club; After Hours Plumbing; Appalachian Orthodontics of Lynchburg; Central Virginia Autism Action Group; Courtyard by Marriott; Developmental Pediatrics; Flowers Baking Company; Gary’s Garden Center; High Peak Sportswear; Kroger; Larry’s Tire & Auto Repair; Laslie’s Auto Body; Piedmont Eye Center; Rehab Associates of Central Virginia; 97.9 FM The Planet; Servpro; Star Country/Q99/K92/WLNI; T.J. Maxx; Winoa USA; WIQO/ESPN Radio; WKDE; Wooldridge Heating, Air & Electrical; WYYD.

Fans will also have the chance to give back to great local causes with the 3rd Annual Paint the Park Purple Night presented by Gastroenterology Associates of Central VA, Relay for Life & The American Cancer Society on Friday, May 2nd at 6:05pm as well as with the 8th Annual “Swing for a Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Society on Saturday, May 17th at 6:05pm.

To purchase tickets to Autism Awareness Night, Paint the Park Purple Night, Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). So don’t miss your chance to give back to the community with the Lynchburg Hillcats this season!

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

West, Senior Services honored at Coaches Luncheon

April 1, 2014

2014 Dash make first public appearance at annual event

Howard West speaks after accepting the Service Through Sports Award. (Rebecca McNeely/W-S Dash)

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (April 1, 2014) – The Winston-Salem Dash presented longtime high school boys basketball coach Howard West with their Service Through Sports Award and announced Senior Services as their 2014 Charity Partner in front of a record crowd of almost 200 attendees during the club’s annual Coaches Luncheon on Tuesday afternoon at BB&T Ballpark.

Currently the head boys basketball coach at Forsyth Country Day High School, West boasts a 736-313 (.702) record in his coaching career. Almost 600 of those victories have come in the state of North Carolina, where West has coached at four different schools. He trails only the late Harvey Reid for the most victories in North Carolina High School Athletic Association history.

West spent the first 15 years of his coaching career in Virginia before coming to North Carolina and joining Eden Morehead High School in 1984. Five years later, the Lynchburg, Va., native took over the head coaching position at Reynolds High School, where he won three straight state championships from 2000-02. In 2005, West moved to Reagan High School as its coach and Athletic Director. He stayed there until last season when he left for FCD.

“I’m humbled and honored to win this award,” West said at Tuesday’s event. “Looking at this list of past winners is incredible. I’m very happy to be involved with that group of local sports figures.”

The late Clarence “Big House” Gaines, who coached Winston-Salem State University’s men’s basketball team for 47 years, was the inaugural winner in 2010. Wake Forest University baseball coach Tom Walter took home the honor in 2011, while Bob and Lisa Gfeller’s work through the Matthew Gfeller Foundation was recognized in 2012. Last year, the organization honored late FOX8 sportscaster Rich Brenner.

Senior Services of Winston-Salem helps older adults remain at home as long as possible while living with dignity. The organization also helps caregivers through services and education that will benefit them. Since its inception in 1962, its “Meals on Wheels” program has distributed nearly five million meals, while its Home Care program has been providing in-home nursing and healthcare services for Forsyth County seniors since 1978.

“We are absolutely thrilled and so appreciative to be the Dash’s 2014 Charity Partner,” Richard Gottlieb, President and CEO of Senior Services, said Tuesday. “It’s great to be a part of the Dash’s organization this year.”

Over the last four years, the Dash have worked with Brenner Children’s Hospital, the Centers for Exceptional Children, the Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem and, most recently, Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County as the club’s charity partner. As the team’s 2014 Charity Partner, Senior Services will benefit from the proceeds of the Dash’s Commemorative Brick Program, through which fans can purchase an engraved brick that is installed outside BB&T Ballpark’s main gates beyond right-center field.

In addition to these two special announcements, Dash manager Tommy Thompson spoke about the 2014 Dash, who kick off their season on Thursday night at BB&T Ballpark. Dash players and coaches mingled with all of the attendees, and the club held their annual Media Day immediately following the luncheon.

BB&T Ballpark’s fifth season begins Thursday at 7 p.m. with the first of a four-game series against the Wilmington Blue Rocks (Kansas City). For tickets or more information on the team, call the Dash at (336) 714-2287 or visit wsdash.com.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Winston-Salem Dash. Click here to view the original story.

TD Bank Signs on to Sponsor Pelicans Community Corner Program

April 1, 2014

Bank to donate nearly 1,000 tickets to non-profits

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (APRIL 2, 2014) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are pleased to announce that TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank^®, is partnering with The Myrtle Beach Pelicans to bring the TD Bank Community Corner program during the 2014 regular season.

For a third season, the Community Corner Program will provide nearly 1,000 tickets to local non-profit organizations in Horry and Georgetown counties. For 35 select games during the season, including Opening Night, a non-profit organization will receive 25 tickets as part of the new program.

The groups will enjoy a unique night out at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark with tickets in the reserved box seating area. The group will have the name of their organization appear on the video board during the game as well.

“TD Bank is thrilled to support the Community Corner Program and help bring the fun of Myrtle Beach Pelicans games to more area residents,” said Scott Sharp, TD Bank Regional Vice President, North Coast. “We feel it is important to invest in our communities, and Pelicans games are a great, family oriented way to spend a few hours together.”

Non-profits interested in joining the TD Bank Community Corner program are encouraged to contact Zach Brockman, Senior Director of Ticketing for the Pelicans, by telephone at (843) 918-6017 or by e-mail at ZBrockman@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

The Pelicans begin their season on April 3 when the Salem Red Sox visit TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. Season Seats, Mini Plans, Flex Books, and single game tickets for the 2014 season are on sale now. For more information on tickets to see the Pelicans in 2014, please call (843) 918-6002, e-mail info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com, visit www.MyrtleBeachPelicans.com, or visit the Pelicans box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank^®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 8 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at approximately 1,300 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth^®, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.tdbank.com. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit www.td.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

Salem Red Sox Eager to Salute Local Heroes

March 12, 2014

“Military Appreciation Baseball Card Giveaway” Scheduled for August 9

With Opening Day fast approaching, the Salem Red Sox are proud to announce an unprecedented promotion that will offer well-deserved recognition to some of the bravest men and women of the Roanoke Valley. In addition to creating a baseball card set of the Carolina League Champions in 2014, the team will also generate a pack of cards featuring many of the region’s dedicated servicemen and women for a “Military Appreciation Baseball Card Giveaway,” scheduled for Saturday, August 9 at LewisGale Field.

Starting immediately, fans can log onto the Salem Red Sox Facebook page and submit nominations of family members and/or friends who are worthy of inclusion in this one-of-kind creation. Each submission should include the following information:

Name with rank
Military Branch
Height
Weight (if wanted)
Years of service
DOB (if wanted)
Hometown
A bio about his or her history in the military (preferably 75-100 words)
A photo (headshot or full body in dress uniform)

Fans are asked to submit their candidates by March 31. After receiving nominees, all photos will be placed in an album where the “likes” will be tallied, and the 30 photos with the most “likes” will be chosen for this special card set. In the event of a tie, the earlier photo submitted will have the honor of being included as part of this collection. Voting via “likes” will continue through the first half of the season.

The final product will be a collector’s item of 30 cards, with 1,000 decks to be distributed to the first 1,000 fans through the gate on “Military Appreciation Night” on August 9, when the Salem Red Sox host the Potomac Nationals at 6:05. In addition to the hero recognition, that night at the ballpark will also include a free player poster giveaway along with the weekly Saturday spectacle “Nine Innings of Winning.”

The defending Carolina League champs open the 2014 season in Myrtle Beach on April 3, while the home opener at LewisGale Field, featuring the Mills Cup Trophy and championship banner unveiling, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8 at 7:05 against Winston-Salem. For tickets or more information, please contact the Salem Red Sox Front Office at (540)-389-3333.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Salem Red Sox. Click here to view the original story.