Registration Now Available for the 2021 Meijer Baseball Academy 

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – One of the most popular baseball summer camps is back for 2021. The three-day Meijer Baseball Academy will be held at Four Winds Field July 13-15. Due to current restrictions from Major League Baseball, the camp this year will be taught by 30-year Minor League Baseball veteran Mark Haley and his team of coaches. Should those restrictions be lifted, South Bend Cubs players will participate as coaches during the camp.

“Mark and his staff at the 1st Source Bank Performance Center know what it takes to develop players at some of the highest levels of the minor leagues,” said South Bend Cubs Assistant General Manager for Marketing and Media Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “Many of those instructors are former MLB and MiLB players who are familiar with player development and will show our campers how to take their game to the next level and improve their skills.”

Over the course of the three-day camp, participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running. Registration is open to kids ages 6 to 12. Due to the high number of participants and to provide proper instruction, each Baseball Academy session is capped at 85 kids.

All attendees will receive a Meijer Baseball Academy t-shirt, a South Bend Cubs hat, lunch after each day of camp, and four (4) ticket to the South Bend Cubs game on Thursday, July 15 where all academy campers will participate in a pre-game recognition on the field. The registration fee for one, three-day session is $125.00 per child.

Academy campers who registered for the 2020 camp will be contacted by a member of the South Bend Cubs staff to confirm what session they would like their child to be registered for.

Check-in for the first day (July 13) will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camp will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with lunch at 11:50 a.m. The deadline to register for either camp is June 20. To sign up, download the application and wavier form by clicking here and email it to [email protected]. Payments can be mailed or dropped off at the South Bend Cubs main office at Four Winds Field. Registration is not complete until payment has been received.

Through the South Bend Cubs Facebook and Twitter pages, Meijer will hold a contest to award free admission to four lucky winners. Contest details will be available on the Cubs social media pages in May and June.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

South Bend Cubs to Honor our Military on Memorial Day Weekend

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs will host Military Appreciation Days at Four Winds Field on Saturday, May 29 and Sunday May 30.

As part of the celebration, the organization is providing a free ticket for all active-duty military and armed forces veterans on either night. Due to capacity restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only 150 tickets will be available for each game. Tickets can be claimed by visiting the Four Winds Field Box Office and showing a military ID card or proof of service.

“While current health and safety guidelines have limited our stadium capacity, it is still important to our organization to honor and recognize those who have fought for our country,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “These tickets are just a small way we can say thank you to those who gave so much for our country.”

The South Bend Cubs players and coaches will wear a patriotic themed hat both nights. During each game, play will be stopped on the field for the teams and fans to honor all active-duty military and veterans in attendance as well as those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. for both nights. Sunday evening’s game will also feature a military inspired post-game firework show. Due to the limited availability of tickets, service members and veterans are encouraged to pick up their tickets in advance.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

The South Bend Cubs and Jordan Automotive Present Teacher Appreciation Night

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are excited to partner with Jordan Automotive for another Teacher Appreciation Night at Four Winds Field on Wednesday, June 9.

To honor the hard work done by all who work in the education system across Michiana, Jordan Automotive will be offering two complimentary tickets and two ballpark food vouchers to teachers and school administrators to see the South Bend Cubs take on the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers at 7:05 p.m. Each food voucher is good for one hot dog, bag of chips and a fountain soda but only 600 vouchers will be available.

Fans attending the game will be treated to a special Wednesday night fireworks show.

It has been an incredibly challenging time over the last year to be working in education, as classes moved to Zoom and remote learning became ubiquitous. Teachers lost invaluable in-person time with their students, sacrificing and adapting to make sure that kids continued to learn and grow in this new fluid educational environment.

The South Bend Cubs will honor all teachers at the ballpark by asking them to please stand and be recognized by the rest of the crowd during a break in action in the middle of the third inning.

Teachers and administrators can pick up their two complimentary tickets by showing their school ID at the Four Winds Field box office. The box office is open during the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays when there’s a home game from 10 a.m. until the conclusion of the game.

The South Bend Cubs and Jordan Automotive look forward to honoring all teachers from Michiana for their hard work and dedication with a fun night of baseball at Four Winds Field.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

South Bend Cubs Accepting National Anthem Auditions for 2021

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are now accepting auditions to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Four Winds Field for the 2021 season. Individuals as well as choirs, groups, and bands are invited to participate.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE AUDITION APPLICATION

All auditions must be submitted in video form. Audio files, tapes, or CDs will not be accepted. Videos will only be accepted as a downloadable file or video link such as YouTube or Google Drive. Videos recorded from mobile devices are also acceptable. In-person auditions will not be available for 2021.

In addition to the audition video, all submissions must include the National Anthem audition application, which can be downloaded here. Performances of “The Star-Spangled Banner” are not to exceed two minutes. All vocal auditions must be performed a cappella (no musical accompaniment). Instrumental performances will be accepted. Those who audition in groups must include all members in the audition video.

Videos and the completed application can be emailed to [email protected]. All National Anthem auditions for 2021 must be submitted by Monday, April 5. Once submitted, auditions will go through a careful judging process. Due to the volume of submissions, the South Bend Cubs will only contact those who have been selected.

The South Bend Cubs will begin the 2021 season at Four Winds Field on Tuesday, May 4. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Opening Night will feature a special presentation celebrating the 2019 Midwest League Championship and a post-game fireworks show.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

NOW HIRING: South Bend Cubs Accepting Applications for 2021 Season

 

SOUTH BEND, IN –With less than 60 days to Opening Night at Four Winds Field, the South Bend Cubs are looking for detail oriented and guest service minded individuals to fill open gameday positions. Those interested can click here and complete the online application or fill out an application at the South Bend Cubs main office.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PAGE

There will also be an open job fair on Tuesday March 16 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. inside the Pepsi Stadium Club at Four Winds Field. This event will follow the State of Indiana’s guidelines set by the CDC. Applicants will be asked to keep at least six feet away from those they do not know. Hand sanitizers will also be placed throughout the stadium club.

“We know our fans can’t wait to attend their first baseball game in over a year at Four Winds Field,” said South Bend Cubs Vice President and General Manager Nick Brown. “Part of that reason is because of the experience they get when coming to a South Bend Cubs game. Our game day staff have been providing the gold-standard in guest service for years which is why our fans keep coming back. If you are going to join our team, you need to be energetic, passionate, and detail oriented.”

The online application has been designed with mobile devices in mind, making it accessible and easy to complete. All applications will be reviewed by the South Bend staff and those whose qualifications match the desired needs will be contacted to set up an interview. Those attending the job fair can fill out a paper application on-site.

Some of the available positions for the 2021 season include box office attendant, custodial services, fun zone employee, gameday ambassador, parking attendant, bartender, concessions stand leader, venue server, and more. Most positions require a person to walk and stand for extended periods of time and may occasionally be asked to lift or move up to 25 pounds.

The 2021 season kicks off at Four Winds Field on Tuesday, May 4 as the South Bend Cubs host the Quad Cities River Bandits for a six-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

Smokies Host Second Job Fair at Smokies Stadium 

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN –The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will be hosting a second Job Fair at Smokies Stadium this Saturday, March 13 from 10:00am until 3:00pm. When arriving please enter at the Restaurant located on the left side of the parking lot. Attendees will be required to wear a mask and maintain social distance while at the job fair.

The job fair will feature positions from many departments with part-time and seasonal positions within Smokies Stadium. The Tennessee Smokies are looking for employees who are able to work all home games and additional events as needed inside Smokies Stadium. Most games are held during evening hours of the week and many weekends.

Available departments include new hires for food and beverage, ticketing, production, promotions, merchandise, and stadium operations.

Food and Beverage is looking to fill positions for cooks, cashiers, runners, servers, picnic attendants, and group area attendants. Other available positions in the Restaurant include cooks, servers, bartenders, and hosts.

Ticketing is looking to fill positions for ticket takers, ticket sellers and group area attendants.

Promotions and Production are looking to fill positions for mascots, rally crew promotion team members, camera operators, and press box personnel.

Merchandise is looking to fill team store representatives.

Stadium Operations is looking for fill positions in first aid, ushers, and kid zone attendants.

Most Smokies Stadium positions require a person to stand and walk for extended periods of time, as well as run, sit, navigate stairs, kneel or crouch. Prospective employees may also be asked to occasionally lift and/or move up to approximately 25 pounds and be exposed to various weather conditions and noise levels.

Potential employees will be asked to fill out their top three job choices on their interview questionnaire, which will be provided at the job fair. All persons seeking employment may not be able to work in their area of choice, as jobs will be offered by strength of application and/or resume.

The Smokies will commence their 2021 home opener against the Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Season ticket information can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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

Meijer and South Bend Cubs Partner with Food Bank to Provide Turkeys for Michiana

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – As the effects of COVID-19 continue to challenge families across Michiana, Meijer and the South Bend Cubs are partnering with the Food Bank of Northern Indiana to host a Drive-Thru Turkey Distribution in parking lot B of Four Winds Field on Thursday, February 25 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This distribution is part of a larger effort by Meijer to donate 50,000 frozen turkeys to 10 food banks across the Midwest. In Michiana, Meijer will provide turkeys for up to 2,000 households and the Food Bank will also provide up to 1,000 perishable food boxes for the first 1,000 attendees.

“Meijer has been a wonderful partner in the community and has continued to give even more throughout the pandemic,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “Along with the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, they understand the hardships many families are facing and are doing what they can to help ease the burden. We are honored to play a small role in their good works.”

“We are so grateful for our partnership with Meijer and the South Bend Cubs and their commitment to feeding the hungry,” said Marijo Martinec, Executive Director and CEO of the Food Bank of Northern Indiana. “Protein is a luxury item at many food pantries and turkey is a versatile source of protein. At this time when so many are struggling to put food on the table, these turkeys will put smiles on so many faces.”

“Meijer cares about the communities we serve and we are pleased to stand beside the South Bend Cubs to donate turkeys to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana so they can help local families in need,” Mishawaka Meijer Store Director Jason Pursehouse said. “We know the coronavirus pandemic has made an impact on the lives of those who live here, and we wanted to do our part to help.”

Turkeys are limited to 1 per household, maximum of 4 households per vehicle. Anyone who plans to attend will need to abide by the following guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the community, staff, and volunteers:

  • You must be in a vehicle to receive food, no exceptions, no walk-ups.
  • You are required to clear the trunk of your vehicle before coming to the distribution.
  • Please keep car windows closed and masks on while in the distribution line.

To enter the distribution line, vehicles must approach Lot B by traveling westbound on South Street and turning north onto Taylor Street. Vehicles will exit Lot B traveling northbound from Taylor Street to Western Avenue.

For additional food resources or to find a pantry near you, visit feedindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

South Bend Cubs Host Fifth Polar Plunge March 21

The annual Special Olympics Indiana signature event will be held at Four Winds Field and spectators can watch the event online.

SOUTH BEND, IN – For the fifth year in a row, the South Bend Cubs are teaming up with Special Olympics Indiana to present the 2021 South Bend Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 21. Registration is now open, and participants are encouraged to register online.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER OR TO DONATE

To limit crowds and to ensure social distancing guidelines can be followed while plunging, the South Bend Polar Plunge will use a segmented schedule with multiple plunge times spread over a two-hour period beginning at 12:00 PM ET. Spectators will also be limited at all Polar Plunge events, with only guardians encouraged to attend. Other adjustments will be implemented on a case-by-case basis according to guidelines issued by the St. Joseph County Health Department and state of Indiana.

The Polar Plunge is an annual fundraising event for Special Olympics that is held across the United States. Special Olympics Indiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower those with intellectual disabilities. All funds raised by these events directly benefit more than 18,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the state, giving them the means to train locally and compete at the state level in a number of Olympic-type sports.

“During the pandemic, our athletes need Special Olympics more than ever,” said Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Jeff Mohler. “Last March and April, our athletes were isolated from their friends and teammates. Yet we remain connected to them through our various virtual sports and fitness challenges through the year and we continue to keep them active and engaged, ready for competition to begin again.”

In the winter of 2020, Special Olympics Indiana set an all-time high when more than 3,500 plungers took part in their signature fundraiser and brought in over $920,000 to support year-round programs and events for their athletes. To date, the South Bend Polar Plunge has raised nearly $80,000 in the last four years.

“With the help of our good friends, the South Bend Cubs and Mr. Berlin, Special Olympics makes a difference every day, whether in-person or virtual,” continued Mohler. “We thank the Cubs for their ongoing support and for hosting our annual Polar Plunge, as we all hope to soon hear those words, “Play ball!”

“This year’s plunge will be a little different, but the Special Olympics’ mission remains the same,” said South Bend Cubs Assistant General Manager for Marketing & Media Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “These fundraisers make it possible for athletes to stay active and participate in a number of local and state programs. The South Bend Cubs are proud to host this event year after year.”

Those who cannot attend the South Bend Polar Plunge will be able to watch the entire event on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page.

To better accommodate supporters who wish to be a part of the fun without attending an in-person Polar Plunge event this year, a new and improved Virtual Plunger program will be offered. Find out how to Earn Your Wings for Special Olympics Indiana this winter by clicking here.

To participate in the 2021 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 clicking here.

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 18,000 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 soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A-Advanced minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 33 years, 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.

The Emeralds Buy a Mask/Give a Mask Program

 

Last month the Eugene Emeralds launched their online initiative to donate reusable, washable masks to local school districts. Through the Emeralds Buy a Mask/Give a Mask Program fans can purchase an adjustable face mask, or a gator, and the Emeralds will donate an identical mask to a local school district.

The Emeralds will distribute the masks through the Eugene Education Foundation, Bethel Education Foundation and the Springfield Education Foundation to go to the students, teachers and supporting staff. Although the re-opening of in person instruction is fluid, schools will be able to disturb the masks as needed and have them on hand when they are able to start in person instructions.

“It is so important for our students, teachers and support staff to have access to face masks,” said Anne Culhane, Director of Community Relations. “Masks are going to be an ongoing need for schools for the foreseeable future, and we want to make sure schools are able to provide PPEs to those who need them.”

The Emeralds have two options for fans to purchase from. The first one, a mask that has adjustable elastic ear loops. This mask is made of polyester super dry mesh fabric interior and has an interior pocket for a filter pad. Also available is a light weight and breathable gator. This standard fit (one size fits most) gator can be worn in any number of ways such as a headscarf, face mask or bandanna. These are not medical grade masks, but it has been proven to help reduce a person’s chance of spreading COVID-19 by up to 70 percent.

Fans interested in participating in the Buy a Mask/Give a Mask program can visit the Emeralds Team Store here, https://emeralds.milbstore.com/collections/buy-a-mask-give-a-mask. Fans who visit the site will also see the option to purchase a mask to given to schools. The program will run until January 2021.

Pelicans Host Online Charity Bobblehead Challenge

 

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are teaming up with Carolina Cool, WPDE, and Gator 107.9 to feature the Adam Dellinger vs. Ed Piotrowski Charity Bobblehead Challenge. Fans will have the opportunity to pick a bobblehead of their choosing for a $20 charitable donation. Both bobbleheads will be available through the team website and online store beginning Tuesday, October 13 at 10am EST. Complete details as well as a link to the bobbleheads are available at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/bobbleheadchallenge.

Proceeds from the Adam bobblehead will benefit the family of Maddie McKnight and proceeds from the Ed bobblehead will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation and The Salvation Army.

“The charity bobblehead challenge is certainly different than our traditional method of distributing bobbleheads,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “But we’ve chosen this approach because we do not view this promotion as a giveaway but instead as a fundraiser designed to do the most good. We’re excited to be partnering with Adam and Ed and know that this wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

Maddie Mcknight was a young Seaside Elementary School Student who battled Rett Syndrome. Tragically, Maddie, a second grader at Seaside, lost her battle with the debilitating illness earlier this year. This rare, non-inherited genetic postnatal neurological disorder occurs primarily in girls and more rarely in boys. Rett syndrome leads to severe impairments, affecting nearly every aspect of the child’s life.

“I have the honor to be able to work with, and support several Grand Strand Charities. Many of these charities impact hundreds of folks, stated Adam Dellinger, host of the Gator Morning Show. “Sometimes though, it’s really great to be able to help one person or a single family. Maddie’s story hit close to home for me as the father of a young girl, and I’m thankful to be able to use the Charity Bobblehead Challenge to help her family during this unimaginably difficult time. Maddie’s family is hampered with medical expenses, and hopefully, through this fundraiser, we can work to ease their burden.”

The Salvation Army exists to meet human needs wherever, whenever, and however we can. Through programs that serve the mind, body, and soul, we alleviate the effects of poverty, then work to address root causes.

Every 34 minutes Make-A-Wish® grants the wish of a child diagnosed with a critical illness in the United States and its territories. They believe that a wish experience can be a game-changer. This one belief guides them in everything they do and inspires them to grant wishes that change the lives of the kids they serve.

“During the pandemic, everyone is struggling,” stated Ed Piotrowski. “I chose the Salvation Army as one of the beneficiaries because of the incredible work they do in our community helping people get their basic needs met. The other half of the proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. No child should ever have to deal with a life-threatening medical condition. By fulfilling their wishes, I hope to take their minds off their illness and bring joy to their lives. More importantly, I hope it gives them the strength and courage to battle and beat their illness.”

Video Board Message Donations Return for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

 

SOUTH BEND, IN – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the South Bend Cubs mascot Stu D. Baker is raising money for the American Cancer Society’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. For this month only, fans can purchase a special video board message to help in his cause.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A VIDEO BOARD MESSAGE

For a minimum donation of $20, fans can get their personalized message displayed on the video board at Four Winds Field and receive a digital copy of that message. All of the money raised in the month of October will go to Stu’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. The photos will also be shared on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page.

Back in the spring, the South Bend Cubs raised over $2,700 for the Walter A. Meyer Food Pantry at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Family Resource Center and the United Way of St. Joseph County.

To purchase a video board message, visit SouthBendCubs.com and click on the video board message request link through the Cubs Den Team Store. Just select the amount you wish to donate (minimum $20 donation) and go to check out. In your shopping cart special instructions box, enter your personalized message (maximum of 40 characters) then click checkout. In order for your message to be displayed properly, please include one of the five headers your message request (South Bend Cubs Welcome, Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, Congratulations, Honoring, or In Memory Of).

Message requests will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 20 per day. There are no refunds for video board messages. The South Bend Cubs reserve the right to approve and edit any message. Messages that contain obscene or offensive content or include foul language will not be accepted. Marketing messages are not permitted. Photos will be sent to the email provided associated with the Team Store account.

Due to the overwhelming response, a maximum of 10 messages will be displayed on the South Bend Cubs Facebook page per day. Those who do not wish their message to be added should leave a note in the comments section at check out.

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.

TENNESSEE SMOKIES ANNOUNCE 2020 YOUTH CAMP REGISTRATION

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will host a two day youth baseball camp specifically designed for 7-12 year olds on October 24 and 25, 2020. The camp will be led by former professional Major League Baseball Player and 2009 Chicago Cubs organization Pitcher of the Year, Casey Coleman.

Focus will be on ‘learning the game.’ Campers will take part in drills on pitching, hitting, fielding, base running, and the fundamentals of baseball. Participants can also look forward to individual drills and advice, batting inside of the Smokies Performance Center with the state-of-the-art HitTrax Data and Capture Simulation System, as well as playing baseball games on the field of Smokies Stadium.

“We are eager to host this great opportunity for local young athletes,” said Tennessee Smokies General Manager Tim Volk. “Involvement in this camp can extremely benefit each player’s skills and give them a once in a lifetime experience at Smokies Stadium.”

The fee to register is $125, and is good for both days of the camp. An official camp t-shirt and lunch will be provided.

For more information and to register for the Smokies Youth Camp taking place at Smokies Stadium, visit smokiesbaseball.com/youthcamp or contact [email protected].

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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

Iowa Cubs to Host Naturalization Ceremony at Principal Park

 

On Thursday, September 17 — Constitution Day — the United States Citizenship and Immigration services, Des Moines Field Office, will hold a naturalization ceremony with the Southern District of Iowa, Des Moines Federal court, on the field at Principal Park.

The ceremony for 75 candidates — representing 32 different countries — will begin at 11 a.m.

The public is invited to attend the free event — which replaces the traditional July 4 pre-game ceremony as the Iowa Cubs 2020 season was canceled. Per the City of Des Moines guidelines, masks will be required for attendees.The Iowa Cubs first hosted a citizenship ceremony in 2009. It is now an annual event, with 327 new citizens welcomed during the first 11 years. [Earlier this summer, Principal Park hosted an informal Citizenship Week, June 22-26, when 487 new citizens were naturalized in a drive-thru process outside the stadium.]

The nation observes Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as part of Constitution Week. The commemoration honors the signing of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. Iowa schools were the first to recognize Constitution Day, in 1911. Nationwide observance began in 1940 as “I Am an American Day.” Citizenship Day began in 1952, based on a law signed by President Harry Truman, and in 1955, President Dwight Eisenhower proclaimed the first Constitution Week.

SMOKIES ANNOUNCE PITCHING & CATCHING CAMP TO BE HOSTED AT SMOKIES STADIUM SEPTEMBER 15 AND 16

 

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will host a two day baseball camp specifically for pitchers and catchers at Smokies Stadium September 15 and 16, 2020. The camp is for players 13-18 years old. The camp will be led by former professional Major League Baseball Player and 2009 Chicago Cubs organization Pitcher of the Year, Casey Coleman.

“Since moving to the area, I’ve seen how much passion there is for baseball at the youth level. I want to put on camps to allow these young athletes to reach their full potential,” said Coleman. “Along with other amazing instructors and former professional players, our goal is to teach each and every player the value of hard work while learning new techniques that will help them become the best player possible.”

Along with Coleman, a staff of over 36 combined years of professional playing and coaching experience will lead the instruction, including Carson Newman coaches Pat Brown and Brandon Roberts. Pitchers can look forward to strength training, throwing programs, day-before pitch prep, and individual suggestions to craft their mechanics. Catchers will work on framing, footwork, pitch calling, and pop times, amongst other drills.

“We are proud to host this wonderful opportunity to local young athletes,” said Tennessee Smokies General Manager Tim Volk. “This hands-on experience can really benefit each player and give them a once in a lifetime experience at Smokies Stadium.”

The fee to register is $150 prior to September 11, and is $175 starting September 12.

For more information and to register for the Pitching and Catching Camp taking place at Smokies Stadium, visit smokiesbaseball.com/pitchingcatchingcamp or contact [email protected].

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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

The Ems Tip Their Cap to the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball League

 

This season the Eugene Emeralds were set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Negro Baseball League at PK Park. This league was known for spotlighting some great sportsmanship. Although the pandemic has stopped the Emeralds season, we will move forward with recognizing some of the great players who played in the Negro Baseball Leagues.

Baseball had a prominent standing in African American society since the mid to late 1800s. Racist norms of the day prevented teams with black players from joining the Association of Amateur Baseball Players and this segregation was codified in the 1890’s by a “gentlemen’s agreement” among National League owners. Banned from the major leagues, black athletes and teams barnstormed in the US, competing against anyone who would play them.

In 1920, Andrew “Rube” Foster, the managers of one of these teams and a former pitcher, met with 7 of the owners of similar teams in Kansas City, MO and created the Negro National League, comprised of eight teams from the Northeast and Midwest. This Negro National League is generally recognized as the first of the Negro Leagues, and it provided a spotlight on some of the best baseball players of the era.

From the beginning the league had many hardships. In addition to racism, Jim Crow laws, and tough economic conditions, most teams played in ballparks owned by white teams which were only available when the white team was out of town. Games were sometimes cancelled when a profitable exhibition against a white team became available. Wide disparity in the quality of teams exasperated financial woes and led to a number of team failures which, in turn, led to league failures. Despite the hardships, the decades between 1920 and 1950 always included at least one active league.

World War II led to an improvement in the economic situation of many African Americans, which in turn lead to a great improvement in the leagues. Similar to MLB, many teams lost players to the armed forces, but the leagues continued to put a quality product on the field. Teams became a linchpin for economic development in black communities. Games drew crowds of over 5,000 and black business men and women started to build their businesses around the game of baseball. They saw the chance to offer goods, services and entertainment to the players as they would come through town for games. Cities began to see hotels, restaurants, night clubs, barbershops and barrooms being created to cater to players and their crowds.

The integration of Major League Baseball that started in 1947 with Negro League alumnus Jackie Robinson led to a slow but irreversible gutting of talent of the Negro Leagues. Teams were not able to compete financially and did not want to stand in the way of African Americans playing in the Majors. Quality of play declined and finances suffered. Teams tried to stay relevant by signing white players as well as women, but it wasn’t enough and the last one folded in the 1960’s.

Many outstanding players started their playing careers in the Negro League and the Eugene Emeralds will be highlighting some of the players over the next week. Be sure to watch the Emeralds Facebook page as we learn more about founder Rube Foster, Josh Gibson, James Bell and Toni Stone. You can also visit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum e-museum (http://www.nlbemuseum.com/ to find out more about the League and its players. Please join us as we tip our cap to honor the Negro Leagues in its centennial year.