KIDS CLUB: Ornament Creation Contest

 

The TinCaps are in need of assistance decorating their Christmas tree at The Orchard Team Store at Parkview Field and the team is hoping that members of their Kids Club can help out!

Kids Club members are invited to drop off home-made ornaments at The Orchard.

Those who submit an ornament will receive 10% off in the store during their visit. All entrants will also be eligible to win a grand prize package that includes 2 tickets to a game during the 2022 TinCaps season, a TinCaps snow globe, and a $10 TinCaps gift card. (Click here for the team’s 2022 schedule and more information.)

Question? Contact TinCaps Merchandise Manager Emma Reese by email ([email protected]) or phone (260-407-2818).

The TinCaps Kids Club is FREE to join. Members must be age 12 or younger. Perks include invitations to VIP events like Johnny TinCap’s birthday party, special meet-and-greets, and more! Other exclusive opportunities for Kids Club Members involve giveaways and drawings open only to members for experiences such as being Honorary Bat Kid, Junior “PA” Announcer, or even throwing out a Ceremonial First Pitch. _Click here for more details and to register._

Now Accepting Internship Applications for the 2022 Season

 

The Columbus Clippers offer internships during the baseball season. We will be interviewing qualified candidates for the 2022 season starting in January 2022. You may submit your cover letter and resume, starting on November 8, 2021, to the attention of Scott Ziegler. Please have all resumes in by January 5, 2022. They may be mailed, or emailed to the address listed below.

The internships will begin January 2022 and run through the end of the season. Selected candidates will be required to work a minimum of six office hours per week from late January through March. In addition, there will be occasional weekend club related functions. Once the regular season begins our interns will be required to work all home games and arrive at the stadium about 3 hours before the gates open. Internships are structured on a rotating basis whereas the intern will spend time within all departments of the organization. This may include Marketing, Promotions, Community Relations, Fan Development, Sales, Tickets, Media Relations and Stadium Operations.

All internship positions will be unpaid until the actual games begin and then there will be an hourly rate paid. We do not provide housing. Parking is provided free of charge at the ballpark and we will also provide a meal during the games. We strictly enforce organizational policies and reserve the right to terminate internships should there be disregard for this policy.

We will interview candidates whose credentials, experience, and interests best suit the needs of the available internship positions.

To be considered for an internship, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program.

Columbus Clippers
Attn: Mr. Scott Ziegler
330 Huntington Park Lane
Columbus, OH 43215
[email protected]

 

50/50 Raffle Raises over $14,000 for Hannah’s Treasure Chest

 

DAYTON, OHIO — The Dayton Dragons Foundation and Day Air Credit Union announced today that $14,303.50 will be presented to Hannah’s Treasure Chest after completion of a special holiday online 50/50 raffle. The 50/50 raffle began on November 29 and continued until December 9. A total of $28,607 was generated and was split equally between Hannah’s Treasure Chest and the lucky winner, a woman from Springboro.

“We’re thankful to have been chosen by the Dayton Dragons and Day Air Credit Union as the charity partner in this fun, online raffle. Both organizations have proven to be committed to making the Dayton region a better place to live. This event was a perfect fit for us since all proceeds will benefit our mission of enriching the lives of local children in need. We remained open throughout the pandemic because children’s needs never stop and generous support like this when in-person fundraising isn’t an option means more children will receive the items they need to grow and thrive. That’s a home run in my book,” said Deanna Murphy, Executive Director at Hannah’s Treasure Chest.

“Day Air takes pride in supporting local organizations who share our passion for helping the community thrive,” Day Air Credit Union CEO and President, Bill Burke said. “This holiday season we’re excited to partner with the Dayton Dragons to sponsor this unique and fun opportunity for members and our community to give to Hanna’s Treasure Chest.”

Hannah’s Treasure Chest (HTC) is a local non-profit in Centerville that enriches the lives of children in need by creating care packages of clothes, toys, books, cribs, car seats, diapers, and more. They work through 70 community partners, including Homefull, YWCA, Daybreak, CareSource, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and Dayton Children’s Hospital, to give children experiencing poverty the necessities required to support their dignity and to thrive. For 20 years, HTC has served over 4,000 children annually in the Dayton area. To learn more about the local charity benefitting from this 50/50 raffle, please check out www.hannahstreasure.org

“Each season, we host 50/50 raffles inside Day Air Ballpark and online to support various causes in our community through the Dragons Foundation,” said Dragons President, Robert Murphy as the most recent raffle began.

Throughout the 2021 baseball season, the Dragons conducted 50/50 raffles, raising thousands of dollars for local charities and the Dragons Foundation. The Hope Center for Families, the Dayton Art Institute, Dayton Live, and Muse Machine received money from the raffle, along with the Dragons Foundation, which provides necessary funding and resources to support the countless donations, charitable giving requests, in-kind donations, unique game experiences, and community wide Dragons programs.

APPLY TODAY: Internships available for 2022 Season

 

The Bisons are now accepting applications for internship positions for the 2022 Baseball Season! APPLY TODAY

From working hands-on with the team’s video, promotional or merchandise departments to making great connections through sales and customer service, an internship with the Bisons will help you prepare for your career in the world of sports.

A full list of available positions and requirements can be found on the Bisons Internship Page. Applicants will be interviewed as applications/resumes are received, and there are a LIMITED NUMBER of internships available… so get yours in soon!

*Please note, all Bisons internships are unpaid and interns must be able to receive college credit.

Inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central Massachusetts this Week

Community Award Winners Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Santa in visits to charities.

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Josh Ockimey and Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the inaugural “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will visit charities from Leominster to Leicester and from Webster to Worcester this Wednesday through Friday, December 15-17.

Ockimey, the club’s first baseman and first-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” award for community service, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who won the charity’s inaugural eponymous “Geddy” award for his kindness and contributions to the community. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Last week, the WooSox were named Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY Champion among all 120 teams in the United States and Canada.

The Caravan, funded by generous donors from our community, begins on Wednesday morning just blocks away from Polar Park in the Canal District at St. John’s Food for the Poor, where representatives of the WooSox Foundation will serve breakfast to those in need. Other stops in Worcester include Abby’s House and Why Me & Sherry’s House, which the Caravan will visit on Wednesday, and the Worcester Public Library and UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, which will be visited on Friday.

Stretching northward, the Caravan continues to Leominster on Thursday afternoon, with a visit to the Spanish American Center, which focuses on social, educational, and economic support to the Hispanic and Latino communities.

Southward, the troupe will travel to Webster, Mass. on Wednesday afternoon, to bring gifts to the talented students in Our Bright Future’s after-school program, which supports students’ academic needs and pursuits of robotics, arts and crafts, and sports. The charity is based in neighboring Southbridge, Mass.

West of Worcester, early Wednesday evening the excursion visits Leicester, site of the McAuley Nazareth Home for Boys. Partnering with Double Play Sports, home of the Junior WooSox in AAU Baseball, the visitors will bring gifts and play games with the residents of the home team.

Addressing some of the needs at the eastern end of Central Massachusetts, the Caravan will also spend time with foster families from Framingham’s Department of Children and Families in conjunction with the Wonderfund. Care packages comprising toys and books, as well as clothing and toiletries, will be presented. Assembled by Kits for Kids of Marlborough, the gifts provide fun as well as everyday essentials to the children.

“As we head into the holidays, we find joy in bringing joy to some of those in need of a smile,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles Steinberg, who is also president of the club’s foundation. “We are thrilled that one of the stars of WooSox ’21, Josh Ockimey, is returning to his summer home to warm the hearts of children in winter. And we are delighted that our native son and WooSox Hitting Coach, beloved Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman, will bring gifts and love to these children as well. For each child, it is a moment and a memory that we hope impacts and improves their precious lives.”

Ockimey, 26, hit 15 home runs and knocked in 45 runs in only 98 games for the WooSox in 2021. The lefty slugger, who has been in the Red Sox system all eight years of his professional career, has hit 40 home runs with 102 RBI in 220 games his past two seasons in Triple-A. The Philadelphia native has consistently been among the team leaders in community appearances.

The WooSox Foundation awarded its first “Geddy Award” to the Worcester native for his devotion to baseball, commitment to the community, and kindness to all.

Smiley Ball, born on World Smile Day in 2020, pays tribute to the Smiley Face, invented in Worcester in 1963 by the late advertising executive, Harvey Ball. Woofster the WonderDog, whom Smiley Ball adopted as a rescue dog at the Worcester Animal Rescue League, debuted on National Dog Day in August of 2021.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are longtime fans, having sewn and distributed red socks throughout the world. They are most familiar with the concept of a Polar Park.

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

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.”

Hillsboro Hops and OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center Team Up to Provide Youth Vaccine Clinics

 

Hillsboro, OR. (December 8, 2021) – The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) and OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center (@HillsboroMedCtr) today announced that they will be teaming up to provide the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to youth ages 5-18 this Sunday, December 12, at Ron Tonkin Field. Second doses will be given at a follow-up event on January 9, 2022. Both events will be held from 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

200 doses will be available at each vaccine clinic and appointments are required.

As part of the trip to Ron Tonkin Field, youth receiving the vaccine will get to visit the Hillsboro Hops clubhouse and they will also be treated to ice cream and a goodie bag once they have received the vaccine.

“It’s important to be leaders in our community both on and off the field and getting our youngest fans vaccinated will make a tremendous impact for public health,” said Jen Anderson, Hillsboro Hops VP of People & Culture. “We’re excited to partner with OHSU Health at Hillsboro Medical Center to provide a unique and positive experience for our community’s kids.”

“We’re thrilled to help improve the safety and health of our local community by providing pediatric vaccines in partnership with the Hillsboro Hops,” said Lori James-Nielsen, Hillsboro Medical Center President & CEO. “Hillsboro Medical Center hopes all eligible children get vaccinated, and we’re looking forward to protecting some of our young community members in a place kids associate with fun, healthy activities.”

You can view appointment availability at this link (availability is limited):

https://washingtoncountycovidvaccine.as.me/RonTonkin

Greene Donates Thousands of New Cleats to Youth Players

 

LOS ANGELES – Louisville Bats star pitcher Hunter Greene gave away 3,000 pairs of new baseball cleats (each valued around $100) to local kids and high school baseball players near his hometown in Los Angeles.

“I’m doing this because I have the platform to be able to give back,” Greene told CBS LA on Saturday (Nov. 27). “It’s important to spread the love, be able to provide kids with the best resources, the best equipment… Especially with the pandemic and COVID last year, it was really hard for families to put their money together and get the best of the best for their children. If I can help with that and make the kids feel special, that’s the ultimate goal. And I’m happy and proud to do that.”

View the full story/video here:

https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2021/11/27/baseball-pitcher-hunter-greene-gives-away-thousands-of-cleats-to-kids-in-pacoima

Greene also previously donated new baseball equipment to the Kentucky Diamonds (a youth baseball program which provides sports opportunities for youth minorities who may otherwise be unable to afford them) in a postgame ceremony at Louisville Slugger Field in September. The baseball club publicly thanked Greene in a Facebook post here:

https://www.facebook.com/KYDiamondsBaseball/posts/939467600116670

Greene made his Triple-A debut with the Bats in 2021, finishing 5-8 with a 4.13 ERA and 79 strikeouts in 14 starts. He is currently ranked by MLB.com as the Cincinnati Reds’ No. 1 overall prospect.

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the recipients of the team’s fundraising efforts to assist those affected by the flooding and damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida.

$35,000 was raised by the team through an online auction, ballpark 50-50 raffles, and a donation match by the Kalafer family, Flemington Car & Truck Country Family of Brands, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton.

“First we need to thank everyone that donated to our efforts, whether that was items for the auction or monetarily,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “They helped us raise a significant amount of money that was matched by our very generous ownership and the dealerships.”

The money raised through the Somerset Patriots Children’s Educational and Sportsmanship Foundation was earmarked to assist with recovery efforts for Central New Jersey residents and businesses.

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Sparkee, Gordon White, President of the Board of Directors; Steve Katz, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle.

  • The donation will help distribute food and provide other basic human needs to those in Somerset County affected by the flooding and destruction caused by Ida.

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Patrick McVerry, David Carcieri, President/CEO; Sparkee.

  • The donation will assist families and children through social programs designed to help them stay healthy and strong, as well as provide financial assistance to those displaced, underprivileged, or in need due to the impact of the storm.

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Jill Glassman, Director of Early Childhood Services; Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director; Lauren Frary, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle, Jen Prior, Sparkee.

  • The donation will help the organization assist those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that were affected by the flooding and damage from the storm.

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

(L to R): Jessica Ust, Director of Development; Sparky Lyle, Donna Castronovo, Vice President, Foundation and Development; Sparkee, Patrick McVerry, Patrick Delaney, Chief Operating Officer at RWJUH Somerset.

  • The donation will be used to help displaced health care workers and hospital support staff due to the flooding and assist with their needs during the recovery.

Thomas J. Kavanaugh VFW Post 2290 (Manville): DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Andy Henkel, Commander; Patrick McVerry, Sparkee.

  • The donation will be used to assist with the cost of shelter operations and aid the victims directly to help get back into their homes.

Checks were personally delivered on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd by McVerry, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and Sparkee the Mascot.

“You really couldn’t ask for a better time to give than Thanksgiving week,” said Lyle. “To be able to say thank you to our friends doing such important work to help our community felt really good. And while the devastation to the area put a spotlight on their efforts, it’s really something they do all year long and deserves to be recognized.”

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball. To learn more, visit:

www.somersetpatriots.com.

TinCaps Reading Program Ready for 2022

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Enrollment is now open for the 2022 Fort Wayne TinCaps Reading Program.

Educators can sign up at TinCapsReading.com.

The deadline to enroll in the program is Tuesday, December 7.

With the TinCaps Reading Program, educators work with students to set requirements and goals, such as a number of books to read, a number of pages to read, hours spent reading, etc. The TinCaps Reading Program, which comes at absolutely no cost for schools and students, can be used to supplement an existing curriculum.

Students who achieve their goals, rounding the bases to reach “home plate,” are rewarded with a complimentary ticket to a TinCaps game at Parkview Field on a select date, plus receive a voucher for a hot dog, a drink, and a special prize.

See below for a list of Reading Program game dates during the 2022 TinCaps season.

The TinCaps supply educators with the necessary materials to implement the program and distribute ticket order forms to students.

Teachers also receive a free game ticket, and can schedule an appearance at their school by the TinCaps’ mascot, Johnny.

For more than a decade, the TinCaps Reading Program has proven to be a fun way to encourage reading development across hundreds of schools around the region, benefitting thousands of students.

“As the son of a long-time educator myself, I’m very proud of the fact that we have one of the top literacy programs in the entire country among professional sports teams,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “This is completely free for schools. Especially given the challenges of the last couple years, now more than ever, it’s important for us to support our local teachers.”

Any questions about the TinCaps Reading Program can be directed to Blaine Jerome at 260-407-2837 or [email protected].

The TinCaps, who are the High-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres in Minor League Baseball, are scheduled to have their 2022 home opener on Tuesday, April 12 against the South Bend Cubs. Click here for the team’s full 66-game home schedule that features 25 fireworks nights.

In 2021, Parkview Field was rated the No. 1 game-day experience at the High-A level of Minor League Baseball and tied for No. 1 throughout all levels up through Triple-A.

2022 Spring Reading Program Dates

– Tuesday, April 12 (6:35 p.m.)

– Wednesday, April 13 (6:35 p.m.)

– Thursday, April 14 (7:05 p.m.)

– Friday, April 15 (7:05 p.m.)

– Saturday, April 16 (1:05 p.m.)

– Sunday, April 17 (1:05 p.m.)

– Tuesday, April 26 (6:35 p.m.)

– Wednesday, April 27 (6:35 p.m.)

– Thursday, April 28 (7:05 p.m.)

– Friday, April 29 (7:05 p.m.)

– Saturday, April 30 (1:05 p.m.)

– Sunday, May 1 (1:05 p.m.)

– Tuesday, May 17 (6:35 p.m.)

– Wednesday, May 18 (6:35 p.m.)

– Thursday, May 19 (7:05 p.m.)

– Friday, May 20 (7:05 p.m.)*

– Saturday, May 21 (6:35 p.m.)*

– Sunday, May 22 (1:05 p.m.)

– Tuesday, May 24 (6:35 p.m.)

– Wednesday, May 25 (6:35 p.m.)

– Thursday, May 26 (7:05 p.m.)

– Friday, May 27 (7:05 p.m.)*

– Saturday, May 28 (6:35 p.m.)*

– Sunday, May 29 (1:05 p.m.)

*FIREWORKS NIGHT

NOTE: Unlike years past, there are NO midweek day games for the 2022 TinCaps Reading Program.

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities announced a list of 31 organizations that received a grant from the organization.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, raises money throughout the year as part of a series of initiatives. These include a 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws home games, specialty fundraising events like the team’s Virtual Hot Stove held this year in March, merchandise sales, and more.

Grant money will once again be kept within Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

“We are delighted to once again distribute grants to these deserving non-profit organizations in our communities,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “Our mission is to help those less fortunate around the Jersey Shore, and these grants to 31 unique organizations will benefit those in need.”

Below, find a list of organizations to receive a grant (organizations are listed alphabetically):

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, to subsidize their care services program for families of patients diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • A Need We Feed, to provide meals to veterans, seniors, elementary school children, and families in Ocean County.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, to offer fitness classes twice a week for program participants.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation, to provide financial assistance to families with children diagnosed with cancer.
  • The Brodie Fund, for financial assistance to families that have a pet diagnosed with cancer.
  • Brody’s Crew, to purchase drawstring bags with items like stress balls, sanitizer, glow sticks, silly string, and more, in honor of what would have been Brody’s 6th birthday, to support inpatient families at CHOP.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, to help onboard new volunteers for the organization, which provides supportive services to people who are 60 and older and can no longer drive.
  • Child Care Resources, to support their Diaper Bank, providing diapers and wipes to individuals and organizations in Monmouth County.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, to provide financial assistance, wellness services, and hope to Jersey Shore families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Easterseals New Jersey, to ensure continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building and interview skills to help place participants into jobs within the local community.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company, to help purchase a new refrigerator for concessions at performances.
  • Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, to provide emergency shelter to homeless children and their families throughout Ocean County.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, to purchase chairs needed for their Program Activity Center in Farmingdale, which supports Girl Scout fundraisers and girl programs throughout the year.
  • Homes Now, to assist the nearly 250 individuals and families who reside in Homes Now housing units with food items, cleaning supplies, activities, and more.
  • Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, to offset the costs related to Scouting, such as registration fees, uniforms, and program fees, for families at the Jersey Shore.
  • JF Party Dragon, to purchase food for local food pantries
  • Kids Need More, for an event to support children under 18 and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
  • LADACIN Network, to support their Give and Take Child Care Center in Monmouth County, which provides services for children with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays and typically developing children.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, towards the sponsorship of a service dog.
  • Ma Deuce Deuce, to support a Audrey’s Toy Chest, an initiative to ensure Christmas occurs for local veteran families in need.
  • The Mya Lin Terry Foundation, for siblings of those with pediatric cancer.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, for a home repair project to help subsidize the increased costs incurred after the pandemic.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization, to support their youth partnership, made up of youth between 12-21 living in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club, to support the 20 pediatric patients of Philadelphia Shriners’ Hospital for Children based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children, to support the needs of the youth served, including food, clothing, and community activities.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House, to provide shelter, support, and services for vulnerable youth including at their 12-bed shelter.
  • Parents of Autistic Children (POAC), to support their Challenger Sports League to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students and their non-disabled peers.
  • Raising Hope for Others, to support their annual golf outing held in August of 2022.
  • Seabrook Village, to provide books and magazines for residents at their senior living community.
  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, to distribute 200 behavioral health toolkits to students attending Monmouth/Ocean County schools.
  • The Salvation Army, to support their Hearty Helpings, which serves the hungry at their Toms River, with the purchase of additional cookware and containers.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, to provide financial aid to first responders, their spouse, and children struggling with finances due to medical burdens from sickness or injury.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, to support an annual coat drive for local pre-school to middle-school aged children.

“We are very grateful to those that supported BlueClaws Charities throughout the year and look forward to additional fundraising events soon,” said Fenstermacher.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

Sherman Johnson Awarded With Twins Harmon Killebrew Award For Community Service

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.

8th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

For Immediate Release:

GreenJackets Media Contact:

(803) 349-9467

[email protected]

8th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

Free Baseball Clinic at SRP Park on November 13th

NORTH AUGUSTA, SC – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, in conjunction with Complete Game, are excited to announce the 8th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive FREE Baseball Clinic in memory of Terry Childers Sr. on Saturday, November 13th from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm.

“We are excited to bring back the 8th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive and FREE Baseball Clinic to SRP Park in 2021,” stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “This is a morning full of great professional instruction, an opportunity to help Golden Harvest Food Bank and a time to celebrate the legacy of Terry Childers Sr. It’s our privilege to work with Matt and the Childers family to play a small roll in this growing annual event.

In memory of Terry Childers Sr., families across the CSRA are invited to come and take part in this FREE clinic & Canned Food Drive benefiting Golden Harvest Food Bank. Families are encouraged to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank, who will be on site to collect.

You can also bring items anytime between now and Nov. 13th to the Complete Game facility at 3855 Washington Rd. You do not have to participate in the clinic to bring food donations! Over the past seven years, 2,500 meals have been collected with 3,500 lbs. of donated goods! Come join us for this awesome event in our community!

Register online at www.playpscg.com.Go to all registrations for your free registration. Any questions, contact Complete Game at (706) 814-5916

“We are excited for our 8th Annual Line Drive Can Drive. We are grateful to be partnering with the Augusta GreenJackets and Golden Harvest Food Bank for the 8th consecutive year. This FREE Baseball clinic is held in Memory of Terry Childers Sr. Terry grew up in Augusta Ga, just blocks away from SRP Park. After Terry completed his professional playing career, he coached many players from this area and had a positive impact on a lot of people’s lives. We ask that camp participants as well as anyone in the community that desires to bring can goods and nonperishable food items to SRP Park on Nov. 13. Our partners at Golden Harvest Food Bank will be collecting all items. This is a great time of year to help support our local food bank as well as a great time of the year for players in our area to give back to the community by providing awesome instruction that the kids will receive. We will have coaches with high school, collegiate, professional and Major League Baseball experience helping and giving back during the FREE clinic. We look forward to seeing everyone there,” stated Complete Game Owner Matt Childers.

Event Details:

  • Saturday, November 13th from 11:00am-12:30pm
  • SRP Park, 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta, SC 29841
  • Giving back to the community with a FREE baseball clinic – beginning to experienced players welcome
  • Professional instruction from Complete Game
  • All players ages 6-15
  • Bring canned food items and non-perishable food items to benefit Golden Harvest Food Bank
  • Opportunity to support the community together and have some FUN
  • Register in advance click here: https://www.esoftplanner.com/v3/planner/camps.php?access=0dG81LSVxNmo65bAt2SEsZ6Hpw==
  • Onsite registration available day of as well
  • Until the GreenJackets take the field in 2022, join us for these other offseason events at SRP Park, to learn more visit: www.thesrppark.com:

· Dugout Movie Theater presents Hocus Pocus – Friday, October 29th

o More information or tickets visit: https://www.milb.com/augusta/community/gj-dugout-theater

· Palmetto Peach Half Marathon, 10k, 5k – Saturday, November 27th

o Learn more or to register visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/NorthAugusta/PalmettoPeachHalfMarathon

· 8th Annual Auggie’s Holiday BUZZar & Toys for Tots Drive – Saturday, December 11th

o Learn more or register to be a vendor: https://www.milb.com/augusta/community/auggies-fall-market

To stay up to date on all things GreenJackets and Events at SRP Park by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter today by visiting https://bit.ly/AGJBuzz.

About Complete Game

Complete Game is the CSRA’s Home to an Amazing Indoor Baseball & Softball Facility. Batting cages, pitching lanes, Hit Trax software for Baseball & Softball. Complete Game has an awesome staff of personal instructors and coaches for all positions for baseball & softball that offer individual lessons and group camps. You can visit Complete Game any day or take advantage of their monthly memberships! The Cosmic Birthday Parties are a big Hit! End of the season team functions and group Events held under the Black Lights with Music! Check us out at 3855 Washington Rd. Martinez, Ga. 30907 or at our website www.playpscg.com. They take reservations every day for parties and group Events!

About the Augusta GreenJackets

2022 Augusta GreenJackets season seat memberships are on sale now. To learn more about the benefits and to get in on the action, visit www.gjmembers.com or call (803) 349-WINS (9467).

Opening Day is Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 – Mark your Calendars!

SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. To learn more about SRP Park and hosting events and availability, visit www.thesrppark.com.

– GreenJackets –

Dodgers, USA Softball to Host PLAY BALL Event Oct. 24

 

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City Dodgers, USA Softball and OKC Parks and Recreation, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, will host a free PLAY BALL event for all children 18 and under at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City Sunday, October 24 from 4-5:30 p.m.

Participants will take part in a series of basic drills in order to further development of the game and promote awareness for the upcoming OKC Dodgers Rookie League in Spring 2022. All participants will receive a free Franklin bat and ball set, T-shirt and bracelet.

Registration for participants is highly encouraged. Click here to register.

In addition to USA Softball, instruction will also be provided by Turiya Coleman of the University of Oklahoma softball team, as well as members of the Oklahoma Christian University softball team.

In partnership with Major League Baseball and USA Baseball, USA Softball launched the “PLAY BALL” initiative in 2015. Together, PLAY BALL events are conducted across the United States, offering opportunity for youth athletes to get involved in the game. PLAY BALL encourages widespread participation in all forms of softball and baseball among all age groups – especially youth – whether at the championship or recreational level. The initiative also provides players, parents and coaches with information and resources to help with proper play and instruction.

For more information, please contact USA Softball at (405) 424-5266.

Read & Hit a Home Run Reading Program Returns For 2022

 

Bowie, Md: The Bowie Baysox are excited to announce the return of their “Read & Hit a Home Run” Reading Program in partnership with Educational Systems Federal Credit Union for the 2021-2022 school year. This year marks the program’s 25th year working with schools to encourage literacy education around the region.

The program, which began in 1996 (the 4th season of Baysox Baseball), works with over 200 schools across the DMV region, impacting over 35,000 elementary and middle school students a year. Those numbers include public schools, private schools and area homeschools/co-ops, helping encourage and foster an excitement for literacy in students.

Registration for the free program is now open for the 2021-22 school year. Public, Private and Home Schools can register for the program HERE. Registered schools can participate in the program by having their students read four (4) books during the given time frame. Every student that completes the reading goal will receive two free tickets to their school’s Read & Hit a Home Run Reading Program Rewards game during the Baysox 2022 season. Students that completed the program will be recognized for their accomplishments during the game.

All reading teachers & media specialists and homeschool teachers/directors are encouraged to register their school. Once registered, all students can participate in a jersey design contest, with the winning design being unveiled at a school assembly. Actual jerseys will be made out of the winning design, and those jerseys will be worn by the Baysox players during a game. The game worn jerseys will be auctioned off with a portion of the proceeds being donated to the school of the winning designer.

To register your school and for more information on the program, CLICK HERE or contact Dani Fox, Reading Program Coordinator, at [email protected] or by calling 301.464.4873.