Deadline Approaching for OKC Dodgers Rookie League Registration

 

OKLAHOMA CITY – The deadline is quickly approaching for area youth baseball players to sign up to participate in the 2020 season of the Oklahoma City Dodgers Rookie League, as registration concludes Monday for the league’s upcoming third year.

The youth baseball league formed in 2018 in partnership with Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation to increase youth baseball participation in the community, as well as foster an environment that emphasizes leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship. The OKC Dodgers helped provide resources and reduce costs in order to make baseball more accessible to area youth.

The league consists of four baseball divisions to accommodate boys and girls in multiple skill levels and age groups. Teams compete in divisions of 4U T-Ball, 6U T-Ball, 8U Coach Pitch and 10U Kid Pitch.

“Through the Rookie League, we are directly impacting the Oklahoma City community by providing opportunities for area youth to participate in baseball and to help grow the game we know and love,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “We are proud to partner with OKC Parks and Rec to help our youth learn valuable lessons such as teamwork and sportsmanship, while having fun and being active. The Rookie League continues to expand each year and we look forward to opening the 2020 season soon.”

The OKC Dodgers Rookie League has already experienced substantial growth. After starting with more than 200 players in 2018, participation quickly grew by 40 percent in 2019 during the league’s second season. Rookie League players hailed from throughout Oklahoma City last season, representing 52 of the 74 zip codes in the metro area. More than 300 players have already registered for the league’s third season.

Registration fees for 4U and 6U participants are $35 and for 8U and 10U participants are $55 to help cover operation expenses such as umpires and field maintenance. The OKC Dodgers provide jerseys, hats, belts and equipment for each team.

Practices will be held once per week starting March 23. The OKC Dodgers Rookie League season schedule consists of seven games played at Wheeler Park, located at 1120 S. Western Ave. in Oklahoma City. Game play begins April 4 and runs through June 13.

An on-field parade for OKC Dodgers Rookie League participants will be held prior to an OKC Dodgers game at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark in May and closing ceremonies will take place at the ballpark in June.

April 19, 2020 marks the 25th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing and the OKC Dodgers recently announced that the No. 19 will be retired in the OKC Dodgers Rookie League to honor the number of children lost in the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing in 1995. No Rookie League participant will ever wear the No. 19 and a memorial display will be placed at Wheeler Park. The OKC Dodgers also recently announced the retirement of the No. 168 to signify the number of total lives lost in the Oklahoma City bombing. The team will place the retired No. 168 next to the currently retired Nos. 1 and 42 along the left field wall at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

For additional information about the OKC Dodgers Rookie League, or to register online to participate this season, please visit okcdodgers.com/rookieleague.
Individuals interested in coaching or volunteering for the OKC Dodgers Rookie League can email [email protected] or call (405) 297-2477.

Season ticket and group packages for the OKC Dodgers’ 2020 season are available now for purchase as the team’s home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14 against Nashville. Single-game tickets go on sale March 3. Visit okcdodgers.com or call (405) 218-2182 for more information.

 

Kazoo’s Reading Program Promotes Childhood Literacy

 

A visit from Kazoo is certainly one way to break up a long day at school.

On February 6th, Oakcrest Elementary students received a visit from Kazoo and the Blue Wahoos as part of Kazoo’s Reading Program. In two 30-minute sessions, hundreds of thrilled Pensacola youngsters read Kazoo Makes the Team and witnessed a performance from the mascot himself. The kids left with a bookmark and a challenge: read four books in one month and receive a free ticket to a 2020 Blue Wahoos game.

In its existence, the reading program has made countless visits to local schools in Florida and Alabama, working to promote literacy and a love of reading early in life. In 2019 alone, Kazoo made trips to 32 schools and met 14,000 students, who combined to read over 56,000 books.

“The Blue Wahoos helped us celebrate literacy,” said JC Cotton, Assistant Principal of Florosa Elementary School in Mary Esther. “To hear the screams and see our kids’ faces when Kazoo popped out from behind the curtain was absolutely tremendous. Kazoo and the Blue Wahoos did a terrific job of sharing their love of reading with our kids. Definitely a memorable moment from our school year!”

The reading program is just one part of the organization’s mission to make Pensacola the greatest place to live; the Wahoos and the Studer Family of Companies believe that investing in the area’s kids is the best way to strengthen the community and improve quality of life.

Your child’s school can still sign up to participate in Kazoo’s Reading Program! Share this article with their teachers and encourage them to submit a form for their class here.

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

Raines Vikings win inaugural High School Heritage Classic

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Raines High School Vikings beat the Ribault High School Trojans 8-4 on Thursday to win the inaugural High School Heritage Classic presented by Rubenstein Law Firm, taking the A. Philip Randolph Cup in the exhibition contest at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp.

“I want to congratulations Raines High School on winning the A. Philip Randolph Cup and Ribault High School on an excellent game,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “The Jumbo Shrimp want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who helped make the High School Heritage Classic such a huge success in kicking off our team’s Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues.”

Both teams wore customized Jacksonville Red Caps uniforms to commemorate the Negro American League team that played in Jacksonville from 1938 until 1942. Raines High School won the A. Philip Randolph Cup that honors the legacy of local Civil Rights icon Asa Philip Randolph.

As part of the club’s Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues, the Jumbo Shrimp will play as the Red Caps twice this season; Once on May 1 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first-ever Negro League game and again on July 11 as part of the club’s Salute to the Negro Leagues Weekend in which former Negro Leagues players will also be on-hand.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 Home Opening Day is Wednesday, April 15 against the Biloxi Shuckers at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Round Rock Express Release 2020 Community Awareness Nights

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are proud to host 13 unique community awareness nights and drives during the 2020 season, the team announced on Wednesday morning. During Round Rock’s promotional rollout for the upcoming season, the Express also announced the return of Pints & Pups and Round Rock Chupacabras, as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión campaign, which will each take place once a month at Dell Diamond.

The Express kick off their 2020 community awareness nights schedule with Deaf Awareness Night, benefiting the Texas School for the Deaf on Wednesday, April 22 at 7:05 p.m. against the Omaha Storm Chasers (Kansas City Royals affiliate).

On Sunday, April 26, the team will host a book drive to benefit Carver Elementary School during the 1:05 p.m. game against the Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate).

A day later, on Monday, April 27, the Express will host a special 11:35 a.m. Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Round Rock’s annual Cancer Awareness Day is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 against the San Antonio Missions (Milwaukee Brewers affiliate). St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be both the presenting sponsor and beneficiary on the special afternoon when the team honors all those impacted by cancer.

On Monday, May 18, the Express will host a backpack drive to benefit Foster Angels of Central Texas during the 7:05 p.m. game against San Antonio.

Next up, on Wednesday, June 3, Round Rock will host its inaugural Diabetes Awareness Night, benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, during the team’s 7:05 p.m. game against the Nashville Sounds (Texas Rangers affiliate).

On Sunday, June 7, the E-Train will hold a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army during the 6:05 p.m. game against Nashville.

Autism Awareness Night, benefiting the Autism Society of Texas, returns to Dell Diamond on Wednesday, June 17 for the 7:05 p.m. game against the Las Vegas Aviators (Oakland Athletics affiliate).

The Express will be accepting donations of school supplies to benefit the Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation on Sunday, July 5 against the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate).

Round Rock’s first-ever Cerebral Palsy Awareness Night is scheduled for Wednesday, August 5 at 7:05 p.m. The night will benefit Cerebral Palsy Awareness Transition Hope during the game against the El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres affiliate).

On Thursday, August 20, the Express are teaming up with Texas Humane Heroes to hold a pet supply drive during the 7:05 p.m. game against Oklahoma City.

Later that month, Round Rock will host Alzheimer’s Awareness Night to benefit Alzheimer’s Texas on Monday, August 31 at 7:05 p.m. as the Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) come to town.

Finally, during the last home game of the season on Monday, September 7 against the Missions, the Express will hold a children’s coat drive benefiting Coats for Kids, presented by the Junior League of Austin. Fans who donate a coat will receive a general admission outfield lawn ticket to that day’s game.

Fans who donate to one of Round Rock’s other five drives throughout the season will receive a voucher for two reserved tickets to a future Sunday-Thursday regular-season game in 2020, subject to availability and some exclusions apply.

A full list of Round Rock’s community awareness nights and drives is below:

 Date Game Time Opponent Community Awareness Night or Drive
April 22 7:05 p.m. Omaha Storm Chasers
(Kansas City Royals affiliate)		 Deaf Awareness Night

benefiting the Texas School for the Deaf
April 26 1:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs
(Chicago Cubs affiliate)		 Book Drive

benefiting Carver Elementary School
April 27 11:35 a.m. Iowa Cubs
(Chicago Cubs affiliate)		 Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day

benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society
May 17 1:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions
(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)		 Cancer Awareness Day

benefiting and presented by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
May 18 7:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions
(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)		 Backpack Drive

benefiting Foster Angels of Central Texas
June 3 7:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds
(Texas Rangers affiliate)		 Diabetes Awareness Night

benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
June 7 6:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds

(Texas Rangers affiliate)

 Toy Drive

benefiting the Salvation Army
June 17 7:05 p.m. Las Vegas Aviators

(Oakland Athletics affiliate)

 Autism Awareness Night

benefiting the Autism Society of Texas
July 5 6:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers

(Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate)

 School Supply Drive

benefiting Round Rock ISD Partners in Education
August 5 7:05 p.m. El Paso Chihuahuas

(San Diego Padres affiliate)

 Cerebral Palsy Awareness Night

benefiting Cerebral Palsy Awareness Transition Hope
August 20 7:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers
(Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate)		 Pet Supply Drive

benefiting Texas Humane Heroes
August 31 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds

(St. Louis Cardinals affiliate)

 Alzheimer’s Awareness Night

benefiting Alzheimer’s Texas
September 7 11:35 a.m. San Antonio Missions

(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)

 Children’s Coat Drive

benefiting Coats for Kids
presented by the Junior League of Austin

Once a month in 2020, Dell Diamond is going to the dogs! Fans are invited to bring their dogs to the ballpark for Pints & Pups night, presented by Supercuts, on April 23, May 7, June 4, July 16, August 20 and September 3. Each event coincides with discounted draft beer specials as part of Firetrol Protection System’s The Original Thirsty Thursday. Back in 2020, The Original Thirsty Thursday features 24 oz. domestic beers for $5 as well as 24 oz. craft beers for $6.

As part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión campaign, the Round Rock Chupacabras are set to make six appearances throughout the season. The Express will transform into the Chupacabras on April 26, May 5, June 18, July 19, August 7 and September 4. For more information on Round Rock’s fearsome alter ego, visit RRChupacabras.com.

The full list of Pints & Pups as well as Round Rock Chupacabras dates are below:

Date Game Time Opponent Event
April 23 7:05 p.m. Omaha Storm Chasers (Kansas City Royals affiliate) Pints & Pups
April 26 1:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
May 5 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
May 7 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Pints & Pups
June 4 7:05 p.m. Nashville Sounds (Texas Rangers affiliate) Pints & Pups
June 18 7:05 p.m. Las Vegas Aviators (Oakland Athletics affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
July 16 7:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Pints & Pups
July 19 6:05 p.m. Iowa Cubs (Chicago Cubs affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
August 7 7:05 p.m. El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego Padres affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras
August 20 7:05 p.m. Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate) Pints & Pups
September 3 7:05 p.m. Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) Pints & Pups
September 4 7:05 p.m. San Antonio Missions (Milwaukee Brewers affiliate) Round Rock Chupacabras

Fans can now purchase tickets to each of the 23 dates featuring a community awareness night or drive, Pints & Pups event or Round Rock Chupacabras appearance online at RRExpress.com.

Round Rock’s promotional rollout continues on Thursday, February 13 with the announcement of nearly two dozen Express theme nights, then concludes with the unveiling of nightly promotions that fans can enjoy during each Express home game in 2020. Corresponding groups of single game tickets will be on sale each day during the promotional rollout.

Single game ticket pricing for the 2020 season is as follows:

Ticket Type Sections Advanced Purchase* Day-of-Game Purchase*
Diamond Reserved 114-124, Rows 1-10 and Section 119 Starting at $20.00 Starting at $22.00
Infield Reserved 114-124, Rows 11 & up Starting at $18.00 Starting at $20.00
Reserved 110-113, 125-128 Starting at $16.00 Starting at $18.00
Home Run Porch 206-209 Starting at $12.00 Starting at $14.00
Lawn General Admission Starting at $9.00 Starting at $10.00
Rockers Under Home Run Porch Starting at $20.00 Starting at $22.00
4 Topps Top of Section 123 Starting at $120.00** Starting at $120.00**

* plus tax                             ** includes seating for four

The Express kick off the 2020 season on Thursday, April 9 against the newest member of the Pacific Coast League, the Wichita Wind Surge (Miami Marlins affiliate) at 7:05 p.m. at Dell Diamond. Select single game tickets as well as full season and mini season membership plans are on sale now. For more information on the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

2020 CT Military All-Star Nominations Now Open

 

NORWICH, CT – The Norwich Sea Unicorns, Class-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, and the Better Business Bureau Serving Connecticut are proud to announce that the nomination process for the 2020 CT Military All-Stars promotion is now open and will run through July 10th! The seventh annual promotion will honor nine current or former military personnel prior to Military Appreciation Night at Dodd Stadium on Friday, August 14th.

2020 will be the eighth consecutive season that the annual Military Appreciation Night will be presented by the Better Business Bureau Military Line which provides free services, consumer education and other resources for military families, to assist them during and after deployment. The nine honorees will be selected from the pool of nominations by a panel of community judges and will be honored on the field prior to the game. In addition, the first 1,000 fans through the gates on August 14th will receive a baseball card set featuring these heroes.

Nominations representing all branches of the military are welcome. The submission form can be found online by visiting goseaunicorns.com/military. Fans can also pick up a nomination form and submit their nomination in person at Dodd Stadium at the Dime Bank Information Booth during Tigers games or in the front office during regular business hours through July 10th.

In addition to the CT Military All-Stars ceremonies, the Sea Unicorns will be wearing specially designed and military themed jerseys during the game on August 14th. The jerseys will be auctioned off during the game. The proceeds will go towards a scholarship for a military family through the BBB Military Line.

The Norwich Sea Unicorns are the New York-Penn League affiliate of the Detroit Tigers at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, Connecticut. 2020 season memberships for “The Captains Club”, mini plans, and team merchandise are now on sale! The 2020 season at Dodd Stadium kicks off on Sunday, June 21st at 7:05 pm with fireworks after the game. The front office and box office are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and can be accessed in person or by calling 860-887-7962.

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

Knights Announce 2020 Scholarships with Founding Partners

 

(UPTOWN CHARLOTTE, NC) — The Charlotte Knights will once again provide educational funding through two unique scholarships for high school students with help from two of their founding partners. The Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship, presented by Atrium Health, along with the Charlotte Knights STEM Scholarship Program, presented by Piedmont Natural Gas, each represent the team’s focus on community initiatives.

The Knights and Atrium Health began their partnership in 2013 with the Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship program. Over the course of seven years, a total of 21 high school students have each been honored with a $1,000 scholarship. In an effort to improve educational funding for high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in health care, the Charlotte Knights and Atrium Health will provide three more $1,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors in 2020. The upcoming season will mark the eighth consecutive year of this partnership.

“We are proud of our ongoing partnership with the Charlotte Knights to provide academic scholarships to deserving students with an interest in healthcare,” said Rasu Shrestha, MD, executive vice president and chief strategy officer at Atrium Health. “By empowering and supporting the next generation, we’re able to be a small part of these students having a meaningful impact on communities in the future as they provide health, hope and healing to countless lives.”

The Knights and Piedmont Natural Gas will also continue to award three $1,000 college scholarships to high school seniors from the Charlotte region who plan to attend college and pursue studies in the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering or math. Launched in 2014, Piedmont Natural Gas and the Knights have awarded a total of 18 scholarships to students attending college within Piedmont’s service territories in North and South Carolina. The 2020 season will mark the seventh consecutive year of this partnership.

“Piedmont Natural Gas is committed to promoting education and careers in STEM, which is why we’re honored to partner with the Knights on this scholarship for the seventh year,” said Barbara Ashford, director of community relations for Piedmont Natural Gas. “Supporting and providing opportunities to bright young minds in our community through the STEM Scholarship Program is something we take pride in each year.”

The Charlotte Knights STEM Scholarship Program, presented by Piedmont Natural Gas, will be awarded during an on-field ceremony on Tuesday, June 16. The Charlotte Knights Healthcare Scholarship, presented Atrium Health, will be awarded during an on-field ceremony at BB&T Ballpark on Wednesday, June 17. All applications must be completed by Sunday, May 3, 2020.

APPLICATIONS

About Atrium Health
Atrium Health, previously Carolinas HealthCare System, one of the nation’s leading and most innovative healthcare organizations, provides a full spectrum of healthcare and wellness programs throughout North and South Carolina. Its diverse network of care locations includes academic medical centers, hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, physician practices, surgical and rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, nursing homes and behavioral health centers, as well as hospice and palliative care services. Atrium Health works to enhance the overall health and wellbeing of its communities through high quality patient care, education and research programs, and numerous collaborative partnerships and initiatives. http://atriumhealth.org

About Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, is an energy services company whose principal business is the distribution of natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The company also supplies natural gas to power plants. Piedmont is routinely recognized by J.D. Power for excellent customer satisfaction, and has been named by Cogent Reports as one of the most trusted utility brands in the U.S.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, and 3,000 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2020 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list, and Forbes’ 2019 “America’s Best Employers” list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental topics. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Opening Knight of the 2020 season is set for Thursday, April 16 at 7:04 p.m. from BB&T Ballpark. Single-game tickets for all home games this season are available now by phone at 704-274-8282, online at www.CharlotteKnights.com, or in person at the BB&T Ballpark Ticket Office.

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

10th Annual Jersey Shore Wine Festival Returns April 25th

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The return of the Jersey Shore Wine Festival for a 10th season at FirstEnergy Park is so exciting that the BlueClaws moved the event up to April!

For the first time, this year’s festival will move INSIDE FirstEnergy Park, utilizing the ballpark as the backdrop for a fun Saturday afternoon with family and friends.

The Jersey Shore Wine Festival is an exciting event that features samplings from a variety of award-winning wineries from throughout the Garden State. Current wineries include Chestnut Run Farm, DiMatteo’s Vineyards, Plagido’s Winery, Villari Vineyards, Wagonhouse Winery, White Horse Winery and Valenzano Winery with more to be added soon.

Festival goers will enjoy various local crafters, many merchandise vendors, select gourmet foods, several food trucks, and a live musical performance from Jersey Shore’s finest American country group, After The Reign. Each attendee will also receive a souvenir Jersey Shore Wine Festival glass.

Tickets are on sale now! Enjoy the Early Cork Special and purchase your tickets before March 15th for only $15. Click here to purchase tickets.
March 15th until April 24th, tickets will be $20 in advance and $25 if you purchase on the event day. Designated driver tickets are $5 and include festival admission.
Vendors interested in participating on April 25th can call Sylvia Allen at 732-946-2711 or email her at [email protected] to request a vendor form be sent to them directly.

The event has a rain date of Sunday, April 26th.

Net proceeds will be donated to Sylvia’s Children, a Holmdel-based 501(c)3 organization working over the past two decades to improve the living conditions for more than 1,000 children in Uganda, 25% of whom are orphans.

About the BlueClawsThe BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They open their 20th season at FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, April 16th. Opening Night is presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk.

Couch Oil Cares Scholarship Program

 

The Couch Oil Cares Scholarship Program was established in 2015 in an effort to help defray the rising costs of higher education. Again this year, Couch Oil Company is teaming up with the Durham Bulls to award scholarships to six deserving students. The $1,000 scholarship is available to students who have been accepted into either a four-year or community college and reside in a 16-country area surrounding the Triangle.

The Couch Oil Cares Scholarship Program was established in 2015 in an effort to help defray the rising costs of higher education. Again this year, Couch Oil Company is teaming up with the Durham Bulls to award scholarships to six deserving students. The $1,000 scholarship is available to students who have been accepted into either a four-year or community college and reside in a 16-country area surrounding the Triangle. Last year’s winners were:

Elodie Deneassembaye from Chapel Hill High
Jillian Janssen from Cary Academy
Olivia King from Durham School of the Arts
Frankie Reed from Fuquay Varina High
Maggie Shealy from East Chapel Hill High
Rob Treadway from Cardinal Gibbons High

“Couch Oil Company is pleased to be a sponsoring partner with the Durham Bulls this season,” said Stephen Couch, President of Couch Oil Company. “To make this endeavor complete, we are excited to once again offer the Couch Oil Cars Scholarship to benefit families in our community.”

Couch Oil Company, a family owned and operated Durham-based company, specializes in propane, gasoline, premium diesel, lubricants and tank cleaning.

The Bulls share in Couch Oil Company’s vision to aid those with aspirations of attending college.

“Our flagship community programs focus on improving the lives of children in our community,” said Durham Bulls Vice President – Baseball Operations Mike Birling. “We are thrilled to partner with Couch Oil on this endeavor to give students an opportunity to reach for higher education.”

To apply for this scholarship, please download this application, and submit no late than June 5, 2020.

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

Dragons Mascots, Green Team Performing at Local Schools

 

Dayton, Ohio-Opening night for the 2020 baseball season at Day Air Ballpark is nine weeks away, but Dayton Dragons mascots Heater and Gem along with the Dragons Green Team are already bringing the excitement of baseball season to local elementary schools. For the eighth straight year, the Dragons entertainment team is performing assemblies at Miami Valley elementary schools. The program continues into April.

Each 30-minute interactive, fun, high-energy performance includes a visit by Heater or Gem and members of the Green Team, the Dragons signature group that facilitates skits, contests, and sing-a-longs during Dragons games at Day Air Ballpark. Each assembly in 2020 focuses on “Healthy Habits,” making smart food choices and being physically active. The performances, typically held in the school gymnasium, include some of the same entertainment skits seen at the ballpark, plus some new material designed specifically for the schools.

All Dragons assemblies are performed free of charge for schools that sign up. Participating elementary schools on board so far stretch from Springboro to Sidney.

The assemblies provide an introduction to the Dayton Dragons School Program, an incentive-based school fundraiser that provides prizes to students and allows the schools to keep a portion of ticket sales to Dragons games.

The Dragons are providing prizes as part of the program including team merchandise, an invitation to a Donatos Pizza Party with Dragons players, a Dragons Frisch’s Kids Club membership, and the grand prize, a Google Chromebook.

The Dragons 2020 Opening Night game is set for Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. at Day Air Ballpark against the Great Lakes Loons (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate).

For information on Dragons season tickets, group outings, and luxury suites, go to daytondragons.com or call (937) 228-2287.

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

Register Now for the 2020 Meijer Baseball Academy

 

Open to kids ages 6 to 12, the Meijer Baseball Academy is a three-day camp, taught by South Bend Cubs players and coaches.

SOUTH BEND, IN – Registration is now open for the 2020 Meijer Baseball Academy, a baseball clinic taught by South Bend Cubs players and coaches. Two, three-day sessions will be held at Four Winds Field July 22-24 and August 5-7.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE REGISTRATION FORM AND WAIVER

“These camps are one of the highlights of the year for our players,” said South Bend Cubs Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “I’m in my sixth year of managing the Baseball Academy and every year, our players ask me to participate. They love being able to pass on what they have learned throughout their careers and help some of our more advanced academy members take their game to the next level.”

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. Parents and guardians only need to register for one camp as the same skills are taught in both sessions.

All attendees will receive a Meijer Baseball Academy t-shirt, a South Bend Cubs hat, lunch after each day of camp, and four (4) tickets to a South Bend Cubs game 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.

Check-in for the first day of each session will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camps 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 22. To sign up, download the application and wavier form by clicking here and email it to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com. 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 March and April.

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. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

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

A League of Her Own

 

The Fresno Grizzlies are proud to announce a new initiative to support and encourage girls in the sports industry-whether on the field or in the front office. Through the overarching initiative “A League of Her Own,” we aim to provide real and meaningful experiences for girls to participate in sports. The Grizzlies will implement this new mission through three unique programs: Summer Shadow Program, Women in Sports Speaker Series and a Girls’ Baseball Clinic.

This summer, the Fresno Grizzlies will kick off the Summer Shadow Program. This program aims to give young girls a meaningful opportunity to explore their options for a career in the sports industry. There will be two week-long cohorts from June 15-20 and July 13-18. Up to five young women between the ages of 14-18 and who are currently enrolled in high school will be selected for each cohort. The selected participants will rotate through each department within the Fresno Grizzlies’ front office and game day operations. At the end of the week program, each girl will be recognized during a pre-game, on field ceremony. To apply for the program, click here.

Another program that the Grizzlies will kick off this summer is the Women in Sports Speaker Series. The series aims to give young women inspiration to follow their sports dreams through role models already in the industry. The program will take place one Sunday a month, prior to a Grizzlies home game. Speakers will highlight local women who have pioneered a career in the sports industry, whether on-field or in the front office. There will be a free pre-game forum with purchase of any ticket to the game.

Finally, the Grizzlies are partnering with the Visalia Rawhide to provide two back-to-back weekends of Girls’ Clinics for the Central Valley. Both clinics will provide young women with the opportunity to learn baseball fundamentals from each team’s own players. The Grizzlies clinic will highlight keynote speaker Ila Borders; who is the first woman to pitch and win a game on a professional men’s baseball team. The Grizzlies clinic will also be free for young women ages 5 – 12 and will take place Saturday, May 23 from 8 am to 1 pm at Chukchansi Park. To register for the clinic, click here.

The Grizzlies support and encourage all girls and women who aspire to pursue a career in the sports industry to be involved in this new initiative. If you would like to learn more information about the programs listed, please click here.

 

#Growlifornia

 

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES

The Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals, are a member of the 16-team Pacific Coast League (PCL) and one of 30 clubs in the world playing the highest level of Minor League Baseball. The team plays at Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, which is also a year-round community venue, hosting a myriad of other special events beyond Grizzlies’ games, such as concerts, festivals, high school baseball and over 100 non-profit community events every year. The Grizzlies enter the 2020 season – their 23rd in Fresno – on the momentum of the fifth championship in 10 years by their big league affiliate. The team celebrated their own PCL title in 2015.

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

Jumbo Shrimp kick off Negro Leagues Centennial Celebration with High School Heritage Classic

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As part of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s salute to Black History Month and the Negro Leagues’ Centennial Celebration, the club is hosting the inaugural High School Heritage Classic exhibition game presented by Rubenstein Law Firm at 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, February 13 between historic Duval County Public Schools rivals William M. Raines High School and Jean Ribault High School at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Raines and Ribault student-athletes will wear customized Jacksonville Red Caps uniforms in a tribute to the Negro Leagues team that resided in Jacksonville from 1938-42. The exhibition contest, coincides with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum’s commencement of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Negro Leagues, will also feature historical references to Negro Leagues players and teams throughout the game. The winning team will earn the inaugural A. Philip Randolph Cup, commemorating the civil rights activist who moved to Jacksonville in 1891.

“I am so proud to bring this one-of-a-kind game to celebrate the rich history of the Negro Leagues in Jacksonville and honoring the many Negro Leagues players who laid the foundation for our entire industry,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “I want to thank the students and faculty of both Raines and Ribault High Schools for kicking off the Jumbo Shrimp’s year-long commitment to commemorate the Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues. We encourage all fans to learn about the extraordinary Negro Leagues players who complete the history of the sport we all love.”

Tickets for the High School Heritage Classic are $5 for reserved seats and $10 for 121 Financial Crustacean Corner seats and a limited number of seats in the PNC Home Plate Club. They can be purchased in-person at the Jumbo Shrimp box office at 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd or online by clicking here.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 Home Opening Day is Wednesday, April 15 against the Biloxi Shuckers at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Hooks Roll Out 2020 Spring High School Schedule

 

CORPUS CHRISTI – The full slate of games at Whataburger Field featuring high school baseball teams from the Coastal Bend region was announced Monday.

A total of 14 games are on tap for area schools playing at the home of the Corpus Christi Hooks, including Veterans Memorial (No. 2 in 5A) and reigning TAPPS state semifinalist Incarnate Word Academy as highlights on the schedule.

Tickets for all games are priced at $6.50 for adults, $3.50 for students and free for children under four. Parking at the stadium will be $5.

High school general admission seating goes on sale at the Whataburger Field Box Office each game date at 9 a.m. Make gameday purchases by phone at 361-561-HOOK (4665).

Several of the student-athletes set to play at Whataburger Field were named South Texas Preseason all-stars, who will be honored Thursday, January 30 at the annual Winter Banquet. Tickets to the event, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Ortiz Center, are on sale now.

The 2020 amateur slate at Whataburger Field kicks off with the Kleberg Bank College Classic, set for February 21-23. The tournament features Kansas State, Utah, Missouri and host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

The 16th season of Hooks Baseball begins Thursday, April 9 at Whataburger Field against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to learn more about season memberships.

2020 Whataburger Field High School Schedule

Monday, Feb. 24
Odem vs. West Oso, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 25
Tuloso-Midway vs. Kingsville, 7 p.m.

Monday, March 2
Aransas Pass vs. Ingleside, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 3
Moody vs. Miller, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 10
Ingleside vs. Rockport-Fulton, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 17
Beeville (A.C. Jones) vs. Ingleside, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 18
John Paul II vs. Incarnate Word Academy, 7 p.m.

Friday, March 20
John Paul II vs. Gregory-Portland, 7 p.m.

Monday, March 23
Ray vs. Carroll, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 24
King vs. Veterans Memorial, 6 p.m.

Friday, March 27
Miller vs. Carroll, 5:30 p.m.
Moody vs. King, 8 p.m.

Monday, March 30
Laredo-Martin vs. Alice, 5:30 p.m.
Veterans Memorial vs. Ray, 8 p.m.

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

Beyond The Nat 2020

By Rob Fai / Vancouver Canadians | January 24, 2020 5:30 PM

There is a saying that “just because my path is different doesn’t mean I’m lost,” referring to the many twists and turns that life can present over the course of time that can somehow end exactly where we need it to. The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation, thanks to the generosity of co-owner Jeff Mooney and his wife Suzanne, created a post-secondary scholarship program to help those on their path in life find a way to have it include education.

Valued at up to $15,000 per year, per recipient, the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation in cooperation with The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast BC has identified seven new scholarship recipients for the upcoming year from all walks of life and with completely different aspirations.

The prerequisite for applying for the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Scholarship Program was simple. Show that you had a passion for continuing education beyond high school and show a commitment to your community and its betterment.

This year’s recipients of the Jeff Mooney & Suzanne Bolton Scholarships are all extremely deserving. Here is a look at just two of the many we helped open the door for this year.

Ludee Plaw came to Canada as a child along with her family when she was just seven years old after spending more than a year in a refugee camp in her native Thailand. Her parents hoped for a better future for their children by simply waiting for their turn to be processed by the Thai government. Not knowing where they would be sent – the Plaw family who eventually find out that Canada would be their destination and upon arriving months later had little to show for their life back home.

“We came here not knowing English, not knowing anything,” says Plaw just steps away from a local Boys & Girls Club much like the one she frequents in the Fraser Valley.

“It was new for my parents, but I think it was worth it as they watched us grow up learning a second language, going to school and graduating high school which was a big thing for them because they didn’t graduate high school. I am the first one to now attend university which is the biggest thing for them, and they are really proud because I never would have gotten this type of education back home.”

A few summers ago, Plaw found her calling in life that unfortunately came at a cost.

“A few years back my aunt got sick and as I spent time with her at the hospital, I realized I wanted to become a nurse. Watching the nurses, they were so caring to my aunt and my entire family. Even though my aunt didn’t make it – I wanted to do this for her, and I want to take care of my family. That moment made me realize that I wanted to make a difference.”

Ludee will begin her university studies in September with her costs covered by the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation.

Megan Wong is halfway home when it comes to her degree but as she admits sometimes ‘life’ can get in the way. Ready to step away from her studies the Boys & Girls Clubs Fraserview let her know of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation scholarship program and after sending in a heartfelt application became a finalist and eventually a recipient of enough funding to continue her education.

“When I was writing the letter, it was actually really difficult. I didn’t think it was going to be as difficult as it was because I don’t really like to talk about things but I knew I wanted to make it as true and as accurate as I could,” said Megan who admitted it took her about ten tries to feel ready to send the letter off to the selection committee.

Weeks later, Megan was summoned to her Boys & Girls Club for a meeting not realizing what was about to be shared with her but once she received the news – the weight of the world felt as if it had been lifted from her shoulders.

“I was ecstatic, and it was amazing. I could tell how much it meant to both of us and it was just so special to realize that there are people here to support me and believe in me even when those times come along when I don’t believe in myself. I can finish what I started now.”

About the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Scholarship Program:

Created in 2018, Vancouver Canadians co-owner Jeff Mooney and his wife Suzanne Bolton generously donated $75,000 dollars toward funding for up to five (5) recipients. The goal was to provide up to $15,000 per scholarship winner to help them achieve their post-secondary dreams while also supporting them within their communities. Last year Jeff and Suzanne increased their donation to $100,000 to provide even more assistance.

Teens in Grades 11 and 12 can apply through their local Boys & Girls Club and are vetted by a selection committee that includes Vancouver Canadians staff, Boys & Girls Clubs staff and a handful of external members including the donor of the scholarship Suzanne Bolton. The applicant must show a willingness both to attend a post-secondary institution as well as commit to bettering their community through volunteer services or a program benefitting local youth.

More than a dozen students have been able to begin and/or continue their post-secondary education thanks to this program.

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

Tribe Front Office Volunteers with Sand Creek Fourth Graders

 

INDIANAPOLIS – Today the Indianapolis Indians spent the day with the fourth graders of Sand Creek Elementary School. The Tribe front office volunteered their time teaching Junior Achievement’s JA In A Day curriculum on owning and operating a business.

Indianapolis Indians volunteers taught Junior Achievement’s hands-on, interactive curriculum to fourth grade students about personal finance, career paths, entrepreneurship and employability skills. A total of six classrooms participated from Sand Creek Elementary, impacting more than 120 students.

“The Indianapolis Indians fully support Junior Achievement’s mission of preparing Central Indiana youth for a future career, no matter the path,” said Indianapolis Indians President and General Manager Randy Lewandowski. “There’s nothing more important than an education. We’re committed to supporting the children in our community by volunteering and providing resources to help them grow into our leaders of tomorrow.”

“JA is thrilled to have established a strong partnership with the Indianapolis Indians to educate and inspire students to own their future success. This JA Day event is an exciting opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of these young students in a single day,” said Jennifer Burk, JA’s President and CEO.

Indianapolis Indians season tickets, multi-game plans and tickets for groups are now available. Single-game tickets go on sale Friday, February 28 at 10 AM.

To purchase, visit IndyIndians.com or call the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545.

About the Indianapolis Indians
The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends and the community through the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 10 seasons. In 2018, the organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places to Work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

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