Intimidators inaugural Reading All-Stars include hundreds of students from Kannapolis City Schools

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (March 19, 2014) – The Kannapolis Intimidators are excited to announce that, as a part of the team’s new reading program, hundreds of students in Kannapolis City Schools are among the first in the community to be named 2014 Reading All-Stars.

The Intimidators’ Reading All-Stars Program challenges third through eighth grade students to read four extracurricular books in four weeks to be named a Reading All-Star and receive a complimentary ticket to an Intimidators game and participate in a pre-game parade around the field. The four-week reading program for Kannapolis City Schools recently came to a close, and students will receive a voucher through their schools in the coming weeks good for a ticket to the KCS Reading All-Stars Celebration Game on Friday, April 4, at 7:05 p.m. at CMC-NorthEast Stadium.

“The Reading All-Stars program has been a tremendous success, and we are extremely grateful to the Kannapolis Intimidators for bringing it to our schools,” said Dr. Pam Cain, Superintendent of Kannapolis City Schools. “Building a love of reading is one of the most important things we can do to help children succeed, and we look forward to continuing this outstanding partnership.”

In addition to working with KCS, the Intimidators have also teamed up with Cabarrus County Schools, Rowan-Salisbury School System and Stanly County Schools to offer this opportunity to more than 33,000 third through eighth grade students in the community. The reading period for students in Cabarrus, Rowan and Stanly counties is still in progress.

“We launched this program to do our part to encourage local students to get excited about reading,” said Intimidators General Manager Randy Long. “If giving these children a fun experience at the ballpark will get them to pick up a book, then we are more than happy to reward them for their hard work.”

In addition to providing a complimentary ticket to the students who are named a Reading All-Star, the Intimidators are offering discounted tickets for $3 to family members of the students to attend the Celebration Game.

Dates of Reading All-Stars Celebration Games for other school districts are Friday, May 2 for Cabarrus County Schools; Friday, May 16 for Stanly County Schools; and Sunday, May 18 for Rowan-Salisbury School System. Information on attending the Celebration Games will be distributed through the schools two to three weeks before the game.

The Intimidators are preparing for the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and 14th as a Chicago White Sox affiliate. Opening Night of the 2014 season is Thursday, April 3, against the Greenville Drive (Boston Red Sox) at 7:05 p.m. Since the team came to town in 1995, a total of 77 players have gone from Kannapolis to the Major Leagues, including 2007 NL MVP Jimmy Rollins and former NFL standout and 1998 Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams. Season tickets, mini-plans and single-game seats are currently available by calling the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or by visiting the team website at www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

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

2014 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing set for June 3

Charity golf outing to benefit The Miracle League of the Fox Valley

Fang T. Rattler is ready for the 2014 Charity Golf Outing for the Miracle League of the Fox Valley at Shamrock Heights on June 3.
Fang T. Rattler is ready for the 2014 Charity Golf Outing for the Miracle League of the Fox Valley at Shamrock Heights on June 3.

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Make your plans to golf with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and help The Miracle League of the Fox Valley. The Midwest League affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers will hold their annual golf outing on Tuesday, June 3 at Shamrock Heights Golf Course in New London.

A foursome may register for $350. Foursomes have the opportunity to play with a Timber Rattlers player, but that chance is based on a first come, first serve RSVP. Individuals may register for $100.

The outing tees off with registration beginning at 8:00am and a shotgun start at 9:00am. Lunch is included with registration and will be served at the turn. Snacks will be available after the round of golf from 2-4pm. A raffle drawing and awards presentation will conclude the event.

If you wish to participate in the 2014 Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Golf Outing, please contact Hilary Bauer at (920) 733-4152 or hbauer@timberrattlers.com by Monday, May 26. Registration forms are also available at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium and online at timberrattlers.com.

Persons unable to golf, but looking for a way to contribute may consider a hole sponsorship package at $100 or an in-kind donation toward raffle/hole prizes.

The Miracle League of the Fox Valley, an organized baseball league for children aged 4-19 with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, was formed in 2008 by Fox Valley parents Lisa and Mark Robbins. Registration is open now through March 28 for players and volunteers for the 2014 Miracle League of the Fox Valley season, which starts on June 9. The league plays their games at the John Wollner Fox Cities Miracle Field in Appleton’s Memorial Park.

The Timber Rattlers begin their 2014 season on Thursday, April 3 against the Peoria Chiefs at 6:35pm.

The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 3:00pm. Individual game tickets for the 2014 Timber Rattlers season are on sale now.   Fans may purchase their tickets in person, by calling (800) WI-TIMBER or (920) 733-4152 or online through timberrattlers.com. Tickets for groups of 20 or more may be ordered in person or over the phone.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Click here to view the original story.

Learn From the Pros at BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

Three sessions available in 2014; registration now open

LakewoodBlueClaws_2014-03-18

 

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Young players can learn the game from the pros at the annual BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camps in 2014 where BlueClaws players serve as instructors to youngsters at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp is open to players ages 7-12 and there are three sessions available:
Session I: Thursday, July 10th & Friday, July 11th.
Session II: Thursday, July 24th & Friday, July 25th.
Session III: Monday, August 4th, Tuesday, August 5th, Thursday, August 7th, & Friday, August 8th.

Camp each day runs from 9 am – 12 pm and includes lunch from 12 pm – 12:30 pm, an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the last day of camp, BlueClaws merchandise, and one ticket to the BlueClaws game on Wednesday, August 27th.

The camp will cover all aspects of the game, with emphasis on hitting, base running, fielding, throwing, pitching, and position work. The objective of the camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship, and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

Registration is now open and can be made by calling Kevin Lodge at 732-901-7000 ext 146 or by returning this registration form. Sessions I and II are $100 while Session III is $175.

– BlueClaws –

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

2014 San Jose Giants Summer Camps Now Open for Registration

Two Camp Sessions Scheduled for summer at Municipal Stadium

The San Jose Giants announced today that they will host their eighth annual Summer Camps June 16-19 (Session 1) and July 28-31 (Session 2) at Municipal Stadium. Both camp sessions will focus on developing baseball skills for boys and girls ages 8 through 14.

The San Jose Giants recognize the importance of individual instruction and are committed to having numerous instructors on-hand. Camp participants will receive the most personal interaction and focused attention possible as all camps will maintain a 10:1 camper to coach ratio. The coaching staff will be led by John Rally, current San Jose Giants Ticket Services and Youth Development Program Manager.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to help develop young athletes’ baseball skills and also teach them to apply those lessons to their lives off the field,” said Rally. “Municipal Stadium is a place where prospects come to further their quest of becoming a Major Leaguer. My hope is that these camp sessions will assist our participants in realizing and furthering their dreams of someday playing here in a Giants uniform.”

During each session, campers will work on all fundamentals of the game with a focus on base-running, hitting, throwing mechanics, catching, and fielding. Both camps will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM each day and cost $295 per camp prior to May 1. Following May 1, the cost to register will increase to $315 per camp. Included in the registration price, each camp participant will receive tickets for the entire family to a designated San Jose Giants game, Summer Camp T-Shirt, lunch provided each day, and over 20 hours of baseball instruction! To learn more about the San Jose Giants Summer Camps visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 297-1435 ext. 4501, or email JohnRally@sjgiants.com.

Registration and payment for San Jose Giants Summer Camps will take place through sjgiants.com. Click here to begin registration and payment. Please note that registering your child is not complete until both the form and payment have been completed.

First pitch for the San Jose Giants home opener will take place at 7:00 PM on Thursday, April 10 against the Bakersfield Blaze. San Jose’s 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3. The Giants will host games at Municipal Stadium on Mother’s Day (May 11), Memorial Day (May 26), and Independence Day (July 4).For information on the 2014 season and ticket packages please visit sjgiants.com, call (408) 297-1435 or visit the Municipal Stadium Box Office Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

2014 San Jose Giants Summer Camps

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Youth Field Renovation Nominations Sought

Email Kelly Gooley by Friday, March 21 for consideration

LehighValleyIronPigs_2014-03-18

 

The IronPigs are currently seeking nominations for local little league fields that need field renovations this spring. Please email Kelly Gooley at kgooley@ironpigsbaseball.com with your contact information by Friday, March 21 at 12 p.m. to garner consideration.

The winning youth little league organization will receive a complete infield renovation from IronPigs head groundskeeper Ryan Hills and members of the IronPigs front office staff! The IronPigs will assist in all facets of this renovation in an effort to get your league ready for the upcoming season.

For more information, please contact Kelly Gooley at kgooley@ironpigsbaseball.com or call (610) 841-1213.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Dusty Wathan Hosting Catching Clinic on March 30th

Fightins skipper to teach advanced catching skills for up-and-coming catchers

Fightins manager Dusty Wathan will be hosting a catching clinic on March 30th from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m. for catchers ages eight & up. (Ralph Trout)
Fightins manager Dusty Wathan will be hosting a catching clinic on March 30th from 5:00 to 6:15 p.m. for catchers ages eight & up. (Ralph Trout)

As the Reading Fightin Phils prepare for the 2014 season, manager Dusty Wathan is giving local youth catchers a chance to do the same for their respective baseball seasons at the Dusty Wathan Catching Clinic on Sunday, March 30th from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. The clinic will provide players ages eight through college aged the opportunity to work on advanced catching skills with the Fightins skipper.

Sign-up to Wathan’s coaching clinic cost $60 per person and $50 per person if you sign up three or more individuals. To reserve your spot in the clinic, sign up via Fightins.com or call 610-370-BALL.

A former major league catcher, Wathan had a 14-year career playing in the Seattle Mariners, Florida Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians, and Philadelphia Phillies minor league systems. He made his major league debut in 2002 with the Royals, going 3-for-5 with an RBI in three games.

Wathan is heading into his seventh season managing at the minor league level where he has a record of 138-146 in the past two seasons as manager of the Fightin Phils. Since he took over the reins in 2012, Wathan has seen 14 of his players, including Darin Ruf, Cody Asche, and Jonathan Pettibone, go on to make their debuts in the majors. He has also had a major hand in the development of standout Phillies catching prospects Cameron Rupp, Tommy Joseph, and Sebastian Valle.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Missions and Corner Store announce Kids Corner program

Donations allow San Antonio youth an opportunity to watch America’s Pastime

San Antonio – The San Antonio Missions, in a joint effort with Corner Store, are thrilled to announce a brand new Kids Corner program for the 2014 season.

The Kids Corner program will provide non-profit youth organizations with tickets to a Missions home game as well as concession credit.

“Corner Store is proud to be a sponsor of the Kids Corner program,” said Kim Bowers, president and CEO of CST Brands, the parent company of the Corner Stores. “Supporting our San Antonio youth is something we are very passionate about, and this program gives kids a chance to feel special and enjoy one of America’s favorite pastimes.”

“We’re very excited to offer San Antonio youth an opportunity to watch professional baseball that they may otherwise not have,” said Missions’ General Manager Dave Gasaway. “We’re thankful to have Corner Store team up for this great cause.”

The San Antonio Missions takes the role of community leadership very seriously. It is the goal and responsibility of the organization to become a community leader in the Alamo City. In 2003 the Missions created Missions CARE, a non-profit charitable organization. Missions CARE gives back to the community in many forms such as: scholarships to student-athletes, Missions “Rookie League”, local donations and mascot appearances.

Non-profit youth organizations looking to take part in this program can contact Missions’ PR Director Rich Weimert at 210-554-1513 or rweimert@samissions.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Antonio Missions. Click here to view the original story.

Hit The Books underway in 31 area Elementary Schools

Annual reading program assists children in achieving goals

MissoulaOsprey_2014-03-10

 

MISSOULA, MONT. – The Missoula Osprey with help of their partners United Way of Missoula County & Sylvan Learning kicked off the clubs biggest and most successful community program, Hit the Books in 31 area elementary schools on Monday.

The Osprey started the Hit the Books Reading Program in their inaugural season in 1999 and has seen participation grow over time. 5,276 students spanning 246 classrooms are participating in the 2014 edition of Hit the Books, where annually nearly 50,000 books are read.

“Hit the Books is one of the best reading programs in all of professional baseball,” said Osprey Vice President/General Manager Jeff Griffin. “The program is incentive based designed for Missoula-area students to set goals and follow through with achieving them over a seven week period.”

“Learning should be fun and reading should be a joy for all kids,” said longtime supporter and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Missoula County Susan Hay Patrick. “We are happy to partner with the Missoula Osprey on Hit the Books to help give over 5,000 Missoula County kids not only baseball tickets, but a love of reading that will benefit them for a lifetime.”

Hit the Books is set up like a baseball game, meaning there are nine innings (three books equals one inning), where students receive a different prize for each inning completed. Every student that participates gets a letter of achievement, a free ride at the Carousel of Missoula and is entered to win a Kindle Reader and a summer of tutoring at Sylvan Learning. Other prizes include Osprey themed school supplies, an exclusive dessert party with team mascot, Ollie and ticket vouchers to an Osprey game. Over $100,000 in prizes was awarded to area students in 2013.

The program culminates with a celebration at one of eleven Osprey home games designated as Hit the Books Nights, where students are honored for their achievements.

“Sylvan Learning is excited to partner with the Missoula Osprey to encourage young children in our community to develop a love for reading,” said Michael Hoag, Director at Sylvan Learning.

“The program wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of our partners,” said Griffin. “We are also very proud of all of time the students and teachers put in to make it a success. Educators tell us the program helps motivate students as summer vacation approaches.”

 

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

ValleyCats announce youth field renovations

Four fields to be renovated in under 24 hours

Tri-CityValleyCats_2014-03-07

TROY, NY- The Tri-City ValleyCats, with the support of BlueShield of Northeastern New York, will renovate four youth ball fields in less than 24 hours on Thursday, April 17. As part of the ‘4 in 24’ program, Schenectady Little League, Twin Town Little League, Berne-Knox-Westerlo Little League, and Spring Youth Baseball, will all receive renovations to their playing surface.

In 2014, Little League Baseball and the New York-Penn League each celebrate their 75th anniversary. Additionally, Schenectady will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the original Schenectady Little League’s World Series win in 1954. The Michigan Avenue field, which will receive the renovation, was home to the 1954 team. In a statement issued by the Schenectady Little League Board of Directors, the league expressed its gratification on being selected:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our league and our community. We now have the opportunity to give this field a much-needed makeover, that will enable us to begin the transformation of the Michigan Avenue complex into a monument to be looked upon in the years to come as a positive influence in our city, and to our baseball community. We are humbled by this decision, and look forward to partnering together with both the Tri-City ValleyCats and our community, to make this a positive experience for our young athletes.”

Twin Town Little League, the ValleyCats neighbors across the street from “The Joe,” and Berne Knox-Westerlo Little League, will also celebrate Little League’s 75th anniversary with a brand new playing surface.

Twin Town will receive the renovation on the field where it plays all of its championship games, and most all-star tournament games.

“For years we have wanted to make significant repairs to our Williams Road No. 2 field, but have not had the resources. This will truly make it our signature field. Twin Town Little League is excited to partner with the ValleyCats on such a special project that will serve children in the community for years to come,” said Bob Schuman, President, Twin Town Little League.

The field in Berne felt the effects of Hurricane Irene, and has never been the same since.

“Fixing our field has been on the league’s wish list for at least six years. It has only gotten worse over that time, to the point where it has become a safety concern,” said Kevin Toomey, President, Berne-Knox-Westerlo Little League. “We are a small league with an equally small budget, so getting this done was going to be a real challenge for us. We managed to buy some good baseball dirt a few years ago, but Hurricane Irene came through a few months later and took it all away. To have someone come in and take care of this all at once is a dream come true.”

Spring Youth Baseball has been part of the Troy community since 1955, and provides house and competitive travel baseball to children from 3-12 years old.

“We are honored, excited and grateful for being selected by the Tri-City ValleyCats for the ‘4 in 24’ field renovation program. It will allow our organization to improve field conditions and maintain a fun, safe atmosphere for kids to continue to learn the game of baseball at all levels. The kids that play ball at Spring and for the Renegades will surely be excited to step onto a field that the Tri-City ValleyCats are responsible to help renovate.”

This spring will be the fourth straight season of the ‘4 in 24’ project, and continues to be one of the ValleyCats most important yearly initiatives.

“Each year the ‘4 in 24’ project provides an opportunity for our front office to get out into the community and support today’s youth by refurbishing ball fields. We couldn’t do it without the outstanding support of BlueShield of Northeastern New York, who shares our deep commitment of giving back to our communities,” said Rick Murphy, Vice President / General Manager, Tri-City ValleyCats.

In 2012, the ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York formed a strong community partnership known as the Community Grounds Crew, an expanded initiative to assist local youth leagues with maintenance and upkeep of their fields throughout the spring and summer. Their mission is to provide the youth of the Capital Region with a safe place to play, learn, grow, and most importantly, have fun.

“BlueShield is proud to continue our support for the third year,” said Dr. Kirk Panneton, regional executive and medical director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our corporate mantra, ‘healthy changes everything.’ Playing on a safe and well-maintained field is good for our region’s children, and it’s good for our community. We congratulate the Tri-City ValleyCats for their continued maintenance of more than 10 fields that have been transformed.”

The four fields will receive brand new sod, bases, a home plate and pitcher’s mound, and the baselines will be measured to the correct specifications. The entire scope of the project will be completed in one day.

The efforts will also be aided by the support of Admar Construction, who will provide the necessary equipment to complete the renovations. Other support comes from the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, whose contributions come from past events held at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Tri-City ValleyCats. Click here to view the original story.

Popular Dash Baseball Academy returns in 2014

Children ages 5-12 will learn from players, coaches at BB&T Ballpark

For a third consecutive season, BB&T Ballpark will host three sessions of the Dash’s Youth Baseball Academy, powered by The Hitting Zone. Young baseball players between the ages of 5 and 12 will interact with Dash players and coaches while improving their hitting, pitching and baseball skills during the three-day session.

The cost for each participant is $120 for the entire session. In addition to the baseball training, each student will receive lunch all three days, along with a Dash t-shirt and hat. Plus, all participants will receive two tickets to a Dash game during their session. At this game, they will be recognized for their work during the academy.

The Baseball Academy runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on three consecutive days. Here are the three sessions’ dates, along with the day of the Dash game to which each student will receive two tickets:

Session 1: July 7-9 (Dash game on July 9)
Session 2: July 16-18 (Dash game on July 16)
Session 3: August 12-14 (Dash game on August 14)

To register for this year’s Baseball Academy, fill out the registration form, which is available here.

For more information on the Dash’s Baseball Academy, call Nick Jones at (336) 714-6891.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Winston-Salem Dash. Click here to view the original story.

Threshers Support Local Little Leagues

The Phillies Organization Has Been Active In Youth Baseball

At the Opening Ceremonies for the Clearwater Little League (City of Clearwater)
At the Opening Ceremonies for the Clearwater Little League (City of Clearwater)

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Clearwater Threshers have always been involved in the community. Nowhere is this more evident than with the local Little Leagues. The Phillies’ support of youth baseball stretches back decades, and this season is off to a great start.

Saturday, Feb. 15, was the reopening of the Sid Lickton Complex and opening ceremony for the 2014 Clearwater Little League season. On hand to celebrate the event was the Threshers’ very own Phinley, as well as Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos, two-time Olympic champion Michele Smith and Phillies’ first baseman Ryan Howard.

The Threshers sponsor teams in many local Little Leagues – including Clearwater, Countryside, Safety Harbor, East Lake, Largo, Palm Harbor, South Brandon, and West Pasco Girls Fastpitch Softball.

In addition to team sponsorship, the Threshers take part in league opening ceremonies and host end of season parties at Bright House Field. Teams also have the opportunity to participate in Baseball Buddies and accompany Threshers players on the field for the National Anthem.

The Threshers also have their Lil Anglers Club, for children 13 and under that meets during every Tuesday Home Game. Some highlights of Lil Anglers Club membership are an official T-Shirt and visor, as well as admission to and a meal deal for every Tuesday home game. Members also can run the bases after and participate in a parent/kid catch before every Tuesday home game.

For more information on how to get your team involved, contact Dan Madden at the Threshers, 727-712-4403.

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

Bandit Scholars Program expands, partners with Community Foundation of the Great River Bend

Applicants from eight counties to be included; donors can make tax-deductible, online contributions

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-02-27

 

The Quad Cities River Bandits and the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend are new partners in supporting the expanding Bandit Scholars Program that awards two scholarships annually to Quad Cities-area high school seniors. River Bandits owner Dave Heller and Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, announced the partnership at a press conference Thursday morning at Modern Woodmen Park.

Through the partnership with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, donors can make online, tax-deductible donations to the Bandit Scholars Program by going to www.cfgrb.org. Fans can also click on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and be taken directly to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. The application deadline for 2014 has already passed, but beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, students will be able to submit their applications online through the Community Foundation’s website. Furthermore, students from eight Quad Cities-area counties – Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Whiteside Counties of Illinois, and Cedar, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott Counties of Iowa – are eligible for the two scholarships.

“We are delighted to be able to partner with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to enhance and expand our Bandit Scholars Program,” Heller said. “It will now be easier than ever for fans and organizations to make tax-deductible donations to the program, easier than ever for talented students to apply, and easier for us to continue growing this unique scholarship program, which is one-of-a-kind in minor league baseball. The Community Foundation has an unmatched track record in supporting great causes throughout the region, and we are excited to continue making the dream of free college tuition real for more Quad Cities families!”

The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend has been active in the Quad Cities region for the past 50 years and helps donors support hundreds of local causes, including scholarship opportunities on both sides of the Mississippi River. The Community Foundation’s mission is simply stated: To better our community by connecting people who care with causes that matter. In 1994, the Davenport Area Foundation became the “The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend,” reflecting the growth as a regional resource for both charitable giving and civic engagement. As CFGRB celebrates its 50th anniversary, there is no longer one pooled fund. Instead, there are more than 900 distinct charitable funds, totaling more than $100 million in assets located in 13 affiliate community foundations that serve 17 counties in two states.

“The River Bandits are a vital part of this community. They bring excitement and family fun to the Quad Cities,” stated Susan Skora, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation is pleased to partner with them as they bring education and internship opportunities to area students.”

The Bandit Scholars Program annually awards two scholarships to deserving area high school seniors. Each scholarship pays for the winner’s entire first year of tuition and includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college.

River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt founded the Bandit Scholars Program in 2009. The scholarships benefit a Quad Cities-area high school senior entering the University of Iowa and has been awarded annually to one Quad Cities-area high school senior since its inception. The Bandit Scholars Program expanded in 2012 with the addition of a second scholarship for an incoming freshman on the Illinois side at either Western Illinois University or Black Hawk College. The two 2014 scholarship winners will be announced and honored at the River Bandits’ June 15 home game at Modern Woodmen Park.

The River Bandits are the only team in minor league baseball to give away two college scholarships each year paying a student’s entire first-year tuition. To help fund the scholarships, the River Bandits hold promotional events, including the annual Frost Fest and the Bandits Race to Home 5K, set for April 12. Race and Fun Run participants receive a registration discount through March 19 by visiting www.riverbandits.com/5k. Fans can also send donations for the scholarship fund to Modern Woodmen Park.

UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans – with new lower prices – call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Return of Community Events

The Rome Braves announced today the return of two community wide special events at State Mutual Stadium, home of the Rome Braves. On Friday March 21st and Saturday March 22nd, the Rome Braves High School Invitational will be held for the third consecutive year. This year joining the Floyd County High Schools in competition will be Calhoun High School, Darlington School, Rome High School, and the defending GHSA-AAA State Champions, Cartersville High School. On Friday Armuchee High School will take on Calhoun High School at 6pm. The schedule for Saturday will feature Coosa High School vs. Darlington School at 11am, Model High School vs. Rome High School at 2:45pm, and Pepperell High School vs. Cartersville High School at 6:30pm. Gates will open 1 hour prior to the first schedule game each day. “We’re excited to announce the addition of these four baseball programs into our Invitational,” said Rome Braves General Manager, Michael Dunn. “It’s always a good day when we’re able to showcase and support local high school baseball.”

This two day Invitational directly benefits these local baseball programs based on their team’s ticket sales. Fans can purchase tickets directly from their favorite participating teams through March 14th and the team that sells the most tickets receives an additional donation from the Atlanta Braves Foundation for their baseball program. Tickets are $5 per person and seating is general admission for all games. After the 14th, tickets can be purchased through the box office at State Mutual Stadium.

Following the Invitational, in April, the Rome Braves will host the 2nd Annual No Excuses 5k and 10k in memory of Scott Hines. This yearly race benefits the Braves Miracle Field of Rome. Competition will take place on Saturday April 19th at 8am and is a part of the R.A.C.E. Rome series. In the inaugural race, almost 300 runners crossed the finish line at home plate to support baseball for disabled kids and adults in Northwest Georgia. Through programming at the Braves Miracle Field of Rome, over 100 athletes have suited up to play baseball during the first two seasons. A weekly school league is also available to special education classes in the area. No athlete is turned away due to the financial constraints. For more information contact Erin Elrod at 706-368-9388 or click here and sign-up online.

The Rome Braves 2014 home opener is Thursday April 10th at 7pm against the Savannah Sand Gnats, an affiliate of the New York Mets. Tickets go on sale Saturday March 8th at 9am.

 

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

Wilmore student wins Hit the Books contest

Runners-up from Wilmore, Menifee, Eastern elementaries

LexingtonLegends_2014-02-24
Hit the Books bookmark design winner Lyla Lamb and her family celebrated with Big L. (Lexington Legends)

 

(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) A student at Wilmore Elementary School was the winner of a bookmark design contest that is part of the Lexington Legends Hit the Books reading incentive program.

Fourth grade student Lyla Lamb created the winning entry. She received a Legends prize pack, including Legends merchandise, a framed Hit the Books poster featuring her artwork and membership in the 2014 Little Legends Kids Club. She also will be invited to throw a ceremonial first pitch at a designated Legends game for her school. Bookmarks featuring her artwork will be distributed to students at every school that participates in the Hit the Books program. More than 27,000 students from 65 central Kentucky schools are expected to take part in the program, which runs through April 1.

Earning runner-up honors were Leah Olmstead, a fifth grade student at Wilmore Elementary; Kevin Spencer, a fifth grade student at Menifee County Elementary; and Samuel Jung, a third grade student at Eastern Elementary in Scott County.

Runners-up received a framed poster and Legends merchandise.

“Hit the Books has always been an important part of community outreach for the Legends,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “We enjoy visiting the schools and meeting the students who are taking part in the program. Building literacy in childhood is a great cause. We’re glad to help develop good readers as well as good Legends fans.”

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends’ box office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

The 2014 season is the 14th for Legends baseball, and also marks the 14th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. About 175,000 students have participated.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, open the home season Thursday, April 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the West Virginia Power, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. For more information, visit www.lexingtonlegends.com.

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

Naturals Reveal Scout Night Details for 2014 Season

Scout patch & post-game campout included in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, & Cub Scouts event

SPRINGDALE, AR – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce that we will once again be hosting two (2) Scout Nights during our upcoming 2014 season. The first event will take place on Saturday, May 10th with the second on Friday, August 8th. Both events are proudly sponsored by Camping World of Northwest Arkansas.

An annual fan favorite, scouts and their families can attend the Naturals game for a discounted group rate and enjoy a campout in the outfield overnight for no additional cost. In addition, all scouts and leaders in attendance will receive a commemorate 2014 Naturals’ Scout Patch and a kid-friendly movie will be shown on the videoboard after the game. Previously this off-season, the Naturals held a Patch Design Contest which was won by Robert Betterton of Cub Scout Pack 110. Tickets for the game, campout, and patch are only $8 per person if reserved in advance.

For those groups wishing to participate, the Naturals encourage one parent or leader in the group to collect RSVP’s and payment from each family that would like to attend. This ensures that all members of the group will be seated together during the night of the event. To reserve your group for one (1) of the Naturals two (2) Scout Nights in 2014, please visit click HERE to download the Scout Night flyer or contact Matt Fanning at (479) 927-4053.

The first Scout Night, being held on Saturday, May 10th, will also include a special Replica Naturals’ Baby Blue Jersey giveaway to the first 2,000 fans courtesy of Tyson Foods. While the second event, on Friday, August 8th, includes a special post-game Fireworks spectacular to celebrate Pink in the Park presented by Farm Rich.

Group tickets for all seventy (70) Naturals home games are now available. They can be pre-purchased for your event by calling our Administrative Offices at (479) 927-4900, emailing groups@nwanaturals.com, visiting our website at www.nwanaturals.com, or stopping by the Arvest Ballpark box office open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm.

The Seventh Season of Naturals Baseball begins Thursday, April 3, 2014 in Frisco, TX. The team opens at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday April 10, 2014 against the same Frisco RoughRiders.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, AR. For more information including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

 -Naturals-

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.