Contests/Competitions/Auditions

‘Dads Host “Kiss a Cow” Fundraiser

July 15, 2014

Contest aims to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity

The Hickory Crawdads are excited to host the “Kiss a Cow” fundraiser for the Catawba Valley Habitat for Humanity on Friday, July 25^th. The fundraiser pits six local community leaders against each other in an effort to raise the most money for HFH, with the “winner” having to kiss a cow.

The six community leaders participating in the fundraiser include Rudy Wright, Mayor of Hickory, Steve Underdown, Vice-President of HSM, Dr. Dan Brigman, CCS Superintendent, Mitzi Gellman, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity, and Crawdads own General Manager Mark Seaman and All-Star relief pitcher Ryne Slack. The contest concludes with the overall winner kissing a cow on the field at LP Frans Stadium immediately following the ‘Dads game and before the post-game Fireworks.

The Crawdads are also conducting a secondary challenge between the organization’s two contestants. In addition to the regular “Kiss a Cow” contest, the ‘Dad that has the most donations given in their name will also get a pie in the face following the Crawdads game on Saturday, July 26^th.

Donations can be made online at www.habitatcatawbavalley.org by clicking on the “DONATE” button. Donors are asked to place the name of the contestant they wish to donate on behalf of in the additional comments section of the form. Donations may also be made at L.P. Frans Stadium for the two Crawdads contestants by visiting the Dale Earnhardt Customer Care Booth during any ‘Dads game.

For more information regarding the Habitat for Humanity “Kiss a Cow” night, contact the ‘Dads front office at (828) 322-3000.

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

Heroes & Legends Softball Game in Lakewood October 10th

July 9, 2014

Jay Johnston, Jim Dowd, Stephen Baker, Bruce Harper among participants; event benefits military-based non-profit organization

The BlueClaws will host a Heroes & Legends Charity Softball Game at FirstEnergy Park on Friday, October 10th.

Heroes and Legends is an organization dedicated to supporting veterans rehabilitative sports programs while assisting a wide network of military-based charities.

Among the participating former athletes:
Jay Johnstone – Former Phillie, Dodger & Yankee and two-time World Series Champion
John “The Count” Montefusco– Former SF Giant & NY Yankee who was the NL Rookie of the Year in 1975 and threw a no-hitter in 1976
Stephen Baker “The Touchdown Maker” – Former NY Giant Super Bowl XXV Champ
Jim Dowd – Former NJ Devil and 1995 Stanley Cup Champion
Bruce Harper – Former NY Jet running back
Keith Elias – Former Princeton and NY Giant running back
Jeff Frazier – Former Detroit Tiger and Toms River Little League Hero
Johnny Petraglia – PBA Bowler Member of Pro Bowling Hall of Fame
Parker Bohn – PBA Bowler Member of Pro Bowling Hall of Fame

Todd Frazier of the Cincinnati Reds, and a member of the 1998 Toms River East Little League World Series Championship team, and Frankie Edgar, Toms River native and former UFC Champion, will also make appearances at the event.

TICKETS: Tickets for the event are $10 for adults, $5 for children (kids under 5 are free), and $5 for enlisted or active military. Tickets are on sale now by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online by clicking here.

There will be a Home Run Derby beginning at 5:30 pm and the softball game itself will begin at 7:00 pm.

The program is dedicated to supporting veterans rehabilitative sports programs and charities honoring our Heroes past and present.

The Heroes Team is The Purple Heart Heroes All Star Team all of whom have been awarded the Purple Heart for their meritorious service.

Proceeds from this event will benefit Sanctuary Island, a non-profit organization that serves Wounded Warriors and other disabled to enhance health, literacy, life experience, and self esteem.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

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

Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby rescheduled for Sept. 21

June 26, 2014

First-Ever Event will Welcome Participants from Tee Ball Through Adult to Modern Woodmen Park

The first-ever Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby to benefit the Bandit Scholars Program has been rescheduled for Sunday, Sept. 21. The event will give fans and people across the Quad Cities region the chance to swing for the fences at Modern Woodmen Park.

Presented by Modern Woodmen of America and Triumph Community Bank, the Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby will include a Minors Division, with participants from Tee Ball through age 17, and a Majors Division, including all ages at a competitive level. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21. The Minors Division event will take place at 11 a.m., and the Majors Division event will be at 2 p.m. that day. Participants receive a free River Bandits T-shirt and a ticket to a 2015 River Bandits game. Non-participants are welcome to catch balls in the outfield of Modern Woodmen Park during the derby.

“The Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby offers a great opportunity for people in the Quad Cities to show off their skills and enjoy a unique and memorable experience on the field of Modern Woodmen Park,” said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. “The best part is all of the money raised at this unique event will help pay the college tuition for Quad Cities area students – perhaps in the future including one of the young participants in this first-ever Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby!”

The Minors Division will have three competitions – Single A (players in Tee Ball through levels under age 10), Double A (ages 10 to 12), and Triple A (ages 13 to 17). The top three winners in each division will receive prizes. Registration is $20 per participant, and each hitter can choose to hit baseballs or softballs. The registration deadline is Monday, Sept. 15.

Majors Division will include all ages at a competitive level, hitting softball pitches. The winner will receive $200 cash and a 2015 suite rental as prizes. Registration is $30 per participant and limited to the first 50 who register. The deadline is Monday, Sept. 15.

All fans are welcome to catch balls in the outfield during the derby. Non-participants for the home run derby are asked to make a $5 donation to the Bandit Scholars Program.

The Batting for Scholars Home Run Derby registration form is available at Modern Woodmen Park and at www.riverbandits.com. More information is available by contacting Brittany Carter at 563-333-2736 or emailing Brittany@riverbandits.com.

The Bandit Scholars Program was founded in 2009 by the Quad Cities River Bandits’ team owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt; the program pays the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities area students through the Bandit Scholarships. The scholarships are administered by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, and recipients are selected by a committee made up of River Bandits’ staff, CFGRB volunteers and area community leaders. Awarded annually to Quad Cities area high school seniors, each scholarship includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college. Tax-free donations to the scholarship fund can be made through the CFGRB web site.

The scholarships are funded by fan donations and fund-raising efforts by the River Bandits and the team’s ownership. Fundraising events include the annual Frost Fest, Bandits Race to Home 5K and Bandit Scholars Home Run Derby, set for July 26-27 this season. 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 visit the Bandit Scholars Program page on the team’s website, www.riverbandits.com, and follow a link to the Bandit Scholars page on the Foundation’s website. Beginning with the next scholarship application cycle in 2015, 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 – will be eligible for the scholarships.

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

Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity All-Star Softball Classic – Sunday, August 10 at McCoy Stadium

June 17, 2014

Featuring Post-Game Fireworks

The Pawtucket Red Sox are pleased to announce that they will host The Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity All-Star Softball Classic, featuring Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, at McCoy Stadium on Sunday, August 10 at 6:05 pm. Gates will open at 4:30 pm and the game, between the Magic Johnson/Jeffrey Osborne All-Stars and the New England Patriots Alumni Celebrity All-Stars, will be played at 6:05 pm. All ticket proceeds will benefit the Jeffrey Osborne Foundation and the Pawtucket Red Sox Charitable Trust. Post-Game Fireworks presented by T-Mobile, Elmwood Sports Center, and Barrington Printing.

Expected to attend and play in this charity game are NBA Hall of Famers Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, along with other former Los Angeles Lakers star James Worthy. Others from the world of entertainment who plan to be in attendance include Smokey Robinson, Claudia Jordan, and several others. The West team will face a “who’s who” of former Patriot and Red Sox players who will comprise the East team led by former Patriots standout QB Steve Grogan and center Pete Brock, Ty Law, Roland James, Jermaine Wiggins, Patrick Pass, and Sammy Morris. Former Red Sox pitcher and Oil Can Boyd are slated to take part. Providence College head basketball coach Ed Cooley will be there. Further additions to the list of those appearing include NFL Hall of Famer Marcus Allen and current LA Clipper and former Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers with more sure to be added. Please see complete updated list of expected attendees below.

Tickets for the event are on sale at the PawSox Box Office at McCoy, on-line at www.pawsox.com, or over the phone by calling (401) 724-7300. All tickets will be priced the same as regular-season PawSox tickets which are $12 for reserved box seats and $8 for general admission ($5 for children aged 12 & under and senior citizens). There will also be a special deal to include a pre-game meet and greet barbecue with the celebrity All-Stars and a ticket to the game for a donation of $50.

Those planning to attend the event (as of July 29, 2014)….

Jeffrey Osborne Grammy-nominated R & B musician, singer-songwriter, and lyricist born and raised in Providence, RI

Magic Johnson NBA Hall of Famer, 5-time NBA Champ, 3-time NBA MVP, 3-time Finals MVP, NCAA Champ, currently head of ownership group for the LA Dodgers

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar NBA Hall of Famer, 6-time NBA Champ, 6-time NBA MVP, 2-time Finals MVP, NCAA Champ, all-time NBA leading scorer (38,387 points)

James Worthy Current basketball commentator, television host, and analyst. “Big Game James” was a seven-time NBA All-Star, a three-time NBA champion and the 1988 NBA Finals MVP

Otis Thorpe NBA All-Star (1992) and NBA Champion (1994), Providence College star (1980-84), 1st round pick of KC Kings

Michael Carter Williams Barrington, RI Native, currently plays for NBA Philadelphia 76ers, NBA Rookie of the Year (2014)

Dave Stewart He currently works as a sports agent in San Diego. A 20-game winner for four consecutive years, Major League Baseball All-Star pitcher, Three-Time World Series Champion, 1989 Word Series MVP

Smokey Robinson R & B and pop singer-songwriter, record producer, Rock n’ Roll Hall of Famer (1987)

Perry “Tiny” Tavares started performing in 1959 in the band Chubby and the Turnpikes. In 1973, they had changed their name to Tavares and scored their first R&B Top 10 (Pop Top 40) hit with “Check it Out” that same year, along with other hits such as: “Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel” (1976), “Don’t Take Away the Music” (1976), and “Whodunit.”

Earl Bryant has enjoyed a long career in the music business with a good many years related to artists within the Motown family. As a concert manager, Earl has worked with Smokey Robinson for many years

Cedric the Entertainer is an American actor, comedian, director, and game show host. He was originally the host on It’s Showtime at the Apollo. He is best known for co-starring with Steve Harvey on the sitcom The Steve Harvey Show and starring as Eddie in Barbershop

Sinbad is an Americanstand-up comedian and actor. He became well known in the 1990s from being featured on his own HBO specials, appearing on several television series, and starring in the films Necessary Roughness, Houseguest, First Kid,Jingle All the Way and Good Burger.

Salli Richardson is an American television and film actress. Richardson is best known for her role as Dr. Allison Blake on the Syfy comedy-drama series Eureka.

Claudia Jordan Providence-born and raised TV and radio personality, Miss Rhode Island 1997, model on Deal or No Deal and appeared on Seasons 2 & 6 of Celebrity Apprentice

Steve Grogan New England Patriots Hall of Fame Quarterback (1975-1990), uniform #14 retired

Pete Brock Played every position on New England Patriots offensive line (1976-87), President of NE Patriots Alumni

Garin Veris Former New England Patriot defensive end (1985-91), member of Patriots Super Bowl XX team

Roland James Former New England Patriot defensive back and punt returner, played entire career with Pats (1980-90) after being a 1st round pick out of the University of Tennessee (#14 overall)

Steve Nelson was selected by the Patriots in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL Draft and missed only three games during his 14-year NFL career in which he was named team MVP twice. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times in 1980, 1984, and 1985 and his #57 jersey was retired by the Patriots. He is credited with helping the Patriots reach Super Bowl XX versus the Chicago Bears.

Jim Bowman was drafted in the second round of the 1985 draft by New England and stayed with the team through the 1989 season. On Sundays when the Patriots are playing at Gillette Stadium, he is the NFL Uniform Program Representative.

Jermaine Wiggins New England Patriots tight end (2000-01) and member of Super Bowl XXXVI champions, East Boston, MA native is now a member of Boston sports media

Patrick Pass New England Patriots running back (2000-06, 2009) and Three-time Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)

Joe Andruzzi New England Patriots offensive guard (2000-2004) and Three-time Super Bowl champion (XXXVI,XXXVIII, XXXIX)

Ty Law He was drafted by the New England Patriots 23rd overall in the 1995 NFL Draft. Law is a two-time All-Pro, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, a Pro Bowl MVP, and has won three Super Bowl Championships with the Patriots (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX). His 53 career interceptions rank 22nd all-time. He is also widely regarded as one of the best Patriots defensive backs of all time.

Sammy Morris He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the 2000 NFL Draft. Played for Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys.

Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd Boston Red Sox pitcher from 1982-89, Montreal Expos (1990-91), and Texas Rangers (1991)

Ed Cooley Current Head Coach of the Providence College Men’s Basketball team. In his third season at Providence in 2013-2014, Coach Cooley led the Providence Friars to their second Big East Tournament Championship

Tim Welsh Former Providence College Men’s Basketball Coach and current analyst for ESPN and Comcast Sports NE

Joe Hassett Former Providence College basketball star, NBA Champ (1979), NE Basketball Hall of Famer, current PC basketball radio analyst

Kevin Stacom Former Providence College basketball star, played six seasons (1974-1979; 1981-1982) in the NBA as a member of the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks.

Jim Garrick Led the UCLA Bruins to the NCAA Division 1 Championship in 1995. Coached the University of Rhode Island Men’s Basketball team for two seasons

Johnny Gill Singer, songwriter, actor and member of R & B group New Edition

Jay Harris ESPN SportsCenter anchor since 2003

Doris Burke Sideline reporter for NBA on ESPN and ABC, Color Analyst for ESPN College Basketball

Frank Carpano joined NBC 10 in 1980. He has been sports director and primary sports anchor since 1984. Carpano is a 10-time National Association of Sportscasters and Sportswriters “Sportscaster of the Year” winner.

Joe Kayata is a native of Cumberland and graduated from Cumberland High School. Currently the Sports Anchor/Reporter at WJAR-TV NBC 10 Providence.

Patrick Little anchors Eyewitness News This Morning on WPRI and FOX Providence and is also the co-host of the Rhode Show on Fox Providence.

Roland Martin is an American journalist and syndicated columnist with Creators Syndicate and author. He is a commentator forTV One and the host of News One Now, a one-hour weekday morning news show on the network.

Demetruis “Boo Boo” Andrade Providence-born professional boxer, U.S. Olympian in 2008, World Boxing Organization Light Middleweight Champion

Eddie Levert Lead vocalist of soul/funk/R & B group The O’Jays

Bobby Farrelly Cumberland, RI native, film director, screenwriter, producer, There’s Something About Mary, Dumb & Dumber

Mike Tollin is an American film director and film/television producer. His career highlights included Radio, Coach Carter and Varsity Blues.

Tiny Tavares Lead singer of Tavares (Tavares Brothers)

Mike Woodson Former NBA guard/forward, Head Coach of Atlanta Hawks (2004-2010) and New York Knicks (2012-14)

Rick Barry NBA Hall of Famer, 8-time NBA All-Star, NBA Champ & Finals MVP (1975), only player to ever lead NCAA, ABA and NBA in scoring in a season Seema Sadekar Professional Golfer (LPGA Symetra Tour) and Fashioniste. Cast member of Big Break Sandals Resort on Golf Channel

Michelle Kwan Two-time Olympic figure skating medalist (silver in 1998 and bronze in 2002), 5-time World Champion, 9-time U.S. Champion

Seema Sadekar LPGA Golf Professional, started playing golf at the age of 11 years old.

John Tudor Pitched for the PawSox from 1977-80 and the Red Sox from 1979-83, Went 21-8 with a 1.93 for St. Louis in 1985 leading the Cardinals to the World Series, was a World Series champ with the LA Dodgers in 1988

Tom Songin Norwood, MA native who played hockey for Mount Saint Charles, Boston College, and the Boston Bruins (1978-81)

Dondre Whitfield was featured on the sitcom The Cosby Show as Robert Foreman. Since then, he has appeared in many television series, including The Jamie Foxx Show, Martin and Girlfriends

Jeffrey Osborne is a Grammy-nominated R& B musician, singer-songwriter, and lyricist who was born and raised in Providence. He became close friends with Magic Johnson during the Lakers’ glory days when Jeffrey was often a “good luck charm” as the national anthem singer before Lakers’ games at the Forum and later at the Staples Center.

“The PawSox welcome Jeffrey Osborne and his star-studded guests to the city of Pawtucket and McCoy Stadium for a great cause,” said PawSox president Mike Tamburro. “We know our fans will be excited to see many of the legends who will appear at this charity event and we look forward to everyone enjoying a memorable evening at McCoy.”

“I’m truly blessed to have so many close friends and colleagues who have joined me in support of the Celebrity Softball Game at McCoy Stadium as well as the Jeffrey Osborne Celebrity Classic,” said Jeffrey Osborne. “It is through these efforts that we can continue to provide support to music and the arts, as well as to non-profits who provide a safe-haven for families in need.”

“The Patriots Alumni are extremely excited about being part of this special event to raise funds for charities throughout Rhode Island,” said Pete Brock a member of the New England Patriots Alumni Club. “We are especially pleased to be associated with the Jeffrey Osborne Foundation and the PawSox Charitable Trust.”

“It is an honor and pleasure to come back to Rhode Island to help out my good friend Mr. Jeffrey Osborne at McCoy Stadium in his Celebrity Softball Game where we will have tons of fun,” said Magic Johnson. “So come on out and hang with the Magic Man!”

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

Bandits announce record 3 scholarship winners

June 15, 2014

Scholars Program to pay first years of tuition for two at University of Iowa, one at Western Illinois University

QuadCitiesRiverBandits_2014-06-15 — Left to right: Andrew Chesser, Jennifer Lucier, Nidia Villalpando, Dave Heller, Jordan Raso, Bryce Allison, Bob Herrfeldt. PHOTO BY: Sean Flynn

The Quad Cities River Bandits awarded their annual scholarships at their game Sunday afternoon, announcing three winners for the first time in the history of the Bandit Scholars Program. River Bandits owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt, along with Jennifer Lucier, announced Bryce Allison as the winner of the Bandit Scholarship, Nidia Villalpando as the winner of a second Bandit Scholarship for the University of Iowa, and Jordan Raso as the winner of the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship.

Allison, an East Moline native and United Township High School graduate, will attend both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University through their Linkages Program. Villalpando, a Rock Island native and Rock Island High School graduate, and Raso, a Davenport native and Bettendorf High School graduate, are entering the University of Iowa. Each scholarship ensures the students’ first year of tuition will be covered at no expense to them or their families.

“Giving out these scholarships is the single most enjoyable thing I do as owner of the River Bandits, and I am so proud, on behalf of the organization and the Quad Cities community, to present these scholarships to a record three very-deserving recipients,” said team owner Dave Heller. “Bryce, Nidia and Jordan have demonstrated incredible talent, hard work, dedication and a passion for community service, and I am confident they will be outstanding representatives of our Bandit Scholars Program and the Quad Cities in their immensely promising futures.”

The Bandit Scholars Program was founded in 2009 by the Quad Cities River Bandits’ team owners Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt; the program pays the entire first year of college tuition for Quad Cities area students through the Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship and the Bandit Scholarship. The Keith Lucier Memorial Scholarship is named in honor of the late Keith Lucier, who passed away in 2009. The Bandit Scholars Program and, in particular, the Lucier Scholarship, honors Keith’s strong belief in higher education and celebrates his love for sports, learning, charitable endeavors and the Quad Cities community. Lucier graduated from Bettendorf High School and the University of Iowa. He was the River Bandits’ Assistant General Manager in 2008.

The scholarships are administered by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, and recipients are selected by a committee made up of Lucier’s family, friends, River Bandits’ staff, CFGRB volunteers and area community leaders. Awarded annually to a Quad Cities area high school senior, each scholarship includes a summer internship with the River Bandits following the winner’s first year of college. Tax-free donations to the scholarship fund can be made through the CFGRB web site.

“I am honored to have been selected by the scholarship committee to be part of history within the Bandit Scholars Program,” Allison said. “This scholarship will help both me and my family as I continue my education.”

Allison hopes to pursue an accounting degree, attending both Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University. He has been involved in National Honor Society, baseball, golf, Link Crew, the Living Lands and Waters XStream Cleanup and Million Trees Project, the River Bandits Fan Club, and the John Deere Classic, among other activities with local organizations.

“This scholarship represents a great honor, and I am grateful to receive it and represent my family,” Villalpando said. “This scholarship also demonstrates the hard work required to exceed expectations, and a reminder of what will be necessary to achieve my future goals.”

Villalpando hopes to pursue a pre-medical curriculum and biology degree to become a pediatrician. In high school, she has been involved with Student Ambassadors, Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, the Spanish and French Clubs, varsity cheerleading, softball, the Quad City Minority Program Partnernship, Trinity Health Academy, and Mini-Medical Academy, while also working at McDonald’s as a crew trainer and hospitality ambassador.

“I have enjoyed coming to River Bandits games for years, and it is a thrill to have the River Bandits be part of supporting my future,” Raso said. “I am excited to begin paying this forward, applying what I learn, and bringing the benefits of my education back to the Quad Cities.”

Raso hopes to pursue a double degree in Business Management and Mass Communication and Journalism. In high school, she has been involved in Raising Student Voice and Participation, the student newspaper and yearbook, drama club, Thespian Society, choir, and National Honor Society, and she volunteered in several school and community projects, performances and events.

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

Little Lake Monsters Program Announced

June 12, 2014

The Vermont Lake Monsters and Northwestern Urgent Care are teaming up to reward nine kids in the community with a once in a lifetime experience with a new community program called the “Little Lake Monsters” Community All-Star Team.

Both organizations believe strongly in doing the right things and living a healthy lifestyle. From June 16th – July 6th, kids (between the ages of 5 to 12 years old) will be allowed to register online and submit their answers to three (3) questions for their chance to be selected as one of this years Little Lake Monsters.

Children will be asked to submit answers to questions focusing on sportsmanship, healthy lifestyles, and community. A committee will select the nine children based on their answers and experiences that they have written about.

Each of the nine children selected will be rewarded with an experience that will show what it is like to live the day in the life of a professional baseball player. Each of the nine children will be rewarded and anointed the “Little Lake Monsters” and on August 22nd experience the opportunity of a lifetime where they will:

* Be announced at a press conference where they will be presented with their own custom Vermont Lake Monsters jersey (name and number) and official cap

* Be signed to a one-day promotional contract with the Vermont Lake Monsters

* Take a limousine from the press conference to historic Centennial Field

* Have the chance to take batting practice with the Vermont Lake Monsters

* Be introduced to the crowd, recognized for their community efforts, and presented with their pay for they day, which will in turn be donated to a charitable organization

* Throw out a ceremonial first pitch on August 22nd

* Run out on the field for the National Anthem with the Vermont Lake Monsters team

* Have the chance to sit in the dugout with the team for an inning during the game

* Be presented with their very own Vermont Lake Monsters baseball card, which will also be the giveaway for that evening’s game

“All of the things that we are rewarding the kids with are things that we in the business take for granted,” said Nate Cloutier, Lake Monsters General Manager. “Things like throwing out a first pitch or getting up close and personal with the team, may not mean much to some of us, but these are experiences that can change the lives of kids and create lifelong memories. We are trying to create an association with being rewarded for doing the right things. We are thrilled to have found a partner in Northwestern Medical Center, who believes in the same values that we do.”

“Northwestern Medical Center is pleased to team up with the Vermont Lake Monsters to celebrate kids’ efforts to be healthy and encourage families to adopt healthier lifestyles,” said Jill Berry Bowen, NMC’s Chief Executive Officer. “By improving health in Vermont, we all win.”

Free Press Media is a proud media sponsor for both the event and program.

Click here to register for the chance to be a part of this year’s Little Lake Monsters Community All Star Team

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vermont Lake Monsters. Click here to view the original story.

2014 NYPL Scholarship Contest

June 6, 2014

The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Download Application Form »

Now in its sixth year, the 2014 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a divisional round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the divisional/final round. The 14 finalists will then be separated by the division of the team they represent. The winning application from each of the NYPL’s three divisions (McNamara, Pinckney and Stedler) will receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the sixth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

High school seniors interested in entering the 2014 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application from their local NYPL club, or by visiting the league’s official website, New York-Penn League.com.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 27, 2014. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in late July and honored at a game in August.

Download Application Form »

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

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

NY-Penn League Charitable Foundation Announces 2014 Scholarship Contest

May 29, 2014

High school seniors interested in entering the 2014 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application from their local NYPL club, or by visiting the league’s official website here.

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

Fisher Cats Foundation, Velcro USA Inc. Award $5,000 to Local Schools

May 22, 2014

Nine schools recognized for perfect Reading Challenge participation

The Fisher Cats Foundation and Velcro USA Inc. awarded $5,000 to local schools on Saturday night at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. Nine schools were honored on the field for having one-hundred-percent of their students complete the Fisher Cats Reading Challenge presented by Velcro USA Inc. during the 2013-2014 academic year. Three of those schools took home cash prizes for completing the challenge.

The nine schools from across New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts were recognized as finalists during Saturday’s pre-game ceremony for having every student complete the challenge by reading five books outside their normal school curriculum. Each school was entered into a drawing to win one of three cash prizes, totaling $5,000, from the Fisher Cats Foundation. Webster Elementary earned the top prize of $3,000; St. Joseph Regional Junior High School and Highland-Goffe’s Falls Elementary School were each awarded a $1,000 prize for their all-encompassing efforts during the challenge.

“This is a tremendous success for the faculty and students at each and every one of these schools,” said Fisher Cats president Rick Brenner. “We congratulate them for putting in the time and effort to meet our challenge this year. Their dedication shows a true commitment to the improvement of their education both in the classroom and at home.”

“We at Velcro USA Inc. are thrilled to be supporting such a fantastic program.”, Scott Filion, President Velcro USA Inc. ” The commitment shown by both the students who completed the challenge and the teachers who guided them is commendable. Everyone did a great job and we are happy to be a part of it!”

On Saturday night, faculty members from Ashby Elementary, Bakersville School, Highland-Goffes Falls School, Maple Avenue School, Salisbury Elementary, St. Benedict Academy, St. Joseph Regional Junior High School, Thomas Ditson Elementary School, and Webster Elementary School were celebrated for their success. Four of the schools – Ashby Elementary, Maple Avenue, Salisbury Elementary, and St. Joseph – have been recognized for their participation efforts in successive years.

During the school year, the Fisher Cats and Velcro USA Inc. reached out to approximately 60,000 students in more than 150 schools to present this year’s Reading Challenge. Students needed to complete the challenge in order to earn individual recognition at a Fisher Cats game. Upon completing the challenge, each student received a pair of tickets, courtesy of Velcro USA, to a Fisher Cats Reading Challenge game and the opportunity to participate in a pre-game parade around the field.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Loons, Girl Scouts Team Up For Dow Diamond Sleepover!

May 15, 2014

Scouts will get the opportunity to watch Loons and stay over on Dow Diamond field

The Great Lakes Loons and Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan are pleased to partner for the Girl Scout Family Night and Sleepover event at Dow Diamond on June 13.

The event is scheduled on a night when the Loons play the Lansing Lugnuts, and will include two options for participants. The Game Only option will give participants the opportunity to watch the game, take a behind-the-scenes tour, receive a patch, and meet and greet with Lou E. Loon – the Great Lakes Bay Region’s Amabassador of Fun!

The Game and Sleepover option will include all of the above plus a post-game dance party, a movie shown on Dow Diamond’s video scoreboard, as well as the opportunity to sleep on the field. All participants must supply their own tent. Males will sleep in a separate area and must also provide their own tent.

The Game Only Option is $8 per participant until June 4 and $11 after. The Game & Sleepover Option is $15 per participant until June 4 and $18 after. The sleepover will last until 7 a.m. Saturday. Dow Diamond is located at 825 E. Main St., Midland, MI.

A special prize will be awarded to the troop or Girl Scout family who show the most Girl Scout spirit.

To reserve tickets, fill out a Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan program registration form and roster (attached), or register online at gshom.org. Participants are ask to bring a blanket to sit on in Girl Scout lawn area during the game.

The Loons are an eighth-year Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For tickets or more information about the team, call 989-837-BALL or visit loons.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Great Lakes Loons. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Announce Charity Boxing Event

April 24, 2014

Politicians, Police, Fire Fighters and Brewers Box For Youth Fields

The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are excited to announce the first ever Charity Big Gloves Boxing Throwdown on Saturday, May 17th at The Diamond. Proceeds from this evening of punishment, punches and mayhem will go directly to Operation Renovation, a community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond area youth baseball fields. Tickets are $10 and will be available at www.squirrelsbaseball.com. Several matches for the event have been announced and are listed below. Additional matches will be announced soon. The Main Event features political power with a display of regional cooperation. The official boxing ring will be placed near home plate and will include a referee and celebrity judges. The event runs from 6-8:00PM and Happy Hour drink specials will be available for the entirety of the Throwdown.

MAIN EVENT: REGIONAL COOPERATION

Hanover County Administrator “Of Punishment” Rhu Harris vs. Richmond Chief Administrator Officer Byron “Mauling” Marshall

ABV – ALL BREWER VIOLENCE

Strangeways Head Brewer “The Barbarian” Mike Hiller vs. Center of the Universe Head Brewer “The Chairman” Mike Killelea

FEELING SQUIRRELY

Squirrels VP Todd “Parney” Parnell vs. Squirrels CEM Chuck “Duking” Domino

UNDERCARD: MOUTHING OFF

VCU Rams Radio Voice Robby Robinson vs. Whoever Will Listen

MASCOT MANIA DANCE COMPETITION

VCU’s Rodney the Ram vs. U of R’s WebstUR vs. Nutzy the Flying Squirrel

ROADHOUSE

RMC Events Billy Gordan vs. RMC Events David Dillard

“This is another FUNN way we can get together for a positive force in the community, said Flying Squirrels VP and boxing undercard participant Todd “Parney” Parnell. “We are proud of all the participants who have stepped up to step in the ring for a charitable cause.”

Gates will open at 5:00 PM with the first bout set to begin around 6:00 PM. “This event promises to be one of the most fun and unique times that you and your family and friends could have for a great cause,” said Flying Squirrels CEM Chuck “Duking” Domino.

All proceeds will go directly to the Smooch-A-Pig Campaign and Operation Renovation – a dedicated community project to renovate 12 designated youth baseball fields in the Richmond area. Tickets are on sale now at squirrelsbaseball.com. Questions or suggestions for additional opening matches can be sent to Flying Squirrels Media Relations Manager Jay Burnham at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

2014 RockHounds Scholarship Recipients

April 23, 2014

2014 Scholarship Recipients

Austen Wade (Midland High School)
Blake Loyd (Robert E. Lee High School)
Jordan Williams (Robert E. Lee High School)
Audrey Adkins (Permian High School)

SCHOLARSHIP CRITERIA

The Midland RockHounds/Sockers FC will be awarding four $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors for the 2014 Fall College Semester. Two of the scholarships are reserved for students entering the field of Sport Management or involved in sports, and the other two will be for any field of higher education.

The scholarships will be available only to students who attend Midland or Odessa public and private high schools. This will be offered to any student attending a four-year college, junior college, vocational, technical, or health-related college. The four applications that best suit our prospectus will be granted the scholarship starting with the 2014 Fall Semester at any Texas or out-of-state college. All recipients will be honored on the field during a RockHounds or Sockers game of their choosing.

This is a one-year, non-renewable scholarship funded through the West Texas Sports Banquet.

Extra copies for those interested in applying will also be available in our Security Bank Ball Park Office and on the link above.

Check back for the 2015 application.

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

IronPigs to Host Allentown Police vs Firefighter Softball Contest

April 17, 2014

90-minute Softball Game to Be Followed by IronPigs Game at 6:35 p.m.

The Allentown Police and Fire Departments will square off in a 90-minute softball game at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, as the IronPigs pay tribute to local police, fire and EMS personnel with a very special, promotion-stuffed Heroes Night at Coca-Cola Park. Both the IronPigs and Pawtucket Red Sox will join in on the festivities during their 6:35 p.m. game that night by donning unique specialty jerseys that promote local Police and Fire Departments.

All gates open at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, but fans are reminded that they must have a ticket to the IronPigs-Red Sox game to gain admittance to Coca-Cola Park for the earlier softball contest.

“We truly hope that this becomes an annual tradition at Coca-Cola Park,” exclaimed IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes. “We owe a great deal of gratitude to local police, fire, EMS and emergency personnel in the Lehigh Valley that keep our community safe.”

The specialty jerseys will be auctioned off during that night’s game with proceeds benefitting the Allentown Police Athletic League, the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley and IronPigs Charities.

Heroes Night will also allow fans the opportunity to honor the local police, firefighters, EMS personnel, and military members who serve and protect the Lehigh Valley and the entire nation, in a pre-game on-field ceremony. As part of the Heroes Night activities, the Color Guard ceremony will be performed prior to the game by the Allentown Police.

As an added bonus to all fans in attendance on Heroes Night, there will be a special post-game fireworks show featuring patriotic music presented by Lehigh Carbon Community College.

IronPigs and Red Sox fans can bid on their favorite player’s jerseys from anywhere with the easy-to-use Qtego service that allows fans to place bids, receive notifications when outbid and check the status of their item via text messages on their mobile phones. Fans without texting access can even call in their bid after registering their phone at Coca-Cola Park.

Register your phone from anywhere in the U.S. by texting “Pigs” to 79230. Detailed instructions on how to place your bid will be made available at ironpigsbaseball.com on April 25.

Winning bidders of the IronPigs home jerseys will have the opportunity to go on the field immediately following the game to have their jersey autographed. Please note that the on-field jersey signing will only occur with the home team jerseys. Bidders not in attendance at Coca-Cola Park can either pick up their signed jersey at a later date or have it mailed directly to them.

Great seats are still available for this game and all upcoming games and can be purchased in-person at Coca-Cola Park (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), by calling (610) 841-PIGS (7447) or online at ironpigsbaseball.com. Make sure to inquire about some of our newest seating areas, including the “Hot Corner” and the “Bacon Strip”, which offer IronPigs fans the most unique and distinctive seating and hospitality areas in all of Minor League Baseball.

Fans are reminded that there are three entry points for parking and are encouraged to use the Dauphin Street entrance when traveling from downtown Allentown. In addition to the Dauphin Street entrance, entry to Coca-Cola Park can be gained off American Parkway and Union Boulevard. Preferred/Handicapped Parking access is available via American Parkway only.

The cost of parking in Coca-Cola Park’s “Pig Tail Porking Spaces” is $3 per vehicle for all IronPigs home games.

Single-game tickets, mini-plan packages and group tickets for all IronPigs home games presented by Capital BlueCross, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Coca-Cola Park Ticket Office, online at www.ironpigsbaseball.com or by calling (610) 841-PIGS.

Don’t forget to ask about the four-person “islands” in the Red Robin Oasis located directly above the left field bullpens. Each island is covered underneath a thatched roof and includes a circular half-table, cocktail-style seating for the four fans in the party and wait service.

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

‘Dads Reveal Winning Cover Design

March 28, 2014

Sawmills Elementary’s Nathan Connor creates winning artwork

Hickory, NC – The Hickory Crawdads are proud to announce the winner of this year’s Cover Design Contest, with Nathan Connor of Sawmills Elementary creating the winning entry. Nathan’s artwork will appear on the cover of the first edition of the Crawdads Chronicle, the ‘Dads game day program.

Nathan’s artwork depicting Crawdads mascots Conrad and Candy was chosen from nearly 2,000 total entries from area schools. The winning picture also incorporates the ‘Dads All-Star logo and a bright yellow banner with the Crawdads alternate claw logo.

“Nathan’s picture really stood out to us,” said Crawdads Director of Community Relations & Events Megan Meade. “I always love going through all the artwork and this year really gave us some great ones to choose from. In the end though, Nathan’s was the one that won us over.”

The Crawdads will honor Nathan at the ‘Dads April 15th home game against Kannapolis. Nathan and his family will receive 4 free tickets to the game, where the 4th grader will also throw out the first pitch as part of his VIP treatment for the night.

The remaining 24 finalists submissions in the Crawdads Cover Design Contest will be displayed in the stadium concourse for the game. All of the children who submitted artwork, along with their families, will be recognized in a pre-game parade around the outfield.

Now in its 4th year, the Crawdads annual Cover Design Contest allows children from all area elementary and middle schools to submit their unique artwork for consideration. The Crawdads select the top 25 covers from nearly 2,000 total submissions. The winning artwork is then voted on by the ‘Dads staff.

Sawmills Elementary will receive $200 from the Crawdads thanks to Nathan’s winning art, while St. Stephen’s Elementary in Hickory will also receive a $200 prize for having the most participants in this year’s contest.

The Crawdads open the season on Thursday, April 3 in Greensboro before playing their home opener at the newly renovated Crawdads Stadium on Thursday, April 10. Tickets are now on sale for all 70 ‘Dads home games, as well as the South Atlantic League All-Star Game on June 17. Tickets may be purchased online, over the phone, or in-person at the Crawdads Ticket Office.

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

Scrappers Announce Return of Scout Night and Introduce Patch Design Contest

March 13, 2014

NILES OH – The Scrappers are excited to announce the return of Scout Night to Eastwood Field during the 2014 season. Both Boy and Girl Scouts are invited to register for the August 8th Scrappers Game. The Scrappers are offering a $15 Overnight Ticket Package and a $5 Game Ticket Only Package for the event.

In addition to the pregame parade, meeting the team, and the opportunity to join the team on the field for the National Anthem, the Scrappers are introducing a Patch Design Contest. Scouts of all ages who have registered for Scout Night are invited to create a patch. All patches must be 3.25 inches in diameter or smaller, and contain nine or fewer colors. Patches will be judged based on creativity, integration of baseball and the Scrappers logos, and overall esthetic appeal. Designs must be submitted by Friday, June 13, 2014.

The winning patch will be selected by the Scrappers front office and distributed to all scouts attending the 2014 Scout Night. The creator of the patch will also have the opportunity to throw out a first pitch at a 2014 Scrappers home game.

Interested Scouts can download the form on www.mvscrappers.com and create their patch in one of the two shapes provided. All forms should be completed and faxed to (330) 505-9696 or mailed to:

Mahoning Valley Scrappers

111 Eastwood Mall Blvd.

Niles, OH 44446

Attn: Scout Patch Contest

For more information about the August 8th Scout Night please visit www.mvscrappers.com or contact Group Sales Manager Chris Sumner at (330) 505-0000.

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