Valent and Spidale to host Baseball Camps

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced that 2016 Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent and 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee Mike Spidale will host baseball camps at FirstEnergy Stadium for youth baseball players this season. Fightin Phils players will assist Valent and Spidale in hosting the camps.

Spidale will host camps for kids ages 7-14. Valent will host camps for kids 4-8. Here are the details:

Spidale Camp for Kids Ages 7-14:

The Fightin Phils Baseball camp hosted by 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee, and two-time Fightins Team MVP Mike Spidale gives kids the chance to interact and play with Fightin Phils players with three days of instruction by Fightin Phils players and leading baseball coaches from around the area. In addition to the chance to work on their baseball skills on the perfectly manicured field here at America’s Classic Ballpark, each participant will also receive a Fightins Baseball Camp T-shirt and two tickets for a Fightin Phils game. At that game, the campers will be honored on the field before the Fightins game. There will also be an autograph session with Fightin Phils players as part of the camp.

You can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

The Spidale Fightins camp is limited to 125 campers and boys and girls from the ages of 7-14 can attend. The camp will run from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. each day.

The first Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, June 20th through Thursday, June 22nd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, June 22th at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

The second Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, August 1st through Thursday, August 3rd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, August 3rd at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

Cost:    10 or more players: $70/camper
6-9 players: $80/camper
2-5 players: $90/camper
1 player: $100/camper

Valent Camp for Kids Ages 4-8:

For the seventh straight year, former major leaguer and Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent will be hosting the Reading Fightin Phils Fun & Fundamentals Baseball Camp The camp is designed for YOUNG players to have Fun, and learn some Fundamentals. During the camp, kids will receive on-field instruction from Eric Valent and Fightin Phils players, participate in fun baseball activities followed by a medal ceremony, autograph session and pizza party lunch with Fightin Phils players. Campers will also have access to Phunland following camp as well. Each camper will receive two tickets to attend the Fightin Phils game on their final day of camp. The Valent Fun and Fundamentals Camps are one-day camps, but please feel free to sign up for both days if you would like.

The first camp will be Thursday, July 20th. Boys and girls ages of 5-8 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The second camp will be Friday, July 21st. Boys and girls ages of 4-6 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Like the Spidale Camp, with the Valent Camp you can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

Cost:    10 or more players: $35/camper
6-9 players: $40/camper
2-5 players: $45/camper
1 player: $50/camper

For more information regarding the camps, parents can contact Stephen Thomas by emailing him at sthomas@fightins.com or by calling 610-375-8469 ext. 213. Parents can purchase tickets by going here: http://fightinphils.milbstore.com/store.cfm?dept_id=1390&store_id=96&parentID=1390

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Sea Dogs Community Week March 6th-10th

Portland, Maine- The Portland Sea Dogs have designated the week of March 6th-10th as Sea Dogs Community Week. Throughout the week, the Sea Dogs will donate a portion of the ticket sales to local non-profit organizations.

The Sea Dogs have teamed-up with five local non-profit organizations for the week. Each day throughout the week will benefit one of the five non-profit organizations. The Sea Dogs will be donating $3.00 from every ticket sold to that day’s selected non-profit organization.

Tickets can be purchased at the Hadlock Field ticket office, by phone at 207-879-9500, or online at www.seadogs.com. Individual tickets, group tickets, and new season tickets are all eligible as part of the offer, but must be paid in full that day.

“This is an excellent opportunity for our fans to get tickets and support a local charity at the same time,” stated Sea Dogs Executive Vice President & General Manager Geoff Iacuessa. “The Sea Dogs are committed to being an integral part of the community and are happy to give back to those organizations that do so much to help the communities in which we live.”

The Sea Dogs open the 2017 season on Thursday, April 6th at 6:00 PM at Hadlock Field against the Reading Fightin Phils.

Sea Dogs Now Accepting Nominations for William Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs are now accepting nominations for the “William Troubh Community Service Award.” The award recognizes a local citizen who is making a positive impact within the city of Portland. It may be a public employee or private citizen who, through their efforts, makes Portland a great city to live and or work in.

The Sea Dogs established the award to honor Mr. Troubh in April of 2014. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland, who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Additionally, Mr. Troubh was a passionate baseball fan. He stayed involved after his key role in helping to bring the Sea Dogs to Portland, serving as the team’s legal counsel and served six years as President of the Eastern League from 1997 through 2002. On most summer nights Troubh could be found at Hadlock Field enjoying a Sea Dogs game with family and friends. He was inducted into the Portland Sea Dogs Hall of Fame in 2010.

Nominations must be received by Friday, March 17th. Online nomination forms are available at www.seadogs.com. On the nomination form, people will be asked to describe the actions their nominee takes to make Portland a great place to live and work. Nominations may also be mailed to:

Portland Sea Dogs
ATTN: William Troubh Community Service Award
271 Park Avenue
Portland, ME 04102

When submitting a nomination please also include your contact information.

The winner will be announced and honored in a pre-game ceremony on Saturday, May 6th when the Sea Dogs host the Reading Fightin Phils at 1:00 PM at Hadlock Field.

Past winners include John Menario in 2015 and Roger Goodoak from the Maine Maine Homeless Veteran’s Alliance in 2016.

Thunder Eclipse $6,000,000 in Community Engagement in Franchise History

Throughout the 23 years that your Thunder have brought affordable, family-friendly entertainment to the greater Mercer and Bucks County region, the team has engaged in community partnerships and projects to aid people and organizations.

The Thunder are pleased to announce that the team’s, 501(c)(3), Grand Slam We Care Foundation has donated over $6,000,000 in goods, services and monetary donations in its history.

“Since our first game at beautiful ARM & HAMMER Park, we have engaged with non-profit organizations, fundraisers, and community organizations to support those in need,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “I am thrilled with the programs and intitiatives that we have currently and look forward to our Director of Community Affairs, Vince Marcucci, building on the momentum of this past season to help even more familes and organizations in 2017 and beyond.”

In 2016, the Thunder engaged in more than 20 community related programs such as the NJM Safe at Home Program, PNC First Strikeout, Good Deed Day, HOPE Week, and Group Sales Fundraising to donate more than $400,000 in goods, services and monetary donations. The team also added new initiatives, one with the Vs. Cancer Foundation to raise money for pediatric cancer research and the F.I.E.L.D. Program.

On June 18th, Thunder front office staff members and Thunder players Daniel Camarena, Dietrich Enns, and Jose Rosario shaved their heads to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer research through the Vs. Cancer Foundation. The Vs. Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving kids’ lives by empowering athletes and communities to fund lifesaving childhood cancer efforts. Money raised from the event at ARM & HAMMER Park went to national childhood cancer research as well as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. See photos from the event by clicking here.

The Thunder debuted their F.I.E.L.D. Program on Wednesday, July 20. F.I.E.L.D. is a Thunder initiative that stands for Focused Initiative for Enhanced Learning and Development. The program supports youth baseball in the area and in partnership with Merck, a health care leader worked to help the world be well for 125 years, Thunder front office members and volunteers came together to rebuild the fields at West End Little League in Trenton, NJ. As part of the rebuild, Diamond Pro provided professional infield materials and Finch Services Inc. donated equipment delivery in support of the rebuild. See a video recap of the program by clicking here.

The Thunder’s annual Community Grant Program supports organizations that enhance the educational opportunities and quality of life for children in our surrounding area as well as programs that support the betterment of the local community in general. The Grant Program will disperse $10,000 equally to five different organizations this year. In the five-year history of the program, the Thunder have donated more than $50,000 to grant recipients.

Your Thunder will again take part in many community-related programs during the 2017 season.

Friday, April 21 – F.I.E.L.D. Program. The Thunder will again renovate a Trenton-area Little League.
Saturday, May 20 – Trenton Thunder Treasure Hunt. Take part in the annual scavengar hunt around Bucks and Mercer County for a chance to win a $1,000 cash prize! To sign up to be a sponsor of the Treasure Hunt, click here.
Tuesday, June 6 – Saturday, June 10 – HOPE Week. A New York Yankees initiative that is designed to reach out to remarkable people and organizations who are worthy of recognition for their inspiring actions and support of their communities. HOPE Week stands for Helping Others Perservere and Excel, the Thunder will honor an outstanding organization and take part in outreach programs during each day of the week.
Saturday, August 5 – Good Deed Day. Do good for those in your community by bringing donations to various non-profit organizations at ARM & HAMMER Park.
Tuesday, August 22 – Vs. Cancer. Following that night’s game against the Portland Sea Dogs, Thunder front office members and players will shave their heads to raise money for the Vs. Cancer Foundation and a local research partner.
Wednesday August 23 – Trenton Economic Development Networking Extravaganza. Join the Thunder for a day of networking at the ballpark and enjoy a night visiting some of the brightest night life in the city of Trenton.

The Thunder will also continue to engage in more than 20 community-related programs throughout the 2017 season. For more information on these programs, contact Director of Community Affairs, Vince Marcucci at 609-394-3300 x118 or at VMarcucci@TrentonThunder.com.

The 2017 season, the 24th in franchise history, will begin at ARM & HAMMER Park on April 13 when the Thunder host the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox) at 7:00 p.m. Single game tickets will go on sale in March 2017. For more information on the Thunder, visit www.TrentonThunder.com or call 609-394-3300.

Sea Dogs to Hold Food Drive

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs, in partnership with Maine’s Credit Unions, will hold their 17th annual Food Drive which will run from Monday, January 23rd through Friday, February 3rd. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 18th game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 18th game. The offer is good for Box Seats, Reserved, General Admission, and Pavilion seating; subject to availability.

Fans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

“In addition to raising funds for Ending Hunger, through the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger, Maine’s credit unions are committed to raising awareness and supporting ending hunger efforts in a variety of other ways. We are pleased to again partner with the Sea Dogs to help make this happen. Since 1990, Maine’s credit unions have raised more than $7 million to help end hunger in Maine, but hunger remains a significant issue in the state, and we are committed to doing all that we can to help,” said John Murphy, President of the Maine CU League.

Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans.

The Sea Dogs open the 2017 season on Thursday, April 6th at 6:00 PM at Hadlock Field against the Reading Fightin Phils. Tickets for all 2017 home games are now on sale and can be ordered by calling the Sea Dogs ticket office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com. Book your nine-inning vacation today.

Baseball Dinner Donates Over $127K

In the spirit of the holiday season, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced today the proceeds generated by the 2016 Granite State Baseball Dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental. Through sponsorship donations, ticket sales, silent and live auctions, and raffle ticket sales, more than $127,000 was donated from the Nov. 19 event to benefit the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Foundation, and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

“We’re honored to host this event every year, and we’re proud of the impact it makes in our community,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and Chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation board. “The work of our Foundation is at the forefront of what we do as an organization, and we’re so thankful for the support of all of the sponsors and fans who make the Baseball Dinner successful each year.”

“On behalf of everyone at CHaD, especially the kids and families we serve, I would like to express our deepest thanks for the wonderful partnership we have with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats,” said Dr. Keith Loud, Director, Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock. “The Granite State Baseball Dinner committee, the Fisher Cats staff and the entire Fisher Cats’ organization are truly champions for kids. They make a difference for all the children of our region, but especially those who are sick and injured, and for that we are extremely grateful.”

“This announcement has become a holiday tradition for us, and it means so much to our staff and the entire Fisher Cats family,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “The Baseball Dinner is the highlight of our offseason. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to donate to these great charities, and the support of our fans and partners in the community really makes a difference.”

“We are honored to participate in the Granite State Baseball Dinner every year,” said Ted Williams Foundation Executive Director Dave McCarthy. “Through our partnership with the Fisher Cats and CHaD, and the generosity of the sponsors, fans, and athletes, we can further our initiatives to honor and celebrate the game of baseball.”

Since the Fisher Cats became involved with the dinner in 2007, more than $1.5 million has been donated to the three charitable groups.

In addition to the main fundraising efforts of the event, the Fisher Cats and Primary Bank partnered to host a coat drive to benefit New Horizons for New Hampshire. Dinner patrons donated dozens of coats, which will be used by New Horizons to provide warm clothing for those in need during the winter months.

The 2016 dinner featured another unique panel of celebrity guests, including New Hampshire native and Cy Young Award winner Chris Carpenter and Hall of Famer Wade Boggs. Additional guests included former Red Sox Luis Tiant, Lou Merloni and Rich Gedman, along with pitching greats Denny McLain and Scott McGregor.

Several Granite Staters were also featured at the head table, including minor league infielder Michael Fransoso of Portsmouth and pitchers Carson Cross of Brentwood, and Nashua’s Kevin McGowan.

A group of New England prospects also attended the event, including Alex Powers of Hyannis, Mass. and the Cincinnati Reds farm system, Keene State standout and Orioles prospect Cody Dube, and former St. Thomas Aquinas High School (Dover, N.H.) star Ryan McKenna, who Baltimore drafted in the fourth round last year.

The Fisher Cats were honored to host two members of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team, Brian Gentilotti and Matthew Pennington, as well as 2012 Paralympic gold medalist Victoria Arlen of Exeter.

The dinner tradition will continue in 2017 on Saturday, Nov. 19.

The Fisher Cats open the 2017 season on Thursday, April 6, versus the recently renamed Binghamton Rumble Ponies (AA-New York Mets). On July 12, the team will host the 2017 Northeast Delta Dental Eastern League All-Star Classic at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium featuring the top prospects from each of the league’s 12 teams.

Fisher Cats full and half-season tickets are available now and feature a wide variety of benefits, including reserved seating for the 2017 Northeast Delta Dental Eastern League All-Star Classic, up to $100 in Fisher Cash, access to exclusive events like on-field batting practice, team autograph signings and more. Visit nhfishercats.com for more information.

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

Support The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey with Ticket Purchases This Holiday Season

The 12th annual Trenton Thunder Gift of Baseball program begins today, giving fans the chance to share the experience of cheering on the hometown team with underprivileged families in our community. For each Season Ticket, Pic-A-Plan and Mini Plan purchased before January 2, the Thunder will provide tickets for families in the Holiday Gift Outreach program run by the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey to attend a 2017 Thunder game.

“Sharing the experience of a baseball game with family and friends is special and we are thrilled to partner with the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey to provide that opportunity to deserving families,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley.

In the first 11 years of the Gift of Baseball program, the Thunder have donated 7,924 tickets to CHSofNJ.

“Trenton Thunder continues to be a strong and caring community partner,” praised Donna Pressma, President & CEO of CHSofNJ. “The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey is honored to have the opportunity through their generosity to offer the Gift of Baseball to so many of our children and families.

The emphasis on family values that the Thunder and CHSofNJ shares has remained a high priority for both organizations throughout their 11-year partnership.

“Family outings are often too rare for our children,” said Pressma. “Spending a day at the ballpark watching our home team play with determination and heart gives hope and makes memories that our children will keep for the rest of their lives. Thank you Trenton Thunder and all of your caring fans who make this possible.”

2017 Mini Plans are on sale now. Mini plans include five or six of the most popular games on the schedule, free food at each a game, a free Thunder gift, complimentary tickets to Opening Night and a select night in the picnic area, and start as low as $60. More information about Mini Plans can be found here: MINI PLANS

Pic-A-Plans allow fans to choose any 10 or more games that best fit their schedule. This flexible plan includes, a $1 savings on every ticket, a free food option, free tickets to Opening Night and a complimentary ticket in the Picnic Area as well as a limited edition Thunder gift. More information can be found here: PIC-A-PLANS

Season Tickets are available as either a full (70 games) or half (35 games) and include added value like early entry, a picnic with the players, bus trips and more. More information about Season Tickets can be found here: SEASON TICKETS

The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey provides at-risk children and their families with a range of services that empower them to achieve their potential. They are child-oriented, family focused, community based and outcome-oriented.

The 2017 season, the 24th in franchise history, will begin at ARM & HAMMER Park on April 13 when the Thunder host the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox) at 7:00 p.m. Single game tickets will go on sale in March 2017. For more information on the Thunder, visit www.TrentonThunder.com or call 609-394-3300.

Fightins Donate $3,073 to Local Schools

As part of the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student program, the Reading Fightin Phils have donated $3,073 to participating schools in the club’s surrounding community. Schools will be able to support students and contribute to the educational process with the funds donated through the program.

“We’re happy to have been able to donate $3,073 to local schools through the Capital BlueCross ‘Live Fearless’ Outstanding Student program, and we are hoping to donate even more money next season and beyond as the program grows,” said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “We can’t thank Capital BlueCross enough for sponsoring this program and putting us in a position to be able to donate this money to the schools.”

Below is a list of the 32 schools that have participated in the program.

School
Berks Christian School
Bethel Elementary School
Colebrookdale Elementary School
Conrad Weiser East Elementary School
Conrad Weiser High School
Conrad Weiser Middle School
Conrad Weiser West Elementary School
Denver Elementary School
Goddard Sanatoga
Goddard Wyomissing
Green Valley Elementary School
Greenwich Elementary School
Hamburg High School
Hamburg Middle School
Jacksonwald Elementary School
Kutztown Elementary School
New Hanover Elementary School
Oley Valley Elementary School
Oley Valley Middle School
Penn Bernville Elementary School
Perry Elementary School
Pine Grove Elementary School
Pottsgrove Middle School
Robeson Elementary School
Rupert Elementary School
Schuylkill Haven Elementary School
Spring Ridge Elementary School
Tilden Elementary School
Washington Elementary School
Whitfield Elementary School
Willow Creek Elementary School
Wilson West Middle School

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is a unique incentive-based program designed to recognize and reward hard-working students. Through the program, students are given an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with their families at a designated Fightin Phils home game. Each student who participated in the program during the 2016 season received two tickets to a game, a pre-game meet-and-greet with a Fightin Phils player, individual recognition during a pre-game ceremony, and an Outstanding Student medal from the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor.

For each ticket purchased or redeemed through the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program, the participating school received $1 back.

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is a five-year program that runs through the 2019 season. Schools can sign up now for the 2017 season by contacting the Fightin Phils Director of Educational Programs, Music, & Game Presentation Todd Hunsicker at 610-375-8469 x.206 or by e-mail at thunsicker@fightins.com. Dates are available in May. The program is easy to implement, and your school receives a check from the Fightin Phils.

Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Baysox Accepting Nominations, Donations for Holiday Hope

BOWIE, Md – The Bowie Baysox announce today that Louie’s Holiday Hope Project returns to brighten the holiday season for local families in need this year. Beginning now and continuing through the month of November, the team will be accepting nominations for families that need assistance this holiday season. The Baysox will also be collecting gently used coats, new socks and other warm clothing to be donated to area families.

Louie’s Holiday Hope Project began in 2007 and aided dozens of area families and children last year. This year, the team is proud to partner with Prince George’s County Fire/EMS department, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Youth & Family Services to help as many families as possible.

“There are some area families that go through tough circumstances around the holiday season,” said Baysox Marketing Director Brandan Kaiser. “The Baysox are honored to be able to assist them through Louie’s Holiday Hope Project.”

“We are happy to continue our partnership with the Louie’s Holiday Hope Project,” said Shawna Lindberg, Clinical Supervisor at Bowie Youth & Family Services. “We have witnessed this wonderful work, which has impacted so many Bowie families in need. This project has made it possible for parents to provide their families a special meal or gifts for the holiday season.”

To ensure that the program reaches as many families as possible, the Baysox welcome help from fans. Members of the community can nominate families that need assistance by e-mailing info@baysox.com. Submissions should include your name and daytime phone number. The team will not be able to help everyone that is nominated, but will consider as many options as possible. A Baysox staff member may contact the submitter for additional details or clarification, but all submissions remain confidential. Nominations must be received by Friday, Dec. 2, at 5 p.m.

Prince George’s Stadium will also serve as a collection point for warm clothes and sock donations in conjunction with Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. The team invites fans to bring gently used winter coats, new socks and other warm clothing to the Baysox front office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Monday, November 28) to donate to local families in need.

The Baysox encourage other local groups and organizations to participate in Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. Local organizations that would like to make a contribution to the program can e-mail info@baysox.com or call the Baysox front office at (301) 805-6000. More information about the program is also available on our website.

The Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox season has ended, but the team will return in 2017 to celebrate its 25th Season. The team’s 2017 home opener will be Thursday, April 14 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit baysox.com

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

Dream League Field comes to Berks County

Reading, Pa., Oct. 26, 2016 – Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League, a non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa., raised more than $650,000 towards building Berks County’s first baseball field for special needs players at their kick off Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event hosted by the Reading Fightin Phils at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016.

At the Diamonds and Dreams Dinner Under the Stars event, the 300 community and business leaders in attendance were introduced to 11 of the leagues’ future players and treated to meals from four of the area’s finest chefs including: Chef Brad Fisher from Berkshire Country Club, Chef Tim Twiford from the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Chef Dave Brennan from Panevino, and Chef Devin Schwartz & Owner Operator George Zeppos from Willoughby’s on Park. Proceeds from the event will help build the Baseballtown Dream League’s Savage 61 Field of Dreams complex custom-designed for those with physical and developmental disabilities.

“Parents of special needs players in the Miracle League in Lehigh County tell us how their children live for the days when they’re playing baseball. But for many families, the distance to the Lehigh County fields is inaccessible,” said Chuck Domino, president of Baseballtown Charities. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Reading Fightin Phils and community leaders to be able to support the first special needs field in Berks County that can serve families in Greater Reading and surrounding areas.”

Baseballtown Charities was established in 2002 and has since raised more than $1 million to build Gordon Hoodak Stadium, a field of dreams in the heart of inner-city Reading, which has provided more than 1,000 boys and girls who otherwise might not have had the opportunity with a chance to participate in the game. Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League recently expanded its campaign to give those with physical and developmental disabilities the same chance to experience the magic of baseball and thrill of playing on the diamond through custom-designed, turf fields that accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

The Savage 61 Field of Dreams is slated to open Fall 2017. Baseballtown Charities will continue to raise funds to support the Baseballtown Dream League complex. Baseball town is also recruiting community members to serve as volunteer “angels” to assist Dream League players at every game.

Parents and community members interested in signing up children, volunteering or donating can email Baseballtown Charities at baseballtown@fightins.com for more information.

About Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. The Savage 61 Field of Dreams will be constructed at Relevant Sports Complex in Temple, Pa. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

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

Baysox Nominated for Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox and the Eastern League of Professional Baseball Clubs announce that the Baysox are the league’s nominee for the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award, presented to a club for outstanding support of and engagement with the United States Armed Forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community.

An overall winner is selected from among the nominees from each league by Minor League Baseball and honored at the 2016 Baseball Winter Meetings at National Harbor, Md.

Located just miles from Washington, DC and several United States military bases, including the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., the Baysox take great pride in their relationship with area active military and veterans. The team hosts a number of military-themed events throughout the season in addition to nightly ticket discounts for current and former military and monthly Military Appreciation Nights that include additional ticket discounts.

One of the highlights of the Baysox promotional calendar is Navy Night, held in early August. The team donates 5,000 tickets to local Naval personnel, distributed through local MWR offices, and the Baysox also host the entire Summer Plebe Class from the Naval Academy. As their summer program comes to an end, the Naval Academy’s incoming 1,200 person freshman class gets to enjoy a Baysox game while wearing their dress white uniforms in public for the first time.

For the third consecutive season, the Baysox also honored local current and former military heroes with a special baseball card set giveaway on Friday, Aug. 26. Earlier in the season, the Baysox received nominations from friends and family for military heroes to include in the 18-card set. The team invited each military hero out to the game for special recognition as the baseball cards were distributed to fans in attendance.

Throughout the season, the Baysox also hosted special nights for the individuals and families serving at Joint Base Andrews and Fort Meade. Free tickets were distributed to the bases and men and women from the bases were recognized throughout the game. The Baysox also invite service members to perform the National Anthem and Honorary Color Guards to present the colors during games throughout the season, including Memorial Day and Independence Day.

The team’s relationship with the local military does not exist only during Baysox games. Throughout the season, the Baysox mascot Louie could be found at community military events throughout the region. The Baysox also partnered with the Travis Manion Foundation for their 9/11 Heroes 5K run in Annapolis and with the Vet Tix organization to provide free Baysox tickets to active military and their families throughout the season. For the fourth season, the Baysox also hosted the Amputee Warrior Softball Classic at Prince George’s Stadium in June. The charity softball game teamed NFL stars, including Redskins DeSean Jackson and Bashaud Breeland, with members of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team with proceeds benefitting the Connected Warrior Foundation, Yellow Ribbon Fund and WWAST.

The Baysox front office staff also got involved during the 2016 season by participating in the #22KILL push-up challenge. Prior to each home game, the Baysox front office staff did 22 push-ups to help raise awareness to the 22 military veterans, on average, who commit suicide each day. The Baysox began participating in this challenge in May and collectively, completed nearly 12,500 push-ups during the season. Videos can be found on the Baysox and 22KILL Facebook pages.

The Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox season has ended, but the team will return in 2017 to celebrate its 25th Season. The team’s 2017 home opener will be Thursday, April 14 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit baysox.com

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

B-Mets Issue Reading Challenge To Binghamton Schools

BINGHAMTON, NY – On Wednesday, September 21, 2016 the Binghamton Mets issued a reading challenge to all of the elementary schools within the Binghamton Central School District. The grand prize – the winning school will assist the Double-A Mets Affiliate with the announcement of their new team name in November.

It was important for the organization to partner with the local Binghamton Central School District elementary schools as a way of furthering our ties to the local Binghamton community. At the end of the day, the Double-A Mets Affiliate will proudly say “Binghamton” right across the chest of the jerseys. Therefore, we are proud to partner with Calvin Coolidge, Benjamin Elementary, Horace Mann, MacArthur, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Woodrow Wilson, and St. John’s for this friendly challenge amongst the Binghamton schools.

From September 21st through October 21st the Binghamton Mets are looking to see which of the eight schools can read the most combined minutes per student. Each student within the district has been provided with an Independent Reading log to track his or her progress. For the entire month (as well as the entire school year) students will keep track of all their time spent reading within the classroom and outside the classroom. On October 24th all schools will submit their final data for the Binghamton Mets staff to review. After all of the data is reviewed the Binghamton Mets will announce the winners of the reading challenge that same week.

The winning school will then be bused and provided lunch at NYSEG Stadium in November for the unveiling of the new team.

For more information please call 607.723.METS or email eddie@bmets.com.

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

TD Bank Presents Kids Run the Show Aug. 19

MANCHESTER, N.H. – The New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced today that the team has signed 13 young fans to one-day front office contracts. Presented by TD Bank, “Kids Run the Show” will give these youngsters, ages 6-16, a chance to orchestrate the fun and excitement of a Fisher Cats game on Friday, August 19.

Key positions on New Hampshire’s staff will be filled as follows:

General Manager: Mark Basnett – Manchester, NH

Radio Broadcaster: Logan Purvis – Manchester, NH

PA Announcer: Mitchell Forman – Hudson, NH

Group Sales Manager: Aiden Daniel – Fremont, NH

Public Relations Director: Brandon Lurvey – Concord, NH

Guest Services Manager: Maddy Dionne – Henniker, NH

Promotions Assistant: Malachy Crowell – Derry, NH

Groundskeeper: Graham Kuhlmann – Manchester, NH

Scorekeeper: Owen Moushegian – Nashua, NH

Box Office Director: Zachary Levigne – Manchester, NH

Ticket Takers/Ushers:

Isabelle Henderson – Lawrence, MA

Emily King – Nashua, NH

Christian Morency – Manchester, NH

“This is such an exciting event every year, watching young kids experience a night at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium the way we do,” said Fisher Cats President and General Manager Rick Brenner. “Our goal is to create as much fun and excitement as possible for all of our fans, and partnering with TD Bank for this promotion is one of the most unique ways we do that.”

“TD Bank is proud to support the New Hampshire Fisher Cats and what better way to do so then to sponsor Kids Run the Show,” said Steve Webb, NH Market President. “The lucky kids chosen get to learn about all the details and hard work that go on behind the scenes for each and every game…and develop an even deeper love for the game of baseball.”

Friday’s game will feature live music from local artist David Anthony and a spectacular Atlas Fireworks show after the final out. The Fisher Cats will host the Altoona Curve (Pittsburgh Pirates Double-A affiliate), with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m. Tickets are available now at nhfishercats.com/tickets.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S., providing more than 8 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at approximately 1,300 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Bank and its subsidiaries offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®, and vehicle financing and dealer commercial services through TD Auto Finance. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visitwww.tdbank.com. Find TD Bank on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TDBankand on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TDBank_US.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Group and a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit www.td.com.

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

Baysox Host Equipment Collection

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox announce today that the Oriole Advocates will collect new and used sports equipment at Prince George’s Stadium Saturday, August 27, as the Baysox take on the Binghamton Mets at 6:35 p.m. The organization collects the equipment for its Cardboard To Leather program, which provides equipment to underprivileged children in developing countries.

The Cardboard To Leather program accepts donations of all baseball and softball equipment: bats, balls, gloves, uniforms, bags and spikes. Baseball gloves, duffle bags and useable helmets are the hardest items for Cardboard to Leather to acquire.

If fans are unable to make it to the game, they can bring donations to the Baysox office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Since the program’s inception, more than 50 tons of baseball equipment have been sent to children in developing countries.

The 2016 Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox 2016 season is underway. Don’t miss a minute of the action as the Baysox defend their 2015 Eastern League Championship. Single game tickets are now on sale at www.baysox.com.

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

Pedal to the Park on Sundays

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs have announced a new partnership with the Bicycle Coalition of Maine to encourage fans to Pedal to the Park on Sunday afternoons. The Coalition will be offering its free Valet Bike Parking service.

The Valet Bike Parking service will be offered at all Sunday Portland Sea Dogs home games in 2016 (excluding the July 3rd night game). Valet Bike Parking is FREE to use, secure, quick, and the best way to get to the game. The Valet Bike Parking area will be located at the ballpark entrance at Hadlock Field on Park Avenue and will be open from 11:30am-4:30pm for Sunday home games.

“We are proud to partner with the Portland Sea Dogs to offer our FREE Valet Bike Parking service. Hadlock Field is an extremely bike friendly location, and we’re excited to to reduce traffic and parking congestion, while providing fans with a great way to get to the game,” stated Nancy Grant, Executive Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine.

Volunteers from the Bicycle Coalition of Maine will greet fans who ride their bikes to the game on Sundays. Each rider will complete a sign-in sheet with their contact information and will be given a wristband that matches the one placed on their bike. After having a great time at the game, show your wristband to the attendant and you’ll get your bike back just as you left it. Afterwards ride off into the sunset past everyone waiting in vehicular traffic.

For fans who are unable to bike all the way from their home, the Coalition has provided maps highlighting satellite parking areas and the best routes to the ballpark from around the Portland area.

For more information please visit the Bicycle Coalition of Maine’s website at www.bikemaine.org/valet.

The Sea Dogs open the 2016 season on April 7th against the Reading Fightin Phils in Reading, PA. The home opener is set for Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 PM against the Hartford Yard Goats. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs ticket office at 207-879-9500 or online at www.seadogs.com.