Go Bowling with the PawSox on June 7th

The Pawtucket Red Sox are very excited to announce we will once again be hosting a BOWLING EVENT to raise money for the TOMORROW FUND…the PAWSOX STRIKE OUT CANCER event will be held on Wednesday, June 7, 2017 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at EAST PROVIDENCE LANES on 80 Newport Avenue, East Providence, RI 02916.

For only $25.00 per person you receive, bowling shoes, food, and a chance to bowl with some PawSox Players!! Our live and silent auctions also provide great opportunities to win special Red Sox and PawSox memorabilia, along with other unique prizes.

The net proceeds will benefit THE TOMORROW FUND…the only local nonprofit organization that provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families. So if you would like to bowl and have some fun, then please mail a check, made payable to the PawSox Foundation, and indicate how many people will be bowling and their names!

Please send your donation to:

Pawtucket Red Sox Baseball Club

McCoy Stadium, P.O. Box 2365

Pawtucket, RI 02861.

We look forward to seeing you and to bowling a STRIKE AGAINST CANCER!!

CLICK HERE TO PRINT SIGN-UP FORM

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

Bowling With the BlueClaws Returns to Sea Girt Lanes on April 30th

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities is proud to announce its seventh annual Bowling With The BlueClaws fundraising event returns to Sea Girt Lanes on Sunday, April 30th. BlueClaws players will again be at the event, a great chance for kids to have a fun night out with players and Buster while raising money for a worthy cause.

The charitable bowling event takes place from 6-8pm. For just $12, participants will receive bowling shoes, a raffle ticket for a series of prizes, pizza and soda, and unlimited bowling games.

Raffles will be held throughout the night for limited edition autographed merchandise and other door prizes. In addition to prizes being given out, BlueClaws players will be there to hang out with you! All proceeds from the night will benefit BlueClaws Charities and their Community Partners.

“This has been a great event for BlueClaws Charities and the fans over the last six years and we look forward to another great event,” said Jim DeAngelis, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “Each fundraising event like Bowling With the BlueClaws benefits a wide variety of local organizations that we are proud to support and will continue to support.”

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact JoAnne Bell at 732-901-7000 ext. 100 or at jbell@blueclaws.com. Space is limited and those interested are encouraged to book early.

BlueClaws Charities, the official charity of the Lakewood BlueClaws, is a 501c3 dedicated to supporting the underpriveleged Ocean and Monmouth counties. BlueClaws Charities has donated over $250,000 over the past four years to community organizations, including donations in the form of grants to BlueClaws Charities Community Partners.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 16 years of existence.

Opening Day for the 2016 season is Thursday, April 13th. Tickets are available by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online by clicking here.

– BlueClaws –

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

CAPTAINS ANNOUNCE 13TH ANNUAL CAPTAINS CHARITIES BASEBALL CLASSIC

(Eastlake, OH) – The Lake County Captains, the Class-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, have announced the line-up for the 13TH Annual Captains Charities High School Baseball for 2017. Ten local high school teams will compete in five featured games over two days at Classic Park. Ticket proceeds from the event will be shared between the participating schools and Captains Charities, the non-profit charitable arm of the Lake County Captains organization.

The Captains have expanded the event from eight teams to 10 this year. The 2017 edition will allow two additional schools to raise money and will allow more kids to enjoy playing at Classic Park.

The Captains Charities Baseball Classic is scheduled for Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6. On May 5, the Chagrin Falls Tigers will play the Kenston Bombers, beginning at 4 PM, followed by the nightcap featuring the Twinsburg Tigers and the Mayfield Wildcats at 7 PM.

On May 6, the St. John Fighting Heralds will take on the Fairport Harbor Skippers at 11AM. Later on, the Kirtland Hornets will play the Beachwood Bison at 2PM, followed by the Eastlake North Rangers against the Willoughby South Rebels at 5 PM.

Tickets for the event will be just $6 each and will be available for purchase at each of the participating schools. Each school will receive 100 tickets to sell on their own for their specific day. Tickets to the games will also be available online at CaptainsBaseball.com and in person at the Captains Ticket Office during normal business hours, or by calling 440-954-WINS (9467). Daily tickets are good for all games that day.

The Captains open the 2017 season on April 8 at Classic Park against Dayton. Affordable ticket packages are available for purchase now and more information may be found at www.CaptainsBaseball.com.

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

Donald Driver Charity Softball Game Returns One Last Time!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Green Bay Packers All-Time Leading Receiver and Super Bowl Champion Donald Driver is going into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame this year and one of the ways he will say, “thank you” to fans for the memories, is by holding a charity softball game at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on Sunday, August 13, 2017. Game time is 1:05pm.

“When I first retired from the Green Bay Packers, I talked about touring the state of Wisconsin saying ‘thank you’ to fans for the incredible love and support during my career. This softball game holds a special place in my heart and I am excited to thank fans for all of their love and support while also raising money for charity,” said Donald Driver.

“As I look back on my 14-year career with the Packers, and the huge part of my life that included marriage to my beautiful wife and birth of 3 amazing children, this game will be a fun time to reflect and celebrate with family, friends and fans that we have connected with over nearly 20 years,” Donald added.

The game will raise money for the Donald Driver Foundation. The mission of the Donald Driver Foundation is to display Strong Hands, Strong Minds, and Loving Hearts to serve as a hand up, not a hand out.

Donald and Peta Murgatroyd, who won a Mirror Ball Trophy with Donald as her dance partner on Dancing with the Stars, will each draft a team of All-Stars to compete in the softball game. Green Bay Packers Legends, NFL Legends, celebrities, media personalities, Betina Driver and other surprise guests will participate in the game. Specific players will be confirmed in future media releases.

Tickets for the softball game are $40 for a front row box seat, $30 for a standard box seat, $20 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $10 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables – which seat four – available at $200. The patio tables will include one autographed item signed by Donald Driver.

There are 69 All-You-Can-Eat seats available for this game for $80 per seat. This ticket includes admission to the game, an all-you-can-eat picnic for 90 minutes, and two beverages (beer, soda, or water).

Fans may begin to purchase tickets for the Donald Driver Game at 10am on Wednesday, March 22. If you have already purchased tickets to the Jordy Nelson Charity Softball Game, there is an opportunity to purchase tickets for the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game before the general public starting at 10am on Wednesday, March 15. Online purchasers of tickets to the Jordy Nelson game will be emailed a code to allow access to the presale. If you bought Jordy Nelson tickets in person or over the phone, please contact the Timber Rattlers Ticket Office between March 15 and March 21 to order.

Tickets to the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game are available in one of the following ways: Over the phone at 800-WI-TIMBER or (920) 733-4152; in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office; or through the internet at www.timberrattlers.com.

The Timber Rattlers will begin the 2017 season at Quad Cities on Thursday, April 6. Wisconsin’s home opener is Saturday, April 8 at 4:05pm against the Quad Cities River Bandits.

Full season, partial season, and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER and in person. Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. Individual game tickets for the 2017 season go on sale Saturday, March 11. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

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

Cougars Rebrand Annual 5K To Honor Local First Responders

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the 6th annual 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 3 at Northwestern Medicine Field beginning at 8 a.m. The charitable event will take on a new look from years past as the Cougars organization continues to grow their charitable outreach. Renamed the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders, presented by Planet Fitness, a portion of the proceeds from the race will benefit the TriCity (Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles) Police and Fire Departments, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Department.

Registration is now open for the event at kccougars.com as well as raceroster.com.

“Planet Fitness is very excited to be sponsoring this year’s Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders,” said Mike Horan, Managing Partner at Planet Fitness. “We would like to thank First Responders for all they do in our community. Planet Fitness is looking forward to promoting health and fitness throughout the community.”

The Cougars 5K, which features chip timing, will take on a new course along both Kirk Road and Fabayan Parkway. Additional course details will be announced at a later date.

This year’s event will also include the “Cougars Inside the Park Dash” for children through age 12. The roughly half-mile fun run, held inside the ballpark, will take place at the conclusion of the Cougars 5K Run/Walk for just $5 per child.

For the first time in the history of the Cougars annual 5K event, Kane County Board Chairman, Chris Lauzen, will be serving as the Official Starter for the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders.

“We’re very excited about the new direction that the Cougars 5K has taken on,” said Cougars owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The additional element of honoring first responders continues to expand our charitable outreach throughout the community while allowing us to continue the Cougars tradition of hosting family-friendly events.”

Open to both competitive runners and recreational walkers, the Cougars host one of the most unique 5K events in the Chicagoland area. The finish line, located at home plate, allows participants to be seen on the ballpark’s videoboard through a live-feed camera while also receiving high-fives from Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar down the final stretch of the race course. Families with children are encouraged to participate as strollers are permitted on the course with a special discounted rate for participants between the ages of 5-18 years old.

Those registered by May 24 are guaranteed a commemorative race t-shirt featuring the new Cougars 5K logo while all participants will receive a complimentary ticket voucher valid for any game during the 2017 season. The top three male and female finishers in 14 age groups will receive a custom race medal featuring the Cougars 5K: Honoring First Responders logo, courtesy of Image Awards, Engraving & Creative Keepsakes, Inc. of Geneva.

Following the race, participants can enjoy a variety of refreshments including a complimentary hot dog, brat and beer for those 21 and older.

Individuals who register by March 24 can take advantage of early bird pricing with a special $28 fee. Following the early bird registration, pricing will increase to $33 until May 31 and then $38 until race day on June 3.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up to date information regarding tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 152 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Riders and Kroger team up to support North Texas Food Bank

The Kroger Strikeout Hunger program helped generate $7,000 for the North Texas Food Bank. (Frisco RoughRiders)

FRISCO, TEXAS (February 3, 2017) – The Frisco RoughRiders, in partnership with Kroger, made a $7,000 donation to the North Texas Food Bank Wednesday as a result of the Kroger Strikeout Hunger program.

Strikeout Hunger debuted for the 2016 season, and the RoughRiders made a $100 donation to the North Texas Food Bank for the first strikeout at each of the 70 home games.

The North Texas Food Bank is a non-profit hunger relief organization that serves 13 counties across the region. A member of Feeding America, NTFB provided more than 70 million meals to the community during fiscal year 2016 and strives to close the hunger gap and provide 92 million meals by 2025. For more information or to make a donation, visit ntfb.org.

“As an organization that values being active members of our community, we are proud to support the North Texas Food Bank and assist their efforts to end hunger in Collin County and beyond,” said RoughRiders Executive VP & General Manager Jason Dambach. “We are grateful to have partners like Kroger who support our efforts to give back to those who make this area such a great place to live.”

The 2017 Frisco RoughRiders season begins on April 6, when the RoughRiders host the Springfield Cardinals at Dr Pepper Ballpark. For all 2017 ticketing information, including tickets for the Choctaw Lazy River and ticket packages for the 2017 Texas League All-Star Game at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Tuesday, June 27, fans can visit RidersBaseball.com, email info@ridersbaseball.com, call (972) 731-9200, or stop by in-person to the RoughRiders Ticket Office.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 12 seasons (2005-2016). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg and Scott Sonju. The new ownership group, together with the city of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise improvements over the past two seasons, investing over $7 million in wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including the new state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store, and the newest and biggest creation, the 174-foot Choctaw Lazy River. The improvements made prior to the 2015 season earned the Riders and the City of Frisco “Best Ballpark Renovation” of 2015 by Ballpark Digest. More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Elvis Andrus, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler, Nelson Cruz, and C.J. Wilson as well as current Rangers stars Derek Holland, Rougned Odor, and Mitch Moreland. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at (425) 736-2785 or via e-mail at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

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Dragons Green Team Performing at Area Schools

Opening night for the 2017 baseball season is 10 weeks away, but Dayton Dragons mascots Heater and Gem along with the Dragons Green Team are already bringing the excitement of baseball season to local elementary schools. For the fifth straight year, the Dragons entertainment team is performing assemblies at Miami Valley elementary schools. The program continues into April.

Click here for more information on the Dragons School Assembly program.

Each 30-minute interactive, fun, high-energy performance includes a visit by Heater or Gem and members of the Green Team, the Dragons signature group that facilitates skits, contests, and sing-a-longs during Dragons games at Fifth Third Field. Each assembly focuses on the benefits of proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. The performances, typically held in the school gymnasium, include some of the same entertainment skits seen at the ballpark, plus some new material designed specifically for the schools.

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

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

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

The Dragons 18th Opening Night is set for Thursday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m. at Fifth Third Field against the Lake County Captains. On April 1 at Fifth Third Field, the Dragons will host the Cincinnati Reds Futures Game, when the Reds battle a team of their top minor league prospects.

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

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.

Need a Fundraiser? Try Ours!

CORPUS CHRISTI – The 2017 Kleberg Bank College Classic, featuring Houston, Illinois, Missouri, and host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, is February 24-25-26 at Whataburger Field.

If your club, association, or organization has fundraising needs, we can help.

Your group can sell 2017 Kleberg Bank College Classic tickets and retain half the proceeds!

Including tax, daily adult tickets are $10.83, $5.41 for children 4-12.

To start your Kleberg Bank College Classic fundraiser, contact Tanner Twomey or Zach Kaddatz of the Corpus Christi Hooks at 361-561-HOOK (4665). You can also e-mail them at ttwomey@cchooks.com or zkaddatz@cchooks.com.

∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

2017 Kleberg Bank College Classic Schedule

Friday, February 24

Houston vs. Missouri, 2 p.m.

Illinois vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 25

Illinois vs. Houston, 2 p.m.

Missouri vs. Islanders, 6 p.m

Sunday, February 26

Missouri vs. Illinois, 11 a.m.

Houston vs. Islanders, 3 p.m.

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

RAISE MONEY THROUGH A NATURALS FUNDRAISER

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are releasing information about their popular fundraising programs for Season 10 of Naturals Baseball scheduled to begin at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday, April 6 against the San Antonio Missions at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day. The Naturals fundraising programs surpassed the $100,000 mark in terms of amount raised in each of the past six (6) seasons and is available to all non-profits, sports teams, school organizations, civic groups, and churches.

Fundraising programs at Arvest Ballpark are offered for a pre-determined Sunday-Thursday home game. Participating groups will resell 1B/3B Reserved tickets for their selected game for $8, which is $1 less than the day of game price. No deposit is required after the date is scheduled; however, the Naturals ask that a member of the fundraising group informs their designated Account Executive 10-14 days before the game with the exact amount of tickets that will be needed for their game so that there is ample time to get the tickets to the group. The percentage of the money that the organization will receive back is based upon the total amount of tickets sold for the pre-determined game and can be up to an even 50/50 split.

The Naturals encourage large groups to participate in the fundraising program as there is no maximum to the amount of tickets that can be sold. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals will offer prizes to all groups as well as their top sellers. There are different levels based on the size of the group but prizes can include a Pre-Game or Post-Game photo on the field for your group, 10 person VIP Tour of Arvest Ballpark before or during the game, undated vouchers that can be used for tickets to a future Naturals game, an autograph baseball, and one (1) ceremonial first pitch at your designated fundraising date.

The Naturals will also provide ticket forms and promotional materials to assist with the effort. In addition, a free Strike the Sasquatch mascot appearance is offered to groups to help promote their scheduled fundraiser at the ballpark.

During the 2016 season a total of 125 groups took advantage of the Naturals fundraising programs and sold 29,170 tickets, which raised a collective $114,125. Those 125 groups consisted of 29 Community Partners, 67 performance groups, and an additional 29 groups that comprised of high school baseball teams, sports organizations, school groups, and churches.

The fundraising flyer is currently available and can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check date availability or if you have any questions about the Naturals fundraising programs, call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their cause can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of our ticket fundraising program.

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

-Naturals-

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

Aces reach community impact records in 2016

RENO – Since the Reno Aces Baseball Club’s inception in 2009, the club has maintained a dedicated focus on making a positive impact in Reno and the surrounding Northern Nevada region. The Aces posted record-breaking charitable donations in 2016, thanks to overwhelming support from Aces fans and the community.

“In return to our great fans and wonderful community, we strive to impact Reno and Northern Nevada through a variety of programs and charitable donations,” said Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC president Eric Edelstein. “Our vision builds on making Greater Nevada Field more than just a sporting venue, but a center for community empowerment and celebration.”

The Aces and their staff focused on four key components to the club’s overall community impact: baseball development, community events at Greater Nevada Field, community outreach and in-game fundraising and awareness.

BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT

In 2016, the Aces showed their continued support to baseball at all levels locally by hosting youth baseball camps and high school games at Greater Nevada Field.

105: In partnership with Gamer Baseball, the Aces served 105 campers over three separate youth baseball camps. The camps provided instruction on the fundamentals of baseball, along with speed, agility and strength training to make Northern Nevada youth successful baseball players in the future. Each camper received a free Reno Aces t-shirt, Aces Team Card set, two tickets to an Aces game and an Aces batting practice viewing session.

4,767: The Reno Aces partnered with multiple Northern Nevada and California little league and softball leagues to provide on-field inspiration and once-in-a-lifetime experiences through Reno Aces Youth Baseball & Softball Days. Youth baseball and softball teams attend a Reno Aces game and parade around the field pre-game. In 2016, three Youth Baseball & Softball Days were held with over 4,767 participants.

$15,000: The Aces and University of Nevada baseball team played their annual exhibition game in early April, with $15,000 of the ticket sales proceeds being donated to the Nevada Dugout Club.

$54,000: For a seventh consecutive season, the Aces invited local high schools to play regular season games at Greater Nevada Field. To participate in the program, high schools committed to purchasing 500 tickets (good for any Aces regular season home game) to sell to local community supporters, with the proceeds benefiting their respective school’s athletic program. Twelve high school baseball programs participated in 2016, and a total of 4,500 tickets were sold, equating to $54,000 in donations.

COMMUNITY EVENTS AT GREATER NEVADA FIELD

In 2016, the Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted 56 programs and events, ranging from the Biggest Little Startup Fair to Trick-or-Suite prior to Halloween. A few major events are highlighted below:

30: Biggest Little Startup Fair, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – Greater Nevada Field hosted the Biggest Little Startup Fair for a third consecutive year. The fair is a cooperative effort between 30 Reno startup companies, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, the University of Nevada and Truckee Meadows Community College. Students from across Northern Nevada were given the opportunity to meet potential employers and find out about volunteer opportunities, internships and job openings.

500+: Christmas on the Corridor, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – For the first time, Greater Nevada Field hosted the Washoe County Sheriff’s Department annual Christmas on the Corridor event. This event provided coats, toys, child I.D. and the opportunity to meet Santa for children living along the 3rd, 4th and 5th Street corridors of Reno. Families and children that attended also received the opportunity to meet the Aces mascot, Archie, and got a voucher to skate at the Reno Ice Rink. Over 500 families attended the 20th anniversary of the corridor event.

$550 + 1,077 = 898: Trick-or-Suite, benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Nevada – The Aces and Greater Nevada Field hosted the fourth annual Trick-or-Suite to provide a safe trick-or-treat environment for children in the Northern Nevada community. Aces community partners decorated suites along the suite level and passed out candy to provide youth in Reno-Sparks a unique and fun trick-or-treating experience. Admission to Trick-or-Suite was $3 or 3 canned food items, with all proceeds and food benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Nevada. A total of $550 and 1,077 pounds of canned and boxed foods were donated, equaling 898 meals.

11,032: Slaughter House, benefiting the Washoe County School District Children in Transition Program – Slaughter House returned to Greater Nevada Field for its third year in 2016. Slaughter House is Reno’s largest and longest running haunted house, and has become the most attended and highly anticipated Halloween attraction in Northern Nevada. Slaughter House donated a portion of all proceeds to the Washoe County School District Children in Transition Program after a total of 11,032 people visited in 2016.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

The Aces’ heightened focus on community outreach paid dividends in 2016.

20′: Sierra Arts Foundation Partnership, benefiting the Northern Nevada Community – The largest community relations initiative the Aces and Greater Nevada Field advocated for in 2016 was the inclusion of local artwork at the Field. The initiative stemmed from seeing other ballparks’ inclusion of local artwork, and the fact that Reno has the most public artwork per capita than any other city in the world. Two 20-foot murals were painted at Greater Nevada Field’s home plate gate, and the Nevada Appeal Luxury Suite level featured local artwork along the hallway and in each suite. The Aces and Greater Nevada Field plan to continue this partnership with Sierra Arts into 2017 with another ballpark mural and new artwork in the suite level.

$1,355: Nevada Humane Society – In the fall of 2014, the Aces fostered Princess, a pit bull from the Nevada Humane Society, in effort to get her adopted and begin the organization’s goal to be ambassadors for not only pit bulls, but all animals in need of a home. After five months of no potential adopters, the organization officially adopted Princess and crowned her the “Princess of the Field.” This past year, the Aces started selling Princess Plush toys in the Team Shop. All proceeds from those sales benefited the Nevada Humane Society. In 2016, 231 Princess plush toys were sold and $1,355 was donated.

$151,175: In-Kind Donations/Donation Requests, benefiting various Northern Nevada and California Communities, Organizations, Schools and Non-profits – Throughout the year, the Reno Aces donated tickets, memorabilia, mascot appearances, merchandise and ice skating admissions to as many organizations in the Northern Nevada and California communities as possible. Donated items are used for members of those organizations to raise funds for their cause, provide awards and spread the love of baseball. The Aces donated to 532 organizations, resulting in a monetary value of $151,175.

IN-GAME FUNDRAISING AND AWARENESS

The Aces hit a home run with their in-game fundraising and awareness in 2016, with fundraising totals reaching $190,434.

$12,406: Jersey Auction Totals, benifiting Veterans Guest House, American Red Cross of Northern Nevada, Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, Artown, Special Olympics and Omicron Alumni Association (NAK) – The Aces hosted six jersey theme nights in 2016, with the jersey tops being auctioned off as an in-game fundraiser. Each theme night was dedicated to one of the organizations listed above. The six theme nights are listed with their corresponding jersey auction totals in parentheses: Star Wars Night ($3,690), Artown ($2,924), D-backs Affiliation Night ($2,385), Going for the Gold Night ($2,325), Heroes Night ($555) and Los Aces Night ($527).

42,500: JAKKS Pacific Home Run for the Holidays, benefiting various Northern Nevada organizations – For the fifth consecutive year, the Reno Aces partnered with JAKKS Pacific, Inc., and Reno 1868 FC to donate toys to help less-fortunate children living in Northern Nevada. This holiday season, 3,000 toys were donated to organizations in the Reno-Sparks/Carson community assisting at risk and in need youth. Since 2011, JAKKS Pacific has donated over 42,500 toys to the Northern Nevada community.

$123,271: Non-Profit Ticket Fundraising Program presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union, benefiting Northern Nevada Non-Profits – The Non-Profit Ticket Fundraising presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union program returned for the third consecutive season, with 106 organizations participating in 2016. Available to non-profit organizations, schools, sports teams, special causes and community organizations, the Aces provided tickets and fundraising materials for groups to sell game tickets at an increased price in effort to make the organization the most money possible. Groups also receive a variety of benefits to spread awareness about their cause during their game, depending on the number of tickets sold. In 2016, non-profit organizations raised a total of $123,271 through the program.

2016 monetary donations: $36,015.00

The Aces open their 2017 season on Thursday, April 6 at 7:05 p.m. against the Fresno Grizzlies at Chukchansi Park. The home opener is set for Tuesday, April 11 at 6:35 p.m. against the Albuquerque Isotopes at Greater Nevada Field. Season memberships are on-sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-4700. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the offseason, follow the club on Twitter (@aces) or like the team on Facebook.

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

Have fun raising money for your group with the Mud Hens

The Toledo Mud Hens are once again offering a fun and exciting opportunity for organizations to raise money during games at Fifth Third Field. We are putting out a call for groups with friendly, hard-working volunteers to work the concessions stands and portable food and beverage carts during the 2017 season.

In 2016, local non-profit organizations raised more than $167,000, and since 2002, groups have earned more than $2.4 million!

The Mud Hens want to share in our success and help local groups earn additional funds for their cause. Groups will be given the tools needed to be successful, such as training, supervision and a percentage of the sales.

To get start started, click here, or call Liz Lauffer at 419-725-4396 or email fundraising@mudhens.com.

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

Youth Baseball Clinic on Jan. 14

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – The Mets will hold a youth baseball clinic on Saturday, January 14 from noon-2 p.m. at Tradition Field.

Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10 per child 13-and-under.

All proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club. The clinic will be run by Mets staff along with players and coaches.

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

Legends’ donations for 2016 top $1,000,000

Big L and the Legends welcomed Girl Scouts to Whitaker Bank Ballpark for a campout May 6. More than 330 girls spent the night at the ballpark. The Girl Scouts were one of many organizations who received support from Legends’ community programs in 2016.

             (WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends made donations totaling $1,000,763 in 2016 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving central Kentucky.

In its 16-year history, the Legends organization has donated close to $15 million to the region.

“The Legends are proud to be part of this community and region,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We will continue to provide support to these great organizations that do so much good work.”

Among the organizations and causes who benefited from events and programs in 2016 were:

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts:  Overnight campouts for Boy Scouts (August 18) and Girl Scouts (May 6) were held following Legends games at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. The scouts sold nearly 1,000 donated game tickets to raise funds for their organizations. About 700 scouts participated in the campouts.

                Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: The Legends held Breast Cancer Awareness Night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark on July 9. Funds raised through an auction of pink jerseys and pink bases used during the Legends game that night, along with t-shirt sales, benefited Kentucky Cancer Link, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer. The Legends and LBX held a celebration lunch, with proceeds going to those same three organizations.

                Military Appreciation Night: The Legends’ Military Appreciation night was held on June 25. It included an auction of jerseys to benefit Military Missions, a local non-profit organization that supports troops in a variety of ways, including the sending of care packages with personal items and snacks to military personnel.

                Bark in the Park: The Legends held 12 “Bark in the Park” nights during the 2016 season. Dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to the game, and a two-dollar “admission” charge for each dog was donated to the Scott County Humane Society.

Guns and Hoses Softball Game:  The Legends provide the setting for the Guns and Hoses game, which matches the Lexington Police Department against the Lexington Fire Department in a softball game and home run derby. The winning team takes home a trophy, and the loser receives a toilet seat as the runner-up prize. More than 2,000 people attended the 2016 game.

Community Organization of the Night:  The Legends provide an opportunity for a local non-profit organization to step into the spotlight at a Legends home game. Organizations may set up an information table on the concourse, and a representative is interviewed on the field before the game and on radio during the game.    Organizations who purchased discounted tickets for re-sale as a fundraiser also received 25% of the proceeds from that night’s 50-50 raffle. (The Legends Charitable Fund also received 25%, and the fan holding the winning ticket received 50%.)

                Hit the Books Reading Program: Geared toward elementary schools, the Legends’ Hit the Books Reading Program is designed to encourage students to read, both in school and away from school.    The Legends gave away 33,000 Hit the Books bookmarks to students in central Kentucky in 2016. (A winning bookmark design is selected from students’ entries.) Those who complete the Hit the Books reading program are awarded two tickets to a Legends home game.

Field of Dreams: The Paul Miller Ford Field of Dreams program allows youth baseball and softball players to be part of pre-game festivities. Members of the youth teams are introduced to the fans and take the field along with the Legends starters. Teams are selected at random from registrations received at Field of Dreams sponsor locations.   Team members receive complimentary admission to the game. The Legends hosted 80 Field of Dreams teams in 2016.

           Legends Character Award at William Wells Brown Elementary:   Every nine weeks during the school year, 19 students from William Wells Brown Elementary School in Lexington are selected to receive the Legends Character Award. The award is designed to motivate students to demonstrate good behavior and a great attitude. The students are nominated by their classroom teachers. Winners are publicly recognized and personally congratulated by the Legends’ Big L.

Kids Area:   At every Legends home game in 2016, Lafayette High School cheerleaders volunteered to work in the Aetna Kids Play Area to raise money for their cheer program. The Legends made a $7,500 donation to the program.

Go Red Night: The American Heart Association and St. Joseph Health Care System sponsored a “Go Red” Night June 3 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, where fans received information on the dangers and risks of heart disease. Free blood pressure checks and presentations of information were provided throughout the game.

Donation requests:  The Legends donate tickets, memorabilia or merchandise to as many organizations as possible. Tickets are used by members of the non-profit organizations or for auctions to raise funds for those organizations. The Legends fulfilled more than 300 donation requests in 2016.

  United Way of the Bluegrass:  Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In 2016, the Legends donated 23,333 tickets for use by the United Way.

St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the jerseys worn by the players during home games. Proceeds go to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program.

                Fundraising tickets:   The Legends offer schools, teams and other organizations an opportunity to buy tickets at a discounted price and raise funds by selling the tickets at the regular price. More than 5,000 tickets were purchased at the discount rate for fundraising in 2016.

For more information on the Legends’ community programs, contact Sarah Bosso at 859-422-7847 or sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com

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

Shuckers Hit Home Run with Community Contributions and Initiatives in 2016

BILOXI, MS – During the Biloxi Shuckers second season, the team continued to give back to the community. The Shuckers have become a resource for local organizations including non-profits and schools by helping to raise funds and awareness through various methods.

The Shuckers and its concessionaire, Spectra Food Services & Hospitality raised over $178,000 for local nonprofits and donated over $30,000 of in-kind contributions. Through Shuckers initiatives including the Ticket Fundraising Program, In-Stadium Auctions and Spectra NFP Fundraising Program which benefits qualified local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit groups through concessions, the club led the ten-member Southern League for In-Stadium Fundraising.

Among the highlights of the organization’s 2016 charitable work included providing a platform for: Habitat for Humanity, Biloxi Miracle League, Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Learning Disabilities, Jackson County Animal Shelter, Memorial Hospital Foundation and Favre 4 Hope, Special Olympics, Salvation Army of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ALS Association, American Cancer Society and Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art.

“We give back to our community because we believe we have a responsibility to do so,” stated Shuckers Community Relations and Promotions Coordinator Jenifer Truong. “Whether it’s local schools or non-profits, the Shuckers offer not only a chance to raise funds for your organization, but also awareness to a large audience.”

In addition to the organization’s charitable contributions, Shuckers’ season ticket holders donated just over 1,500 tickets to local non-profits, military personnel and their families, and first responders. The organization also made frequent mascot and player appearances in the community and members of the Shuckers front office also joined forces to record over 200 hours of community service in 2016.

Spectra’s NFP program seeks to provide qualified nonprofit groups and civic organizations a unique fundraising opportunity. Groups provide volunteers to assist with concession stand operations as cashiers, vendors, and stand workers. Those organizations work to reach fundraising goals while providing great service to fans.

“Involving area nonprofit organizations in our operation has helped us hit a home run with the community and Shuckers’ fans,” said Spectra General Manager Mike Brulatour. “Since the opening of MGM Park in June 2015, thousands of volunteers have raised over $300,000 for their respective charities. The commitment and dedication of these volunteers has enabled us to provide a consistent level of exceptional customer service to our patrons while supporting the Mississippi Gulf Coast communities which we serve. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality strives to be a strong partner with the Biloxi Shuckers and a valued member of the Gulf Coast business community.”

Organizations interested in partnering with Spectra or the Shuckers may contact Mike Brulatour at mike_brulatour@comcastspectacor.com or Jenifer Truong at jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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