National Anthem auditions set for April 4 at Crossgates

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TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats will be holding their 10th Annual National Anthem auditions on Saturday, April 4 at Crossgates from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Selected finalists will participate in an online fan vote, with the top vote recipient having the opportunity to sing at a premier ValleyCats game at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium this summer, in front of an expected crowd of over 5,000 fans.

Hosted by Jaime Roberts heard weekday mornings from 6am – 10am on 98.3 TRY, the auditions will take place on the lower level near Lord & Taylor. Registration will begin promptly at 9:30am and auditions will be conducted on a first-come, first-perform basis. Performances can be sung individually or as a group, and may also be performed on an instrument that does not require power.

A panel of judges will be scoring the performances based on sound quality, stage presence, and song accuracy.

The ValleyCats 2020 home opener is set for Wednesday, June 24 as the 19th season of Minor League Baseball begins at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy.

Season tickets, mini plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com or by calling 518-629-CATS. The ValleyCats are also taking reservations for groups of 20 or more, and individual tickets are set to go on sale March 26, MLB’s Opening Day.

National Anthem Auditions at Whataburger Field Next Week

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CORPUS CHRISTI – Here’s your chance to show you’ve got the voice to sing the National Anthem in front of up to 8,000 fans at Whataburger Field this season!
National Anthem auditions are planned for Thursday, March 5 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Whataburger Field. Tryouts will be held on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please use the CITGO Cotton Club entrance to register upon arrival.

Auditions are free of charge and open to all ages. Instrumental musicians are welcome.
RSVP on the Hooks’ Facebook event page for updates. Contact Amy Johnson at [email protected] with any questions.

 

2020 High School Schedule

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CORPUS CHRISTI – The full slate of games at Whataburger Field featuring high school baseball teams from the Coastal Bend region was announced Monday.
A total of 14 games are on tap for area schools playing at the home of the Corpus Christi Hooks, including Veterans Memorial (No. 2 in 5A) and reigning TAPPS state semifinalist Incarnate Word Academy as highlights on the schedule.

Tickets for all games are priced at $6.50 for adults, $3.50 for students and free for children under four. Parking at the stadium will be $5.
High school general admission seating goes on sale at the Whataburger Field Box Office each game date at 9 a.m. Make gameday purchases by phone at 361-561-HOOK (4665).

2020 Whataburger Field High School Schedule
Monday, Feb. 24 Odem vs. West Oso, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 25 Tuloso-Midway vs. Kingsville, 7 p.m.
Monday, March 2 Aransas Pass vs. Ingleside, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, March 3 Moody vs. Miller, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, March 10 Ingleside vs. Rockport-Fulton, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, March 17 Beeville (A.C. Jones) vs. Ingleside, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 18 John Paul II vs. Incarnate Word Academy, 7 p.m.
Friday, March 20 John Paul II vs. Gregory-Portland, 7 p.m.
Monday, March 23 Ray vs. Carroll, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, March 24 King vs. Veterans Memorial, 6 p.m.
Friday, March 27 Miller vs. Carroll, 5:30 p.m. | Moody vs. King, 8 p.m.
Monday, March 30 Laredo-Martin vs. Alice, 5:30 p.m. | Veterans Memorial vs. Ray, 8 p.m.

 

ValleyCats to Host Job Fair for 2020 Season

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TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats will host their Annual Job Fair at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy on Saturday, March 14 from 10:00am – 12:00pm. The Class A affiliate of the Houston Astros will be holding on the spot interviews for various positions for their 2020 summer season.

Potential employees must be over the age of 15 and have the availability to work during the months of June through September. Applications are available at “The Joe,” or can be filled out in advance by downloading a copy from the ValleyCats website.

Each year the ValleyCats employ approximately 200 summer gameday staff in departments that include food and beverage, stadium operations, box office, merchandise, promotions and production. For more information on the types of jobs in each department, visit the Employment page of the ValleyCats website at tcvalleycats.com.

The ValleyCats 2020 home opener is set for Wednesday, June 24 as the 19th season of Minor League Baseball begins at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy.

Season tickets, mini plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com or by calling 518-629-CATS. The ValleyCats are also taking reservations for groups of 20 or more, and individual tickets are set to go on sale March 26, MLB’s Opening Day.

 

Round Rock Express Release 2020 Community Awareness Nights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Texas Rangers affiliate)

 Toy Drive

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

(Oakland Athletics affiliate)

 Autism Awareness Night

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

(Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate)

 School Supply Drive

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

(San Diego Padres affiliate)

 Cerebral Palsy Awareness Night

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

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

(St. Louis Cardinals affiliate)

 Alzheimer’s Awareness Night

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

(Milwaukee Brewers affiliate)

 Children’s Coat Drive

benefiting Coats for Kids
presented by the Junior League of Austin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

* plus tax                             ** includes seating for four

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

2020 Assistant Positions Available!

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The Quad Cities River Bandits are looking for dedicated, hardworking people to assist during the 2020 season. These positions are paid and capped at 40 hours per week! Come get experience in the sports industry at “The Friendliest Ballpark in America.”

For more information on the positions that are currently available, please click on the title you are interested in learning more about. Each job description provides a point of contact within the River Bandits organization to send your application information.

There are four assistant positions currently open for the 2020 season:
– Ballpark Operations Assistant
– Marketing and Promotions Assistant
– Groundskeeping Assistant
– Fulfillment and Sales Assistant

There are also two part-time positions open for the 2020 season:
– On-Field Emcee
– Mascot Performer

Hooks Roll Out 2020 Spring High School Schedule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2020 Whataburger Field High School Schedule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Express, RS3 to Host Job Fair for 2020 Gameday and Concessions Staff

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ROUND ROCK, Texas – Have you dreamed of working at Dell Diamond? The Round Rock Express, RS3 Strategic Hospitality and RS3 Turf are hiring gameday and concessions staff for the upcoming 2020 season! The organizations will host a job fair on Saturday, February 15 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. inside the United Heritage Center at Dell Diamond.

Hiring managers will be on hand looking for qualified, hardworking candidates with great guest service skills who are able to work baseball games as well as other sporting and non-sporting events in a variety of different positions. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age to apply and must be able to work all Express home games at Dell Diamond as well as additional events as needed. The 2020 Round Rock Express schedule can be found here.

Positions available include the following:

  • 50/50 Raffle Sellers
  • Bartenders
  • Box Office Service and Cashiers
  • Cash Room Attendants
  • Cashiers
  • Cleaning Crew (Green Team)
  • Cooks
  • Expeditors
  • Facilities and Grounds Crew
  • Gameday Entertainment Staff
  • Guest Services
  • Line Managers
  • Parking Lot Attendants
  • Playground Attendants
  • Retail Cashiers
  • Security
  • Stand Managers
  • Suite Services
  • Ticket Takers
  • Ushers
  • Video Control Room Staff
  • Wait Staff
  • Warehouse Staff

Candidates should enter through the United Heritage Center at 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd. and park in the Suite Lot in front of the Railyard Team Store. Those wishing to apply are urged to bring a résumé and dress to impress. A positive, friendly attitude is essential. Applicants who cannot attend can apply online at RRExpress.com. No calls please.

The Round Rock Express, RS3 Strategic Hospitality and RS3 Turf are proud to be equal opportunity employers.

The Express kick off the 2020 season on Thursday, April 9 against the newest member of the Pacific Coast League, the Wichita Wind Surge (Miami Marlins affiliate) at 7:05 p.m. at Dell Diamond. Full season and mini season membership plans are on sale now.

For more information on the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Applications being accepted for 2020 Youth Field Renovations

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TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats are currently accepting applications for the 2020 ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project, which will take place in April and feature infield overhauls of four youth baseball/softball fields. It’s a milestone year for the renovation program, as the number of fields renovated reaches 40 since the program’s inception.

The ValleyCats continue their strong partnership with Hannaford Supermarkets and BlueShield of Northeastern New York on this impactful community initiative. The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“Our mission for this project since day one was to fulfill our duty as ambassadors of the game by impacting as many youth ballplayers in our communities as possible,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We are extremely thankful to our tremendous partners in this endeavour, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets. Together, we have helped to provide safe and well-maintained ball fields for thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.”

“Each year, BlueShield employees alongside volunteers from the Tri-City ValleyCats and Hannaford Supermarkets roll up their sleeves and rally around this program,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As we approach a milestone year for 4 in 24, BlueShield is as proud as ever to be part of this extraordinary initiative that continues to impact the communities where we live, work and play.”

“As a committed community partner, Hannaford is thrilled to be a part of a program that has such a positive and long-lasting impact on our local neighborhoods. Improving these fields not only provides kids with a safe place to play ball, but also provides an opportunity to discover a love of an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue to partner with the ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York during a milestone year for this outstanding initiative.”

Youth baseball and softball organizations interested in having their field renovated may submit an application online at tcvalleycats.com, and are encouraged to send in current photos with their submissions prior to any snowfall.

The ValleyCats began assisting with youth field renovations since 2003, renovating one ballfield each year. In 2011 the program grew into the ambitious “4 in 24” project, with the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners renovating four local youth playing fields in a 24-hour time period.

APPLY ONLINE>>

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

Public Invited to Halloween with the Hooks on October 24

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CORPUS CHRISTI – Get into the spooky spirit by attending the sixth annual Halloween with the Hooks, presented by H-E-B, on Thursday, October 24 at Whataburger Field from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission to the event is free.

Trick-or-treaters can enjoy candy stops around the stadium concourse. The festivities also include hayrides on the field, activity tables, a costume contest, a pumpkin patch photo opportunity, a “photo BOOth,” inflatables and carnival games. Halloween-themed movies will be played on the video board throughout the evening.

Attending guests are encouraged to donate a canned food item for the Coastal Bend Food Bank, which has received more than 400 pounds of food in past years.

Ballpark food, soda and beer will be available for purchase.

To volunteer or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Courtney Merritt via email ([email protected]) or by phone at 361-561-HOOK.

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

Bandits and TBK Bank Partner to Renovate Youth Field

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The Quad Cities River Bandits and TBK Bank, SSB have announced an initiative to renovate youth baseball and softball fields in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas. The first project as part of this initiative will be completed this week at Northwest Park in Davenport.

The Northwest Park Babe Ruth Field will undergo a transformation on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week in order to give the young athletes playing on this field a better baseball experience. River Bandits Head Groundskeeper Andrew Marking will lead a team of volunteers from the River Bandits front office and TBK Bank team members throughout the project. Some of the planned improvements include new pitching rubbers and plates in the bullpens, re-sloping the pitching mounds, cleaning up and leveling the area around home plate, cleaning the edges of the infield, clearing the infield dirt of grass and weeds and replacing some of the sod on the field. QC Custom Tees has partnered with the program to provide t-shirts for all of the volunteers.

The field is home to the Scott County Babe Ruth League. The league gives children under the age of 18 an opportunity to play baseball in the spring prior to their summer baseball seasons. For some of the players who won’t play high school ball this represents their last chance to play organized baseball.

The River Bandits and TBK Bank will hold a press conference at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 11 at Northwest Park to unveil the renovated field. Members of the media are invited to attend and take footage of the new field. River Bandits General Manager Jacqueline Holm, TBK Bank, Midwest Division President John DeDoncker and Mike Lizak from the Scott County Babe Ruth League are scheduled to address the media at this event.

Volunteers will be working on the field Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

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

Renovations to four youth ball fields set for April 11

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TROY, NY- The Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, are set to renovate four youth ball fields on Thursday, April 11th during the 9th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project. Upon completion, over 36 fields will have been revamped by this strong community initiative which has positively impacted thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.

The four leagues to be renovated on April 11 will be Green Tech High Charter School, Rensselaer Little League, Broadalbin Little League, and Brunswick Girls Softball. The project will be focused primarily on the infield surface, with the mission to allow for a safe place to learn and play ball.

The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“First I want to express our gratitude to BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets for being tremendous partners in this initiative,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We all share in the common goal of a bright future for our youth, and this project goes a long way to provide the resources to help them succeed.”

Both longtime supporters of the ‘4 in 24’ project, BlueShield and Hannaford make the renovations possible through the aid of necessary monetary resources, and volunteer efforts of their staff.

“With more than 30 fields renovated over the last nine years, BlueShield’s commitment to the community continues to provide our region’s young athletes access to healthy activities as they grow,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As a longtime partner of the Tri-City ValleyCats, our employees are eager to rebuild fields alongside the players as they work to make a positive impact in our community.”

“Hannaford is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles at all ages and youth sports are an ideal way to instill the importance of activity and wellness in our community’s youngest members,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue this partnership with the ValleyCats and BlueShield as we provide local ball players with not only improved facilities, but also the opportunity to grow as individuals and members of a team.”

The renovations will commence at daybreak on Thursday, April 11, with four crews split up among the fields. A press conference will be held at Green Tech High at 9:00 a.m. to officially kick off the project.

The efforts are also supported by Admar Construction Equipment, Brightview, Profile Products / Turface Athletics, and SiteOne Landscape Supplies, who are contributing some of the necessary equipment and materials. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

League Snapshots

Green Tech High Charter School

Field Address: 99 Slingerlands Street, Albany, NY, 12202

Opening Day: April 1, 2019

League Information: Green Tech’s baseball team currently plays their home games off site because they don’t have a useable field at their high school. The ValleyCats and their partners will transform an old softball field at the school into a baseball field for their team to call home. The field will also be used for Eastern New York Travel Baseball league games.

League Statement:

“Green Tech is very excited to be getting a new baseball field that the young scholars will be able to play on. It has been tough the last four years finding a place to practice that didn’t require players to travel. Now with a field, the team will operate like a normal program. Green Tech thanks the ValleyCats for their time and effort building a field for the boys at Green Tech.” – Quentin Jensen, Green Tech Director of Athletics

Rensselaer Little League

Field Address: 112 Lawrence Street, Rensselaer, NY, 12144

Opening Day: April 6, 2019

League Information: Rensselaer Little League is utilized by 150 players across 14 teams. Fideli Field has had drainage issues and is need of a leveling of the infield playing surface. The current baselines are not aligned properly, and the pitcher’s mound and home plate area is in disrepair. With these renovations, the field will receive a much needed facelift to the infield surface with brand new sod, infield mix, a complete overhaul of the pitching and home plate areas, and more.

Broadalbin Little League

Field Address: 30 First Avenue, Broadalbin, NY, 12025

Opening Day: May 4, 2019

League Information: The work will focus on the Majors Field at Broadalbin, a league that serves over 160 players with 13 teams. The league was in the process of flipping the current field to avoid sun glare, but was unable to finish due to bad fall weather.

League Statement:

“Without the ValleyCats help, we were facing a decision of possibly not being able to host games for all of our Majors teams and even some of our Minors teams. We still feel like we are dreaming and can’t thank the ValleyCats and their partners enough. This amazing gift will truly benefit our small community for years to come.” – Mike Eglin, Broadalbin Little League President

Brunswick Girls Softball

Field Address: Brunswick Sports Complex, 4165 Route 2, Troy, NY 12180

Opening Day: April 13, 2019

League Information: With 13 teams and over 180 softball players, the renovations to Field 2 at the Brunswick Girls Softball League will go a long way in maintaining a safe field for the athletes to learn and grow.

League Statement:

“The athletes, families, and board of the Brunswick Girls Softball League would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats organization as well as their partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets for awarding us the 4 in 24 field renovation for 2019. We are a small rural league and depend exclusively on volunteers for all aspects of the league including field maintenance. Our field 2 was in dire need of repairs, and the renovation of this field will ensure that all of our athletes share the same great and safe softball experience. We appreciate the ValleyCats commitment to our local communities and the betterment of female centered youth sports.” – Brunswick Girls Softball League

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

Hooks and BUSH’S® Beans Donate to Driscoll Children’s Hospital

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CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, announced today they will provide a donation to Driscoll Children’s Hospital as part of #GivingTuesday, a movement that celebrates and supports giving and philanthropic events at the start of the holiday season, on Tuesday, Nov. 27.

Since its inaugural year in 2012, Giving Tuesday has been a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the popular shopping holidays Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the event kicks off the giving season each year by inspiring people to give back.

This past season, first baseman Taylor Jones was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2018 Texas League All-Star Game in Midland. In addition to the award, BUSH’S and the Hooks will contribute to the local community by providing a monetary donation to Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

“Driscoll Children’s Hospital ensures the youth of South Texas have access to the best medical care available,” Hooks General Manager Wes Weigle said. “We are always delighted to aid them in this mission. I’d like to thank Taylor Jones for coming up with that big swing, and BUSH’S Beans for helping us make an impact in the Coastal Bend.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. Each BUSH’S MVP Award recipient’s team will be donating to a local charitable organization of the team’s choosing.

“It is truly inspiring to see how MiLB clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of BUSH’S All-Star MVP Award winner Taylor Jones by joining with the Hooks to contribute to Driscoll Children’s Hospital.”

Click here to learn more about the long-term partnership Minor League Baseball and BUSH’S Beans, the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” cooked up in 2016.

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

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October 25 at Whataburger Field: Halloween with the Hooks

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CORPUS CHRISTI – Join us for the fifth annual Halloween with the Hooks Celebration, presented by Ashley Homestore, on Thursday, October 25 at Whataburger Field. The evening’s entertainment will run from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Admission to the event is free. Guests are encouraged to donate a canned food item for the Coastal Bend Food Bank.

Trick-or-treaters will enjoy candy-stops throughout the ballpark. The festivities also include activity tables, costume contest, pumpkin patch photo opportunity, a “photo BOOth,” hayrides, inflatables, and carnival games.

Halloween-themed movies will be played on the video board well into the evening. Selections come from the Scooby-Doo and Peanuts archives.

Last year’s event netted the Coastal Bend Food Bank 437 pounds of food.

To volunteer or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Courtney Merritt via email ([email protected]) or by phone at 361-561-HOOK.

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

ValleyCats, Community Resource Federal Credit Union partner to recognize Capital Region’s Community Heroes!

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TROY, N.Y. – The Tri-City ValleyCats and Community Resource Federal Credit Union have teamed up again in 2018 on the “Home Run Community Heroes Starting 9” initiative, a program that aims to highlight those that go above and beyond in the Capital Region community.

A selection of nominees will be recognized in an on-field ceremony on Thursday, July 19, prior to the ValleyCats game versus the Brooklyn Cyclones.

“We are honored to join with the ValleyCats again this year to honor our Community Heroes,” said Marc DeNofio, VP of Marketing at Community Resource FCU. “Our everyday heroes are at the very core of what makes the Capital Region a great place to live. At CRFCU we enjoy supporting these selfless individuals, and offering banking services that enrich the lives of all residents.”

The ‘Cats and Community Resource FCU are encouraging fans to nominate personnel from military, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children and everyday people that have helped make the Capital Region a better place to live.

“We are excited to partner with Community Resource Federal Credit Union to recognize the efforts of those who have had a positive impact within our community,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “There is plenty of heroic work being done within the Capital Region that many people may not know about, so we’re glad to be able to showcase a handful of those circumstances.”

The nine nominees selected will also be treated to a luxury suite as guests of Community Resource FCU, with complimentary food and drink.

Fans who want to nominate a Community Hero can do so by filling out the form located online at tcvalleycats.com/communityheroes. The ValleyCats will be accepting nominations through Friday, June 29. Forms can be faxed with attention to Elyse Zima at 518-629-2299, e-mailed to [email protected], or dropped off at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.

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