Cougars to Honor First Responders on July 29

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that they will honor first responders at Northwestern Medicine Field on Saturday, July 29. Tickets are on sale now at kccougars.com or by calling the box office at 630-232-8811.

First responders who wish to attend the game can purchase a buy one, get one free reserved seat ticket deal in person at the Cougars box office beginning today through July 29. Proof of identification must be presented at the time of purchase. There is a limit of 10 tickets per order. Offer is not valid on previously purchased tickets.

In addition, there will be local first responder vehicles displayed outside the gates for fans to admire including patrol cars and fire engines.

For the game, the Cougars will sport limited edition First Responder Night jerseys. One half of the jersey is fire engine red with yellow and orange flames running down the sleeve to represent our heroic firefighters while the other half of the jersey features an armored look to represent the police officers who protect us.

Before the game, St. Charles police officer John Losurdo will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Officer Losurdo, named the top police officer in Kane County, was presented the 2016 Louis Spuhler Award for his outstanding police work. Additional first responders will be honored throughout the game including an in-game presentation for the Meijer Hometown Hero.

Graduates from the Kane County Sherriff’s Office Junior Deputy Program (JDMP) will also be in attendance and honored on the field. The JDMP helps students between the ages of 14-17 build their self-esteem while providing insight into the professional life of law enforcement officers in an effort to build trust between the Sherriff’s Office and the community.

Other highlights for First Responders Night include a pre-game performance by Beatles tribute band, American English, in the Acres Music Garden from 4:45-6 PM while the always hilarious ZOOperstars! will provide in-game entertainment. Gates will open at 4:30 PM.

For updates throughout the season on tickets and promotions follow the Cougars on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

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 157 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.

Chiefs Partner with PNC for Pre-K Day

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and corporate partner PNC Bank are teaming up with the Heart of Illinois United Way’s Success By 6 program to reward Pre-K children who took part in the Homer’s Pups Reading Program with a free ticket to the Sunday May 21 2:00 p.m. Chiefs game and a pre-game Street Fest outside Dozer Park.

Homer’s Pups Reading Program is in its fourth year as an off-shoot of Homer’s Reading Program and provides benefits for children under the age of six who are in the early stages of developing reading skills. The program has over 3500 kids enrolled for the 2017 season. They earn prizes by reading their way around the bases and the home run prize is a free ticket to the Sunday, May 21 game against the Beloit Snappers.

      “One of the earliest indicators of a child’s future success is the number of words he or she hears prior to kindergarten,” said Brian Ray, PNC regional president for Central Illinois. “Today with the Chiefs we are celebrating the success of the children who have reached their reading goals and we encourage family togetherness especially when they include reading.”

This is the fourth year of the partnership between the Chiefs and PNC for the Homer’s Pups Reading Program and the third year for the PNC Mobile Learning Adventure to be part of the Street Fest outside Dozer Park prior to the game. The Mobile Learning Adventure encourages family participation and focuses on education for preschool children. This year the Mobile Learning Adventure provides families with educational DVD’s created by Sesame Workshop and children are able to take home a photo of them dressed up as what they would like to be when they grow up. The Street Fest, which on Oak Street is free and runs from Noon – 3:00 p.m. on May 21, also includes Barnyard Discoveries and inflatable activities from Fun on the Run for families.

“Days like the PNC Pre-K Day are some of the most rewarding days we have at the ballpark all summer,” said Chiefs President Rocky Vonachen. “Seeing these young kids running around, getting player autographs, taking photos with Homer and the Super Heroes, playing on the inflatables, having fun with their families and knowing they earned it by reading is what being part of this great community is all about and we couldn’t do it without great corporate partners like PNC.”

The game on the 21st begins at 2:00 p.m. with gates opening at 1:00 p.m. There will be an appearance by PBS character Natuue Cat and a player poster giveaway to the first 1000 fans presented by the PJStar and CityLink. Fans can play catch on the field after the game and Chiefs players will sign autographs for fans 12 and under from 1:10 – 1:30. After the game, kids 12 and under can run the bases. Kids 12 and under get $5 tickets and a free hot dog, chips and soda. Tickets are available online at www.peoriachiefs.com or at the Dozer Park Box Office (open 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)

PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com

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

Chiefs Announce Pete Vonachen Community Service Award

PEORIA, IL – The Peoria Chiefs and Humana have announced creation of the Pete Vonachen Community Service Award designed to honor individuals from Central Illinois who are making a positive difference in their community. Nominations will be accepted online throughout the season.

The awards are designed to honor those who have gone above and beyond in their Central Illinois community in the spirit of Pete Vonachen who successfully impacted the Peoria area throughout his life. Nominees could be firefighters, police officers, first responders, volunteers, teachers, doctors, good Samaritans or the neighbor down the street who is always helping those who need it.

      Fans can go to the nomination page to nominate their favorite Humana Community All-Star by providing information and a reason why they are an unsung Humana Community All-Star deserving of recognition.

The Chiefs will honor a finalist at five different games this season: May 20, June 10, July 4, July 29 and August 12. Then on September 1 the overall Humana Community All-Star of the 2017 season will be honored at the final regular season game of the season.

Tickets and Promotions:

Season ticket packages, including full-season, a 35-game ticket package, an 18-game ticket package, a Flex Plan or Pick-Six Plan are currently on sale by calling 309-680-4000. Individual game tickets are also on sale with the Dozer Park Box Office open Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and online at www.peoriachiefs.com which also lists all of the season’s promotions. Game times and promotions are subject to change.

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

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Operation Support Our Troops Concert Moves to Northwestern Medicine Field

GENEVA, Ill. – Operation Support Our Troops – America has announced that Rockin’ for the Troops, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, will take place at Northwestern Medicine Field – home of the Kane County Cougars – on Saturday, July 22. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.kccougars.com.

Visit www.RockinForTheTroops for additional information about the concert including FAQ’s, volunteer opportunities and more.

Both OSOT-America and the Cougars are excited to announce Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd as the headlining band. Motown tribute band, The Voices, will also perform along with Ayla Brown and Empty Pockets. Brown will perform patriotic inspired songs and country music while Empty Pockets rounds out the lineup with rock and roll. Gates will open at 2 p.m. with stage entertainment beginning at 2:30 p.m. Following the concert, there will be a fireworks display, courtesy of Melrose Pyrotechnics. Attendees are encouraged to bring donation items for Christmas stockings that will be sent to troops serving overseas.

Fans can purchase various ticket package options including a Meet & Greet for $300 which comes with one premium box seat ticket, an exclusive preshow meet & greet with Lynyrd Skynyrd, specially designed Lynyrd Skynyrd tour shirt, collective tour lithograph and more. The Free Bird VIP package is also available for $150 and includes multiple perks such as one premium box seat ticket, exclusive Free Bird trucker hat as well as a Lynyrd Skynyrd koozie and bottle opener set.

“The Cougars organization is honored that Northwestern Medicine Field will be the site of this year’s Rockin’ for the Troops,” said Vice President and General Manager of the Kane County Cougars, Curtis Haug. “We are constantly striving to find ways to support both active duty military and veterans so we are thrilled to be hosting an event that not only benefits OSOT-America, but features such an iconic performer in Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Proceeds from each ticket will help support the programs of OSOT-America.

“This is an exciting year for OSOT-America with moving Rockin’ for the Troops to Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, along with a different main act,” said Jamie Nelson, Executive Director of OSOT-America. “We are hard at work to continue with the tradition of a day of support for our Military Community. Rockin’ for the Troops helps us to raise the necessary funds to continue our mission of providing comfort and care for deployed troops. These funds are critical to our mission to cover the cost of shipping our comfort and care packages, provide one-time grants to veterans under financial stress and help our families of the fallen. We appreciate the continued support of our local communities.”

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.

About Operation Support Our Troops – America

The mission of OSOT America is to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to all involved both while deployed and the soldier’s return. As a volunteer-based non-profit organization, OSOT-America provides the opportunity for community members to express their appreciation and also offer support for our troops. Engaged in the longest war of our country’s history, and with our servicemen and women completing multiple tours of duty, OSOT-America is committed to showing them that “We Have NOT Forgotten.” Volunteer opportunities are available. Visit www.osotamerica.org for more information.

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

Cougars Partner With TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® To Help Mothers In Need

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced that Northwestern Medicine Field will serve as a donation drop-off site for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® program beginning on Opening Night, April 6.

Thousands of mothers across the country are overlooked each Mother’s Day due to circumstances that force them to live in shelters as a result of domestic abuse or homelessness. That’s where TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® steps in to ensure that these women receive the love and appreciation they deserve this Mother’s Day. Donations collected through the Movers for Moms® program will be provided to women staying at Mutual Ground in Aurora, Ill. and Lazarus House in St. Charles, Ill.

Beginning April 6, fans are encouraged to bring donations of the following essential care items: body spray, soaps, hair styling products, towels, make-up brushes, pajamas, large tote bags and umbrellas.

Click here for a full list of much needed items.

Representatives from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® will be collecting donations inside of Gate 3 on April 6, April 17, April 27 and May 8. A Movers for Moms® donation bin will also be located inside the atrium of the Cougars front office at Northwestern Medicine Field for fans that would like to drop off donations during regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Donations will be accepted through Friday, May 12.

For more information about the Movers for Moms® program, visit twomenandatruck.com/moversformoms.

The 2017 season of Cougars baseball begins on Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including a full 2017 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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.

Cougars, Paramount Fence Team Up for Charitable Cause

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and Paramount Fence of Batavia have announced they will team up again this season as part of the Home Runs for Charity initiative.

A program that was launched for the Cougars 2016 season, Paramount Fence of Batavia has pledged to make a $50 donation to Emmanuel House in Aurora, Ill. for each home run hit by a Cougars player at Northwestern Medicine Field. The donation will then be matched by the charitable arm of the Cougars organization, The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc.

Last season a total of $1,900 was donated to Emmanuel House which strives to break the cycle of poverty through a financial model called Networked Saving that helps working families save for a down payment on a home.

“Paramount Fence is proud to support a local charity that does so much to improve the lives of those who are especially in need,” said Steve Gall, President at Paramount Fence of Batavia. “Emmanuel House in Aurora helps transform lives through home ownership and helping these families with the Cougars home run charity brings attention to an incredibly worthy cause. Together we can help disrupt the cycle of poverty in our community.”

“We’re thrilled that our partners are as equally committed to charitable initiatives as the entire Cougars organization” added Curtis Haug, Vice President/General Manager of the Cougars. “Last year’s launch of the Home Run for Charity program was very successful and all parties are looking forward to contributing to the wonderful work that Emmanuel House does again this season.”

The Cougars 2017 season begins on Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full 2017 schedule, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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.

Cougars Announce 2017 Charitable Partners

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced a community partnership for the 2017 season in which four local organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. The four organizations will be Alive Naperville (April-May), Holiday Heroes (June), Fox Valley Wildlife Center (July) and Food for Greater Elgin (August-September). In addition, through a partnership with Acres Group, the Cougars have announced that DuPage PADS will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this year’s Pitch-In for Charity promotion in which fans can purchase and toss numbered tennis balls at a target on the field to win a prize following select games.

Alive Naperville (alivenaperville.com) – Alive is a teen-led, teen-driven center that works to empower local youth to become leaders through after school and summer programs, classes and events that build confident and resilient teens.

Holiday Heroes (holiday-heroes.org) – In partnership with hospitals and businesses throughout the Chicagoland area, Holiday Heroes works to provide parties and celebrations for children who are suffering from critical or chronic illnesses.

Fox Valley Wildlife Center (fvwc.org) – Located in Elburn, Ill. the Fox Valley Wildlife Center serves the sick, injured or orphaned animals throughout Kane County and the surrounding areas.

Food for Greater Elgin (www.foodforgreaterelgin.org) – The largest client-choice food pantry in the areas of Elgin, South Elgin and East Dundee, Food for Greater Elgin strives to combat hunger by providing fresh and nutritious food for their clients.

DuPage PADS (dupagepads.org) – Committed to the promise of ending homelessness in the local community, DuPage PADS is the largest provider of interim and permanent housing as well as support services to assist individuals who are working towards a life of self-sufficiency.

“The Cougars organization has consistently strived to give back to our surrounding community and these initiatives allow not only our organization, but our fans to give back in multiple ways,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added owner Chery Froehlich, “We have been very fortunate with the support that the community has shown us for the last 27 years and it’s important that we continue to show our thanks by contributing to these wonderful organizations.”

For more information about the 2017 season, which begins on April 6 against the Clinton LumberKings, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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.

Cougars Support Local Military Organizations Through Grant Donation

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced they were selected as a grant recipient from Highland Capital Management, located in Dallas, Tex. The grant, designated to the Cougars through the “Highland Salutes” program, will be donated to support two local charities, Operation Support Our Troops and SALUTE Inc., which are focused on supporting both active duty military and veterans.

Operation Support Our Troops, based out of Naperville, Ill., provides comfort and care at home and away for active duty military, veterans and their families. They accomplish this through care packages that contain items not readily available during deployment as well as personal letters and notes of encouragement from the surrounding community.

Founded in 2003 by a military family from Arlington Heights, Ill., SALUTE, Inc. was born from their desire to give back to other military families faced with the many hardships experienced during a deployment. Through their efforts, SALUTE, Inc. provides financial, physical and emotional support for military members, veterans and their families.

“We are humbled that Highland Capital Management has chosen the Kane County Cougars Foundation as the recipient of this grant through the ‘Highland Salutes’ program,” said owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “The entire Cougars organization is dedicated to giving back and supporting the men and women of our military who have sacrificed so much. Through this grant, we are able to continue those efforts to support local organizations that carry out that same mission.”

“Highland is delighted to support the Kane County Cougars Foundation and the local initiatives that serve our veterans and their families,” said Brad Ross, President of Highland Capital Management Fund Advisors.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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.

Cougars Donate Foundation Funds to Benefit Local Community Programs

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the three local organizations that will be receiving a monetary donation on behalf of the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. in conjunction with the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. Focusing on the three pillars and areas of need in which the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation was built on, the Cougars will be donating to organizations involving children’s programs, homelessness and indigent healthcare.

“The Cougars would like to thank the Arizona Diamondbacks for their generosity,” said owner Cheryl Froehlich. “As we continue to grow our charitable initiatives through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. we are constantly looking for additional areas where we can make a difference. This donation from the D-backs will enable us to expand our community service programs.”

In the area of children’s programs, the Cougars will be making a contribution to the Kane Excellence in Education Partnership (KEEP). The KEEP program supports and assists the academic and social emotional needs of children throughout the Kane County area. Through collaborations with districts, businesses, government agencies and education organizations, KEEP provides scholarships, educational activities, at-risk programming and necessary educational services to schools in Kane County.

To assist homeless families in the area, the Cougars will make a donation to Bridge Communities located in Glen Ellyn, Ill. The mission of Bridge Communities is to help transition homeless families into a life of self-sufficiency by providing mentoring, housing and supportive services.

Community Nurse Health Center, in LaGrange, Ill. will be receiving the final portion of the donation to help assist the healthcare needs of the local community. Since 1921, Community Nurse Health Center has served residents of the western suburbs by providing direct medical and dental care as well as health education including medical preventive services, chronic disease management, acute illness services, prenatal case management and oral health treatments for low income children and adults.

“The Kane County Cougars are a true asset to their community and share similar values to us at the Arizona Diamondbacks,” said D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall. “We are extremely proud of their efforts and know that initiatives such as this help teach young players the importance of giving back. In doing so, it is our hope that when they do reach the Major Leagues, their approach is aligned with ours. We applaud the efforts of Dr. Bob and Cheryl Froehlich as well as the entire Cougars front office.”

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date promotional information.

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.

Cougars and Mueller Team Up to Provide Memorial Scholarship Fund

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars and Mueller: Certified Public Accountants have announced a new scholarship that will benefit deserving accounting college students in honor of Al Mueller, founding partner of the accounting firm Mueller & Co., LLP now known as Mueller.

Alfred “Al” E. Mueller passed away last March, but left a lasting legacy for his employees, clients and the local community through his many civic and philanthropic endeavors.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Kane County Cougars organization to launch the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund,” said David J. Nissen Managing Partner at Mueller. “Al would have been pleased to hear of these efforts to support and encourage students to pursue their education in the field of accounting and would be so honored to hear that the scholarship was in his name.”

The Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide five scholarships to deserving accounting college students at Mueller. Each of the honored students will receive $1000 towards their education.

“Mueller has been a tremendous supporter of the Kane County Cougars organization,” said owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “We are thrilled to be able to contribute to the continued education of these hardworking students in honor of our dear friend Al Mueller.”

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the up to date information on 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.

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.

Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. Releases Annual Report

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. is pleased to share the second Annual Report to the Community detailing the charitable outreach completed in 2016. The report lists the extensive accomplishments of the foundation and the many notable programs coordinated by the Cougars.

The 50/50 Raffle and the Acres Group Pitch-In for Charity are two in-game programs which a portion of the proceeds benefit specific charities selected by the Kane County Cougars Foundation. In 2016 these two programs generated over $27,000 to support local causes including Anderson Animal Shelter, Hesed House, People’s Resource Center-DuPage County, West Suburban Community Pantry, Rush-Copley Foundation and YWCA Victims Support Services of Naperville.

A new charitable contribution for the 2016 season included the Paramount Fence Home Run for Charity. For every home run that was hit by a Cougars player at home, Paramount Fence made a donation to Emmanuel House in Aurora which was then matched by the Cougars organization, raising a total of $1,900.

Ozzie’s Home Run and Walk 5K generated funds for the Ozzie’s Scholars program, which awarded $3,000 in scholarships to local students as well as the Waubonsee Community College Foundation. The Cougars Legacy Brick Program shares proceeds with the Wounded Warrior Project and the Kane County Cougars Foundation was pleased to present them with over $1,900 in 2016.

Each year the Cougars Reading Program encourages over 140,000 local area students to meet reading goals with incentives such as game tickets, food vouchers and a drawstring backpack. In-kind donations for Ozzie’s Reading Club totaled $562,207 last year.

Through a variety of military organizations including the Illinois National Guard, Operation Support Our Troops, Rolling Thunder Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans and the Veteran Tickets Foundation, the Kane County Cougars Foundation presented in-kind donations for Military Recognition totaling $14,689 in 2016.

Various other in-kind donations, community appearances, high school seminars, clinics, events and the Cougars on-going commitment to the senior citizen community added to the overwhelming donation total that the Kane County Cougars Foundation was able to provide in support of organizations across Kane County and the surrounding area. The Cougars hope to continue this outreach and remain active in giving back to its supporters and community members.

“As recipients of the prestigious Kane County ‘Sparkler Award’ which recognizes commitment to charitable work in the surrounding community, it’s important to us as an organization that we continue to find new ways to give back to the local organizations that help our community day in and day out,” said Cougars owner, Cheryl Froehlich.

“We are proud to once again share this information with our local community,” added Cougars owner, Dr. Bob Froehlich. “We are humbled by the generosity that has allowed us to support these initiatives and look forward to continuing our charitable outreach in the coming season.”

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 151 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.

Cougars Announce Annual Winter Coat Drive Begins December 1

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the kick off for the organization’s annual winter coat drive. Beginning Thursday, December 1 fans are welcome to stop by the Cougars administrative office at Northwestern Medicine Field (34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, IL 60134) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to donate winter coats for those in need this holiday season.

Donations of new or gently-used winter coats for infants, children and adults are all encouraged. Fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2017 regular season Cougars game with each donated item. There is a maximum of 10 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan.

In partnership with the Salvation Army Tri-City Corps, all donated coats will be given to area families in need of cold-weather outerwear this winter.

The Cougars are requesting that all gently-used winter coats be donated by Saturday, December 17 at 11 a.m.

For more information, contact the Cougars front office at 630-232-8811.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions for the 2017 season

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 151 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.

Cougars To Host Christmas Event with Santa and Mascots, December 17

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars will host a special Christmas holiday event on Saturday, December 17 from 9-11 a.m. inside the Super Suite at the newly-minted Northwestern Medicine Field.

Children and their families are invited to meet with Santa Claus as well as team mascots, Ozzie and Annie T. Cougar. Ozzie, Annie and Santa will all be available for photo opportunities while children can also participate in numerous activities including a Christmas stocking decorating station and holiday themed coloring station.

Admission to the event is free while there is a $5 cost per child to participate in the Christmas stocking decorating station. Fans are also encouraged to bring a gently used winter coat as a donation towards the Cougars winter coat drive. The Cougars organization, in partnership with the Salvation Army Tri-City Corps, will be donating the coats to area families who are in need this winter. Fans who donate a coat will receive one undated reserved seat ticket voucher, valid for a 2017 regular season game. Click HERE for more information about the Cougars Winter Coat Drive.

Additional information about the Christmas holiday event is available on our Facebook event page at facebook.com/kanecountycougars.

For updates on tickets and promotions for the 2017 season, follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 151 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.

WTTW Readers are Leaders Event Travels to Cougars, August 14

GENEVA, Ill. – The WTTW Kids Readers are Leaders event is coming to Fifth Third Bank Ballpark on Sunday, August 14 before the Cougars take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels for Back to School Night at 1 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.kccougars.com.

Gates for the event will open at 11 a.m. with festivities beginning in the Music Garden, presented by the Acres Group, at 11:15 a.m. Each person with a ticket for that day’s game will be allowed entry into the ballpark for the free, family-friendly event. Featuring sing-along songs and interactive stories with Miss Lori’s CAMPUS, the event is geared towards young children and their families to help support literacy development throughout the summer.

Click here for more information about Readers are Leaders.

In addition, WTTW and the Cougars will be holding a book exchange. Fans are encouraged to bring a gently used book to the ballpark where they can exchange it for a new book to take home and enjoy.

Illinois Senator McConnaughay will be on hand to provide fun activities for kids and their families in the Cougars KidZone area, presented by Rainbow Play Systems, as well as raffling off backpacks full of school supplies to help kids as they head back to the classroom this fall.

The game is also a Sunday Funday, presented by Dave & Buster’s, which includes free entertainment and discounts for kids in the KidZone area. Activities include pre-game Catch on the Field and an autograph session with Cougars players. The deals don’t stop there as Sunday is Kids Eat Free at the Cougars with all children between the ages of 3 and 10 receiving a voucher at the gate for a free hot dog and small soda.

Following the game, fans of all ages will be able to run the bases.

To purchase tickets for Back to School Night, and participate in the WTTW Kids Readers are Leaders event, contact the Cougars box office at 630-232-8811 or visit www.kccougars.com.

For updates throughout the season on ticket and promotions follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 144 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.