Black History Month: Highlighting Some of the Best Black Players to Play for the BlueClaws

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at some of the best Black players to suit up for their club. While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.” Here is a look at some of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the BlueClaws.

Ryan Howard played for the BlueClaws in 2002 after being drafted by the Phillies the year prior from Southeast Missouri State. With the BlueClaws, Howard hit 19 home runs in 2002 and came back for rehab assignments in 2007, 2010, and 2012. In 2010, the BlueClaws retired his number 29. Howard and Cole Hames (#19) are the only BlueClaws to have their numbers retired by the team.

After leaving the BlueClaws, Howard won the 2005 National League Rookie of the Year and 2006 National League MVP. He helped the Phillies win the World Series in 2008.

Michael Bourn played for the BlueClaws in 2004. Drafted by the Phillies out of the University of Houston, he played for the BlueClaws in 2004, stealing 57 bases while hitting .317. He hit .266 over an 11 year Major League career with the Phillies, Astros, Indians, Braves, Diamondbacks, and Orioles and stole 341 big league bases. Bourn led the National League in stolen bases in 2009 (61), 2010 (52), and 2011 (61) while twice making the All-Star Game.

As a landlord, he waived rents for his tenants during the early COVID-shutdown period in 2020. You can read more about that here.

Quintin Berry was drafted by the Phillies in 2006 out of San Diego State. He spent 2007 with the BlueClaws, stealing 55 bases and hitting .312. Eventually, he made his big league debut with the Tigers in 2012 and played for four different major league teams, winning a World Series title with the Red Sox in 2013.

He is currently the first base coach for the Brewers.

RELATED – We talked about the history of Negro League Baseball in New Jersey with Dr. Larry Hogan on Hook Line & Splitter, a Jersey Shore BlueClaws podcast.

Anthony Gose broke Berry’s team stolen base record when he swiped 76 bases in 96 attempts with the BlueClaws in 2009. Playing for manager Dusty Wathan, Gose was the everyday leadoff hitter and centerfielder and helped the BlueClaws win the franchise’s second championship that season. Gose also homered leading off the bottom of the first inning in Game One of the SAL Championship Series, a series the BlueClaws won 3-1 over the Greenville Drive. Gose went back to pitching in an attempt to make it back to MLB, and after playing for the US Olympic team last summer, returned to the big leagues with the Cleveland Guardians in September.

Jiwan James played for the BlueClaws in 2010, hitting .270 with 33 stolen bases and played a spectacular centerfield. He helped the BlueClaws win the 2010 South Atlantic League title, their third in team history and second straight. After reaching Double-A with the Phillies, James played one year in the Tigers system and is now a youth baseball coach in his home state of Florida. We caught up with Jiwan last year and you can watch the interview below.

JP Crawford is still the only high school draftee to play for the BlueClaws in the year he was drafted. Taken in the first round of the 2013 draft, he made his BlueClaws debut that August. Crawford’s home debut came on August 20, 2013, the day Roy Halladay made a rehab appearance for the BlueClaws. Crawford came back to the BlueClaws for the first half of the 2014 season where he hit .295 with 14 stolen bases. After being named to the SAL All-Star Game, he was promoted at the all-star break that season. He is currently the shortstop for the Seattle Mariners.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Accepting Online Anthem Applications

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will be hosting Virtual National Anthem Tryouts this year, with performers encouraged to submit an audition video online for consideration.

To submit, CLICK HERE and fill out the form completely.

Performers are asked to submit links (YouTube, Twitter, Vimeo) of their performances only of the National Anthem and/or God Bless America. Performances of any other song will not be considered.

Groups of up to three may apply. Groups of four or larger are asked to call a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

Applications will be reviewed on a first-come-first-served basis and performance times at games later in the summer will be determined at a later date.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

– BlueClaws –

BlueClaws Open New Period of Virtual Job Fair Interviews

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws, by popular demand, have opened a new period of virtual interviews for gameday positions at the ballpark this summer!

Positions are available in a wide variety of departments: Custodial Services (Post-Game Cleaning Crew, In-Game Cleaning Crew), Concourse Level Food & Beverage (Cashiers, Food Runners, Cooks, Picnic Area Attendants, and more), Suite Level Food & Beverage (Food Runners and Party Deck Attendants), Back-of-House Food & Beverage (Day and Night Warehouse), Retail Operations (Cashiers, Sales Floor, Hawkers), Grounds (Grounds Crew), Game Day Operations (Parking Attendants, Bat Boys, Kids Zone Attendants), Production (Camera Operators, Instant Replay), and Promotions (Claws Crew, On-Field Emcee).

“We’ve been excited over the last few weeks to add more and more energetic individuals to our team for the upcoming season,” said Kayla Reilly, BlueClaws Director of Events & Operations. “We look forward to interviewing even more applicants and to join our BlueClaws family heading into another great season.”

How To Apply:

Click here to apply for an open position in Custodial Services:

· Post-Game Cleaning Crew

· In-Game Cleaning Crew

Click here to apply for an open position in Food & Beverage:

· Concourse Level Food & Beverage

o Cashiers

o Food Runners

o Cooks (Portables, Back of House, Prep, etc.)

o Picnic Area Attendants

· Suite Level Food & Beverage

o Food Runners

o Party Deck Attendants

· Back-of-House Food & Beverage

o Day and Night Warehouse

Click here to apply for all other open Game Day positions:

· Retail Operations

o Cashiers

o Sales Floor

o Hawkers

· Grounds

o Day and Night Grounds Crew

· Operations

o Parking Attendants

o Bat Boys

o Kids Zone Attendants

· Production

o Camera Operators

o Instant Replay

· Promotions

o Claws Crew

o On-Field Emcee

A BlueClaws representative will be in touch schedule a virtual interview to take place between February 7th and 18th.

With any questions, please email **[email protected]**.

All positions are part-time and begin with on-boarding and training in March with Opening Night set for April 8th. Positions run through the team’s last home game in September, though there is opportunity for additional work at team and ballpark events as needed. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by April 1st and pass a background check. Nights and weekends are required.

Each position starts at $13 per hour.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Since their 2001 inception, the BlueClaws have drawn over 7.8 million fans to FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws will enter 2022 in their second season as both the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and as the High-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is Friday, April 8th against the Aberdeen IronBirds. 2022 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Recognize Staff on National Girls & Women In Sports Day

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The BlueClaws would like to recognize the 11 amazing women on our staff as part of National Girls & Women In Sports Day on February 2nd.

In the above photo, from left to right:

Bottom Row: Kayla Reilly (Director of Events & Operations), Jamie Bertram (VP of Promotions & Entertainment), Gianna Fiocco (Promotions Manager), Susan Wallace (Hospitality Manager)

Top Row: Haley Kopf (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Tori Boughton (Account Executive), Kristina Poetsch (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Jane Rogers (Administrative Coordinator), Rachael Pabon (Food & Beverage Coordinator), Jamie Wagner (Merchandise & Ticket Sales Manager).

We asked these staff members about working in the sports industry, their experiences, and their stories.

Kayla Reilly: For me, the best thing about working in sports is the relationships I have made across the industry and having the chance to work with incredible people from diverse and varied backgrounds. Honestly, I never thought I would be working in the sports industry. (I thought I would be teaching in an elementary school!) So it is always a *pinch me* moment when I realize how far I have come in the last few years and the historic events I have seen and been a part of.

Jamie Bertram: I love being able to take my artistic side and bringing that out in our theme nights, gate giveaways, jersey designs and in game experience. It is really cool to see what you have been working on for months come to life and thousands of people enjoying what you created. Being able to inspire and help other women break into the Sports Management world truly brings me joy and seeing them grow professionally and be so successful makes me very proud.

Gianna Fiocco: My favorite part about working in sports is getting to meet people from all walks of life, from local fans who enjoy a summer game at the stadium to game-day staff from all over the country, to managers from across the globe. I consider myself very lucky to work in an industry where I can learn from the diverse backgrounds of those I encounter on a daily basis. I am most proud of being a woman in such a male dominated industry. I have learned so much from the women that I work with, and am more successful everyday because of them. I am proud to be part of such an amazing team.

Susan Wallace: There is nothing like the thrill of working in sports! Every day is a new adventure, every game is like opening night! The sight of a packed stadium, the sound of the screaming fans, the smell of fresh popcorn popping… there’s nothing else like it! The highs are high, the lows are low, but the thrill of the game makes it all worth it! As a woman working in a previously male-dominated industry, I am most proud of how I am accepted and respected in my role. As the great Venus Williams once said, ‘Sports are a great place to show that equality can happen.’ ”

Haley Kopf: My favorite part about working in sports is the excitement of knowing you are part of a team that leads to the ultimate success of a sports organization. I also love the idea of networking and meeting new people in this industry. You never know who you are going to meet and how that can lead to new opportunities. I am most proud of the tremendous opportunity of growth for women in the sports industry. Seeing how far we have already come and the major advances we’ve taken inspires me to achieve my goals while hopefully inspiring the next generation of women to start their career in sports as well.

Kristina Poetsch: The best part about working in sports for me are the fan interactions! You never know when it could be a child’s first baseball game and getting to be a part of something like that is really special. What we do everyday leading up to the season is all for the fans and without them, the energy and atmosphere of the ballpark wouldn’t be the same. Just to be a woman in sports in general is what I’m most proud of and I think all women in sports can agree. Given that this is a predominantly male profession, it’s important for us women to be shown the same respect as our male colleagues. I love that the number of women working in sports has increased year after year, and it just goes to show you that women can do anything just as well (if not better) than men.

Jane Rogers: I am thrilled to be working in sports. It is a fast-paced environment and every day brings new challenges. Find your challenge, work hard at it, and you will feel engaged and fulfilled. Being a woman in sports for nearly 25 years, I don’t realize how fortunate I am. I’ve been lucky enough to work with so many talented people, cultivated many relationships and contributed to the professional development of many employees. I’ve always been someone that people look up to for advice. It’s been a pleasure sharing my work knowledge with everyone. Climbing the racks from an Office Manager to President/GM of a minor league baseball team is something I will always be proud of.

Jess Szewczyk (not pictured): I’m not a sports fan, but the design aspect of the sports industry is so fun. You can’t even imagine how many different things need to be designed for the stadium. I get to design everything from concession stand stadium signage to Star Wars theme night advertisements. And seeing my designs being used while the game is happening and the stadium is filled. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard, but it’s also totally cool. I feel like the women in the office consistently prove that we deserve to be here just as much as the men do. And by working closely with our interns and assistants, we set a precedent for the future of sports by showing them that women do an exceptional job in all aspects of the sports industry.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws a Part of MiLB’s “The Nine” Initiative to Debut This Year

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 1, 2022 — Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) today announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The BlueClaws are proud to be one of a number of teams participating in the program in its first season in 2022.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

-Minor League Baseball / BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Charities Launches Annual Suite Raffle

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, has launched their annual Luxury Suite Raffle, through which seven winners will each earn a 10-game share of a 2022 BlueClaws Luxury Suite.

The one-of-a-kind, raffle benefits BlueClaws Charities, their Community Partners, and other organizations that receive grants from the team’s non-profit.

“This is a very popular fundraiser that we’ve done for the last few years and really appreciate the support we’ve received from the community,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “We sell a limited number of tickets and offer a great prize – we can’t wait for the drawing this spring!”

BlueClaws Charities sells only 300 raffle tickets at $100 each. Seven winners will be selected and each winner gets a 10-game share of a 2022 Luxury Suite, a $4,950 value.

Ticket purchasers also receive a one-time use coupon for 25% in the team store, a voucher for four reserve seat tickets to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore (April 8th), and the ability to rent up to two Suites at a special rate for $600 (normally $850).

HOW TO ORDER: CLICK HERE to order online or call 732-901-7000 option 3.

“This raffle is one of BlueClaws Charities’ biggest fundraisers and supports our annual grant program,” said Fenstermacher. “This year, we were able to award grants to 31 different organizations throughout Ocean and Monmouth Counties that do amazing work here at the Jersey Shore. Support for initiatives like our Suite Raffle lets us help more of these worthwhile organizations each year.”

BlueClaws Luxury Suites are private boxes for 20 and include indoor/outdoor seating, climate control, TV, a private server, access to the suite-level bar, and a panoramic view of the game.

The drawing will take place on Friday, March 25th at 3:00 pm EST and streamed live on the BlueClaws Facebook page.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

BlueClaws Virtual Job Fair Set For January; Application Process Is Now Open

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws are once again hiring a group of energetic and hard-working individuals to join their gameday staff in 2022. The BlueClaws will host their annual Job Fair virtually between January 10th and 21st, they announced today.

“Our gameday staff members are a tremendously valued part of our BlueClaws family,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Over the years, we have had a truly amazing gameday staff and we look forward to welcoming additional members to the BlueClaws family for this year and years to come.”

Positions are available in a wide variety of departments: Game Day Operations (box office, security, parking, bat boys, kids zone attendants), Concourse Level Food & Beverage (cashiers, food runners, cooks, portable cart operators, picnic attendants and grill cooks, kitchen positions, and more), Suite Level Food & Beverage (bartenders, suite servers, food runners, and party deck attendants), Back-of-House Food & Beverage (both day and nighttime warehouse positions), Merchandise/Retail (Claws Cove positions), Production (camera operators, music & audio positions, instant replay, and PA-announcer), and Promotions (including on-field emcee, Claws Crew team members, and mascot performers).

“Being a member of our gameday staff family means more than just a summer job – it means valuable work experience in a fun, fast-paced environment,” said Ricciutti. “We’re counting down the days until Opening Night and are looking for a great group of people to join us along the way!”

How To Apply: Click here to apply for an open position. As part of the process, applicants will be able to select positions for which they would like to apply. A BlueClaws representative will be in touch schedule a virtual interview to take place between January 10th and January 21st.

With any questions, please email [email protected].

All positions are part-time and begin with on-boarding and training in March with Opening Night set for April 8th. Positions run through the team’s last home game in September, though there is opportunity for additional work at team and ballpark events as needed. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by April 1st and pass a background check. Nights and weekends are required.

Each position starts at $13 per hour.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Since their 2001 inception, the BlueClaws have drawn over 7.8 million fans to FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws will enter 2022 in their second season as both the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and as the High-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is Friday, April 8th against the Aberdeen IronBirds. 2022 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws, RWJBarnabas Health Partner on January 18th Blood Drive

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws and RWJBarnabas Health will partner on a Blood Drive at FirstEnergy Park on Tuesday, January 18th from 11:30 am until 5:30 pm.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended and can be made by clicking here or calling 732-235-8100 ext 221 or 248. There is limited availability within each 15-minute time slot to ensure social distancing protocols will be followed. While the need for blood is typically highest in the summer, the COVID-19 pandemic has further depleted the blood supply, making drives like these all the more important.

All donors are instructed to eat and drink prior to the donation and to bring a photo ID. Masks or cloth face coverings are required for entry. Those that have been exposed to or cared for a positive COVID-19 patient within 28 days prior to the drive are not eligible to donate.

A screening will take place on the ground level before donors enter the lobby outside the ballpark.

All donors will receive two FREE BlueClaws tickets for the 2022 season and be entered to WIN a $50.00 gift card and a BlueClaws VIP experience for 20 people that includes a Luxury Suite and 20 Boardwalk and Mini Golf passes.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

-BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities announced a list of 31 organizations that received a grant from the organization.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, raises money throughout the year as part of a series of initiatives. These include a 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws home games, specialty fundraising events like the team’s Virtual Hot Stove held this year in March, merchandise sales, and more.

Grant money will once again be kept within Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

“We are delighted to once again distribute grants to these deserving non-profit organizations in our communities,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “Our mission is to help those less fortunate around the Jersey Shore, and these grants to 31 unique organizations will benefit those in need.”

Below, find a list of organizations to receive a grant (organizations are listed alphabetically):

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, to subsidize their care services program for families of patients diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • A Need We Feed, to provide meals to veterans, seniors, elementary school children, and families in Ocean County.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, to offer fitness classes twice a week for program participants.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation, to provide financial assistance to families with children diagnosed with cancer.
  • The Brodie Fund, for financial assistance to families that have a pet diagnosed with cancer.
  • Brody’s Crew, to purchase drawstring bags with items like stress balls, sanitizer, glow sticks, silly string, and more, in honor of what would have been Brody’s 6th birthday, to support inpatient families at CHOP.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, to help onboard new volunteers for the organization, which provides supportive services to people who are 60 and older and can no longer drive.
  • Child Care Resources, to support their Diaper Bank, providing diapers and wipes to individuals and organizations in Monmouth County.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, to provide financial assistance, wellness services, and hope to Jersey Shore families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Easterseals New Jersey, to ensure continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building and interview skills to help place participants into jobs within the local community.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company, to help purchase a new refrigerator for concessions at performances.
  • Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, to provide emergency shelter to homeless children and their families throughout Ocean County.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, to purchase chairs needed for their Program Activity Center in Farmingdale, which supports Girl Scout fundraisers and girl programs throughout the year.
  • Homes Now, to assist the nearly 250 individuals and families who reside in Homes Now housing units with food items, cleaning supplies, activities, and more.
  • Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, to offset the costs related to Scouting, such as registration fees, uniforms, and program fees, for families at the Jersey Shore.
  • JF Party Dragon, to purchase food for local food pantries
  • Kids Need More, for an event to support children under 18 and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
  • LADACIN Network, to support their Give and Take Child Care Center in Monmouth County, which provides services for children with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays and typically developing children.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, towards the sponsorship of a service dog.
  • Ma Deuce Deuce, to support a Audrey’s Toy Chest, an initiative to ensure Christmas occurs for local veteran families in need.
  • The Mya Lin Terry Foundation, for siblings of those with pediatric cancer.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, for a home repair project to help subsidize the increased costs incurred after the pandemic.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization, to support their youth partnership, made up of youth between 12-21 living in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club, to support the 20 pediatric patients of Philadelphia Shriners’ Hospital for Children based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children, to support the needs of the youth served, including food, clothing, and community activities.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House, to provide shelter, support, and services for vulnerable youth including at their 12-bed shelter.
  • Parents of Autistic Children (POAC), to support their Challenger Sports League to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students and their non-disabled peers.
  • Raising Hope for Others, to support their annual golf outing held in August of 2022.
  • Seabrook Village, to provide books and magazines for residents at their senior living community.
  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, to distribute 200 behavioral health toolkits to students attending Monmouth/Ocean County schools.
  • The Salvation Army, to support their Hearty Helpings, which serves the hungry at their Toms River, with the purchase of additional cookware and containers.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, to provide financial aid to first responders, their spouse, and children struggling with finances due to medical burdens from sickness or injury.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, to support an annual coat drive for local pre-school to middle-school aged children.

“We are very grateful to those that supported BlueClaws Charities throughout the year and look forward to additional fundraising events soon,” said Fenstermacher.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

Home Runs for Heroes Scores Record-Breaking $91,000 For Charities

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – OceanFirst Foundation has awarded $91,000 to 16 non-profits through its Home Runs for Heroes partnership with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and Townsquare Media. Each home run hit by the Jersey Shore BlueClaws at FirstEnergy Park during the 2021 season scored a $1,000 donation from OceanFirst Foundation for designated charities that helps to meet the emergency and basic needs of local Veterans and members of the United States Armed Forces. Townsquare Media has donated promotional support to each of the charity partners since the program’s inception. In the thirteen seasons of Home Runs for Heroes, a total of $499,000 in grants have been awarded to charities supporting our nation’s heroes.

“92.7 WOBM and Beach Radio 104.1 are honored to play a small role in the success of this wonderful program which supports active and retired members of the military and their families. The shore area is home to many of our veterans and Home Runs for Heroes is a terrific initiative by OceanFirst Foundation and Jersey Shore BlueClaws to help and honor those who have worn the uniform. Townsquare Media will continue to support this program in any way we can,” stated Kevin Williams, Director of the Shore Sports Network, Townsquare Media.

“The BlueClaws are honored to partner with OceanFirst Foundation on this program once again this year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “The money donated goes to amazing organizations around the Jersey Shore helping the true heroes in our community. We’re thrilled the BlueClaws hit so many home runs this season leading to record donations from OceanFirst Foundation!”

“We are proud to work with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Townsquare Media, and our 16 charity partners that bring relief and resources to our heroes and their families facing challenging circumstances. They have earned our support and admiration through their sacrifice and service to our great nation,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director of OceanFirst Foundation.

Grants were awarded to: American National Red Cross ($6,000), Army Emergency Relief ($7,000), Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation ($6,000), Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton ($7,000), Chariot Riders Inc./Horses for Heroes ($6,000), Deborah Hospital Foundation/HeroCare Connect ($6,000), GI Go Fund ($7,000), Homes for All ($6,000), Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II, Memorial Fund ($5,000), Ma Deuce Deuce ($5,000), National Guard State Family Readiness Council ($5,000), Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society ($5,000), Operation First Response ($3,000), Recalibrate ($5,000), VetGroup ($5,000), and Volunteers of America ($7,000).

About OceanFirst Foundation

OceanFirst Foundation empowers organizations to think bigger, solve more problems, and make life better in the neighborhoods served by OceanFirst Bank. OceanFirst Foundation’s priorities include Health & Wellness, Housing, Improving the Quality of Life, Youth Development and Education. Since 1996, OceanFirst Foundation has awarded more than 8,400 grants totaling more than $43 million to over 1,500+ non-profits and schools. Learn more at oceanfirstfdn.org.

About the BlueClaws

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Over 7.8 million fans have come out to FirstEnergy Park to see BlueClaws games since the team’s 2001 inception. The team enhanced their already state-of-the-art ballpark in 2001 with the addition of a mini golf course, the Boardwalk, presented by Toyota World of Lakewood, and the Sand Bar, a special bar setting that also hosts live music throughout the season.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / OceanFirst Foundation –

BlueClaws Charities Accepting Grant Applications

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the 501c3 foundation of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, is now accepting grant applications from area organizations. Organizations may apply for a grant through Friday, October 29th.

Click here to fill out a grant application. All applicants must be a 501c3 organization.

“BlueClaws Charities’ goal is to support the less fortunate in Ocean & Monmouth Counties, and one of the ways that we give back is through our end-of-year grant program,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “We encourage non-profits to apply for a grant through this process so we can continue to give back to the Jersey Shore community.”

Organizations are asked to provide specific details about where the grant money will be used. Priority will be given to organizations whose projects are based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. Filling out an application does not ensure the receipt of a grant. Grant allocations will be made in November by the BlueClaws Charities Board of Directors.

BlueClaws Charities raises money in a variety of ways throughout the year. In-stadium fundraising includes a nightly 50/50 raffle, jersey auctions, scoreboard messages, and other miscellaneous raffles. BlueClaws Charities also raised money through Mystery Bags sold at games this summer. This year, the team hosted a Virtual Hot Stove event in March that featured several Phillies players and personalities and included an online auction. Other fundraising included “Wash Your Claws” t-shirt sales last year.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

BlueClaws Spooktacular – Nightmare Before Christmas on October 29th

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – Halloween weekend starts early with the BlueClaws, with the team hosting a Nightmare Before Christmas movie night at the ballpark on Friday, October 29th. The event is presented by RWJBarnabas Health and the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.

Gates will open at 6:00 pm with the movie shown on the 1,857 square foot video board beginning at 7:00 pm.

Ticket Information: Tickets are just $10 and include popcorn plus soda/water. Kids ages 2 & under are free. Additional food and drink will be available for purchase. CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS ONLINE.

“Our movie nights were extremely popular last summer, especially our Halloween-themed night, and we’re looking forward to another great night this year,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Watching the movie from the field is a very unique experience plus we have other fun on tap as well. It promises to be a great night out for all!”

Additionally, the event includes a costume parade for kids, and fun, safe, and low-contact trick-or-treating. There will be a costume contest as well with the winner earning a Luxury Suite outing for a 2022 April/May game.

As part of the Nightmare Before Christmas festivities, Santa Claws will be here for pictures with fans as well.

Partner participation includes Bimbo Bakeries with others to be added.

Everyone is encouraged to come dressed up. Fans are permitted to bring lawn chairs or blankets to watch the movie from the field.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Over 7.8 million fans have enjoyed BlueClaws baseball since the team’s inception in 2001. The 2022 schedule has been released with Opening Night at the Jersey Shore set for April 8th. For additional information on 2022 ticket packages and group outings, visit BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws, RWJBarnabas Health to Host September 20th Blood Drive

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws and RWJBarnabas Health will partner on a Blood Drive at FirstEnergy Park on Monday, September 20th from 12:00 pm until 6:00 pm.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended and can be made by clicking here or calling 732-235-8100 ext 221 or 248. There is limited availability within each 15-minute time slot to ensure social distancing protocols will be followed. While the need for blood is typically highest in the summer, the COVID-19 pandemic has further depleted the blood supply, making drives like these all the more important.

All donors are instructed to eat and drink prior to the donation and to bring a photo ID. Masks or cloth face coverings are required for entry. Those that have been exposed to or cared for a positive COVID-19 patient within 28 days prior to the drive are not eligible to donate.

A screening will take place on the ground level before donors enter the lobby outside the ballpark.

All donors will receive two FREE BlueClaws tickets for the 2022 season and be entered to WIN a $50.00 gift card and a BlueClaws VIP experience for 20 people that includes a Luxury Suite and 20 Boardwalk and Mini Golf passes.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

-BlueClaws-

BlueClaws to Host School Supply Drive on September 10th

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will host a School Supply Drive at their game on Friday, September 10th. Fans are asked to bring school supplies to the game for the drive hosted by BlueClaws Charities. Items can be dropped off at the New Jersey Natural Gas Information Booth on the concourse behind home plate.

Items that can be dropped off include, but are not limited to: notebooks, binders, markers, pens & pencils, crayons, backpacks,

Any fan that donates school supplies will receive two complimentary tickets to BlueClaws Opening Night in 2022.

Friday’s game includes Post-Game Fireworks thanks to New Jersey Lottery and is a part of Locals’ Summer, presented by Rothman Orthopaedic Institute.

For tickets to Friday’s game or any other game next week, click here.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Release Details for September 11th Remembrance Walk

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws have released details for their September 11th Remembrance Walk to take place on the field at FirstEnergy Park prior to the BlueClaws game next Saturday, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Gates will open to the general public at 5:50 pm, 10 minutes earlier than normal (early entrance for season ticket holders, half-season ticket holders, and partial plan holders remains at 5:30). Upon entry to the ballpark, fans will be able to pick up cards at each of the two entry gates. Fans can write in names of individuals or groups on the cards that they would like to honor through their participation in the walk. There will be several pre-printed versions for fans as well.

Participants will then head to Section 103 on the first base concourse. The walk will begin shortly after 6:00 pm and fans can walk the full two laps of the field to represent 2,730 feet, the combined height of both towers.

During the walk, the BlueClaws will play a commemorative video on the board, which will include a recording of each Jersey Shore victim of the 9/11 attacks.

Fans are asked to hold onto the cards for a special promotion that will run during the middle of the sixth inning.

“We honor those that lost their lives in the terrorist attacks 20 years ago,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “They will not be forgotten and we will honor their memories this year on the anniversary of that tragic day.”

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-