NEW HIRING EVENTS SCHEDULED AT ARVEST BALLPARK IN MARCH

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SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Patina Restaurant Group, the official caterer of Arvest Ballpark, have announced a couple of additional hiring events during the month of March.

On Tuesday, March 8th and Tuesday, March 15th from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., the two organizations will be taking applications and conducting on-site interviews for part-time, Gameday associates who, if selected, will be instrumental in providing top-notch customer service to fans during the 2022 season. Those interested are invited to enter through the Main Gates where tables will be setup on the concourse. In the case of bad weather, events will be held in the Northwest Health Community Room.

Available positions are listed below, and more information can be obtained by calling (479) 927-4900 or emailing [email protected]. People that are not able to attend, can fill out an application at our Administrative Offices at Arvest Ballpark between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. All applicants are encouraged to interview with both organizations to increase potential for hire.

AVAILABLE PART-TIME, GAMEDAY POSITIONS INCLUDE:

Kids Zone Attendant

Retail Associate

Batboy

Mascot

Cashiers *Patina Restaurant Group

Cooks *Patina Restaurant Group

Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal to highlight causes, showcase communities throughout 2022 season

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PAPILLION, Neb. – The Omaha Storm Chasers are proud to share plans for the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal, new for the 2022 season. The initiative, which features eight nights during the 2022 season, is designed to highlight different groups, showcase underrepresented communities, and raise awareness for various causes.

Games featuring the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal are as follows: Thurs., April 28 (Mental Health Awareness), Thurs., May 5 (Gender Equality Night), Thurs., May 19 (All-Abilities Night), Thurs., June 9 (Pride Night), Thurs., June 23 (Diversity Night), Wed., July 6 (Senior Health Awareness), Thurs., Aug. 25 (Cancer Awareness), and Thurs., Sept. 22 (Copa de la Diversión).

“Through our new Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal, we are eager to showcase and recognize many diverse groups and causes at Werner Park in 2022,” Storm Chasers President Martie Cordaro said. “As we were creating the series, it was key to find the right partner that aligns with our community values. PayPal is that partner and we are grateful for their parallel vision.”

“Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Belonging are top priorities here at PayPal,” PayPal Senior Director of Global Customer Service Steve Wallace said. “We are excited to partner with the Omaha Storm Chasers, who share our passion to create a more inclusive community here in the metro. The Chasers Community Celebration Series is an outstanding way to bring people together to create awareness and drive support for organizations that are making a difference in our area. We are thrilled to be a part of this program and are looking forward to an exciting summer at beautiful Werner Park.”

The first game of the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal will be on Thurs., April 28 and highlight the importance of Mental Health by showcasing local organizations and businesses focusing on mental health, including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention of Nebraska.

Gender Equality Night on Thurs., May 5 features the Women’s Center for Advancement and will celebrate gender equality opportunities through sports. All-Abilities Night on Thurs., May 19 will empower people of all abilities and feature The Ollie Web Center while the Storm Chasers also host additional groups and organizations that make a positive impact on supporting those with all abilities.

The Storm Chasers’ annual Pride Night is scheduled for Thurs., June 9 and will celebrate the LGBTQ community while highlighting Heartland Pride. Diversity Night on Thurs., June 23 will feature the Urban League of Nebraska while bringing awareness to diversity and inclusion initiatives and celebrating different ethnicities and heritages across the Omaha metro.

Wednesday, July 6 highlights Senior Health Awareness and features The Alzheimer’s Association. The Storm Chasers will host a Senior’s Fair with local businesses and organizations tailored to those 55-and-up before the game and also host pre-game Senior Bingo. Cancer Awareness Night on Thurs., Aug. 25 will bring awareness and show support for those battling any type of cancer, celebrate cancer survivors, and feature the Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation.

The final game of the Chasers Community Celebration Series presented by PayPal will double as the Storm Chasers’ annual Copa de la Diversión Night. It will showcase the Latino Center of the Midlands while the team plays as the Cazadores de Tormentas for the fourth straight season as part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa de la Diversión initiative to embrace the culture and values that resonate with local Hispanic and Latino communities.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are scheduled to begin the 2022 season on April 5 at Indianapolis before welcoming fans to Werner Park for the home opener on April 12 vs. Louisville. The full 2022 schedule can be found here and single-game tickets are now available here.

For more tickets and more information, please visit omahastormchasers.com, call the Werner Park Ticket office at (402) 738-5100, and follow the team on social media. You can follow the team on Twitter @omastormchasers, on Instagram @omahastormchasers, and “like” the team on Facebook at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

Storm Chasers to host daily open interviews for gameday positions 

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PAPILLION, Neb. – The Storm Chasers are hosting daily open interviews at Werner Park for gameday employee positions for the 2022 season from Monday, February 28-Friday, March 4 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. There will be an additional opportunity to interview at Werner Park on Saturday, March 5 from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

These interview opportunities are in addition to the organization’s Walk-In Wednesday opportunity, where prospective gameday employees can arrive at Werner Park and interview for a gameday position each Wednesday from 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. between January 26-March 30.

For inquiries, prospective gameday employees can contact Human Resource Manager Aniya Tate by email at [email protected] or by phone at (402) 738-2187.

Gameday positions available for application include, but are not limited to: Amusements, Bat Boy/Girl, Fan Services, Game Operations, Grounds Crew, Mascots, On-Field Host, Parking Lot Attendant, Promotions Team, Public Address Announcer, Storm Front Team Store, Ticket Seller, Ticket Taker, Usher, and Video Production Team. Those interested can find more information and apply online here. The Storm Chasers are also seeking applicants for the Ballpark Security Team, a new addition to the Werner Park stadium staff for 2022.

Gameday Internship positions are also available for college students interested in exploring a career in the sports industry. Storm Chasers interns have the opportunity to work in every aspect of gameday and event operations at Werner Park, allowing interns to learn as much about the business as possible, gain valuable experience, and discover their own passions and goals. Those interested in an internship opportunity can contact Aniya Tate for more information and submit an application here.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are scheduled to begin the 2022 season on April 5 at Indianapolis before welcoming fans to Werner Park for the home opener on April 12 vs. Louisville. The full 2022 schedule can be found here and single-game tickets are now available here. For more tickets and more information, please visit omahastormchasers.com, call the Werner Park Ticket office at (402) 738-5100, and follow the team on social media. You can follow the team on Twitter @omastormchasers, on Instagram @omahastormchasers, and “like” the team on Facebook at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

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NATURALS JOB FAIR AT ARVEST BALLPARK RESCHEDULED FOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH

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SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Patina Restaurant Group have announced that they will be rescheduling their next Job Fair to Monday, February 28th from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Northwest Health Community Room at Arvest Ballpark. The original event was scheduled for February 24th but has been moved due to the weather to accommodate those that want to attend.

People attending will be asked to enter at the Associate’s Entrance on the south side of the ballpark to fill out an application before proceeding to the Northwest Health Community Room for the interview portion of the event. The Naturals along with Patina Restaurant Group, the official caterer of Arvest Ballpark, will be taking applications and conducting on-site interviews for part-time, Gameday associates who, if selected, will be instrumental in providing top-notch customer service to fans.

Details of available positions are listed below and additional information regarding can be obtained by calling (479) 927-4900. People that are unable to make the job fair can stop out at our Administrative Offices at Arvest Ballpark between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday to fill out an application. All applicants are encouraged to interview with both organizations to increase their potential for hire.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS NATURALS

Kids Zone Attendant

Kids Zone Attendants are responsible for ensuring all children play safely while having fun. This area includes four (4) inflatables, kid’s train, a mini-golf course, speed pitch, and our wiffle ball field.

Retail Associate

Requires organizational skills, ability to complete sales, and maintain inventory accurately. The ability to multi-task is also important as the retail store may be very busy at times throughout each game. Money handling and customer service experience a plus, but not required.

Mascot

Engaging, enthusiastic individual that will act out the character of the Naturals mascots “Strike” and “Sinker”. Perform at all (or majority of) home games at Arvest Ballpark and some community appearances, as requested. Must be able to be active for up to 2 hours in costume and have a willingness to show your personality through the characters. Training and a script for each game is provided, and a handler is also assigned to help with crowd control and getting mascots into position.

Clubhouse Attendant

Responsible for a clean baseball environment for all the players, coaches, and umpires throughout the course of pre-game, during the game, and post-game. Will be responsible for retrieving bats and other equipment, foul balls, and keeping the umpires furnished with liquids among various other tasks.

Camera Operator

Camera operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and breaking down game day cameras. The cameras used are JVC GY HM-800s. Training will be provided for setup, breakdown, and operation.

Grounds Crew

Grounds crew is needed for home games, high school games, and other special events. Duties involve batting practice tear down, cleaning equipment, 5th inning drag, and post-game patching. Applicants must be able to lift a minimum 50 pounds, be willing and able to work in various weather conditions.

PATINA RESTAURANT GROUP

Concession Cashiers, Runners and Servers

Serve our fans in a fast and professional manner. Must be friendly, personable, and well groomed.

Cooks

Preparing all food to proper temperature and ensuring consistency of product. Capable of working fast.

Suite Attendants

Provide guests with reliable, professional, and courteous food and beverage service. Experience in a la carte waiter service is preferred but not required.

Join Our Game Day Staff!

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

 

Join the River Bandits family at Modern Woodmen Park for the 2022 season!

We are hiring for several part time positions within food and beverage, production, promotions, the box office and more! Join our team and enjoy a ticket, team store discount, employee meal, and a full summer of baseball!

APPLY HERE!

To learn more about joining our game day staff, call 563-324-3000!

The Nine: Highlighting Black stars in Omaha baseball history

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As part of honoring Black History month and Minor League Baseball’s initiative, “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, the Omaha Storm Chasers are highlighting five of the franchise’s and city’s top Black players.

 

Bob Gibson (Omaha Cardinals, 1957-1959)

Bob Gibson’s baseball career has gone down as not only as one of the best by an Omaha native, but also one of the best in the history of the state of Nebraska. He’s one of six members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame born in Nebraska, a group that includes Grover Cleveland Alexander, Richie Ashburn, Wade Boggs, Sam Crawford, and Billy Southworth.

A two-time Cy Young Award winner, 1968 NL MVP, nine-time All-Star, nine-time Gold Glover, two-time World Series champion and World Series MVP, Gibson began his baseball career in Omaha at Creighton University, where he played both baseball and basketball for the Bluejays.

Gibson played professionally for Omaha from 1957-1959, when he suited up for the Omaha Cardinals of the American Association and played at Omaha Municipal Stadium (later known at Rosenblatt Stadium). He made 33 starts for the Omaha Cardinals over the course of three seasons, striking out 170 in 264.0 innings while breaking into the Major Leagues in 1959.

Now commemorated with a statue outside Werner Park, Gibson is best-remembered for authoring one of the greatest pitching seasons in baseball history in 1968, posting a 1.12 ERA (a post-integration record) in 34 starts, striking out 268 in 304.2 innings while posting a 22-9 record and throwing 13 shutouts.

Frank White (1973)

A member of the Royals’ Hall of Fame, White is one of six people (and three players) to have their number retired at Werner Park. He spent most of the 1973 season playing for the Omaha Royals while also making his Major League debut with the Kansas City Royals that season and playing 51 Major League games. In 86 games with Omaha, White batted .264/.341/.365 with 19 doubles to help anchor a lineup that also featured future Hall of Famer George Brett.

White spent his entire Major League career with Kansas City, earning All-Star honors five times and Gold Glove honors eight times over the course of his 18 seasons. In 1985, White helped lead Kansas City to the franchise’s first World Series title while becoming the first second baseman since Jackie Robinson to bat cleanup in a World Series game. His best World Series performance game in Game 3, when he doubled, homered, and drove in three to give the Royals their first win of the series.

Willie Wilson (1977)

A member of the Royals Hall of Fame, Wilson played his lone season with Omaha in 1977, the year after he made his Major League debut as a September call-up from Double-A. Wilson tied for first on the 1977 Omaha Royals in games played (132), ranked second in hits (145) behind Clint Hurdle, and set a franchise record for steals (74) that would be broken just two seasons later by Germán Barranca (75). Wilson’s 74 steals in 1977 were the most in Triple-A and the fifth-most in Minor League Baseball (Ricky Henderson led Minor League Baseball with 95 steals for Class A Modesto).

He went on to play a total of 15 seasons with Kansas City, earning All-Star honors in 1982 and 1983 and helping the Royals win the 1985 World Series by going 11-for-30 (.367) in the Fall Classic. One of the fastest players in the league, Wilson racked up 668 stolen bases in his career (12th all time) and led the league in triples five times. While he won the batting title with a .332 average in 1982, his best season came in 1980, when he hit .326/.357/.421 while leading the league in runs (133), hits (230), and triples (15). He also rapped 28 doubles and stole 79 bases in 1980 en route to finishing fourth in an American League MVP race won by George Brett.

Dwayne Hosey (1994-1995)

One of five players in franchise history to earn league MVP honors, Hosey posted one of the best all-around seasons in franchise history in 1994, his first of two seasons in Omaha.

In 1994, Hosey was named American Association MVP after batting .333/424/.628 with 95 runs scored, 23 doubles, 27 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases in 112 games and recording 13 outfield assists as the team’s primary centerfielder. He finished second in the league in average (.333) and on-base percentage (.424) while leading the league in slugging (.628) by 48 points and tying for second in the circuit in homers (27). His 95 runs, eight triples, and 27 steals were all tops across Triple-A. Hosey returned to Omaha in 1995 and played 75 games, smacking 21 doubles and 12 homers while stealing 15 bases and hitting .295/.363/.535.

Hosey made his Major League debut with Boston in 1995, playing 52 total games for the Red Sox between 1995 and 1996 before enjoying a standout season with the Nippon Professional Baseball League’s (Japan) Yakult Swallows in 1997, when he was named a member of the league’s Best Nine team.

An Omaha resident since 2003, Hosey has owned and operated Hosey Baseball Training Center in Keystone since 2015.

Lorenzo Cain (2011-2012, 2014, 2016)

One of the most dynamic players in modern franchise history and in the Storm Chasers era (2011-pres.), Lorenzo Cain anchored Omaha’s 2011 Pacific Coast League Championship team in his lone full season with Omaha.

Cain played 128 games for Omaha in 2011, batting .312/.380/.497 with 28 doubles, 16 home runs, and 16 stolen bases. He was the starting centerfielder and leadoff hitter for the first-ever Storm Chasers home game at Werner Park on April 16, 2011, sharing the field with current Major Leaguers Mike Moustakas, Eric Hosmer, Manny Piña, Danny Duffy, and Jesse Chavez. Cain hit third in the Chasers’ lineup throughout the 2011 postseason, batting .438 (14-for-32) with three doubles, a triple, and two RBIs.

Currently in his second stint with the Milwaukee Brewers, Cain spent seven seasons with Kansas City, earning All-Star honors in 2015 en route to leading the Royals to a World Series title. He also helped the Royals win the American League pennant in 2014, earning ALCS MVP honors by batting .533 (8-for-15) with five runs scored and two doubles during the American League Championship Series against Baltimore.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are scheduled to begin the 2022 season on April 5 at Indianapolis before welcoming fans to Werner Park for the home opener on April 12 vs. Louisville. The full 2022 schedule can be found here and single-game tickets are now available here.

For more tickets and more information, please visit omahastormchasers.com, call the Werner Park Ticket office at (402) 738-5100, and follow the team on social media. You can follow the team on Twitter @omastormchasers, on Instagram @omahastormchasers, and “like” the team on Facebook at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

Top 5 Black Players in Quad Cities Baseball History

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

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five 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 five of the best Black baseball players in Quad Cities baseball history.

Garrett Anderson (1991)

Anderson spent the 1991 season with the Quad City Angels on his way to an accolade-filled 17-year Major League career.

Despite putting up pedestrian numbers in the Midwest League, the former 1990 fourth-round pick made his Major League debut in 1994 and won Sporting News Rookie of the Year in 1995. Over 2,228 Big League games with the Angles, Braves, and Dodgers, Anderson batted .293/.324/.461 with 2529 hits, 522 doubles, 287 home runs, and 1365 runs batted it.

In addition to holding multiple club records, the three-time All-Star (2002, 2003, 2005) and two-time Silver Slugger (2002, 2003) helped lead Anaheim to a World Series Championship in 2002 and won the Home Run Derby and All-Star Game MVP in 2003.

Thad Bosley (1975)

After being selected in the fourth-round of the 1974 draft, Bosley—at just 18 years old—played his second professional season with the Quad Cities Angles and was named a Midwest League Postseason All-Star in 1975 after slashing .298/.410/.354, with 50 runs batted in and 37 stolen bases.

Bosley debuted in the Major Leagues with California in 1977 and spent parts of 14 seasons with the Angles, White Sox, Brewers, Mariners, Cubs, Royals, and Rangers. During the 1985 season, the outfielder hit .328 with seven home runs and was voted the best pinch hitter in baseball.

Shawon Dunston (1983)

Taken as the first overall pick in the 1982 draft, Dunston played in 117 games with the Quad Cities Cubs in 1983 and became Quad Cities’ first Midwest League “Star of Stars” (MVP) and Prospect of the Year, while also being named a Postseason All-Star. The shortstop batted .310/.332/.409 and remains eighth on the Quad Cities all-time singles list (112) and tied for fifth on the all-time stolen bases list (58).

Making his debut with the Cubs in 1985, Dunston spent 12 of his 18-year Major League career with Chicago before also seeing time in San Francisco, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, St. Louis, and New York (Mets).

Dunston was a two-time Major League All-Star (1988, 1990) and holds a .269 career batting average with 150 home runs and 212 stolen bases.

Damion Easley (1990)

As the lowest drafted player in our top five, Easley turned a 30th round selection in the 1988 draft into a 17-year Major League career and spent the 1990 season with the Midwest League Champion Quad Cities Angels. The New York native hit .274/.358/.425 with 10 home runs and 56 runs batted in en route to a Postseason All-Star selection as part of the title winning squad.

After beginning his career with the California Angles, Easley was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 1996 where he’d spend the majority of his career and earn an appearance in the Home Run Derby and All-Star/Silver Slugger honors during the 1998 season.

In 2001, Easley hit for the cycle and notched an inside-the-park home run. He also tied Ty Cobb and Kid Nance for the Tigers’ single-game hits record with six against the Texas Rangers on August 8 of that season.

The utility infielder also played with Tampa Bay, Florida, Arizona, and New York (Mets).

Ron Jackson (1972)

A second-round pick by the California Angles in 1971, Jackson batted .274/.336/.436 with 12 home runs and 73 runs batted in with the Quad Cities Angels in 1972.

After four seasons with the Angles, Jackson played for the Minnesota Twins in 1979 and recorded a career-high 158 hits, 40 doubles, and 14 home runs over 153 games. The first baseman also posted a .9943 fielding percentage, breaking Rod Carew’s Twins’ record.

Following his 10-year playing career, which also saw stops in Baltimore and Detroit, Jackson spent 21 years as a coach/manager, including a stint as hitting coach for the Boston Red Sox.

JOB FAIR AT ARVEST BALLPARK ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24TH

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

 

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Patina Restaurant Group will host a Job Fair at Arvest Ballpark on Thursday, February 24th from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Those attending will be asked to enter at the Associate’s Entrance on the south side of the ballpark to fill out an application before proceeding to the Northwest Health Community Room for the interview portion of the event.

The Naturals along with Patina Restaurant Group, the official caterer of Arvest Ballpark, will be taking applications and conducting on-site interviews for part-time, Gameday associates who, if selected, will be instrumental in providing top-notch customer service to fans during the upcoming 2022 season.

Details of available positions are listed below and additional information regarding can be obtained by calling (479) 927-4900. People that are unable to make the job fair can stop out at our Administrative Offices at Arvest Ballpark between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday to fill out an application. All applicants are encouraged to interview with both organizations to increase their potential for hire.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS NATURALS

Kids Zone Attendant

Kids Zone Attendants are responsible for ensuring all children play safely while having fun. This area includes four (4) inflatables, kid’s train, a mini-golf course, speed pitch, and our wiffle ball field.

Retail Associate

Requires organizational skills, ability to complete sales, and maintain inventory accurately. The ability to multi-task is also important as the retail store may be very busy at times throughout each game. Money handling and customer service experience a plus, but not required.

Mascot

Engaging, enthusiastic individual that will act out the character of the Naturals mascots “Strike” and “Sinker”. Perform at all (or majority of) home games at Arvest Ballpark and some community appearances, as requested. Must be able to be active for up to 2 hours in costume and have a willingness to show your personality through the characters. Training and a script for each game is provided, and a handler is also assigned to help with crowd control and getting mascots into position.

Clubhouse Attendant

Responsible for a clean baseball environment for all the players, coaches, and umpires throughout the course of pre-game, during the game, and post-game. Will be responsible for retrieving bats and other equipment, foul balls, and keeping the umpires furnished with liquids among various other tasks.

Camera Operator

Camera operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and breaking down game day cameras. The cameras used are JVC GY HM-800s. Training will be provided for setup, breakdown, and operation.

Grounds Crew

Grounds crew is needed for home games, high school games, and other special events. Duties involve batting practice tear down, cleaning equipment, 5th inning drag, and post-game patching. Applicants must be able to lift a minimum 50 pounds, be willing and able to work in various weather conditions.

PATINA RESTAURANT GROUP

Concession Cashiers, Runners and Servers

Serve our fans in a fast and professional manner. Must be friendly, personable, and well groomed.

Cooks

Preparing all food to proper temperature and ensuring consistency of product. Capable of working fast.

Suite Attendants

Provide guests with reliable, professional, and courteous food and beverage service. Experience in a la carte waiter service is preferred but not required.

Jackie Robinson Scholarship applications open for 2022 

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

 

PAPILLION, Neb. – Applications for the Jackie Robinson Scholarship presented by The Weitz Company are currently open and due by March 11, 2022. The Chasers Charities-Robinson Athletic Scholarship program is administered by the Omaha Storm Chasers.

Winners of the scholarship will be notified no later than April 1, 2022 and receive one $1000 scholarship that is not renewable and is to be paid directly to the student’s accredited postsecondary institution. Winners will be recognized during the Storm Chasers’ home game against the Louisville Bats on Friday, April 15, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m.

The scholarship recognizes the impact Jackie Robinson—the first Black player in Major League Baseball history—had on America and the legacy he left for all Americans by supporting two local Black high school athletes for their hard work, character, and motivation to make a positive impact on our local community and society.

To be eligible to apply, the student must:

  • Be a United States citizen or a permanent resident
  • Reside in one of the following counties: Sarpy, Douglas, Cass, Lancaster, Pottawattamie
  • Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
  • Be Black, male or female, and a high school student participating in athletics
  • Be a high school senior or graduate planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study at an accredited postsecondary institution

A student’s application must consist of:

  • Current, complete transcripts of grades
  • Letter of support from current supervising principal, coach, or guidance counselor
  • Statement of how and why sports have been important in your life
  • Essay answering the question: “Which athlete has inspired you and why” with examples included

Complete applications can be sent to:

Chasers Charities

c/o Omaha Storm Chasers Baseball Club

Attn: Jenna Kniss

12356 Ballpark Way

Papillion, NE 68046

Applicants may also send their application via e-mail to Community Relations Coordinator Jenna Kniss at [email protected] with all necessary attachments included. For questions or more information, applicants may contact Kniss via email at [email protected] or by phone at (402) 738-2193.

The Omaha Storm Chasers are scheduled to begin the 2022 season on April 5 at Indianapolis before welcoming fans to Werner Park for the home opener on April 12 vs. Louisville. The full 2022 schedule can be found here and single-game tickets are now available here.

For more tickets and more information, please visit omahastormchasers.com, call the Werner Park Ticket office at (402) 738-5100, and follow the team on social media. You can follow the team on Twitter @omastormchasers, on Instagram @omahastormchasers, and “like” the team on Facebook at facebook.com/omahastormchasers.

Top Five Black Players in Columbia History

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

To celebrate Black History Month, the Columbia Fireflies are joining MLB in naming the top five black players to play baseball in the Midlands region. Columbia has a decorated baseball history that first saw professional baseball in the late 1800’s. The first Major League team to make an official relationship

To celebrate Black History Month, the Columbia Fireflies are joining MLB in naming the top five black players to play baseball in the Midlands region. Columbia has a decorated baseball history that first saw professional baseball in the late 1800’s. The first Major League team to make an official relationship with Columbia was the Cincinnati Reds, who announced their affiliation with the city in 1954.

Across the expansive list of players, this is the group that stands out over the rest.

5.) Our countdown starts with Ron Washington. While Washington didn’t play in Columbia, many people don’t know Washington for his eight-year Major League career in the middle infield, they know him for his time as a Manager and coach. His coaching career began with the Capital City Bombers, where he manned the helm in 1993 and 1994. Washington led the Bombers to 123 wins across those two seasons before getting an offer from the Oakland Athletics to help out their Major League staff during the start of the Moneyball era. Washington is credited as teaching Scott Hatteberg how to play first base after Billy Beane signed him. The Louisiana native began his Major League coaching career in 2007 with the Texas Rangers. In parts of eight seasons with the Rangers, Washington led the club to the World Series in 2010-11 and to a third playoff berth in 2012. He would finish his managerial career with a 664-611 record after resigning from his post with the Rangers in 2014. In 2016, he made his return to coaching in Major League Baseball, this time as a third-base coach for the Atlanta Braves. Washington was finally able to win his first World Series when the Braves took home the title in 2021.

4.) Next up, the first former player in Columbia to make the list is Mo Bruce. While Bruce never played in the Majors, he had a profound impact on the last championship season in Soda City. The middle infielder played for the Capital City Bombers in the 1998 campaign and led the League with a .341 average in 126 games. Hickory’s Jimmy Terrell was second in the league with a .337 clip. Bruce wasn’t selected until the 54th round of the 1994 draft, but he did more than provide an elite average for Capital City. He also clubbed 15 homers and drove in a team-high 74 RBI on Capital City’s chase for the South Atlantic League crown. Over the course of his career, Bruce spent six seasons in the minors, including two in AAA. He held a career average of .289 and had 38 total homers. His input was a big reason why Baseball America ranked that Bombers’ team first overall in the last 1998 power ranking they put out that season. Bruce also had an intangible that added to the team’s success: his veteran presence. A lot of guys in that line-up viewed Bruce as a third coach on the field. Bruce was a year or two older than most of the other players on that roster. That magical season at Capital City Stadium is where Bruce put together his top power and average numbers to help culminate in a ring, and that’s why he clocks in at number four in our list.

3.) Simeon Woods-Richardson is the only pitcher in the top-five, but Woods-Richardson has established himself, not only as one of the top pitchers in Columbia history, but one of the top young, exciting prospects in all of baseball, all before his 22nd birthday. Prior to the 2021 season, Baseball America ranked the righty as the 60th-best prospect in baseball. The magazine gives credit to his control of all four of his pitches and most believe he will make his Major League debut some time this season. He wasn’t ignored by the other top publication in baseball scouting. MLB.com Pipeline called Woods-Richardson the 87th-best prospect in baseball prior to the 2021 season. In Columbia, the Sugar Land, Texas native racked up strikeouts at an incredible rate. He started all 20 of his appearances for the Fireflies, punching out 97 batters in 78.1 frames. That’s 11.15 K/9 IP! His overall numbers have been hampered by a lot of the hype around him that has led to Woods-Richardson being involved in two blockbuster trades in the last three seasons. First, he was traded with LHP Anthony Kay for All-Star Marcus Stroman in 2019. Next the wheels brought him to Minnesota where he was traded with SS Austin Martin for All-Star Jose Berrios. While Woods-Richardson has had to adapt to playing in three different farm systems, his talent was recognized when he was selected to pitch in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and was awarded a silver medal for his participation with team USA. Simeon Woods-Richardson’s career is far from over, but what he’s accomplished already is enough for him to end up at number three on this list!

2.) Our next candidate never played baseball professionally in the Midlands, but it would be a crime to leave someone so impactful off our list. Larry Doby was born in Sumter, less than 50 miles from Segra Park. When Doby was young, his family moved to New Jersey, where he would eventually play for the Negro League Newark Eagles from 1942-1944. Like many others in that era, Doby stepped away from baseball to join the war effort at the peak of World War II. The star ballplayer joined the Navy and when he came back to the states in 1946, he played again for the Newark Eagles. He didn’t stick to baseball though, Doby broke the color barrier in the ABL, a precursor to today’s NBA and then he helped the Eagles win a championship in 1946 before the Cleveland Indians signed him in 1947. Later that season, Doby followed Jackie Robinson to become the second black player in Major League Baseball. He broke the color barrier in the American League, and then followed it with plenty of accolades. The next year, on his way to winning a World Series with the Indians, Doby became the first African American to hit a homer in a World Series game. Then, in 1952, on another run that saw Cleveland finish second in the American League, Doby became the first black player to lead a league in homers. He hit 32 homers in the campaign, beating teammate Luke Easter by a single homer for the league lead. Over the course of Doby’s career, he played in seven All-Star games and tallied five-100 RBI seasons and eight-20 home run seasons. Doby was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1998. His impact on the game of baseball will never be forgotten.

1.) Now it’s time for our top spot on the list. There are plenty of people who had incredible careers in Columbia and beyond, but when you combine the impact a player had in the Midlands with a Major League impact, you have to hand the top award to Frank Robinson who spent parts of two summers playing for the Columbia Reds in 1954-55. During his time in Columbia, The Judge paced the 1954 team with a .336 average and 25 homers in 132 games. In 1955 he added 12 more homers in 80 games before getting the call straight to the majors in 1956 where he won the National League Rookie of the Year award as a 20-year-old. After a decade with the Reds, Robinson was traded to the Orioles during the 1965 campaign. In his first season on the East Coast, Robinson won the AL Triple Crown, blasting 49 homers to pair with a .316 average and 122 RBI. That season, Robinson won the AL MVP award, four years after he won the NL MVP award with the Reds, thus becoming the first player to win the MVP for both leagues. The slugger also tallied a World Series MVP in 1966. He was the heart of the Orioles lineup that won three AL Pennants from 1969-71. All-in-all, Robinson was a 14-time All-Star and has the most walk-off hits (26) in Major League history. Robinson’s 586 homers are the 10th-most all-time. Robinson wasn’t done there though. After his playing days ended in Cleveland, Robinson became the manager for the Indians, making his way as the first black manager in Major League Baseball. He would manage for the Giants, Orioles, Expos and Nationals before retiring and took home the hardware for the 1989 American League Manager of the Year. Robinson truly was one of the all-time greats, and that’s why he leads our list of top black players to come through Columbia.

Minor League Baseball Announces “The Nine,” a New Initiative to Celebrate, Engage and Welcome Black Fans

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 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.

Fireflies in Search of 2022 National Anthem Performers

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

 

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that they are seeking singers and musicians of all ages to perform The Star-Spangled Banner before Fireflies home games this upcoming season. Fans are invited to audition live to be anthem performers on certain designated days in February. Soloists and groups are both welcome to audition. Auditions are held by reservations only.

National Anthem auditions will take place in the Club Lounge at Segra Park Saturday, February 12, Wednesday, February 16 and Thursday, February 17. Those interested in auditioning and learning about specific audition times that are available must call or email Devin Johnson at 803-888-3013 or [email protected] to set up an audition time. Walk-ups are not welcome; auditions must be scheduled with Devin in advance. National Anthem auditioners under the age of 18 must be accompanied to auditions by a parent or guardian.

Performance groups of more than 15 people are welcome to perform the National Anthem prior to a Fireflies game but will see a different audition process. If a band or group larger than 15 people would like to perform, they must contact Halle Wade at 803-888-3007 or [email protected] to audition.

The Fireflies will play 66 home games in 2022. Limited performance dates are available throughout the season, and not all who audition are guaranteed a scheduled game date. Those who have previously performed the anthem at Segra Park are required to audition again. A Fireflies representative will reach out to those selected to perform in late February, after the conclusion of the audition process. Those who are selected to perform will receive four complimentary tickets to the game for the night of their performance.

Opening Night for the Fireflies 2022 campaign is slated for Friday, April 8 at 7:05 pm vs the Augusta GreenJackets, an Atlanta Braves affiliate. For more information on the Fireflies upcoming 2022 season or events happening at Segra Park, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

NATURALS HOSTING JOB FAIR AT ARVEST BALLPARK ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10TH

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

 

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Naturals and Patina Restaurant Group will be hosting a Job Fair at Arvest Ballpark in the Northwest Health Community Room on Thursday, February 10th beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Patina Restaurant Group, the official caterer of Arvest Ballpark, will be taking applications and conducting on-site interviews for part-time, Gameday associates who, if selected, will be instrumental during the upcoming 2022 season. Both organizations are seeking individuals that, if hired, will continue the tradition of providing top-notch customer service to fans.

Details of available positions are listed below and additional information regarding can be obtained by calling (479) 927-4900. People that are unable to make the job fair can stop out at our Administrative Offices at Arvest Ballpark between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday to fill out an application. All applicants are encouraged to interview with both organizations to increase their potential for hire.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS NATURALS

Kids Zone Attendant

Kids Zone Attendants are responsible for ensuring all children play safely while having fun. This area includes four (4) inflatables, kid’s train, a mini-golf course, speed pitch, and our wiffle ball field.

Parking Attendants

Naturals Parking Attendants are the front-line employees of our Gameday Associate Customer Service Team. Parking attendants are asked to process cash transactions and make change as needed.

Mascot

Engaging, enthusiastic individual that will act out the character of the Naturals mascots “Strike” and “Sinker”. Perform at all (or majority of) home games at Arvest Ballpark and some community appearances, as requested. Must be able to be active for up to 2 hours in costume and have a willingness to show your personality through the characters. Training and a script for each game is provided, and a handler is also assigned to help with crowd control and getting mascots into position.

Usher

Ushers must be willing to interact with fans and check for correct seat locations on tickets.

Ticket Seller

Responsible for selling tickets and assisting fans at the window. Money handling and customer service experience a plus, but not required. Does require basic familiarity with computer and ability to use our ticket system, ProVenue. This position is normally finished by the second inning of the game

Ticket Scanner

Ticket Scanners should welcome the fans with enthusiasm. All scanners will be trained in the use of the hand-held scanner and Naturals Policies. Applicant must be able to stand for long periods of time.

Bag Checker

Bag Checkers are essential to Arvest Ballpark security. Associates will search and identify objects, food, and/or drink that are not allowed. Working hand-in-hand with the ticket scanners, bag checkers will help organize the entry lines and answer any fan questions. Checkers will also manage in-game re-entry by checking fans in and out of the ballpark. Applicants must be able to stand for long periods of time.

Retail Associate

Requires organizational skills, ability to complete sales, and maintain inventory accurately. The ability to multi-task is also important as the retail store may be very busy at times throughout each game. Money handling and customer service experience a plus, but not required.

Camera Operator

Camera operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and breaking down game day cameras. The cameras used are JVC GY HM-800s. Training will be provided for setup, breakdown, and operation.

Grounds Crew

Grounds crew is needed for home games, high school games, and other special events. Duties involve batting practice tear down, cleaning equipment, 5th inning drag, and post-game patching. Applicant must be able to lift a minimum 50 pounds, be willing and able to work in various weather conditions.

PATINA RESTAURANT GROUP

Concession Cashiers, Runners and Servers

Serve our fans in a fast and professional manner. Must be friendly, personable, and well groomed.

Cooks

Preparing all food to proper temperature and ensuring consistency product. Capable of working fast.

Suite Attendants

Provide guests with reliable, professional, and courteous food and beverage service. Experience in a la carte waiter service is preferred but not required.

Fireflies Seasonal Job Fair Postponed to January 29

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

 

COLUMBIA, SC –The Columbia Fireflies have postponed their seasonal Job Fair, originally schedule for this upcoming Saturday, to next Saturday, January 29 from 10 am to 2 pm at Segra Park. The reason for the postponement is to ensure the safety of all Fireflies staff members and job fair attendees due to the incoming inclement weather forecasted to hit the Midlands this weekend. The Fireflies are looking to fill approximately 300 seasonal and part-time positions at the Job Fair for the upcoming baseball season which kicks off at Segra Park on April 8.

“The safety of our staff, and those attending the job fair, is our top priority which is why we have decided to postpone the event,” said Team President Brad Shank. “Our game day team is such an important part of providing our fans with a fantastic experience at Segra Park and we cannot wait to meet all potential new Fireflies team members at the Job Fair January 29.”

The Fireflies will be hiring for positions in the following departments:

· Ballpark Operations
· Food and Beverage
· Ticketing
· Marketing
· Merchandise
· Fan Engagement

New applicants are encouraged to apply online prior to the Job Fair. The Fireflies Game Day Seasonal Employment Application can be found online here.

Returning Segra Park Employees should contact Fireflies HR Manager, Katie Maroney, informing her of their desire to return in 2022. Fireflies HR can be reached via email at [email protected].

Applicants who are unable to attend the job fair should also reach out to Fireflies HR at [email protected] upon submission of their online application.

The Columbia Fireflies are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to equal treatment of all applicants and employees without regard to race, national origin, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, physical or mental disability or other basis protected by law.

Internship Fair Takes Place at Segra Park January 19

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

 

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies will be hosting a pair of internship fairs Wednesday, January 19 from 9:30 am-11:30 am and 2:30 pm-4:30 pm. The team will take resumes for internships to be filled during the 2022 season at the fairs. After reviewing the resumes, the Fireflies will contact applicants the week following the fair.

Both sessions are drop-in sessions. All college students searching for internships are able to visit the fair without an appointment for either session. Students should come prepared with resumes and dressed professionally for interviews.

The internship programs with the Fireflies are built to satisfy any university credit requirements that may be needed to graduate. Non-students can also apply for the learning experience.

There are two classes of internship that need to be filled: entry level and a limited number of specialized internships.

The entry level internships available include:

· Promo Team
· Stadium Operations
· Food and Beverage
· Concessions and Commissary
· Catering

The Specialized internships available are:

· TV Broadcast
· Sports Turf
· Premium Suites
· Food and Beverage
· Ticketing
· Promotions

If you can’t make it to the internship fair, but would still like to join the Fireflies team, the internships are posted here.

For more information about the 2022 Fireflies season, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.