Kansas City Royals

CHASERS IN THE COMMUNITY – 2014 Season Highlights

October 9, 2014

Largest total donation number since becoming the Storm Chasers with $558,733 in the past year

Matt Fields and Buddy Baumann visiting the VA Hospital during the 2014 season was one of the many highlights from a record-setting season for the Storm Chasers in terms of community involvement.

The Omaha Storm Chasers finished the 2014 season in spectacular fashion, winning the Triple-A National Championship in back-to-back seasons for the first time in franchise history, but it was also a record-setting year for the Chasers community involvement. The charitable arm of the team, the Home Run Foundation of Greater Omaha, donated $558,733 to local charities in the past year for the largest total since becoming the Storm Chasers.

“The first four years at Werner Park have been nothing but historic on the field, but what the Storm Chasers staff takes the most pride in is the impact we have in the community we call home,” said Martie Cordaro, President and General Manager of the Omaha Storm Chasers. “To set total donation records in back-to-back years is as great of a victory as back-to-back National Championships in my eyes.”

At Werner Park, the Storm Chasers showcased 78 non-profit groups throughout the 2014 season with the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night to provide the outlet for many worthwhile causes in the Omaha Metro. This included Game Worn Jersey Auctions, which raised $14,640 for three local charities, and a highlight of Werner Park involvement with fans and staff donating more than $3,000 and 630 items to Pilger Tornado Relief over two games in late June.

Staples of Omaha Storm Chasers Baseball, “Hy-Vee Canned Food Sunday” and the “McDonald’s and Huber Automotive Hurl the Pearl” contest, had strong 2014 campaigns. The Heartland Hope Mission received 5,327 canned food donations ($37,289), the most since the move to Werner Park, while “Hurl the Pearl” accumulated $15,311 for the Ronald McDonald House marking a third straight year the team has raised more than $15,000 for the promotion.

The Storm Chasers players and mascots donated their time to the community with numerous player appearances at places such as Children’s/VA Hospitals. Stormy, Casey, Vortex and the three new mascots Kernel Cobb, Cappy and Sizzle made 335 mascot appearances throughout the year which was up by more than 100 appearances compared to the 2013 season.

The front office staff donated 870 hours throughout the year, including the Storm Chasers helping struggling families during last holiday season in “Drumstick On Wheels” and Chasers FUNdamentals teaching baseball to underprivileged youth this past summer. Last month, Martie Cordaro and the Storm Chasers were named the “Community Partner of the Year” by Community 360.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Legends invite schools to ‘Hit the Books’

October 8, 2014

Schools who participate in the Hit the Books program can arrange a guest reader appearance by the Legends' Big L. — Schools who participate in the Hit the Books program can arrange a guest reader appearance by the Legends’ Big L.

It’s time for elementary schools to “Hit the Books” with the Lexington Legends.

Teachers, librarians, media specialists and other educators are encouraged to register with the Legends to get their elementary schools involved in the Hit the Books reading program for the 2014-15 school year.

In Hit the Books, a baseball diamond is used to record credit for a student’s reading. For every book a student reads, a teacher places his or her initials on a base. Kindergarten students may participate by having their teachers read four books to them.

When the student has all three bases and home plate initialed by the teacher, the student may bring a Hit the Books bookmark to the Legends’ box office at Whitaker Bank Ballpark to exchange it for two tickets to a Legends home game designated for their school.

The school with the highest bookmark redemption (based on percentage of enrollment, minimum 50 students) will receive a school-wide reward from the “Hit the Books” sponsor.

To begin the process, educators must register with the Legends by November 14 to ensure their school’s participation. Registration information is available at www.lexingtonlegends.com.

“Hit the Books is one of the Legends’ favorite community programs,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “Encouraging the students of central Kentucky to read and show off their artistic creativity through the bookmark design contest is very rewarding. Big L loves visiting all the participating schools, and we hope there will be more for this year’s program than ever before.”

In addition, the annual bookmark design contest is under way and will run through December 12. The winning student will have his or her artwork featured on the official 2015 Hit the Books bookmark and poster that are distributed to every student participating in the reading program, which runs through March 31, 2015. About 23,000 students participated during the 2013-14 school year.

Schedule a visit by Big L

The Lexington Legends and Big L would like to visit any participating school and serve as a guest reader for any class or scheduled Media Center time to encourage students to complete the Hit the Books program and redeem their bookmarks for Legends game tickets. For more information, contact Sarah Bosso at (859) 422-7855.

The 2015 season will be the 15th for Legends baseball and also marks the 15th year that the Legends have been associated with Hit the Books. About 195,000 students have participated.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Blue Rocks honored with Minker Award

October 8, 2014

Community service award is named after Wilmington team’s founder

The Wilmington Blue Rocks were honored by the Carolina League on Wednesday with the Matt Minker Community Service Award, which goes to the club that best demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support, and leadership within its community. The award is named after the Blue Rocks’ founder, who owned the club until his death in 2007. Minker, whose construction company also built Frawley Stadium, is still the team’s honorary president. It is the first year the title has been awarded to an entire organization, after going to individual players since its inception in 2009.

“Matt Minker was instrumental in laying the foundation for the Blue Rocks and for the franchise’s success in the years to follow,” said Blue Rocks general manager Chris Kemple. “It is fitting and appropriate that this honor bears his name and we are absolutely privileged to be the first organizational recipient.”

The Blue Rocks won the award thanks in large part to their numerous school programs, charitable endeavors and hospital visits.

As an organization the Blue Rocks work with area schools to promote academic achievement (Rocky’s Reading Challenge), citizenship (Outstanding Student Program), and active lifestyles (Titus Sports Champions Physical Health Program). The team helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for good causes through partnerships with Habitat For Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs of DE, Fight for the Gold, Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition and many other charities in 2014. It also contributed school supplies to the Red Clay School Consolidated School District during the Remax Stuff the Bus Campaign and donated thousands of tickets to other worthy community programs. Several times each season the team also visited the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital For Children, brightening the spirits of that facility’s patients and their families.

“We could not accomplish much of what we do without the partnership and cooperation of our players and the Kansas City Royals organization,” said Blue Rocks director of community affairs Kevin P. Linton. “Their commitment to community fits perfectly with the vision that Matt Minker set forth for the Blue Rocks franchise and that we continue to follow to this day.”

Community service is so engrained within the organization that three of the five times the award was presented to individual players it went to Blue Rocks. Everett Teaford was the inaugural winner in 2009 and was followed by Tim Melville in 2011 and Whit Merrifield in 2012.

As the Carolina League’s recipient of the Matt Minker Award, the Blue Rocks received the eight-team league’s automatic nomination for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, given out by Minor League Baseball at its annual national convention, to be held this December in San Diego.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilmington Blue Rocks. Click here to view the original story.

Legends in the Community: Big L is busy

September 25, 2014

Big L will be in Richmond October 1 and Corbin October 8 in addition to his visits in the Lexington area.

This time of year is sometimes called the “off-season” in minor league baseball, and though the Lexington Legends 2014 season is over, it’s anything but time off for the Legends’ Big L.

Big L has appearances planned in Richmond October 1 and Corbin October 8, in addition to events in the Lexington area. He and other staff members will represent the Legends at the following locations through October 9:

Wednesday, October 1 – 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. Anti-bullying rally at Madison Middle School, 101 Summit Street, Richmond.

Wednesday, October 8 – 7:15 a.m. Big L will help Lexington’s Ashland Elementary School celebrate International Walk to School Day, on which students are encouraged to walk or bike to school as a means of promoting healthy habits, a cleaner environment and attention to safety.

Wednesday, October 8 – 1-1:30 p.m. Big L and Pee Wee will appear at a Project Fit America event presented by Baptist Health Corbin at Lynn Camp Elementary School, 366 N. Ky. 830, Corbin.

Thursday, October 9 – 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Health Fair Party, Leestown Middle School, 2010 Leestown Road, Lexington.

“The off season is an exciting time for the Legends, as it provides us the opportunity to spend more time immersed in the community,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends’ director of community relations and special events. “Having the opportunity to participate in a variety of events throughout Central Kentucky allows the Legends and Big L to assist in fun ways to bring attention to important issues and organizations. We love this time of year!”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals to Host 2nd Faith & Family Night on Friday, August 22

August 14, 2014

Game will feature a pre-game concert by Chris August and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals along with Sam’s Furniture and media partner KLRC are hosting the second Faith and Family Night event of the 2014 season on Friday, August 22^nd at Arvest Ballpark. Chris August is scheduled to perform a one hour pre-game concert at 6:00 P.M., prior to the Naturals game against the Springfield Cardinals at 7:35 P.M.

Chris August was the GMA Dove Award winner for New Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year in 2011. He also won the award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for “No Far Away” that same year. Chris August’s most recent album, “The Upside of Down”, spent twenty-one weeks on the Christian Albums chart reaching a peak position of number 3 on the list. The album is highlighted by “Center Of It” and “Unashamed Of You” as both songs reached the Top 23 on the Hot Christian Songs.

The stage for the pre-game concert next week will be located on the grass area beyond the concourse in centerfield, located between the Bud Light Bullpen Café and kid’s playground beyond the centerfield batter’s eye. Gates will open at 5:30 P.M. for the concert to begin at approximately 5:50 P.M. and a Post-Game Fireworks Spectacular will conclude the night.

The first Faith & Family Night at Arvest Ballpark on Friday, May 9^th was a sellout. The Naturals had a crowd of 8,035, which was the 8^th largest crowd in franchise history. Tickets are currently available for August 22^nd and range from $8 to $14 for the event.

Tickets can be purchased at the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, online at www.nwanaturals.com, or by calling our toll free ticket hotline at (877) 444-2637. The Naturals will also offer special group rates starting at just $8 for reserved seats for groups of 20 or more that would like to attend Faith & Family Night by Sam’s Furniture. Please give us a call at (479) 927-4900 or email us at Groups@nwanaturals.com for more information. All you need is one ticket to enjoy the concert, game, and fireworks.

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

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals will host Pink in the Park on Friday, August 8

August 4, 2014

The team will wear pink jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will wear special pink jerseys on Friday, August 8 as part of Pink in the Park night presented by Farm Rich when the Naturals play host to the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, at 7:05 P.M. at Arvest Ballpark. The special pink Naturals jerseys will be available for silent auction during the game with all of the proceeds from the auction going to the Susan G. Komen Ozark Affiliate.

Pink in the Park night represents the final jersey auction of the 2014 season. The silent auction will take place along the concourse behind Section 109. Bidding for the game-worn jerseys will begin when the gates open at 6:00 P.M. and fans will have the opportunity to bid on the jerseys until the middle of the 6^th inning when the silent auction will conclude.

Every player and coach will have a jersey available for auction. Fans will have the opportunity to bid on the likes of Naturals’ Manager Vance Wilson, as well as highly touted Royals prospects such as LHP Brandon Finnegan, INF Hunter Dozier, OF Jorge Bonifacio, RHP Christian Binford, INF Cheslor Cuthbert, INF Orlando Calixte, and LHP Sam Selman. Fans with winning bids will get to go on the field following the game where they will receive their pink jersey directly from the player or coach.

In addition to Pink in the Park, Friday night will also include a post-game Fireworks Spectacular and only three (3) post-game Fireworks shows remain during the 2014 season. It is also a Scout Night Campout presented by Camping World of Northwest Arkansas where Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Cub Scouts are invited to come to the game for a discounted rate, receive a limited Naturals’ Scout Night Patch, enjoy a kid themed movie after the game, and campout on the outfield grass.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

Chasers in the Community July 29-August 5

July 25, 2014

SPOTLIGHT

Third Annual Peanut Free Night at Werner Park

Hosted by the Omaha Storm Chasers and the Asthma and Allergy Center

On Tuesday, July 29^th, Werner Park will open its gates to fans with peanut allergies who cannot generally attend baseball games and other sporting events. For the entire week leading up to July 29^th, Werner Park will be sanitized and cleaned to rid of all peanut dust and allergens. There will be no peanuts, tree nuts, or sunflower seeds sold or present in the stadium. Children involved will have an opportunity to form a “Peanut Free Field of Dreams Team” and run on the field with the players prior to the game. Ticket packages also include first pitch opportunities, a meet and greet with an Omaha Storm Chaser player, and a pre-game parade.

Community Involvement Outside of the Game

VA Hospital Player Appearance – Omaha Storm Chasers staff and players will visit the VA Hospital on July 30th at 4101 Woolworth Avenue in Omaha, Nebraska.
Taste of Plattsmouth – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Taste of Plattsmouth Business Expo on August 1^st from 5pm – 9pm located at the Entertainment Plaza on the corner of 4^th and Main Street in downtown Plattsmouth. For more information visit http://www.business.plattsmouthchamber.com/Events/details/cruizin-main-14
Science of Ice Cream – OSC staff members and Kernel Kobb will be attending the Science of Ice Cream event on August 1st from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at 6015 Binney Street in Benson.
Flash Ticket Giveaway – Sizzle will be at the AT&T store at 7640 Towne Center Pkwy, Suite 119 in Papillion giving away Omaha Storm Chasers tickets! For more information contact Kasen Dudley at 402-738-5138.
Reading to Kids – Stormy and OSC staff will be attending the End of Summer Reading Party on August 2^nd, at the Florence Recreation Center at 2920 Bondesson Street in Florence, Nebraska from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Healthy Kids Carnival – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Healthy Kids Carnival at the Boys Town Medical campus on 139^th and Pacific streets in Omaha from 11 am – 2 pm. Activities include bounce houses, obstacle courses, healthy snacks, a basketball station, and fitness demonstrations. For more information visit http://www.boystownpediatrics.org/aboutus/Calendar/Pages/Healthy-Kids-Carnival.aspx
Walk to Cure Diabetes – OSC staff members and mascots will be attending the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes on August 2^nd from 8:30 am – 11:00 am at Lewis and Clark Landing. For more information, visit http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=3941&pg=entry
Zane’s Wish – Omaha Storm Chasers staff will help grant a wish by decorating a playhouse with Omaha Storm Chasers merchandise.

Community Involvement Inside of the Game

Tuesday, July 29 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – AIRE Nebraska joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about AIRE Nebraska visit www.airenebraska.org
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Wednesday, July 30 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Ralston Community Night – Members of the Ralston community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring 1 cent wiener Wednesday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Alex Beck at 402-738-5112.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Community 360 joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Community 360 visit http://www.community-360.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Thursday, July 31 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Weeping Water Community Night – Members of the Weeping Water community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring Thirsty Thursday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danielle Jelensperger at 402-738-2181.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Muscular Dystrophy Association joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about MDA visit http://mda.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Friday, August 1 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands visit http://www.dsamidlands.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Saturday, August 2 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Autism Action Partnership Jersey Auction – The Omaha Storm Chasers will be hosting a jersey auction benefitting Autism Action Partnership on Autism Awareness night. Fans will be able to bid on jerseys from all Omaha Storm Chasers players and receive the jersey post-game.
Fremont Community Night – Members of the Fremont community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danny Dunbar at 402-738-5132.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Autism Action Partnership joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Autism Action Partnership visit http://www.autismaction.org/contact/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Sunday, August 3 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 5:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Omaha Public Library joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Omaha Public Library visit http://www.omahapubliclibrary.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Monday, August 4 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Omaha North HS Presentation – Coach Eric Janecek and 7 members of his Omaha North High School varsity baseball team that partnered with the Omaha Storm Chasers and CVS for the Chasers FUNdamentals program will come to enjoy the game and take place in a pregame recognition.
Gretna Community Night – Members of the Gretna community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring a Player Puzzle and Picture Giveaway to the first 1500 fans. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Andrew Madden at 402-738-5135.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha visit http://www.sophisticatedheartsofomaha.com
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Tuesday, August 5 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 12:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – EducationQuest Foundation joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about EducationQuest Foundation visit http://www.educationquest.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

“Peanut Free Night” at Werner Park July 29

July 23, 2014

3rd annual night includes “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package

Next Tuesday, the Omaha Storm Chasers will kick off their eight-game homestand with “Peanut Free Night” in association with the Asthma and Allergy Center, allowing fans affected by various allergies to visit Werner Park worry free in the third annual event.

“Peanut Free Night with the Omaha Storm Chasers is fast becoming one of our most unique, community events,” said Martie Cordaro, President and General Manager for the Omaha Storm Chasers. “Our ballpark operations staff, led by Brett Myers and Matt Owen, work tirelessly to make sure that Werner Park is safe for all those that would otherwise not be able to attend a professional baseball game.”

For this special night, Werner Park will not serve any peanut-related items including sunflower seeds, tree nuts and of course peanuts. The process of deep-cleaning Werner Park for any peanut residue started immediately after Omaha’s game this past Sunday and will continue up until Tuesday. Werner Park also features gluten-free and vegetarian options at the Heartland Healthy Cart and other areas throughout the park.

In addition to welcoming fans affected by these various allergies that would not usually be able to attend a game, the Storm Chasers are taking it one step further by offering the “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package. The $10 package (with an option to add on a $3 Centris Family Fun Zone Wristband) includes:

Meet and Greet, Autograph session with two Omaha Storm Chasers Players (to be determined)
Pre-Game Peanut Free Parade on the field
Opportunity to be on “Peanut Free Field of Dreams Team” and chance at throwing out a first pitch
Deadline to purchase “Peanut Free Experience” Ticket Package is July 25

“We are excited to see all the allergic families come out to the baseball game in a peanut-free environment. We’ve heard from parents telling us how much they appreciate this opportunity to have their children experience one of America’s past-times,” said Dr. Gregory Daniel Brooks of The Asthma and Allergy Center. “Peanut Free Night gives everyone a chance to raise awareness about food allergies and learn about new products, research and education. The Asthma & Allergy Center is proud to be a sponsor of Peanut Free Night and to help provide this night of baseball for all the allergic community. ”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals Partner with Toys for Tots for July 24 Game

July 17, 2014

Fans that donate a new toy will receive two (2) FREE Reserved tickets to Thursday’s game

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce that they will be partnering with the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots again this year. Fans will have the opportunity to donate toys on Thursday, July 24 to benefit the Toys for Tots program that provides disadvantaged children in Benton and Washington counties with toys for Christmas.

The Naturals invite fans to bring new toys to the ballpark for donation on Thursday, July 24 when we celebrate Christmas in July at Arvest Ballpark. Fans that donate a new toy to the Toys for Tots program will receive two (2) FREE Reserved tickets to Thursday’s 7:05 P. M. game against the Springfield Cardinals, the Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Naturals’ staff, along with the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots volunteers, will be located near the ticket office and main gate to collect toys at the ballpark. All toys that are donated to the NWA Marine Corps Toys for Tots program will be distributed within the Northwest Arkansas community. In addition, any money that is collected will be used to purchase toys for local children.

On Thursday, July 24 the Naturals will celebrate Christmas in July at Arvest Ballpark on Buck Night on Thirsty Thursday presented by Brach’s. The event will feature a special Santa Hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans in attendance and select items will be available for only a $1 at the Arvest Ballpark concession stands, including Farm Rich Mozzarella Sticks, peanuts, as well as small Coca-Cola fountain drinks as part of Buck Night while Thirsty Thursday will feature select 16oz. drafts for only $2.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

US Bank Kid’s Clinic Huge Success

June 29, 2014

It was a beautiful day as over 100 kids took Melaleuca Field by storm to learn from their favorite Chukars players and coaches Saturday afternoon. Four stations were set up around the field including pitching, hitting, outfield, and infield.

Brandon Thomas was one of a handful of pitchers that ran the pitching station over by the home bullpen.

“Right now we’re trying to teach them about releasing the ball out front and hand separation. There’s a drill called 10 toes which works on separating your hands. Another one is where you spread your legs out a little bit more and it forces you to get on your front side, and other than that we’re working on long toss,” Thomas said. “Each one is unique in their own way and it’s cool to see them throw and just have fun.”

At the outfield station, Jerrell Allen helped work with the kids on pop fly balls and grounders.

“We’re trying to teach them how to read the wind when a pop fly comes, stay ahead of a ground ball, and keeping your glove on the ground to come up with the ball and throw it in,” Allen said. “Basically we want them to learn what we learned coming up and give back to them.”

Shortstop Corey Toups paired up with teammates to show the kids some infield drills like fielding ground balls and throwing to second.

“We have the kids set up at the shortstop position at normal depth taking slow ground balls. We’re teaching them about having a good center of gravity and a good base to make a strong throw over to first base,” Toups said. “Secondly, we have them taking grounders at double-play depth and doing a short toss to second. Most of them understand it and say they are infielders so it’s pretty easy.”

Alexis Rivera was one of several players running the hitting station. It was his second year helping with the clinic and he said he enjoys it.

“There’s a lot more kids this year. We started off the hitting station with five swings each but had to cut it down because there were so many kids,” Rivera said. “But it’s fun to have so many kids out here, teach them, and help future baseball players. We learn so many things and it’s fun to give back and teach the kids about the basics of baseball: fielding, pitching, and hitting.”

That was the consensus among the players who all said they enjoyed their time working with the kids.

“I went to camps like this when I was little. It’s so much fun to be here and be able to do that as a professional,” Toups said.

Allen said teaching was hard but he loved the Kid’s Clinic.

“(Teaching) is pretty hard but I’ve actually seen a decent amount of athletes out here,” Allen said. “You want to go out there with the guys and it makes you want to be a kid again. I love doing this kind of stuff.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Idaho Falls Chukars. Click here to view the original story.

Homestand: Peanut Allergy Awareness, Fireworks, ‘Bark” and more

June 26, 2014

Former UK star Riddle returns with Greensboro

A peanut allergy awareness night, three Ford Fireworks shows, including one for an Independence Day celebration, and a Bark in the Park night will highlight a seven-game homestand for the Lexington Legends beginning Friday, June 27. The Legends will also welcome a former Kentucky Mr. Baseball back to the Bluegrass.

The Legends, class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, will take on the Augusta GreenJackets, an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, in a four-game series June 27-30. The Greensboro Grasshoppers, an affiliate of the Miami Marlins, will be in for a three-game series July 1-3.

The schedule:

Friday, June 27: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. The Legends and Family Allergy & Asthma are teaming up to provide a fun, worry-free evening for those with peanut allergies. At one game each year, the Legends remove all forms of peanuts, sunflower seeds and any foods prepared with peanut oils, so that fans may enjoy the game – and the concessions — without concern about a possible allergic reaction. There will be giveaway items and chances to win prizes donated by Family Allergy and Asthma. A Ford Fireworks show will follow the game.

Saturday, June 28: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. Saturday is Lexington Clinic Night, and fans should look for information and giveaways from Lexington Clinic representatives. A Ford Fireworks show will follow the game.

Sunday, June 29: Legends vs. Augusta, 6:05 p.m. It’s a JIF Kids Club Sunday. Kids Club members receive free admission to the game, and all kids may run the bases after the game.

Monday, June 30: Legends vs. Augusta, 7:05 p.m. All Monday night home games are “Kids Eat Free” nights, sponsored by Members Heritage Federal Credit Union. All kids age 12 and under will receive a voucher good for a free meal and drink.

Tuesday, July 1: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. Every Tuesday night is 37-cent hot dog night. The price is in recognition of the Ford F-150 being the number one selling truck for 37 consecutive years.

The visiting Grasshoppers have a Kentucky connection: Frankfort native and former Western Hills High School and University of Kentucky star J.T. Riddle is with Greensboro after being drafted in the 13^th round and signed by Miami in 2013. Riddle was Kentucky High School Mr. Baseball in 2010.

Wednesday, July 2: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. Wednesday is Bark in the Park night, presented by IncrediPet. Fans may bring their dogs to the game.

Thursday, July 3: Legends vs. Greensboro, 7:05 p.m. It’s a Kentucky Ale Thirsty Thursday, and beer and Pepsi products will be on sale for one dollar each. There is no home game on July 4, so the Legends invite fans to celebrate Independence Day Thursday with a Ford Fireworks show after the game.

For ticket information, call 859 422-7867 or go online to lexingtonlegends.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Storm Chasers to Accept Donations for Pilger Relief Tonight, Tomorrow

June 23, 2014

Fans can bring various suggested items or make cash/check donations

A week ago today the community and residents of Pilger, Nebraska were devastated by twin tornadoes, leaving many survivors without their homes and belongings. In a show of support for their fellow Nebraskan community, the Storm Chasers will ask fans attending tonight and tomorrow’s games to donate various items to be sent to the city that lies just over an hour and a half from Omaha.

Items that the Storm Chasers suggest to be donated by fans are totes, gloves, personal hygiene items, first aid supplies and non-perishable foods. No clothing is needed at this time.

The Storm Chasers will also accept cash donations at Werner Park through 2 p.m. Tuesday, as well as check donations that will go directly to aid the Pilger community. Checks should be made out to the Home Run Foundation of Greater Omaha. All donations, both monetary and physical, can be made outside of Werner Park near the Ticket Office.

As the relief effort continues and grows, the Storm Chasers will be participating and will alert fans to other ways they can get involved as well. Fans can follow the team and their community relations information on Facebook and Twitter to get updates.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Naturals Community Highlights: June

June 12, 2014

Summer is heating up in Northwest Arkansas and two things the Ozarks region can always count on are Naturals’ baseball and that Strike and the Northwest Arkansas Street Team will be front and center in the community. Check out the schedule below to see where you can see Strike out and about in Northwest Arkansas.

Friday, June 13: Just around the corner, Strike will put on his walking shoes for the Relay for Life event held by the American Cancer Society in Rogers, Ark. The Naturals’ mascot will join participants in walking around the track and mingle about the event. Additionally, Strike will show off his good side and take pictures throughout the day. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life movement symbolizes hope and the shared goal to end a disease that threatens the lives of so many people

Saturday, June 14: Strike is excited to follow Friday with another event in the great outdoors on Saturday at the Johnson Days Festival in Johnson, Ark. He will put his rugged feet to use for the second straight day walking around and lending his big fury hands for high fives. Never shy of the camera, Strike will spend time taking pictures at the festival as kids enjoy various activities.

Saturday, June 14: The fun does not end for Strike at the Johnson Days Festival on Saturday for Stirke. He will embark on a trip to Bella Vista to join Rapha House for an event in the Allens Foods parking lot. Northwest Arkansas’ one and only Strike will join folks for a car show with food and family fun starting at 5:00 p.m. with 100% of the proceeds going to Rapha House and the fight against child trafficking in Cambodia, Thailand and Haiti.

Monday, June 16: It will be the Girl Scout Diamonds opportunity to enjoy some time with Strike during a day camp beginning at 8:00 A.M. Strike is already geared up for this one as the event’s theme, that is put on by the girl scouts, is one of his favorite words, sports. Additionally, it’s opening day for the girl scouts day camp, another one of Strike’s favorite things, whether it’s for the promise of the unending possibilities of baseball season or the beginning of summer fun for the Girl Scout Diamonds.

Friday, June 20: Strike will join the United Methodist Church for its annual conference at the Rogers Convention Center. He will help celebrate a feat that has Strike excited as the church has raised over $1 million dollars for malaria in Africa.

Saturday, June 21: It’s time for Strike to don his fleetest of footwear again for the Cancer Challenge at Orchard Park in Bentonville. Strike will be there to help hand out metals at the end of the race. Since its inception in 1993, the Cancer Challenge has invested over $10 million dollars in local cancer programs serving over 300,000 of its Northwest Arkansas friends and neighbors.

Friday, June 27: Arvest Ballpark will open itself to the Springdale Police Department as it will bring a group of kids from a troubled background to the home of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals for a tour.

Saturday, June 28: Strike will walk around and give high fives at the All American Freedom Festival at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade in Rogers for the Camp Alliance Event. Strike will accompany one his favorite activities at the event, skeeball.

If you would like to have Strike appear at your event, email streetteam@nwanaturals.com or fill out the form on the Naturals’ website, located by clicking on the Community tab at the top of the webpage, then clicking the appearances link. Those interested in participating in the Naturals ticket fundraising program should call 479-927-4900 or email groups@nwanaturals.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

Urgent Care Centers to offer free sports physicals June 1

May 24, 2014

Urgent Care Centers of Kentucky will team up with the Lexington Legends to offer free sports physical examinations at the Legends game Sunday, June 1 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

A yearly sports physical is required for every child who seeks eligibility to participate in any school sport or athletic activity,

Gates will open at 5 p.m. June 1. The free examinations will begin at that time and will be available until 8 p.m. The game between the Legends and the Augusta GreenJackets will begin at 6:05 p.m.

The sports physicals will be conducted by the certified medical staff of Urgent Care Centers of Kentucky. No payment of any form, including copays, will be charged.

Parents will need to bring their identification or state driver’s license and should be prepared to fill out forms and provide medical history.

“The Legends and Urgent Care Centers of Kentucky are pleased to offer a convenient location and free sports physicals,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends director of community relations and special events. “We know how important participating in team activities is for the betterment of our youth, and we want to make sure everyone has that opportunity.”

For more information, contact Bosso at 859-422-7855 or sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends. Click here to view the original story.

Great Day Farms, Naturals Partner on Free Baseball Clinic

May 23, 2014

Kids invited to signup for FREE clinic prior to the game on Saturday, June 21st

Great Day Farms, along with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals players and coaches are once again teaming up for the seventh annual Youth Baseball Clinic at Arvest Ballpark, to be held from 2 until 4 P.M. on Saturday, June 21st prior to that night’s 6:05 P.M. game against the Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A Colorado Rockies.

The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is open to children ages 6-12 and will cover instruction of key baseball fundamentals, including hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. All participants will be given a complimentary Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Grass Berm ticket to that evening’s game against the Drillers, and the first 300 children to arrive for the clinic will also receive a FREE t-shirt courtesy of Great Day Farms.

Instruction during the clinic will be given by select Naturals players and coaches. Following the instruction portion of the clinic, an autograph session will occur along the 1^st base side of the concourse for approximately 20 minutes.

There is a sign-up form located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the community menu that interested parents can print, fill out, and then fax or mail in to register their children for the clinic. The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is also open to local youth coaches as they may also fill out the form and fax in their roster to register their entire teams. The deadline to register for the event is Wednesday, June 18th, but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Sign-up begins at Arvest Ballpark at 1:30pm so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 500 children. In addition to the kid’s clinic, fans are invited to bring canned food items to the ballpark at their own request that will be donated to the Samaritan House; however, a food donation is not mandatory for participation.

The ballpark will be cleared following the FREE Youth Baseball Clinic and then gates will reopen at 5:00 P.M. for the Naturals game against the Tulsa Drillers scheduled to begin at 6:05 P.M. that evening. If you have any questions regarding the clinic or game, please call (479) 927-4900 or visit our website for more information.

Tickets are still available for the Naturals game on Saturday, June 21st. Fans may purchase tickets online at nwanaturals.com, via our toll-free ticket hotline at (877) 444-2637, or by visiting the Arvest Ballpark Box Office.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.