Second Annual “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” to Spread Joy Around Central MA

Community Award Winners Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman to join Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, Roberto the Rocket, and Santa in visits to charities, schools, and community organizations

WORCESTER, MA – Led by Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald and Hitting Coach Rich Gedman, two award-winning members of the Worcester Red Sox, the 2022 “WooSox Foundation Holiday Caravan” will be spreading cheer across the Heart of the Commonwealth this Monday, December 19 through Wednesday, December 21.

Fitzgerald, the club’s super utility infielder and second-ever recipient of the WooSox Foundation’s “Heart of the Heart” Community Spirit Award, will team up with Gedman, his Hitting Coach, who was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in May of this year. Joining them are Mascots Smiley Ball, Woofster the WonderDog, and Roberto the Rocket, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The WooSox Foundation “Care-A-Van,” presented by Bank of America, is the team’s mobile RV that was unveiled in March of 2022 and will assist the WooSox in executing all of the good deeds scheduled for next week.

The impactful holiday gestures begin on Monday at Why Me & Sherry’s House when the team will bring gifts and essentials to toddlers and teens who are battling cancer. The group will also visit TLK Sports, a Worcester-based community organization that emphasizes the importance of teamwork and relationship building through a number of sports including baseball. The WooSox, in partnership with the Junior WooSox, will wrap up Monday evening at Nazareth home in Leicester to show their support for foster children by bringing winter hats and an assortment of surprise gifts.

On Tuesday, December 20, the Caravan continues in Polar Park’s backyard at the Canal District’s St. John’s Food for the Poor, where the WooSox will assist in providing breakfast to some of the neighborhood’s neediest population. The team will head from St. John’s to Abby’s House in Worcester, where toys and treats will be provided to women and children.

The caravan will continue its busy day on Tuesday at 11 am at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, where care packages filled with toys, books, and everyday essentials will go to kids who are in treatment. For the second straight year, the club has partnered with Kits for Kids, a Marlborough based organization that has provided care packages around the holidays to children in need for over 13 years.

The WooSox will wrap up their Tuesday afternoon with the Worcester Education Collaborative, where together they will donate tablets and keyboards to children at the Guild of St. Agnes in Worcester. The caravan will head to the YMCA Central Community Branch, then back to Polar Park, where fans will have the opportunity to meet Ryan Fitzgerald in the WooSox Team Store from 5:30-7:00 pm on Tuesday evening.

“I’m looking forward to being back in Worcester around Christmas time and help give back to this community that has had my back all season long,” said Ryan Fitzgerald, who in 2022 became the first Minor League player to have his own merchandise line. “The WooSox are always doing great things in the community and it’s a pleasure to help out in any way I can.”

The WooSox will conclude their 2022 Holiday Caravan on Wednesday with visits to Abby Kelley Foster Elementary School, and Gates Lane Elementary School, where the club established a mentoring program this past March 4 in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts.

“What an honor it is to visit these children and organizations who deserve the smiles that our mascots so often inspire,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “And how fortunate we are to have such caring souls who wear the WooSox uniform: Ryan Fitzgerald and Red Sox Hall of Famer Rich Gedman embody the dreams of all of the children of this region. Meeting Fitzy and Geddy, shaking their hands, and learning their stories can turn a moment into a memory and perhaps even a turning point in life. We thank the schools and wonderful charities who perform these good deeds every single day for the opportunity to stop by, say hello, and wish everyone a happy holiday season with best wishes for a happy, healthy new year.”

Media interested in covering any portion of the team’s 2022 Holiday Caravan can reach out to Vice President of Community & Player Relations Joe Bradlee at [email protected] for further guidance.

Dragons to Recognize “Community All Stars” Recipient During Game on September 1

Dayton, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons will recognize EMERGE of the Urban League of Southwest Ohio as a “Community All-Stars” recipient during a special inning break of the Dragons game on Thursday, September 1 against the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Day Air Ballpark. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. They could be firefighters or police officers, doctors, or good Samaritans. It could be a first responder or a volunteer. The Dragons highlight these Community All-Stars at games all season long.

An enrichment program within the Urban League of Southwest Ohio, EMERGE steps up to improve educational outcomes and provide youth in downtown Dayton with resources that go beyond their education and into pathways that lead directly into their career dreams.

From the ages of 14 to 24 most students make pivotal decisions that impact the future of their careers, and often high school and college don’t fully prepare the future work force for what’s next. That’s where the EMERGE program steps in.

Targeting vital areas in a young person’s professional growth like social skills development, critical thinking on a business level, and financial understanding and independence, EMERGE is able to foster a new outlook for the youth in their care and improve educational outcomes.

EMERGE provides extracurricular opportunities for youth to broaden their life experiences, develop new interests, and create skills that help them as they start looking for their first jobs.

EMERGE also makes sure Dayton area students engaged in their program know how to take care of their personal well-being to better prepare them for the future.

With the extensive network of Dayton-area professionals working with the Urban League of Southwest Ohio, EMERGE can connect their participants with some of the brightest minds the city has to offer. Their mentorship offers new and exciting opportunities for EMERGE participants, like internships, job shadows, and direct work experience.

For all their efforts to inspire local youth and expand their opportunities, EMERGE is being honored as a Dragons Community All Star.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support EMERGE and the Urban League of Southwest Ohio check out their website at ulgso.org.

If you know other great individuals or organizations that are going above and beyond for our community, tell us about them! You can nominate an All-Star by telling us about them at daytondragons.com/communityallstar

This event is the final of five special Community All-Stars spotlights at Dragons games this season. Community All-Stars is presented Flying Ace Express Carwash. The program will return in 2023 and will once again focus on another organization that has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons play at beautiful, downtown Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District and are scheduled to play 3 more home games during the regular season. Game times are 7:05 p.m. for Tuesday through Saturday games and 1:05 p.m. on Sundays. No Monday games are scheduled at this time. Gates open one hour prior to game time. Single-game tickets for all Dragons 2022 home games are available at www.daytondragons.com or by phone at (937) 228-2287.

Redden named Appalachian League Humanitarian of the Year 

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The Appalachian League announced that Bluefield’s Parker Redden (Delaware) was named the Humanitarian of the Year. The Humanitarian of the Year award is given to the Appalachian League player that has been judged to have made the most notable contributions in his community during the season through active participation in community service projects.

Redden works closely with Freedom Farms, a nonprofit, faith-based organization for at-risk youth in West Virginia. When the Ridge Runners were in town, Redden drove approximately 35 miles each way to help with meal preparation, maintenance, agricultural activities and his mentoring opportunities. Redden also delivered leftover food to Freedom Farms as quantities allowed so that waste was minimized. Baseball and softball lessons are an integral part of his focus with the youth. Redden and his family have also worked to establish a 4H club as an outlet for the kids from their day-to-day trials.

“Parker unselfishly gives of himself to others and conducts himself in such a way that you know that he understands that the game will end but his mission in life will continue,” said Ridge Runners general manager Rocky Malamisura. “Parker is the epitome of what we cherish most in athletes and what baseball teaches those who pay attention. We are so proud to have had such a young man as a member of the Ridge Runners.”

During the 2022 season, Redden volunteered for each of the Ridge Runners community service projects that were scheduled. The projects included working at local food pantries, stadium walkabouts with fans and autograph sessions. Redden also worked both kids camps as an instructor, mentored several local at-risk children and provided baseball lessons for numerous little league children.

“Parker was a catalyst in helping our organization educate and encourage the attitude and spirit of giving back,” said Bluefield manager Mike Weatherford. “Once his teammates recognized Parker’s contributions in Bluefield and the surrounding communities, it became enjoyable for our players to routinely volunteer. Parker was a leader in getting teammates involved off the field and that dedication to others followed him on the field.”

The 20-year-old catcher from Shady Spring, W.V., is heading into his sophomore year at the University of Delaware. Redden played in 15 games for the Ridge Runners this summer after he played for the Burlington Sock Puppets in 2021.

Jumbo Shrimp feature sports industry leaders for Women Belong in Sports Panel & Networking Event

PURCHASE TICKETS (Password, please include spaces: Women Sports Panel)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A star-studded cast of executives highlight the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s Women Belong in Sports Panel & Networking Event presented by First Citizens Bank and We Matter Too, Inc. from 4-6 p.m. prior to the club’s 7:05 p.m. game on Tuesday, September 6 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The panelists will discuss the important role women play in sports, providing insight on how they broke into the sports industry and rose through the ranks into the roles they have carried for their careers. Topics of discussion also include the challenges women face when entering a male-dominated field, the strong benefits and value of mentorship from women and both the present and future challenges for women working in sports.

The highly successful panelists who are planning to offer their time and insight at this event includes:

  • Linda McNabb – Senior Vice President of Sales, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
  • Donna Orender – CEO, Orender Unlimited, Former president of the WNBA, Former Senior Vice President of the PGA
  • Megha Parekh – Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Jacksonville Jaguars, Bold Events, All Elite Wrestling
  • Lauren Muni – Vice President of Marketing, Zaywer Sports
  • Alex Baldwin – President, Korn Ferry Tour (PGA TOUR)
  • Donna Kirk – Senior Associate AD, Compliance & Administration/SWA, University of North Florida

For just $50, the Women Belong in Sports Panel & Networking Event includes a ticket to the event, Hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket during the event and a game ticket in SkyDeck 4 for the Jumbo Shrimp’s 7:05 p.m. contest against the Iowa Cubs. Fans interested in purchasing tickets can call Jumbo Shrimp account executive Jenna Smith at (904) 374-4598 or [email protected] or visit this link to register and purchase seats Password, please include spaces: Women Sports Panel).

For those unable to make the game but still want to listen to the panel, the event is also virtual. The price is $5 for individuals and $25 for organizations/businesses via this link (Password, please include spaces: Women Sports Panel).

“The Jumbo Shrimp are elated to offer the opportunity to hear from highly-accomplished female executives from throughout the sports industry,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “These women have worked incredibly hard to overcome every single obstacle put in their path on the way to the respective leadership positions they hold. The advice and insight they can share is going to be invaluable for any individual looking to enter the sports industry.

Attendees will walk away from Women Belong in Sports Panel & Networking Event presented by First Citizens Bank and We Matter Too, Inc. having the knowledge that women already are and can continue to be leaders in the sports industry while showcasing the sisterhood that exists among women currently working in sports. The event is designed to provide all attendees with a strong understanding of some of the hurdles and challenges that they may encounter along their own career path, better preparing them for their journey into the sports industry.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Three Of Pensacola's Best Provide Wisdom, Advice On Blue Wahoos' Women In Sports Night 

Blue Wahoos vice president Donna Kirby, far left, moderates seminar with Michelle Snow, left, Melissa Miller-Schubeck and Beth Barr on April 22 during the Blue Wahoos special Women in Sports Night at ballpark. (Nino Mendez)

They grew up in Pensacola and competed in totally different sports, but with similar aspirations during a breakthrough era.

That commonality, along with their unique athletic success gave Michelle Snow, Melissa Miller and Beth Barr a powerful role in blazing a trail for so many other female athletic stars from this community who have followed.

The three were together for the first time last Friday at Blue Wahoos Stadium, participating in a pregame symposium at the Blue Wahoos’ first Women In Sports Night last week at the ballpark.

Snow went from stardom at Pensacola High to playing for Pat Head Summit at Tennessee, then onto the WNBA and international basketball as Pensacola’s greatest female basketball player.

“I believe people have to understand there will be a lot of obstacles in the way and a lot of fears you have to overcome,” said Snow, addressing the young athletes in the audience that day inside the season-ticket holders lounge. “You have to overcome that fear.”

Miller, now Miller-Schubeck, a Tate High grad, won back-to-back SEC All-Around championships in 1988-89 for the Florida Gators and was inducted into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame as one of its greatest athletes.

“I think it is important to have goals,” she said. “If you don’t have goals, you are not shooting toward anything.”

Barr, now Barr-Gifford, a Booker T. Washington and University of Texas graduate, was the youngest member at 16-years-old for the 1988 U.S. Olympic Women’s Swim Team. She won a silver medal for the U.S. in the team’s medley relay, and just missed the podium in her two other Olympic events that year.

All three overcome adversity in their development to attain the highest level of success. Here were their thoughts on two powerful topics during the symposium. They were also recognized by throwing out a first pitch that night and on the dugout, following the second inning, as well as in-game interviews on the Blue Wahoos radio broadcast.

Since you all competed, so much has changed in women’s sports. If you mentor young girls or if still involved in some way, how would view the state of your particular sports today?

MICHELLE SNOW

“For me the state of mentoring, the state of basketball in the WNBA, and everything like that, I think it is in a beautiful place. We just had one of the best CBA (collective bargaining agreement with owners and players) deals. ESPN just did another multimillion deal. Nike now owns a 25-percent stake in the WNBA. Things are getting there, the endorsements are there, you don’t have to go overseas now if you don’t want to. These young ladies are making that good, good cash.

And it is a blessing because it is the people who started it, who fought for it, who are still invested in it, that get to see that become a dream and possibility. When I was coming up, there was no WNBA. It didn’t happen until my senior year in high school. With these young ladies, they get to see it from the day they are born all the way the way up, they get to come to games and see their favorite athletes.

I mentor several players. I also do the WNBA podcast. It is a lot of fun seeing where the game is going and the opportunities that are available.

MELISSA MILLER

“The state of gymnastics and where it is at… it doesn’t have much in a professional realm. It is more in the collegiate level. And it has changed so much over the years. And I am so glad that I am not doing gymnastics anymore, because (competitors) are way too good. Where I have seen the biggest change is the growth in the sport. More people are involved into it.

Now, it’s grown with more and more college teams getting gymnastics and top notch gymnastics. If you watched the national championship last week, Auburn was in the final four for the first time ever in gymnastics. It is growing, because there is just more interest in the sport.

It is really neat to see the expansion in the sport in a lot of different areas. The equipment has really changed too. A lot of changed.”

BETH BARR

“Swimming is constantly changing. With equipment and bathing suits and fitness. It is more of a strength sport now. When I was swimming, I was a small swimmer and more of a technician in the water. The girls now are so strong. Swimming now relies more heavily on strength. There is also some professional swimming now which is great to see. It is also great to see swimmers can now expand their careers. The ages are getting older. As far as females they are definitely getting older and able to still compete.”

You all went through adverse situations in your careers on way to achieving so much success. How did each of you handle those tough times?

MELISSA MILLER

“As a young kid, my goal was to make the Olympic team. I was in eighth grade, and I moved away from home went to visit top coaches in the country. I got hurt right before qualifications for the Olympic trials. So my biggest dream was now shattered. I didn’t understand it at the time. When the plans you have don’t work out the way you want them, what do you do? For me, I realized God had a different plan. When I had that loss, I was redirected and I was able to get a scholarship at Florida and because of that, I had a successful career. It really made up for it.

You may have your mind set that you want to do this, this and this… and want to be a D-1 athlete, and it may not plan out. You can get hurt in an instant and your career may be over. You have to realize that and have a backup plan.”

BETH BARR

‘”I would rather face failure any day. Because failure provides an opportunity. You want that. Athletes go through depression. Because, it’s like I don’t know what to do now. You succeeded and now what? Embrace failure. My son just won a state wrestling title in Arizona, but he would call me when he lost a match and I would say, okay, what did you learn from that? What will you do better? When you win, you don’t learn anything… Always look at failure as an opportunity.”

MICHELLE SNOW

“Fear actually motivated me. And it motivated me because I was so afraid of certain things. I remember getting all the way to state final four (at Pensacola High) our freshman year and we lose. Went to the NCAA Final Four twice (with Tennessee) and got blown out in the championship game. That is tough. I get all the way to the pros and get drafted (in WNBA) by a team (Houston Comets) that has never kept a rookie. That is terrifying. You may not ever play and you worked your entire life to get there. I go overseas (first season) and I get fired (cut).

My mother had Lupus growing up. I didn’t know how much time she had. I didn’t know if she would wake up that next morning. It is scary It is a terrifying thing. People thought I wanted to play pro basketball because I wanted the cars, the fame, the money. I wanted to play because I wanted to buy my mother medicine. Her medicine was $500 for one prescription. I wanted to go pro so I could make a difference in her life.”

Sod Poodles, Fairly Group Announce 'Home Runs For Hope'

Amarillo, TX – The Amarillo Sod Poodles, Fairly Group, and Hope Choice are proud to partner for the 2022 season, providing Home Runs For Hope. For every Sod Poodles home run hit throughout the 2022 season, Fairly Group will donate $1,000 to Hope Choice.

Hope Choice is a ministry-based organization that offers services for individuals and families who are facing everyday struggles and cultural pressures. Hope Choice opened its doors in 1998 as a crisis pregnancy center and has since expanded its services to include mentoring programs as well as character-building programs in more than 90+ schools. Hope Choice and its school-based programs reach 24,000 students each month. Their mentoring groups are designed to teach character values and help build self-esteem in young people who face a variety of challenges in their daily lives.

“We exist to equip, mentor, and strengthen future generations”, said Hope Choice Executive Director, Candy Gibbs. “With programs from kindergarten through college and classes to equip moms and dads for every stage of life; we are seeing generations transformed daily. We are honored to serve our community alongside you and are thrilled to partner with the Sod Poodles for the 2022 season! Shield to shield! Go Soddies!”

“The Sod Poodles are excited to once again partner with the Fairly Group to raise awareness and funds for an incredible local charitable organization helping build and strengthen our panhandle community”, said Tony Ensor, President, and General Manager of the Sod Poodles. “A home run is one of the most exciting parts of a baseball game. It brings hope and joy to our fans just like Hope Choice works toward providing kids and young adults the resources to choose hope in every area of their lives.”

“It is not possible to adequately explain how Hope Choice has inspired our family personally, and our community for the last two decades,” said Alex Fairly, CEO of Fairly Group. “We are honored to help support the impact work they do.”

The Sod Poodles have already hit 17 home runs through 12 games in 2022, helping raise $17,000 for Hope Choice. During the eighth inning of every Sod Poodles home game this season, the team will update the current total ‘Home Runs For Hope’, and the amount of money raised to assist Hope Choice and its mission.

For more information about Hope Choice, please visit www.HopeChoice.com

WooSox Foundation “Care-A-Van” to Debut Throughout Worcester This Weekend, Presented by Bank of America

New, large vehicle will provide free COVID-19 tests as well as gifts at Gates Lane Elementary School, Net of Compassion, and Worcester Public Library.



WORCESTER, MA — This upcoming weekend, the WooSox Foundation will debut its “Care-A-Van,” presented by Bank of America, while providing gifts and performing acts of goodwill at locations throughout the Heart of the Commonwealth.

This afternoon from 12:45 – 1:30 p.m., the Foundation will visit students at Gates Lane Elementary School at 1238 Main Street, where last week the Worcester Red Sox launched the “WooSox Mentors” program in partnership with Worcester Public Schools and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts. The Foundation will bring small gifts for students and staff at the school, who will also be invited to tour the inside of the Care-A-Van.

Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., the Foundation will drive the Care-A-Van to Net of Compassion at 674 Main Street to donate blankets and other supplies. Net of Compassion is a nonprofit organization that directly provides food, clothing, shelter, showers, and recovery support to individuals on the streets of Worcester.

Afterward, the Care-A-Van will hand out 180 free COVID-19 tests (90 boxes) throughout the community, in partnership with the City’s Health and Human Services Department. Then, the Foundation will pass out small gifts at the Vaccine Equity Clinic taking place at Worcester Public Library, located at 3 Salem Square.

The inside of the Care-A-Van features a shower, toilet, sink, fridge, and couch. Books and clothing items will be stored inside as well.

The RV fits eight people while in motion but can accommodate up to 15 when stationary. The outside of the vehicle is wrapped by WooSox Foundation artwork, as well as the Bank of America logo, and the logo of Camping Word, where the RV was purchased.

Established on January 28, 2020, the WooSox Foundation comprises four pillars: education, social justice, conquering cancer, and diamond sports. The Care-A-Van will become a staple of the social justice pillar by expanding the Foundation’s presence within neighborhoods, groups, and communities in the City of Worcester and throughout Central Massachusetts. It will be used to deliver food, clothing, and other supplies, as well as a space to provide job readiness support, medical services, and other forms of aid.

The Care-A-Van’s ribbon cutting ceremony with members of the WooSox and Bank of America will be held in the coming weeks.

“We’re committed to keeping our community healthy, stronger, and connected,” said Ed Shea, President of Bank of America Central Massachusetts. “Partnering with the Worcester Red Sox on the Care-A-Van will allow us to address local needs and create opportunity for our friends and neighbors. We are particularly pleased to be associated with the WooSox and their fans, who have brought so much excitement and energy to the area.”

“This Care-A-Van, made possible by Bank of America, is a bold and visible step in our efforts to use the goodness of baseball to help achieve social justice and community unity,” said Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, the President of the WooSox and the WooSox Foundation. “As we use this vehicle to enhance the lives of families in our region, the imagination is our limit—and our imagination is unlimited. We thank Bank of America for this generous and impactful contribution. We look forward to touching thousands of lives, one at a time.”

“WooSox Mentors” Meet Children Today at Worcester’s Gates Lane Elementary School

 

Club partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts and Worcester Public Schools to introduce latest community initiative.

WORCESTER, MA – The Worcester Red Sox have partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts and the Worcester Public Schools to create the “WooSox Mentors” program with children at Gates Lane Elementary School at 1238 Main Street.

The program, launched today, includes 14 WooSox Front Office members who will mentor students once a week through the school year, continuing throughout the students’ rise through the Worcester Public Schools.

“So many of us are beneficiaries of impactful mentors, and so many of us have enjoyed serving as mentors to young people,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We recognize and realize that a regular visit with a smile, a kind hand, and a reassuring word can help fortify the self-esteem of a child—and what an honor it is to be able to do so.”

The school counts among its alumni the City Manager of Worcester.

“Not only do I have a soft spot for Gates Lane, where I attended elementary school, I know the value a program like this can have in the development of a young person,” said City Manager Edward M. Augustus Jr. “As someone who has benefited a lot from mentors, I am grateful our new neighbors, the Worcester Red Sox, are investing their time into becoming part of the fabric of our community and contributing to the growth and success of our youngest residents.”

“It’s great to see Front Office members from the WooSox making time for students in the Worcester Public Schools with baseball season right around the corner,” said Worcester Mayor Joe Petty. “I’d like to also thank Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass, and the entire staff at Gates Lane Elementary for helping make this exciting partnership possible. These students are going to benefit tremendously from the mentorship and guidance from leaders in the WooSox organization.”

“Thank you to the WooSox for their consistent and amazing support for Worcester Public School students,” said Worcester Superintendent Maureen Binienda. “The mentoring program with Gates Lane Elementary will make another positive difference in the lives of our students.”

“This is the story of everyday heroes! It is extra sweet that as much as kids look up to sports figures, this team and its Front Office members are saying ‘Yes’ to being a part of the lives of our Littles,” said Connie Ash, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts. “Everyone at Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Mass – our staff, our board and our volunteers – are wowed and humbled by the WooSox’ commitment to our community, and to each and every one of these children.”

“The WooSox enjoy demonstrating that we’re more than just a baseball team, and this mentoring partnership is another shining example of that,” said WooSox Vice President of Baseball Operations & Community Relations Joe Bradlee. “We’re all looking forward to building relationships with the students at Gates Lane Elementary with whom we’ve been matched, and we give our sincerest thanks to all who have helped get this impactful program off the ground.”

Founded in 1963, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass has supported children in the community through individualized mentoring programs for over 50 years. The organization connects with children through strategic partnerships with local schools and youth development programs, along with the support of community volunteers, many of whom come from local colleges and corporations like the WooSox.

Gwinnett Stripers Award $2,500 August Grant to Mentor Me North Georgia

 

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – The Gwinnett Stripers, in conjunction with the Atlanta Braves Foundation, have awarded their $2,500 August grant to Mentor Me North Georgia.

Mentor Me North Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the diverse needs of children and youth, ages 6 to 17, in Forsyth County since 2002. Their mission is to serve school-age children and youth in need of positive role models, to help them grow into healthy and productive members of our society and community.

The Stripers selected Mentor Me North Georgia to receive the August “Youth Programs” themed grant. The $2,500 grant will be utilized by the organization to expand its Mentoring After School (MAS) program at elementary schools in North Georgia.

“Mentoring is reciprocal and a collaborative effort that provides youth with character development, drives personal growth, and develops a skill set that gives every child the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Kerry Carithers, Executive Director of Mentor Me North Georgia. “Thank you to the Gwinnett Stripers and the Atlanta Braves Foundation for their generous support. The grant will allow our organization to expand our outreach by serving more youth in our Mentoring After School (MAS) program this Fall.”

Representatives from Mentor Me North Georgia received the grant from the Stripers on August 13.

For more information on Mentor Me North Georgia, including how you can make a donation, visit mentorga.org.

About the Gwinnett Stripers Grant Program: The Stripers will award four $2,500 grants to different nonprofits in 2021, with each month focusing on a different category of nonprofit organizations aligning with the Atlanta Braves Foundation’s pillars of “Live, Learn, Play, and Serve.” The four categories are Service-oriented programs (June), Military programs (July), Youth programs (August), and Health and Wellness programs (September). Grant applications were collected through May 14. Each grant recipient will be recognized during a Stripers home game at Coolray Field in 2021.

For more information on the Grant Program and all other Stripers community initiatives, visit GoStripers.com/community.

Blue Wahoos Provide Needed Place For Reuniting Mr. Robbins Neighborhood Program 

 

Crystal blue sky and the welcome return of warmer temperatures added to the experience, as members of Mr. Robbins’ Neighborhood gathered at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

A group of area high school athletes in the Playbook Program were together Feb. 20 for the first time since the 2020 school year ended in June.

Several had never met each other. Most had only visited via Zoom conferences. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic forced limitations in an organization designed to mentor and educate young athletes about the necessity of preparing for a future beyond sports.

Now, finally, they were on a field, working out together, and in meetings at the stadium.

“I’m telling you, it’s great just to be outside again, be on a field again, be with these kids in person again. It means so much,” said Fred Robbins, the retired NFL defensive star, who co-founded the outreach program with his wife, Tia, as a way to mentor athletes, inform about getting into college and reinforce the importance of having a Plan B outside of sports.

“Those who are on Zoom, I know you are tired of Zoom,” said Robbins, addressing the group. “I am Zoomed out, too. This is way to get outside.”

Through the help of Blue Wahoos co-owners Quint and Rishy Studer, the stadium became a way to get outside. A way to get the athletes’ parents together, have the athletes go through some workouts, then gather for a meal inside the stadium’s lounge.

The athletes were also able to utilize the Blue Wahoos home clubhouse. It was a full afternoon and evening for the program members, something they have not had since COVID-19 affected everything.

“The kids needed it,” said Tia Robbins. “The program had to transition into everything being done virtually. And Mr. Studer brought up this up about using the stadium, and said, ‘Let’s make this happen.’

“Just having little fun is so important. And getting the parents together to give them information is so much easier to do this way.”

The athletes thanked the Studers in a Facebook video. Many of the athletes had requested to Fred Robbins about a way for the Playbook Program to meet outside on a field again.

“We were doing everything on just Zoom calls,” said Fred Robbins, who went from Tate High and Wake Forest into winning a Super Bowl as starting defensive tackle for the New York Giants. “We tried to get to a kid at a football game on Friday. And we try to get him on a Zoom call on Saturday morning.

“But we could just tell the focus wasn’t there. The good thing about it, is that some of them realized it, too. And they said, ‘Hey is there any way we can get together? These Zooms aren’t doing anything.’

“That is what this day is about.”

Before activities began, Fred and Tia met with the athletes to reinforce the importance of registering with the NCAA Clearinghouse, an online portal that is essential for being recruited and verifying academic eligibility.

As Tia pointed out to the athletes, there’s a case of one area athlete unable to get a scholarship simply because he did not register with the NCAA Clearinghouse.

“I don’t care if you have a 30 on the ACT, or a 4.5 grade point average,” Fred Robbins said to the athletes. “If you haven’t registered for the (NCAA) Clearinghouse, you are not getting in college. All you have to do is register. It is easy.

“But if I’m a college coach and I don’t see your name in the Clearinghouse, If I don’t see his name, I can’t recruit you. This is a way they can see your film, see who you are. Make sure you guys do it.”

Mr. Robbins’ Neighborhood is now in its seventh year. The athletes include football players, basketball players, baseball and soccer. This year, the Playbook Program welcomed the first are female athlete.

The idea was formed when Fred Robbins got injured late in his 12-year NFL career. As he was in the hospital after surgery, he realized what would happen if he could not return to playing. What now?

He wanted to make sure teenage athletes grasp the reality of long odds just to play college sports. And the percentage of athletes who ever rise from high school to earning a professional contract is miniscule.

It is why having a Plan B is vital.

“We’re now seeing some ours kids in the program in college now,” Tia Robbins said. “We’ve seen the difference this making with them.”

RubberDucks To Feature Sports Industry Leaders In First Women In Sports Virtual Panel Sept. 2nd

 

(AKRON, OHIO) August 25, 2020 – The Akron RubberDucks are proud to announce their first ever Women in Sports Virtual panel featuring a variety of women who have established themselves as leaders in the sports from all across the country on September 2, brought to you by State & Federal Communications. This virtual panel is free to the public via Zoom invite link, beginning promptly at 7 p.m. on September 2, and is expected to run until 8:30 p.m.

Attendees can sign up to join this free Zoom webinar by visiting https://www.milb.com/akron/team/registration and a confirmation email will be sent to attendees by 5 p.m. the day they sign up. The Zoom webinar link will be sent the morning of September 2 with relevant login information. This live panel will be emceed by RubberDucks lead broadcaster, Marco LaNave, and will feature the below executives who have graciously offered their advice and insight on their experience working within the sports industry:

Panelists:

  • Linda McNabb – VP of Sales & Marketing, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
  • Jan Burke – Director, Ticket Sales and Services, Canton Charge
  • Emily Gates – Director of Sport Management Baseball, Field Hockey and Volleyball, Ohio High School Athletic Association
  • Donna Orender – CEO, Orender Unlimited. Former president of the WNBA and Senior Vice President of the PGA
  • Joey Arrietta – Director of Fastpitch Operations, Racers Foundation and Founder/President of Akron Racers Softball

Each panelist will introduce herself and reflect on the topics below, which will then be followed by a Question & Answer segment where Zoom attendees will get the chance to speak with top sports industry executives.

Some of the topics these respected leaders in the sports industry will reflect on include:

  • How they began their journey in the sports industry, and how they subsequently rose through the ranks into the top leaderships they held throughout their careers
  • The challenges that these leaders faced while starting in an industry predominantly run by men
  • What factors and experiences shaped these women into the respected leaders they have become in the sports industry
  • The benefits and value of strong mentorship in order to empower future generations of women to break into the sports industry
  • What challenges still exist and affect women’s ability to break into and advance within the sports industry

“The RubberDucks are proud to offer the opportunity to hear from experienced female executives with broad and diverse backgrounds in the sports industry,” said Jim Pfander, General Manager of the Akron RubberDucks. “These women have worked hard and have overcome many obstacles on their way to the leadership roles they hold, so their insight and advice is invaluable to any person looking to enter the sports industry.”

Attendees will walk away from this event having the knowledge that women can be, and currently are, leaders in the sports industry and to showcase the sisterhood that exists among women currently working in sports. This event will give all attendees a strong understanding of some of the hurdles and challenges that they may encounter along their career path. The goal for this panel is to help all attendees become better prepared for their journey into the sports industry by hearing from these five well-regarded, top executives.

For any questions regarding this event, please contact Ticket Sales Associate, Jenna Smith by phone at (330) 375-1715 or by email at [email protected].

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit www.akronrubberducks.com. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter at @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram at @akronrubberducks.

Recognizing National Women In Sports Day

 

In honor of National Women in Sports Day (February 6th), the BlueClaws would like to highlight the outstanding female employees on our staff.

JoAnne Bell is in her 7th season as the BlueClaws Front Office Manager. JoAnne is in charge of everything related to making the office run smoothly. In addition, she helps with BlueClaws Charities events and the BlueClaws community relations efforts, and host family program. She is also in her first season being a part of Minor League Baseball’s LIFT (Leaders Inspiring Future Talent) program mentoring women all over the country working in the industry.

“It is a joy to come to work everyday and work with such a great staff. The women here are awesome. No matter what ages are (it is a wide range) we can work together and accomplish so much,” she said. “This is a dream for me to be here working in baseball and better yet since I am now a Phillies Phan, Here is to another great year.

Jamie Bertram began her career with the BlueClaws in 2011 and returned in 2014. She is now the team’s Vice President of Promotions & Entertainment, responsible for Promotions, Production, Entertainment, Community Involvement, and Marketing Internship Program. Her goal is to ensure when fans come to the ballpark they leave with nothing but great memories with their friends and family. She was named a “Phenomenal Woman Under 40″ by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore in 2017.

” ‘Behind every successful WOMAN is a tribe of other successful WOMEN, who have her back.’ – Unknown. We have very talented women not only in our office but across all of Minor League Baseball. I am lucky to be part of such an amazing community of women in the sports industry,” she said. “We all have something in common, empowering and lifting each other to make a difference and be the best version of ourselves. When women support each other, incredible things happen!” ,

Annette Clark will start her 16th season with the BlueClaws this year. Currently the Accounting and Human Resources Manager, her responsibilities include payables, receivables, payroll and all human resources for the team. Annette previously served as a buyer for a national jewelry chain.

“I love that the front office is my second family with a lively and fun atmosphere. But the thing I enjoy the most is game day when you can feel the energy and excitement from our fans all around the ballpark,” she said.

Emily Gresco joined the BlueClaws this spring as a Marketing & Merchandise Intern from Temple University. She grew up in Manalapan.

“Growing up both my parents were teachers and I always thought that I would become one as well. But being a three-sport athlete showed me my love for sports and brought a desire to work in the industry,” she said. “It has been really fun and enjoyable being able to intern with the BlueClaws so far. Everyone is so caring and passionate about what they do and I am so happy I have been given the opportunity to be a part of this organization.”

Gianna Fiocco, from Lacey, joined the BlueClaws thorugh their Spring Internship Program in 2019 and is in her first season as a Marketing & Promotions Assistant.

“Working in the sports industry, and particularly for the BlueClaws has been an incredible experience for me,” she said. “I love being able to contribute to the fun experience that we provide for our fans at every game. Not only do I have the opportunity to work behind the scenes for the team, but I also get to work with an amazing group of women who continually support each other in a male-dominated industry.”

Kristina Poetsch started with the BlueClaws as an intern in January 2019. She became a member of the gameday staff during the 2019 season and is now working as a Ticket Operations Assistant. As a recent graduate from Montclair State University, Kristina will be assisting the Sales Department with ticket sales and various projects in preparation for the upcoming 20th season.

“Even though I’ve been a sports fan my entire life, I never considered working in sports until a few years ago when I switched majors. I’m excited to be a part of the continuously growing group of women working in the sports industry. Being a small part of this organization has been more than a dream come true and I don’t take any of it for granted. I’m looking forward to a fun season!”

Kathryn Raso is entering her 4th season with the BlueClaws. She joined the BlueClaws staff in 2017 as the Director of Concessions and also serves a Mentor through the Minor League Baseball LIFT (Leaders Inspiring Future Talent) Program. In her time away from work, Kathryn stays active with her home-based business Pink Zebra, as a volunteer for the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, and as a soccer coach for the Toms River Futbol Club (TRFC).

“It’s been a great experience being a part of the team here and I hope all young women can grow up to be involved in an organization like this one, providing great experiences and a sense of accomplishment,” she said. “Just walking through the gates here gives you a sense of family and community.”

Kayla Reilly is back and entering her 11th season with the BlueClaws. Kayla was hired in 2007 at the ripe age of 16 as a member of our part-time game day staff in the Kids Zone. Kayla briefly left the Jersey Shore to work for the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center in 2017, but recently found home calling her name. She is now the team’s Director of Events and Operations and directly oversees all functions of non-baseball events at FirstEnergy Park as well as overseeing the same group of 100+ game day staff that she was once a part of!

“I went to school to be a teacher, so I am still wondering how I ended up doing this crazy thing they call ‘working in sports,’ ” she said. “Super thankful for every single female (and male too!) that has shown me how important it is for us to have a voice in a male dominated industry and to fight for a seat at the table.”

Jess Szewczyk, joined the BlueClaws in 2019 as a Creative Services Assistant and she is now in her first year as the team’s Digital Marketing & Design Manager.

“I love being able to come in to work everyday and flex my creative muscles! There’s nothing as exciting (and nerve-wracking) as seeing my BlueClaws graphics go up on a billboard on a busy highway or to see a piece of BlueClaws social content get a lot of comments online. I’ve grown so much during my time with the BlueClaws – both professionally, personally, and creatively. And I think I bring a lot of GIRL POWER to the team!”

Jamie Wagner (not pictured) joined the Ticket Sales Team in October of 2019.

“The decision to come to the Jersey Shore and join the BlueClaws family was an easy one, from the first introduction to the team to seeing firsthand the BlueClaws impact within the community, I knew that this was where I wanted to grow my career in Sports,” she said. “I’m very proud to be the only woman currently on the sales team, and I consider myself lucky that I get to be in this office everyday surrounded by and constantly inspired by the amazing women that work here.”

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

2020 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by clicking here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Blue Wahoos Join National Girls And Women In Sports Day Celebration

 

 

Wednesday, February 5th is the 34th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day, dedicated to honoring the achievements of women in sports, and the Blue Wahoos are celebrating being led by a front office in which women are well-represented.

Both the Vice President of Operations and the Chief Financial Officer, two of the most influential voices in the organization, are women. In total, five departments are headed by women. Two – both Finance and Human Resources – are staffed entirely by women.

“My priority is promoting good people. My intention isn’t to promote or hire men or women specifically,” Wahoos’ CFO Amber McClure shared on her all-female department.

In recent years, Minor League Baseball has focused efforts on encouraging teams to increase gender diversity in hiring. The Women in Baseball Leadership Committee was founded in 2008 and numerous programs emphasizing professional development and mentorship have grown out of their efforts. Among these programs is the Women in Baseball LIFT (Leaders Inspiring Future Talent) Mentorship Program, which pairs women new to the industry with mentors with years of experience in Minor League Baseball. Two women with the Wahoos are honored to be LIFT mentors: Merchandise manager Anna Striano and Vice President of Operations Donna Kirby.

“This is my fifth year in Minor League Baseball, and I would say it’s just an inspiring time to be a woman in sports,” Striano said. “I noticed a major increase in the number of women at the Winter Meetings in 2019 just compared to the year before.”

On her experience with the Wahoos, she added, “Just about every woman in the front office has been recognized for their contributions to the organization. We feel like our work is actually being valued, and that’s empowering.”

One of the younger front office leaders is group sales manager Bailie Tate.

“There are so many women in management positions here that it feels like we’ve at least achieved equality within the organization,” said Tate, who began her career with the Wahoos as an intern in 2017 and has earned multiple promotions to now lead the department. “Every year I’ve worked here I’ve been promoted, and I’ve never felt like the standard was different for me.”

Throughout the day on Wednesday, the Wahoos will be honoring these women and others whose strengths and diverse perspectives make the organization successful. You can follow along and get to know these valued team members on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

Worcester Red Sox Create “The WooSox Foundation” to Benefit the City, the Region, and the Commonwealth

Education to be first area of focus: Worcester Public Library and Worcester Public Schools to be first beneficiaries– WPL Foundation to receive $25,000 donation; Library to receive books to begin a “Baseball Book Nook”

WORCESTER, MA – As promised in the Community Benefits Agreement with the City of Worcester and the Worcester Community Labor Coalition, the Worcester Red Sox today announced the creation of the “WooSox Foundation” to benefit the people and the charities of the city, the region, and the Commonwealth.

The foundation’s first area of focus will be education, and two of the first beneficiaries will be the Worcester Public Library Foundation and the Worcester Public Schools.

The foundation will donate $25,000 to the library, and will also donate books from the personal libraries of the club’s Principal Owner & Chairman, Red Sox Hall of Famer Larry Lucchino, as well as Vice-Chairman and Worcester native Mike Tamburro, and club President Dr. Charles Steinberg. Each has amassed a collection in their more than 40 years in baseball. The books will begin a “Baseball Book Nook” at the library.

Worcester Public Schools middle schoolers will be eligible to become “WooSox Scholars,” another club commitment in the CBA. The program will provide college scholarships of $10,000 each to four academically talented students. The first recipients will be the Class of 2021, selected in this coming school year and announced at Polar Park in the spring of 2021.

The WooSox Foundation will also create and operate a variety of programs to benefit students at each grade level, from WooSox Mentors for elementary school students to Dream Careers presentations for high school students. The foundation will also present small stipends to teachers in a new “MVT” program for Worcester’s “Most Valuable Teachers.”

In addition, the WooSox will host “Worcester School Days” each year for at least the first five years, when every Worcester student from Kindergarten through 12th grade-more than 24,000 children each year-receive a ticket to a ballgame at Polar Park.

The foundation will also present programs that help students learn the international social significance of such baseball stars as Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, and the Red Sox’ own Luis Tiant, Pedro Martinez, and David Ortiz.

“We are eager to fulfill the obligations that we offered in the Community Benefits Agreement,” Lucchino said. “Establishing the WooSox Foundation and announcing that the Worcester Public Library and the Worcester Public Schools will be immediate beneficiaries begin that process and help us demonstrate our intense desire to be more than a ballclub. We commit to being active participants in this community and in its charitable life.”

Lucchino also established philanthropic foundations with the Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, and Boston Red Sox, and expanded the depth and breadth of the PawSox Foundation.
“Our public library and our schools are vitally important in fostering the education and academic development of our youth,” said Worcester City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. “We thank the Worcester Red Sox and the generosity of the WooSox Foundation in supporting both our students and all those in the community that utilize our library.”

“Worcester’s biggest asset is its young people, and nothing is more important than educating our children,” said Harvard Professor and Worcester native Paul Reville, a former Massachusetts Secretary of Education and an advisor to the WooSox. “These Red Sox gifts to our students and our library not only strengthen education in this community, but signal that in Worcester, learning is the top priority.”

More information can be found on the newly-formed website WooSoxFoundation.org.

Pulaski Yankees release 2019 charitable contributions

 

PULASKI, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees today announced the organization made over $282,000 in charitable contributions during the 2019 calendar year, an increase of over $250,000 from 2018. Through the new Calfee Cares community relations program, the Yankees made $253,587 in gift in kind donations and $28,833 in cash donations from in-stadium fundraising efforts.

“When we introduced Calfee Cares in May of 2019, our goal was to prioritize our community relations efforts and continually find and create opportunities to give back to the fans, businesses, and community organizations in Pulaski who support us all season long,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Betsy Haugh. “We could not be more thrilled with the results from 2019 and the contributions our organization and players made last season.”

Yankees players and staff members totaled 536 hours in volunteer efforts and community appearances during 2019 across more than 35 different events, including the Yankees’ annual HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) initiative presented by Gay & Neel, Inc.

22 of the team’s 34 regular-season home games had a community tie, most notably Agriculture Night 2.0 presented by Farm Credit of the Virginias which led to a $4,250 donation to the Virginia Tech Agriculture Extension and Pulaski County 4-H, and fan favorites such as Heroes Night (SERVPRO of Pulaski County) and Military Appreciation Night (Pulaski Health & Rehabilitation Center).

The Yankees participated in five MiLB Charities national initiatives, including Sun Safety Awareness (American Cancer Society), Domestic Violence Awareness (Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation), Stars & Stripes Caps (New Era Cap Co.), MiLB CommUNITY (Allegiant Airlines), and Hope at Bat (American Cancer Society).

Calfee Park also hosted three community-focused special events – the first-ever Pulaski Yankees 5K benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia, Homers for Hearts benefitting the American Heart Association, and Guns and Hoses benefitting the New River Valley Agency on Aging.

Additionally, the Yankees began partnerships with the American Cancer Society (also an MiLB Charity Partner) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia, joining a lineup of local community partners that includes Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future and the Pulaski County 4-H.

“Our community partnerships are so important to us and our efforts to give back to the community,” Haugh said. “We look forward to working with these four again in 2020 and introducing a few new community partnerships for the coming season.”

Including Pulaski’s $282,420, the Appalachian League’s reported contributions from 2019 total $2,347,712.

Season tickets and flex packs are now on sale for the 2020 Pulaski Yankees season, which gets underway at Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park on June 22. Tickets can be purchased online at pulaskiyankees.net, by phone at (540) 980-1070, or in person at the Calfee Park offices. Individual game tickets will go on sale on April 1.

The Pulaski Yankees are the Advanced Rookie level affiliate of the New York Yankees playing in the Appalachian League. Pulaski is celebrating its 54th season in the Appalachian League in 2019. Calfee Park has won league championships in 1948, 1969, 1986, 1991 and 2013. Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park opened in 1935 and was renovated for the team’s first season as a Yankees affiliate in 2015. The Pulaski Yankees were named the recipient of the John H. Johnson President’s Award, Minor League Baseball’s top honor, in 2019. For more information, please visit www.pulaskiyankees.net or follow the Pulaski Yankees on social media, @PulaskiYanks (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram). This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.