New Jersey – Page 11

Cozens Among Phillies “Step-Up” Service Honorees

October 1, 2014

Phillies minor leaguers were presented with the Step-Up Community Service Award by Phillies Assistant General Manager Benny Looper and Director of Baseball Administration Susan Ingersoll Papaneri. (Miles Kennedy, Philadelphia Phillies)

Former BlueClaws players were honored before a weekend Phillies game as part of the organization’s Step-Up Community Service Program.

The award is given to players in the Phillies Minor League system who have shown leadership through community service. The awards will be presented by Benny Looper, Assistant GM, Player Personnel and Susan Ingersoll Papaneri, Director, Baseball Administration.

OF Dylan Cozens was recognized from the BlueClaws roster this year. Among his service included the Bowling With the BlueClaws charity fundraising event, volunteering at the BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camps, and more.

Other honorees included Lehigh Valley RHP Tyler Knigge (2011 BlueClaw), Reading IF Carlos Alonso (2011 BlueClaw), Clearwater 1B Art Charles (2013 BlueClaw) and LHP Ethan Stewart (2012 BlueClaw) and Williamsport RHP Mitch Guellar.

Also pictured is Phillies pitcher David Buchanan (2011 BlueClaw) who did a significant amount of charity volunteer work with Lehigh Valley and the Phillies after his call-up.

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

HR for Heroes Raises $34,000 In 2014

September 17, 2014

OceanFirst Foundation has now donated over $160,000 to military-based non-profit organizations through the program

OceanFirst Foundation donated $34,000 to a group of military-based non-profit organizations based on each BlueClaws home run at FirstEnergy Park as part of the 2014 Home Runs for Heroes program.

Checks were preseneted in a ceremony on the field at FirstEnergy Park on Monday.

In six years, the program has now raised $164,000 in six seasons.

Each organization was paired up with one specific inning. Each the BlueClaws hit a home run at FirstEnergy Park, OceanFirst Foundation donated $1,000 to the corresponding organization. Fundraising totals are listed below.

Organization	Inning	Home Runs	Total
Army Emergency Relief	First	4	$4,000
Chariot Riders and NJ State Family Readiness Council	Second	6	$6,000
ARMS	Third	1	$1,000
Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund	Fourth	2	$2,000
American Red Cross	Fifth	1	$1,000
Navy Marine Corp Relief Society	Sixth	5	$5,000
Blue Star Mothers – WELCOME!	Seventh	6	$6,000
Vetwork	Eighth	0	$1,000
Catholic Charities	Ninth/Extra	2	$2,000

In the table above, please note that both Chariot Riders and the NJ State Family Readiness Council received $6,000 for the six home runs the BlueClaws hit in the second inning at home this year.

Dylan Cozens led all BlueClaws with eight home runs at FirstEnergy Park, while three players – Mitch Walding, Andrew Pullin, and Wilmer Oberto – each hit three. Jim Murphy, who hit seven home runs in Lakewood in 2009 and 11 more in 2011, has accounted for $18,000 in donations and is the program’s all-time leader.

For more information on OceanFirst Foundation, click here.

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

Little League State Champs to Be Honored Sunday

August 18, 2014

Toms River Little League team recognized in ceremony before the game

The Toms River Little League team that won the New Jersey State Little League Championship will be honored at FirstEnergy Park in a pre-game ceremony on Sunday prior to the BlueClaws 5:05 pm game against Greensboro.

The Toms River Little Leaguers won the New Jersey State Championship at the Berkeley Little League complex on July 28th, defeating Ocean City in the championship game. They then went to the Mid-Atlantic Regional in Bristol, Connecticut, where they went 4-0 in pool play before falling in the semi-finals to Newark, Delaware.

“These young players captured the attention of everyone at the Jersey Shore while they made their magical run,” said BlueClaws General Manager Chris Tafrow. “We are honored to bring them out on Sunday and give them the recognition that they deserve.”

In addition to the ceremony on Sunday, the BlueClaws could reach the 6-million fan plateau at this game. They return home on Friday night and are within 12,245 fans of the milestone.

At the game on Sunday, the first 2,000 fans 17 & under will receive a BlueClaws Back-to-School Folder. Plus, Kids Eat Free thanks to ShopRite and Kids Run the Bases after the game thanks to Brick Plaza. Adults can enjoy $2 Corona throughout the game as well.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

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

Baseball Academy – Pitcher/Catcher Camp in August

July 16, 2014

For pitchers and catchers ages 8-14

BlueClaws Baseball Academy will host a Pitcher/Catcher Baseball Summer Camp at FirstEnergy Park on August 12th and 13th. The event will run from 7 pm – 8:30 pm each day.

This two-day program is designed to teach players ages 8-14 how to build their individual skills as a pitcher or catcher.

Pitchers will learn proper throwing mechanics to keep them healthy during the season, along with information on proper grips for fastball and off-speed pitches. This is a drill intensive camp that will give players a multitude of new ways to practice at home.

Catchers will learn in order of responsibilities of being a catcher (receiving, blocking, throwing, tag plays, bunts and pop-ups) while learning the most specialized position on the field. Catchers camp has by far been our most popular camp. Camp will take place under the lights at FirstEnergy Park.

Each camper will receive 2 days of advanced instruction, use of the Lakewood BlueClaws facilities at FirstEnergy Park, and a FREE 1-on-1 Lesson*

For more information about our programs visit our website at Blueclawsbaseballacademy.com, check us out on FACEBOOK at BlueClawsBaseballAcademy, or follow us on Twitter @BBA_Claws.

Registration is $110. To sign up, please contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 x209 or jagnello@blueclaws.com.

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

Heroes & Legends Softball Game in Lakewood October 10th

July 9, 2014

Jay Johnston, Jim Dowd, Stephen Baker, Bruce Harper among participants; event benefits military-based non-profit organization

The BlueClaws will host a Heroes & Legends Charity Softball Game at FirstEnergy Park on Friday, October 10th.

Heroes and Legends is an organization dedicated to supporting veterans rehabilitative sports programs while assisting a wide network of military-based charities.

Among the participating former athletes:
Jay Johnstone – Former Phillie, Dodger & Yankee and two-time World Series Champion
John “The Count” Montefusco– Former SF Giant & NY Yankee who was the NL Rookie of the Year in 1975 and threw a no-hitter in 1976
Stephen Baker “The Touchdown Maker” – Former NY Giant Super Bowl XXV Champ
Jim Dowd – Former NJ Devil and 1995 Stanley Cup Champion
Bruce Harper – Former NY Jet running back
Keith Elias – Former Princeton and NY Giant running back
Jeff Frazier – Former Detroit Tiger and Toms River Little League Hero
Johnny Petraglia – PBA Bowler Member of Pro Bowling Hall of Fame
Parker Bohn – PBA Bowler Member of Pro Bowling Hall of Fame

Todd Frazier of the Cincinnati Reds, and a member of the 1998 Toms River East Little League World Series Championship team, and Frankie Edgar, Toms River native and former UFC Champion, will also make appearances at the event.

TICKETS: Tickets for the event are $10 for adults, $5 for children (kids under 5 are free), and $5 for enlisted or active military. Tickets are on sale now by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online by clicking here.

There will be a Home Run Derby beginning at 5:30 pm and the softball game itself will begin at 7:00 pm.

The program is dedicated to supporting veterans rehabilitative sports programs and charities honoring our Heroes past and present.

The Heroes Team is The Purple Heart Heroes All Star Team all of whom have been awarded the Purple Heart for their meritorious service.

Proceeds from this event will benefit Sanctuary Island, a non-profit organization that serves Wounded Warriors and other disabled to enhance health, literacy, life experience, and self esteem.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

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

BlueClaws, CJBC Blood Drive on July 26th

July 6, 2014

Annual Springsteen Appreciation Night follows

The BlueClaws and Central Jersey Blood Center will partner on a Blood Drive on Saturday, July 26th that runs from 7 am – 2 pm.

The drive will take place in the BlueClaws Executive Conference Center, and each donor will receive a pair of tickets to a future BlueClaws game.

The BlueClaws and Central Jersey Blood Center encourage all fans to donate, as this is the time of the year when donations are in the greatest need.

To register online, click here. Donors can also register by calling 732-842-5750 ext. 225.

Don’t Forget: Please eat before donating. All equipment used during the procedure is sterile and disposable. Donors must be healthy, be at least 16 years of age and weigh at least 120 pounds. Donors must present signature ID.

July 26th is also BruceClaws Night, presented by Central Jersey Blood Center. It’s the BlueClaws annual tribute to Bruce Springsteen. Only Springsteen music will play throughout the night. Plus there will be a special jersey auction with all proceeds benefiting BlueClaws Charities, special Springsteen-themed promotions, and more.

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

BlueClaws, United Way Book Drive on Friday

July 5, 2014

Donors will receive a ticket to a BlueClaws Saturday game in August

United Way of Monmouth County, United Way of Ocean County and the Lakewood BlueClaws are teaming up for a book drive to benefit area children. Fans attending the game on July 11^th at 7:05pm are asked to bring a NEW book(s) appropriate for kids in grades K-3 to the United Way table inside the stadium. For each book donated, they will receive a voucher for a Saturday BlueClaws home game in August. Families can receive up to 4 ticket vouchers.

About The Game: The BlueClaws game on Friday night, July 11th begins at 7:05 pm with the gates opening at 6:00 pm. After the game, there will be a fireworks spectacular thanks to Philadelphia Water Ice. For tickets, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here to order online.

In Monmouth County, the books will be distributed through the Early Grade Reading Initiative. This effort provides high quality holistic learning opportunities in the summer. When children are not exposed to sufficient reading or enrichment experiences throughout the summer, it’s easy to fall behind academically creating a “Summer Slide” – and it’s very difficult to catch up. But with the right opportunities, including the ability to learn during the summer, all children can flourish.

These summer programs are designed to focus not only on learning, literacy and reading, but also additional enrichment activities, such as arts, music, physical activity and nature/outside play. Children participating in the program will receive books courtesy of community drives, like the one being held at the BlueClaws.

When children are out of school for the summer they often lose access to books. United Way of Ocean County is collecting books to provide mini home libraries to children of several of our partner agencies. Our goal is to inspire young people to remain engaged in learning while developing their communication skills and imaginations.

For more information about summer early grade reading grants, please contact United Way of Monmouth County at 732-938-5988 or info@uwmonmouth.org. To learn more about the United Way or its Community Impact agenda, please visit uwmonmouth.org.

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

Phanatic, Military Appreciation Night June 19th

June 12, 2014

First of two Phanatic visits this year

The BlueClaws welcome the Phillie Phanatic to FirstEnergy Park on Thursday, June 19th, and at the game, they will hold their annual Troop Supply and Care Package Drive.

The Phanatic, the world’s most famous mascot, makes the first of two trips to the ballpark this summer and between innings, he will entertain fans like only he can. The Phanatic’s appearance is presented by OceanFirst Bank.

Tickets – For tickets, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

Boxes will be set up for the Troop Supply and Care Package Drive in the front of the ballpark and fans are encouraged to donate razors, snacks, baby wipes, shampoo, soap, non-chocolate candies and sweets, sun block with SPF 40+, lip balm, writing utensils, silly string, deodorant, tissues, q-tips, white socks, batteries, insect repellent, and flashlights.

The BlueClaws will also be collecting, as always, gently used cell phones at the NJNG Information Booth to benefit Cell Phones for Soldiers.

This supply and care package drive is in conjunction with the Monmouth-Ocean Central Labor Council Military Committee, Monmouth-Ocean Building Trade Council, National Guard, Toms River Armory, A.R.M.S, and IBEW Local 400 Military Committee.

“Military Appreciation Night here in Lakewood has been a great event these last nine years,” said Pat O’Keefe of the IBEW Local 400 Military Committee. “It’s great to see the local community come out and support the event and our Troops overseas.”

The Troop Supply and Care Package Drive takes place on Military Appreciation Night, where military groups will take in the game and there will be various pre-game ceremonies honoring military members.

For more in Military Appreciation Night, call Jim McNamara at 732-901-7000 ext 176.

Thirsty Thursday – This is also a 66MVP Thirsty Thursday, with dollar beer and soda plus 50-cent wings in the Coors Light WRAT Trap.

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

ALS Celebrity Waiter Event Returns June 4th

May 20, 2014

Fundraiser once again held at TGI Friday’s in Brick

The BlueClaws are proud to hold their 14th annual ALS Celebrity Waiter Event on Wednesday, June 4th at TGI Friday’s on Route 70 in Brick.

The event, which started in 2001, raises money for the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, the principal charity of the Philadelphia Phillies.

This marks the third straight year the event will be at TGI Friday’s in Brick. There will be two seatings: one at 5:30 and another at 7:00. As in years past, BlueClaws players will be serving as the waiters, and coaches will serve as bartenders.

20% of every check, plus 100% of all tips, will be donated directly to the ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia.

Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 732-262-0937.

“This has been a wonderful partnership between the BlueClaws and the ALS Association over the last 13 years and we are looking forward to what is always a great event,” said Jim DeAngelis, BlueClaws Director of Community Relations.

“The Phillies and their family have raised money to fight ALS for 30 years and here at the minor league level, the BlueClaws have been able to do the same since our inception in 2001,” he added.

The ALS Celebrity Waiter event has raised nearly $125,000 in its first 13 years.

There will also be a silent auction, while BlueClaws players will sign autographs and pose for pictures throughout the night.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

Tickets for all remaining BlueClaws games are on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com.

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

Home Runs, Strikeouts Benefit Local Charities

May 15, 2014

BlueClaws partners OceanFirst Bank, Stop & Shop donate to local organizations through two initiatives

The BlueClaws have partnered with OceanFirst Foundation and Stop & Shop to raise money for local organizations when a BlueClaws batter hits a home run or when a BlueClaws pitcher strikes out an opposing hitter at FirstEnergy Park this summer.

OceanFirst Foundation’s Home Runs for Heroes
The BlueClaws and OceanFirst Foundation have again partnered on Home Runs for Heroes, a program that raises money for local military-based non-profit organizations. Each inning of the game is tied in with a local military-based organization. Each time the BlueClaws hit a home run in Lakewood, OceanFirst Foundation makes a donation of $1,000 to that organization. For a rundown of charities, please click here.

The program is now in its sixth season and has raised over $120,000 so far. For more on OceanFirst Foundation, click here.

Stop & Shop’s Strike Out Hunger
The BlueClaws and Stop & Shop have again partnered on the Strike Out Hunger campaign, through which Stop & Shop makes a donation to the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties for every BlueClaws strikeout by a pitcher in Lakewood this year. Last year, the program raised over $10,000 for the Food Bank, which supports over 260 pantries and soup kitchens at the Jersey Shore.

Further, this year, as part of their 100th anniversary celebration, Stop & Shop will give out a $100 gift card to one lucky fan each time the BlueClaws reach a 100-strikeout milestone this year (100th, 200th, etc strikeout of the year).

For a program rundown, click here.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in all 13 years of existence. For tickets to any BlueClaws home game, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

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

Home Show, Breast Cancer Awareness on Wednesday

May 2, 2014

BlueClaws open series with Kannapolis (White Sox)

Wednesday night at FirstEnergy Park includes both a Home Show and Breast Cancer Awareness Night as the BlueClaws open up a three-game series with the Kannapolis Intimidators (White Sox) at 6:35 pm.

The annual Home Show at FirstEnergy Park includes vendors that specialize in home improvements and decor will be located all around the concourse. Fans can visit their tables and learn how they can improve their homes over the summer! Over 20 vendors will be present at the game at tables around the ballpark.

It’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Night, which will include a pre-game ceremony and set-ups from Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the American Cancer Society, Monmouth Medical Center, and Kimball Medical Center. The tables will have information on screenings, treatments, and more.

Plus, there will be a large pink ribbon autographed by the BlueClaws team which will be raffled off to one lucky fan at the information tables.

For tickets to the game, call 732-901-7000 optoin 2 or click here.

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

BlueClaws, CJBC Blood Drive on May 17th

April 21, 2014

All donors receive a ticket to a BlueClaws game

The BlueClaws and Central Jersey Blood Center will partner on a Blood Drive on Saturday, May 17th that runs from 7 am – 2 pm.

The drive will take place in a blood mobile located outside the ballpark, and each donor will receive a pair of tickets to a future BlueClaws game.

The BlueClaws and Central Jersey Blood Center encourage all fans to donate, as this is the time of the year when donations are in the greatest need.

To register online, click here. Donors can also register by calling 732-842-5750 ext. 225.

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

BlueClaws Baseball Academy Open Tryout on May 4th

April 15, 2014

BBA will run three teams this summer based at FirstEnergy Park

LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Baseball Academy will hold an open tryout on May 4th at FirstEnergy Park with registration starting at 9 am and the tryouts starting at 10 am.

Coming off an extremely successful Fall and Winter season with their two 17-under teams, the BBA Claws will be adding a freshman team (for players that are currently high school freshman). Last year’s roster included players from 11 high schools and three counties. In all, the organization will have three teams consisting of 40 players at both the 17u and 16u levels.

Anyone that is currently in 9th, 10th or 11th grade and interested in trying out must contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 ext 209 or email jagnello@blueclaws.com to register. There is a $20 tryout fee though any player that makes a team will have the money credited towards their registration.

The BBA Claws will begin practicing in June in order to be ready for the start of the Summer season. The team will participate in Perfect Game Super 25 Mid-Atlantic Regional qualifier, Diamond Nation 18u World Series, and BlueChip Prospects Showcase at Maple Zone Sports Institute, their own BBA College Showcase, weekly practices, and take part in a pre-game ceremony before a Lakewood BlueClaws game.

The schedule will also consist of games played against local teams at FirstEnergy Park and other local fields. The roster will be made up of Shore-area players and compete at both the 16u and 17u age level. The team will again be run by Joe Agnello, the director of the BlueClaws Baseball Academy, whose resume consists of nine years of coaching at the collegiate level, and for Major League Baseball player development in Southeast China.

BBA has also teamed up with Turn 2 Sports Consulting of Tinton Falls to help players and parents with the recruiting process. This exclusive partnership will educate, coach, and train families on how the recruiting details, NCAA academic and eligibility requirements, effective marketing strategies, and basic phone and interview preparation.

BlueClaws Baseball Academy is a year-long instruction-based program for youth players at the Jersey Shore. They run clinics througout the year and in 2013, ran two 17-under travel teams based out of FirstEnergy Park. It is believed to be the first time that a Minor League Baseball team sponsored and hosted youth travel teams from their own facility.

With any questions about BlueClaws Baseball Academy, contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 ext 209.

– BlueClaws Baseball Academy –

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

“We Salute You” Wednesdays to Honor Military

March 24, 2014

Individuals or businesses can make tax-deductible donations

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The Lakewood BlueClaws are pleased to bring back the Military Partners Program and We Salute You Wednesdays for the 2014 season. Through the program, companies can donate tickets to a series of Wednesday games for exclusive use by both veterans and active military members.

The five We Salute You Wednesday dates are April 16th, May 7th, June 11th, July 2nd, and August 27th.

At these We Salute You Wednesday games, the BlueClaws will have an extensive military presence including an assortment of the following:

Special Military-Themed Jerseys Worn By Players and Coaches
Rendition of God Bless America
Pre-Game Military Ceremonies (such as honoring a soldier returning from active duty or a re-enlistment ceremony)
Prize Raffles Exclusively for Military Personnel

Each participating donor (individual or business) will receive exposure through various BlueClaws outlets as well as the potential for tax deductbility.

There are six levels of donations: 10 tickets, 25 tickets, 50 tickets, 100 tickets, 250 tickets, and 500 tickets. Each donated ticket is $7 and the donation levels range from $70 to $3,500. Additional bonuses for participating donors, in the form of BlueClaws tickets and outings, are available depending on donation levels.

With any questions or for more information, please call Kevin Fenstermacher at 732-901-7000 ext 115 or email kfenstermacher@blueclaws.com.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

Tickets for all 2014 BlueClaws home games are currently available by calling 732-901-7000 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

Learn From the Pros at BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

March 18, 2014

Three sessions available in 2014; registration now open

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Young players can learn the game from the pros at the annual BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camps in 2014 where BlueClaws players serve as instructors to youngsters at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp is open to players ages 7-12 and there are three sessions available:
Session I: Thursday, July 10th & Friday, July 11th.
Session II: Thursday, July 24th & Friday, July 25th.
Session III: Monday, August 4th, Tuesday, August 5th, Thursday, August 7th, & Friday, August 8th.

Camp each day runs from 9 am – 12 pm and includes lunch from 12 pm – 12:30 pm, an autograph session with BlueClaws players on the last day of camp, BlueClaws merchandise, and one ticket to the BlueClaws game on Wednesday, August 27th.

The camp will cover all aspects of the game, with emphasis on hitting, base running, fielding, throwing, pitching, and position work. The objective of the camp is to instill the fundamentals of baseball, promote good sportsmanship, and create an enjoyable learning atmosphere for all.

Registration is now open and can be made by calling Kevin Lodge at 732-901-7000 ext 146 or by returning this registration form. Sessions I and II are $100 while Session III is $175.

– BlueClaws –

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