Dinner Under the Stars Supports Baseballtown Charities

 

(Reading, PA) – America’s Classic Ballpark hosted the fourth annual Diamonds & Dreams Dinner Under the Stars on Thursday night, with all proceeds from tickets sold donated directly to Baseballtown Charities.

In 2002, the R-Phils established Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded to keep baseball alive in Reading, so children can benefit from the many life lessons the game teaches. Since that time, Baseballtown Charities has been a part of many projects throughout the community.

The Dream League was formed to give those with physical and mental disabilities the chance to enjoy the game of baseball. Teams play on a custom-designed turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assistive devices while helping to prevent injuries. The Dream League was created to allow anyone with physical or cognitive disabilities to play baseball, and there are no age requirements or barriers to participate.

In addition to the Dream League, Baseballtown Charities’ key projects have included the opening of Gordon Hoodak Stadium, Baer Park, and Oakbrook Park, and the creation of the Rip It for Life program, which provides local children and adolescents the opportunity and instruction to grow as players, and as people.

Thursday’s Dinner Under the Stars event welcomed attendees with a cocktail hour on the diamond, featuring Stockertown Beverage, Sly Fox Brewing Company, St. Boniface Brewing Company, and Adelphia Seafood.

President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino, Fightin Phils General Manager/Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker, and Executive Director of Baseballtown Charities Tonya Petrunak presented opening remarks, and recognized Dream League/Rip It for Life players and contributors in attendance.

With tables strewn across the outfield grass, attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner featuring the work of local chefs Tim Twiford (Redners Market), Josenoly Capitle (Crowne Plaza), Brad Fisher (Berkshire Country Club), and George Zeppos (Willoughby’s on Park). A variety of desserts were provided by Cakes & Candies by Maryellen, Sweet Ride Ice Cream, and Sweet Street Desserts. The Uptown Band performed to a sea of guests adorned in white, as part of the night’s “Beisbol Blanco” theme.

The event also gave a spotlight to families who have been positively affected by the endeavors of Baseballtown Charities. Guests had the opportunity to hear the uplifting stories of Melissa Noyes and her son Ryan, and Miriam Feliciano.

To donate to Baseballtown Charities, visit https://one.bidal.net/baseballtown. For more information on Baseballtown Charities and the Dream League, visit www.baseballtown.org.

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

Fightins, Capital BlueCross Announce Return of Outstanding Student Program

The Reading Fightin Phils, in partnership with Capital BlueCross, have announced the return of the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program for the 2019 season. The program is designed to raise funds for participating schools in the club’s surrounding community.

The Outstanding Student Program is a unique incentive-based program which recognizes and rewards hard-working students. Through the program, students are given an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with their families at a designated Fightin Phils home game. The Fightins have given back $9,400 to local schools since the program began.

Schools can register now to take part in the Outstanding Student Program this season, at no cost to the schools.

Each school decides its own method of selecting its “Outstanding Students,” and every student recognized by his or her school receives two FREE tickets to a Fightins game, an Outstanding Student Medal from a Fightins player, and a photo with the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor during a pregame Outstanding Student Ceremony. This year’s ceremonies will take place on April 25, April 29, April 30, May 7, May 12, and May 16.

For each free ticket that is used, and for any additional tickets that are purchased by family members through the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program, the participating school receives $1 back.

School teachers, administrators, or PTO/PTA representatives can sign their school up now for the 2019 season by contacting the Fightin Phils Director of Education Todd Hunsicker at 610-375-8469 x.206 or by email at thunsicker@fightins.com.

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

Fightins Receive 2018 John Henry Moss Community Service Award

(Reading, PA) – Minor League Baseball has announced the Reading Fightin Phils have received the 2018 John Henry Moss Community Service Award. They are the sixth-ever recipient of the award. The award was introduced in 2013 by Minor League Baseball in honor of John Henry Moss, who founded the South Atlantic League in 1959 and headed the circuit until 2007. The award is given to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership. The award will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings Banquet on Dec. 9, 2018, at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition to the award, Minor League Baseball Charities will make a $2,500 donation on behalf of the Fightin Phils to Baseballtown Charities.

“On behalf of Baseballtown Charities and the Reading Fightin Phils, we are honored, and humbled, to receive the John Henry Moss Community Service Award”, said Fightins General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “Baseballtown Charities thanks the many sponsors, volunteers, R-Phils Front Office staff, game staff, and the fans – the citizens of Baseballtown – for giving of their time, and of their treasure, to help the kids. The Savage 61 Dream Field, and Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park, are incredible facilities that will help children for many years to come. They provide the physical place where volunteers can interact with the children on a human level, and really make a difference.”

This past April, the Fightin Phils unveiled the brand new Savage 61 Dream Field, which is a facility that provides children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. The unique rubberized surface is the first field of its kind to be built in Berks County. The project is fully funded by Baseballtown Charities, the Reading Fightin Phils charitable organization. 110 children with physical and developmental challenges played in the inaugural spring league, plus another 60 children played in the fall league. More than 850 volunteers have devoted their time in working with these children.

The Dream League Field is the second one million dollar stadium built by Baseballtown Charities. The first, Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park, built in 2006 has provided more than 1,000 children from Reading the opportunity to learn baseball, softball and life lessons through the game.

The momentum of Gordon Hoodak Stadium, the Baseballtown Dream League, and now the John Henry Moss Award, Baseballtown Charities is even more energized and ready to tackle their next challenge: Baseballtown Charities Rip It for Life. Rip It for Life is a program that will identify young baseball and softball players who want to get better as players, but who face socio-economic challenges. Players identified to participate in the newly formed Baseballtown Charities Rip It for Life program will receive incredible baseball and softball training at no cost to them. The goal of Rip It for Life is to make the kids the best they can be, both as players, and as people, one kid at a time.

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Individual and group tickets are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightin Phils to raise awareness of Spotted Lanternfly on June 26th

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils, proud double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have announced they will be hosting Agricultural Appreciation Night to stop the Spotted Lanternfly on Tuesday, June 26th at 7:15 p.m. at FirstEnergy Stadium. The first 2,000 adults will receive a Fightin the Spotted Lanterfly T-Shirt courtesy of Anewalts Landscape Contracting and Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery.

Since 2014, the Spotted Lanternfly has threatened the state’s grape, fruit tree and logging industries. Adult lanternflies have a black head and grayish wings with black spots and their body seems to glow red. They have been a threat to the local wine industry because of their negative impact on grapes.

“Growing quality grapes are the first crucial step into making premium wine,” said Kari Skrip, owner of Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. “The Spotted Lanternfly has the ability to cause major damage to our vines and as a result to Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. It is imperative that we find solutions to this pest for our vines, wines and our livelihood.”

“Although beautiful, the spotted lanternfly can do immeasurable damage to our local and greater community,” said Lori Anewalt, owner of Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting. “It is our duty to be on the cutting edge of what a lanternfly can do and to treat it with great urgency. We are deeply concerned about the future of the fruit industry, especially that of Clover Hill Winery being that they are close family of the Anewalt’s.”

At the game, State Sen. Judy Schwank will have a table with informational flyers about the spotted lanternfly.

“The spotted lanternfly is a serious problem and is having a huge impact on our communities and on our farmers,” Schwank said. “Everybody needs to be engaged on this issue. Come out on June 26 to learn more.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has three steps to help eradicate the spotted lanternfly:

1.      Kill them

2.     Scrape the eggs off your trees

3.      If you are in a new area report it to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) by emailing badbug@pa.gov or call the Invasive Species Hotline at 1-866-253-7189

For individual tickets visit fightins.com/tickets or call 610-370-BALL.

For group outings, please reach out to Director of Groups Sales Jon Nally at jnally@fightins.com or Assistant Director of Group Sales at bwells@fightins.com

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Individual and season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Students wanted to design Fightins’ Energy Conservation Jersey

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced an Energy Conservation theme jersey design competition for secondary students presented by Reading Area Community College during the Energy Conservation Go Green Night sponsored by Fromm Electric Supply. The game is scheduled for Wednesday, June 27th at 7:05 p.m. when the Fightin Phils host the Erie SeaWolves.

The Fightin Phils are accepting jersey design concepts from local students with an Energy Conservation theme tied into the jersey. Students may draw their design or use computer software programs to design the jerseys. Designs may be submitted via mail or email in the following format: .jpg, .pdg, .eps, or .ai.

The jersey will be printed in full sublimation. Artwork of the jersey requires one of the Fightin Phils logos on the left chest or center chest. Students will receive a sample template that they may use to design the jersey.

Over 400 jersey designs were submitted during the inaugural jersey design competition last season. The Fightin Phils decided instead of rewarding just one student artist, artwork and concepts were incorporated from five students in the final jersey design from the 2017 competition.

Entries may be submitted to Todd Hunsicker, Director of Promotions. His email is thunsicker@fightins.com. Entries are due by Friday, March 30th.

Each student that submits an entry will receive two free tickets to the game on Wednesday, June 27th at 7:05 p.m. The student with the winning submission will receive a Go Green Jersey, four reserved seats with all you can eat buffet, a $50 gift card to the Fightin Phils Merchandise Store and a ceremonial first pitch prior to the game on June 27th.

The specialty themed jerseys worn by the Fightin Phils will be auctioned during the game and proceeds will go to the Berks Conservancy. Tickets are available for purchase online at fightins.com or can be purchased in person at the Fightin Phils Box Office at FirstEnergy Stadium.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Individual and season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Job Fair and Ticketpalooza set for Saturday, February 24th

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will be hosting their annual job fair for game-day staffing on Saturday, February 24th at FirstEnergy Stadium. New prospective employees are welcome to interview for open positions from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

The Fightin Phils are seeking individuals for part-time roles such as:

  • Concessions
  • Dugout Suite Waiters/Waitresses
  • Mascot Performers
  • Security
  • Clean Team
  • Phunland Kids Area

Prospective employees should be expected to work both weeknights and weekends from April to early September. Minimum age and compensation vary by position. Applicants are encouraged to fill out an application in advance and should enter through the Fightins Team Store on the day of the event. Applications will be available on February 24th for applicants to complete if necessary.

Application can be found here: http://www.milb.com/documents/5/1/8/265546518/2018_Job_Application.pdf

The Fightins will also be hosting Ticketpalooza from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. where season ticket holders, mini-plan holders, and group leaders can pick up their plans or orders for the 2018 season. Fans can also purchase single game tickets for the 2018 season.

The best way to guarantee seats for the most popular promotions and games of the 2018 season is to purchase a Fightins season ticket or mini-plan package today online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. As a reminder, all season tickets and mini-plan packages are seated first, before single-game tickets go on sale. All season ticket and mini-plan holders will get the best seats at FirstEnergy Stadium as long as the tickets are purchased before February 15th.

Fightins representatives will also be on hand at Ticketpalooza to showcase our group tickets and buffet areas perfect for family get-togethers, corporate outings, church functions, and much more.

In conjunction with the Job Fair, the Fightin Phils team store will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Singers and performing groups are welcome to audition for the National Anthem on Saturday, February 24th starting at 10:00 a.m. and will run until 12:00 p.m. Registration for the event will be taking place in the Fightins Team Store where they will then be directed to perform on the Good Life Financial Advisors Stage in Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza. The National Anthem event will also serve as the official tryout to fill any available dates during the 2018 season. All performers who would like to perform the National Anthem in 2018 are recommended to audition on February 24th. One person will be selected to perform the National Anthem at the 222 Showcase on Tuesday, April 3rd at 6:35 p.m.

Fans can also sign up for the Ceremonial Flag presented by Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. All active military and veterans, both living and that have passed, are honored at each home game during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each story and explain that the American Flag flying in front of America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium, for that game is in honor of that specific person. Following the game, the Fightins will present the veteran or military member with the Ceremonial Flag as a taken of appreciation for that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

In addition to being honored, the veteran or military member will also receive complimentary tickets for them and their family thanks to Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightins and Rip it Batting Cages Announce Baseballtown Baseball Classic

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to announce a new partnership with Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training and the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic.

The 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic will welcome the most amateur baseball games to America’s Classic Ballpark in the stadium’s long history! The collection of games will be known as the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, and will give the Citizens of Baseballtown an unprecedented opportunity to not only enjoy 70 Fightins home games, but also many terrific amateur games at the historic ballpark. Thanks to Rip It’s sponsorship, the Fightins will host the following amateur baseball games at FirstEnergy Stadium:

  • Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School – Sunday, April 29th at 6:00pm
  • Albright College vs. Kutztown University, Date TBD
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Semi-Finals (2) – Tuesday, May 15th
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Championship – Thursday, May 17th
  • PIAA District 3 High School Championship Games – Thursday, May 31st
  • Baseballtown High School All Star Game, Date TBD
  • Additional High School Game Dates are Available!
  • More game dates will be announced at a later time.

The most exciting aspect about Rip It’s sponsorship is that it gives additional area high schools the opportunity to play at America’s Classic Ballpark! The high school games are designed to be a gathering for the two competing towns, as is the case with the Wilson vs. Governor Mifflin game on April 29th. In that example, both the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, and the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association, have partnered for what guarantees to be an amazing event. Before the high school game, every youth baseball player in the Mifflin Youth Baseball program, along with every member of the Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. Following that, every youth baseball and softball player in the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, along with every member of the Wilson West Middle School, Wilson Southern Middle School and Wilson High School baseball and softball teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. In addition, both the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association and the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball Program will host their player photo sessions at FirstEnergy Stadium that day. The event guarantees that every baseball and softball player from both school districts will be introduced, and then watch the Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School baseball game that evening. Other area High School baseball teams, and youth organizations, are encouraged to contact Stephen Thomas at the Reading Fightin Phils to schedule their High School game, and youth photo day! Stephen can be reached at sthomas@fightins.com, or at 610-370-BALL, ext. 213. A limited number of game dates are still available, and Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training underwrites much of the cost.

“We can’t thank Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training enough”, said Scott Hunsicker, General Manager of the Reading Fightin Phils. “Thanks to their sponsorship, the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic looks to welcome literally thousands of high school and youth baseball and softball players to FirstEnergy Stadium. We have this wonderful baseball facility, and the thought was how we can open the field up to even more area baseball and softball players. We sincerely hope many more high schools and youth baseball and softball programs will partner together, like Wilson and Mifflin have.”

Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training is located at 1037 MacArthur Road in Reading, PA, near Reading Airport (it is the former home of Grand Slam USA). The facility is owned and operated by Mike Spidale and Eric Valent, two Baseballtown Hall of Famers who played for the Reading Fightin Phils. As part of Rip It’s sponsorship of the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, youth baseball and softball players that attend the games will also receive free hitting tokens for the Rip It batting cages. More information about Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training can be found at ripit.org.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

FirstEnergy Stadium to host 11th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run

(Reading, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium will welcome the 11th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run presented by Classic Harley-Davidson on Sunday, November 5th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza at FirstEnergy Stadium.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and The Children’s Home of Reading.   Folks will be admitted to the holiday event by presenting a new, unwrapped toy of any value or by making a monetary donation that will be used to purchase additional toys for children.

Motorcycle registration for the toy run will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Classic Harley-Davidson. Santa Claus will lead the ride as it departs from Classic Harley-Davidson on Route 183 at 11:00 a.m. and follows a 25-mile course until arriving at America’s Classic Ballpark for an estimated noon arrival. All motorcycles, Jeeps, and classic cars are welcome to participate in the Eastern PA Toy Run with a donation of an unwrapped toy or game.

Upon his arrival at noon, Santa will be on hand until 2:00 p.m. for photos with those on both the naughty and the nice list. There will also be live music on the Hardball Cider Performance Stage throughout the afternoon.

The Eastern PA Toy Run began in 2007 after the Berks County Toys for Tots motorcycle run was potentially cancelled after the Marine Corps Reserve Unit was deployed. Multiple motorcycle runs combined and teamed with the Fightin Phils in order to continue benefiting Toys for Tots in Berks and Lebanon County and The Children’s Home of Reading.

The Steve Moyer Subaru Fightin Phils Team Store will also be open with special holiday sale pricing, so fans can pick up discounted gifts for the holidays. There will be steep discounts of up to 50% for one day only. Those attending will be able to check out FirstEnergy Stadium signage and player line-up cards available for purchase. Fans can own a piece of FirstEnergy Stadium history!

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightins Nominated for John Henry Moss Community Service Award

(Reading, PA) – The Eastern League has announced the Reading Fightin Phils have been nominated for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award. For the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which is given to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership, the Eastern League has recognized the Reading Fightin Phils. The winner of this award is selected by Minor League Baseball and will be honored at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida.

This past June, the Fightin Phils broke ground on the brand new Savage 61 Dream Field, which is a facility that will provide children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. The unique rubberized surface is the first field of its kind to be built in Berks County. The project is being fully funded by Baseballtown Charities, the Reading Fightin Phils charitable organization. As part of the fundraising efforts the Fightin Phils hosted the first ever “Dinner Under the Stars” last October and raised $650,000 towards the project. Those fundraising efforts for the Dream Field were in addition to the regular charitable efforts of the franchise that included in-stadium fundraising and support for numerous charitable organizations.

“We are thrilled to be the Eastern League nominee for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award”, said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “The Moss award is a goal of our staff and everyone associated with Baseballtown Charities, as we continuously try to give back to the community as much as possible.”

In addition, Baseballtown Charities and IM ABLE Foundation announced a partnership in January to build an adaptive playground at the new Savage 61 Dream Field Complex in Berks County. The playground will create a motivating and encouraging environment that will allow all children including those with physical or cognitive challenges to play together. Children who use a wheelchair, cane or crutches will be able to move freely throughout the playground. The surface of the playground will be rubber tile.

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

The Eastern League also announced their nominations for the Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award (Richmond), the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award (Binghamton), the Larry MacPhail Award (Erie), and the John H. Johnson President’s Award (Richmond).

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightin Phils will aid MiLB in Hurricane Harvey Relief

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils, proud double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, will be joining forces with MiLB Charities by donating 50/50 profits to the MiLB Hurricane Harvey relief fund rolled over from Monday, August 28th through Thursday, August 31st. Minor League Baseball Charities will match that amount up to $10,000.

“The flooding and destruction related to Hurricane Harvey is epic”, said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “Minor League Baseball has always been very generous, and Minor League Baseball teams, including the Fightins, have always stepped up in times of need. The Fightins are happy to contribute, in our own small way, to the relief fund for Hurricane Harvey. I know our fans will be happy to know that the 50/50 will be benefiting the people affected by this terrible storm.”

At each home game throughout the season, Baseballtown Charities holds a 50/50 raffle. One fan takes home 50 percent of each night’s collection while the other 50 percent normally benefits Baseballtown Charities.  For these four games, the 50/50 will benefit the MiLB Hurricane Harvey relief fund.

The winner of the 50/50 will be announced on Thursday, August 31st after the conclusion of the Reading Fightin Phils game.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Baseballtown Charities Breaks Ground on Savage 61 Dream Field

(Reading, Pa) – On Wednesday, June 14th at 4:30 p.m., Baseballtown Charities and their distinguished guests broke ground on the Savage 61 Dream Field at the Relevant Sports Complex. The Savage 61 Dream Field is the first baseball field in Berks County that is designed specifically for children with physical and developmental challenges.

Distinguished guests such as Tim Profit of Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Chris Kaag of IM Able Foundation, Pennsylvania State Senator Judy Schwank along with President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino and Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker all spoke on behalf of the Savage 61 Dream Field.

Future Dream League players Jonny Ortiz, Tyler Hartman, Mya Haddock, Scott Palmer, Kyle Wolf joined President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino, Vice President of Baseballtown Charities Scott Hunsicker, Jim Leupold of the Baseballtown Dream League, Tim Profit of Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Chris Kaag of IM Able Foundation and Screwball of the Reading Fightin Phils in the groundbreaking by shoveling dirt to officially get the field construction underway.

The Savage 61 Dream Field was announced in October of 2016 at the Diamonds and Dreams Dinner event hosted by the Reading Fightin Phils at First Energy Stadium.

IM ABLE Foundation and Baseball Charities announced a partnership in January of 2017 to build an adaptive playground at the new Savage 61 Dream Field. The playground will create a motivating and encouraging environment that will allow all children including those with physical or cognitive challenges to play together. Children who use a wheelchair, cane or crutches will be able to move freely throughout the playground. The surface of the playground will be rubber tile.

Baseballtown Charities will continue to raise funds to support the Baseballtown Dream League complex. Baseball town is also recruiting community members to serve as volunteer “angels” to assist Dream League players at every game.

Parents and community members interested in signing up children, volunteering or donating can email Baseballtown Charities at baseballtown@fightins.com for more information.

About Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. The Savage 61 Field of Dreams will be constructed at Relevant Sports Complex in Temple, Pa. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightins announce Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/Scissors” Fun Run or Walk

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced there will be a Color the Stadium 5K “Running with Scissors” Fun Run or Walk presented by Penn State Health St. Joseph, Corps Fitness, IM ABLE Foundation and A Running Start on Saturday, June 10th.

The event will feature a pre-race party with a DJ to get everyone in the moving and grooving mood! The race will then kick off with a Color Blast with Reading Fightin Phils players & mascots. The race course will consist of inside and outside of FirstEnergy Stadium. Each lap around the stadium will be about a half mile. The start of the race will take place at 3pm, prior to the Reading Fightin Phils game.

Why are we running with scissors? Because no other color run does this! For this race and this race only – it’s FUN to run with scissors! People have always told us to not run with scissors. But for this fun race, we are throwing caution to the wind, and running with scissors, to raise money and draw attention to the Baseballtown Dream League – a new league and a new Savage 61 Dream Field that will allow children with physical and developmental challenges to play real baseball, on a real field, on a real team!

Don’t want to run the full 5K? THAT’S OK! Just run for fun and stop when you are done! You don’t have to run the full 5K, THAT’S OK!

Schedule for the day includes:

  • 2:30: Check-In
  • 2:30-3:00: DJ Pre-Party
  • 3:00: Color Blast w/ Fightins Players and Mascots
  • 3:00: 5K Run Begins
  • 3:30-4:30: VIP Post Run Party and Happy Hour for Runners and Their Guests w/ Live Music
  • 4:30: Gates Open to All Fans
  • 5:00: Mascot Band Performs
  • 6:35: First pitch between the Fightin Phils and the Hartford Yard Goats
  • Post-Game MEGA BLAST FIREWORKS – Largest Fireworks Show in Stadium History!!!
  • All runners must please wear swimming goggles or sunglasses to protect their eyes

Each Runner Receives:

  • Registration for the Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/ Scissors” Fun Run or Walk
  • DJ Dance Party and Color Blast w/ Fightins Mascots and Players to start the Race
  • Two Color Packets to be a Part of the Color Blast Throw
  • Fun, Safe Color the Stadium Course Circling America’s Classic Ballpark, including inside the stadium (6 laps of approx.. ½ mile each lap = 3 miles)
  • Color thrown on you each lap
  • Commemorative Color the Stadium 5K “Running w/ Scissors” Fun Run or Walk T-Shirt
  • 15″ Scissors to Run With and Keep
  • Exclusive Access to the VIP Post-Run Party for Runners & their Guests w/ Live Music
  • Game Ticket for the Reading Fightin Phils Game – including:
    • Pre-Game VIP Party and Concert at 3:30
    • Fightins Mascot Band Concert at 5:00
    • Fightins vs. Hartford 6:35
    • Mega Blast Fireworks after the game – the largest fireworks show in stadium history!

There will be an on-field ceremony at 6:15 p.m. before the Fightin Phils game with the Hartford Yard Goats. The ceremony will recognize:

  • Best Dressed, Best Dressed Three-Person Team, & Best-Dressed 10-Person Team.
  • Most Colorful Male, Most Colorful Female, Most Colorful Child 14 & Under.
  • Also will recognize the following runners:
    • Fastest Male, Fastest Female, Fastest Male 14 & Under, Fastest Female 14 & Under, Fastest Male 40+, Fastest Female 40+

The cost of the event is $39 per runner. Groups of three runners will receive a discount for only $100! Groups of 10 runners will receive a discount for only $250! Extra guests for the game and VIP party members will receive $6 discounted Fightin Phils tickets. All proceeds benefit Baseballtown Charities Dream League, thanks to Penn State Health St. Joseph, Corps Fitness and a Running Start.

Space is limited – we encourage teams to sign up as soon as possible for this unique, fun event. www.baseballtown.org/marathon.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Fightin Phils Honored as People’s Choice Leader

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils, double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have been presented the People’s Choice Leader Award in Family Entertainment and Local Sports Team by Berks County Living and Lamar Advertising. The awards were presented at the 12th Annual Berks County People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business Luncheon on Friday, April 28th at the Reading Country Club.

Berks County Living works alongside independent marketing firm Polk-Lepson of York to find which local businesses are tops among county residents each year through months of research and e-mail surveys with consumers about whom they saw as the leading companies in various business categories.

For nearly a half century, the Fightin Phils have been recognized, both nationally and locally, for their tradition of affordable family entertainment.

In 2016, Minor League Baseball released a study that found that average cost for a family of four to enjoy a Minor League Baseball game was $64.97. The average cost was calculated by using the prices of two adult tickets, four hot dogs, two sodas, two beers, a program and parking.

A comparable package in Reading costs $53.00, nearly $11 less than the national average. All of Reading’s prices fall under the national average, including parking and programs, which are both free of charge all year long.

Berks County Living is the only regional magazine dedicated to highlighting all that is unique about the Greater Reading/Berks area. The monthly lifestyle magazine continues to inform readers about what makes Berks County an exceptional place to live.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Outstanding Students Program returns in 2017

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced schools can register for the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Students Program this season. There is absolutely no cost to the school to participate, and in fact the school receives money through the program.

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is a unique incentive-based program designed to recognize and reward hard-working students. Each school decides their own method of distributing the tickets to their “Outstanding Students”. Through the program, the students are given an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with their families at a designated Fightin Phils home game. Each student recognized by their school as an “Outstanding Student” receives two FREE tickets to a Fightins game, receives an Outstanding Student Medal from a Fightins player, and gets to high-five the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor and has their photo taken with him during a special pre-game Outstanding Student Ceremony.

For each free ticket that is used, and for any additional tickets that are purchased through the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program, the participating school receives $1 back.

In 2016, as part of the Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student program, the Reading Fightin Phils donated $3,073 back to participating schools in the club’s surrounding community. The Fightins hope to donate even more money to schools during the 2017 program. The more schools that sign up for the Outstanding Student program, the more money that the Fightins can donate to those schools. With the funds received, schools will be able to support students’ needs and contribute to the educational process.

The Capital BlueCross “Live Fearless” Outstanding Student Program is extremely easy to sign up for, and again, it is FREE for the schools. The person that signs up can be a school teacher, administrator, or PTO/PTA representative. Schools can sign up now for the 2017 season by contacting the Fightin Phils Director of Educational Programs, Music, & Game Presentation Todd Hunsicker at 610-375-8469 x.206 or by e-mail at thunsicker@fightins.com. Dates are available in May. The program is easy to implement, and your school receives a check from the Fightin Phils.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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

Valent and Spidale to host Baseball Camps

(Reading, Pa) – The Reading Fightin Phils have announced that 2016 Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent and 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee Mike Spidale will host baseball camps at FirstEnergy Stadium for youth baseball players this season. Fightin Phils players will assist Valent and Spidale in hosting the camps.

Spidale will host camps for kids ages 7-14. Valent will host camps for kids 4-8. Here are the details:

Spidale Camp for Kids Ages 7-14:

The Fightin Phils Baseball camp hosted by 2017 Reading Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee, and two-time Fightins Team MVP Mike Spidale gives kids the chance to interact and play with Fightin Phils players with three days of instruction by Fightin Phils players and leading baseball coaches from around the area. In addition to the chance to work on their baseball skills on the perfectly manicured field here at America’s Classic Ballpark, each participant will also receive a Fightins Baseball Camp T-shirt and two tickets for a Fightin Phils game. At that game, the campers will be honored on the field before the Fightins game. There will also be an autograph session with Fightin Phils players as part of the camp.

You can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

The Spidale Fightins camp is limited to 125 campers and boys and girls from the ages of 7-14 can attend. The camp will run from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. each day.

The first Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, June 20th through Thursday, June 22nd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, June 22th at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

The second Spidale Fightins camp will be from Tuesday, August 1st through Thursday, August 3rd. Campers who attend this session will receive two tickets for the Reading Fightin Phils game on Thursday, August 3rd at 7:05 p.m., and will be honored on the field prior to the Fightins game.

Cost:    10 or more players: $70/camper
6-9 players: $80/camper
2-5 players: $90/camper
1 player: $100/camper

Valent Camp for Kids Ages 4-8:

For the seventh straight year, former major leaguer and Reading Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Valent will be hosting the Reading Fightin Phils Fun & Fundamentals Baseball Camp The camp is designed for YOUNG players to have Fun, and learn some Fundamentals. During the camp, kids will receive on-field instruction from Eric Valent and Fightin Phils players, participate in fun baseball activities followed by a medal ceremony, autograph session and pizza party lunch with Fightin Phils players. Campers will also have access to Phunland following camp as well. Each camper will receive two tickets to attend the Fightin Phils game on their final day of camp. The Valent Fun and Fundamentals Camps are one-day camps, but please feel free to sign up for both days if you would like.

The first camp will be Thursday, July 20th. Boys and girls ages of 5-8 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The second camp will be Friday, July 21st. Boys and girls ages of 4-6 can attend this session. The camp will run from 9:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Like the Spidale Camp, with the Valent Camp you can sign up as an individual, or you can sign up as a group. If you sign up as a group (group can be as small as two campers), not only do you receive a group discount, but you also guarantee that your group will be bundled together as they move from station to station throughout the camp. Bring the whole team, or a group of friends, and the Fightins will guarantee that you are in the same bundle of campers for the entire camp!

Cost:    10 or more players: $35/camper
6-9 players: $40/camper
2-5 players: $45/camper
1 player: $50/camper

For more information regarding the camps, parents can contact Stephen Thomas by emailing him at sthomas@fightins.com or by calling 610-375-8469 ext. 213. Parents can purchase tickets by going here: http://fightinphils.milbstore.com/store.cfm?dept_id=1390&store_id=96&parentID=1390

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2017 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

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