TinCaps Donate $10,000 to the Parkview Foundations

Money Raised Through “IN This Together” T-Shirt Sales

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps are proud to have donated $10,000 to the Parkview Foundations, as a way of expressing support and appreciation for healthcare workers during the fight against COVID-19. The money was raised through the sales of special edition TinCaps “IN This Together” t-shirts.

“We’re glad to support healthcare workers in our community while they’re protecting us during these uncertain times,” said Michael Limmer, TinCaps Vice President for Marketing and Promotions. “In addition to our tremendous appreciation for our healthcare heroes, we also send gratitude to all of our fans who purchased an ‘IN This Together’ t-shirt.”

Parkview Health is a not-for-profit health system. As a 501(c)(3), Parkview Foundations accept tax-deductible donations. These fund essential needs such as new equipment, enhanced health services, outreach programs, the expansion of medical facilities, access to medication, and assistance to patients and their families. 100% of every gift made through Parkview Foundations is used to benefit patients, their families, and the care received at Parkview Health locations.

“We’d like to thank each of the TinCaps fans who bought a t-shirt and supported the Parkview Foundations,” said Ben Miles, President of Parkview Regional Medical Center and Affiliates, and Interim Senior Vice President of Parkview Foundations. “These donations are going to support our Parkview Health frontline workers. Each of us has been impacted in some way during this pandemic. Your donation to the Parkview Foundations is helping us to keep patient care at the forefront of everything we do. We’re honored to serve you and to support our TinCaps as well.”

The t-shirts, which were produced by _18 Threads_, a Fort Wayne-based custom print apparel shop, are green and read “TinCaps” across the chest. While the team’s primary logo features a red apple at the center, this design substituted in a red heart. Below that is the phrase “IN This Together,” part of a statewide campaign to promote social distancing to keep Hoosiers healthy and return Indiana to normal social interactions and business operations. Nearly 1,000 shirts were sold from late April through late June.

Fans can continue to support the Parkview Foundations thanks to a partnership that allows tax-deductible monetary donations to be used to provide TinCaps Meal Kits to Parkview Health frontline workers. For more information on how you or your organization can donate to this program, call 260-407-2813 or email limmer@tincaps.com.

Chihuahuas and Locomotive Front Office Staffs to Offer Support to Area Non-Profit Organizations 

The El Paso Chihuahuas and El Paso Locomotive FC announced today a plan to assist area non-profit organizations (NPOs).

NPOs interested in having a Chihuahuas and/or Locomotive staff member assist their organization, CLICK HERE!

EL PASO – July 8, 2020 – The El Paso Chihuahuas and El Paso Locomotive FC announced today a plan to assist area non-profit organizations (NPOs). This program will provide Chihuahuas and Locomotive staff with expertise in marketing, promotion, development, operations, and general administration to serve the non-profit community which has been so negatively affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“One of our greatest strengths and most significant assets are the people who comprise the staffs of the Chihuahuas and Locomotive,” said MountainStar Sports Group President Alan Ledford. “We are in the live event business and during this window when those events are severely limited, we cannot provide the level of service and memorable experiences we strive to deliver at Southwest University Park. This is also a period filled with extraordinary challenges for our local non-profit organizations. While their traditional functions are impacted by the pandemic, we are proud to offer our staff to help these NPOs continue to fulfill their respective missions.”

The staffs of both teams will be working as part of the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack and Locomotive Heart of Goal programs, both of which are presented by Helen of Troy. “The Pack” and Heart of Goal are El Paso-wide volunteer forces created to give back to the Sun City and surrounding region.

Joining with non-profit organizations and community partners, the two volunteer groups are made up of Chihuahuas and Locomotive staff, fans, players, and coaches with the mission of making a positive impact in our community. From building homes to sorting food, both teams have put in more than 750 community service hours annually.

“We said from the beginning that this would be about more than baseball,” said MountainStar Sports Group Sr. Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager Brad Taylor. “With a little more bandwidth than usual for the baseball staff, we have the chance to truly be effective and even more helpful in our community.”

While Minor League Baseball announced last week that the 2020 season will not be played, the United Soccer League (USL) Championship will return to play on July 11. The competition format and revised schedule for the USL was recently announced.

Non-profit organizations interested in having a Chihuahuas or Locomotive staff member assist your non-profit organization, CLICK HERE. Organizations must be registered as a 501(c)(3).

For more information, contact Angela Olivas at aolivas@epchihuahuas.com, visit epchihuahuas.com, text (915) 533-BASE, or email info@epchihuahuas.com.

Parkview Foundation Accepting Donations Toward TinCaps Meal Kits for Healthcare Workers

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps have announced a partnership with the Parkview Foundation that allows tax-deductible monetary donations to be used to provide TinCaps Meal Kits to Parkview Health frontline workers.

“We’ve been offering the community the chance to provide a TinCaps Meal Kit to a Parkview Health frontline worker since the program’s launch,” said TinCaps Vice President Michael Limmer. “But this announcement allows individuals and companies to make tax deductible monetary donations to the Parkview Foundation that will be used to provide Parkview Health employees and families most in need with a TinCaps Meal Kit.”

The TinCaps Meal Kit program was launched in late April as the organization faces the uncertainty of a 2020 Minor League Baseball season.

“We wanted the opportunity to connect with our fans and the community,” Limmer said. “This program allows fans to bring a taste of Parkview Field home with them at a time where we aren’t able to open our doors for fans to come in.”

The opportunity to donate a TinCaps Meal Kit to a Parkview employee has been a part of the program since its inception, but now there is the opportunity for a monetary donation to be made directly to the Parkview Foundation to provide the Meal Kits.

“We are proud to be able to broker the generosity of our community through the Foundation in getting TinCaps Meal Kits to our healthcare team members,” said Denise Andorfer, Director of Leadership Gifts for the Parkview Foundation. “We know acts of kindness during these challenging times are so appreciated in lifting the spirits of those working hard to keep our community safe. Generosity is an empowering reminder of our solidarity.”

“I’m a single mom with four kids and I feel truly blessed by this,” said Brittany Smith, who works at the Parkview Cancer Institute and recently received a TinCaps Meal Kit. “This box had five meals in it with everything that’s needed. They were all different meals and everything was absolutely delicious. I’m very grateful for this meal kit and want to thank the TinCaps for doing this.”

TinCaps Meal Kits are $100 if portioned for two and $185 (tax included) for a family-size that’s designed to feed 4-6 people. Meal Kits can be ordered at tincaps.com. For more information on how you or your organization can donate to this program, please contact Michael Limmer with the TinCaps at limmer@tincaps.com or 260-407-2813.

Chihuahuas, Bravos, Locomotive to Unify Borderplex

 

EL PASO – April 28, 2020 – The region’s three professional sports teams – El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC, and FC Juarez Bravos – announced today a plan to further unify the Borderplex community during the COVID-19 crisis.

The teams will turn on their respective stadium lights and videoboards as a symbolic gesture and to display messages to the binational region on Wednesday, April 29 and Wednesday, May 6 from 8-8:30 p.m.

The messages of strength, courage, and unity will be displayed on the videoboards at Southwest University Park and Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez in both English and Spanish. The same will also be broadcast live on each teams’ Facebook, Twitter and Instagram sites.

“Sports has a unique way of bringing people from different backgrounds together under one banner to cheer for their team,” said MountainStar Sports Group President Alan Ledford. “In this case, and in our roles as the symbolic town squares for El Paso and Juarez, we are proud to use our status and work with the Bravos to provide this gesture of support during a challenging and unique time in our history. We all look forward to the time when we’re together again in our respective stadiums, but until then we appreciate the opportunity to do our part to bring the region together in a virtual manner.”

“Together, with strength and courage, we are united as one,” said FC Juarez President Guillermo Cantu. “By bringing the Bravos, Chihuahuas and Locomotive together, we can show the community we are united, and we look forward to the day we see our fans in our stadiums.”

Coupled with the unified messaging, the Chihuahuas, Locomotive and Bravos are asking fans to donate to the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank to help those directly impacted by COVID-19. The Foster Family Foundation & Hunt Family Foundation, via the MountainStar Sports Group Foundation, will match each dollar donated up to $1 million to assist the Food Bank. Every dollar donated feeds up to seven families.

While the region continues to practice social distancing, the Chihuahuas, Locomotive, and Bravos want the community to feel connected while in a time of isolation and show solidarity between the two cities. All three organizations encourage fans to wear their respective teams’ jerseys to show support for the effort and to hashtag: #StaySafeAtHome and #UnitedWeAreOne.

WHO: El Paso Chihuahuas, FC Juarez Bravos, El Paso Locomotive
WHAT: Series of messages to connect the Borderplex region in a time of COVID-19 crisis. Encourage support for and donations to El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank.
WHEN: April 29 and May 6 from 8-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Southwest University Park
Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez
Chihuahuas Social Media: @epchihuahuas
Bravos Social Media: @fcjuarezoficial
Locomotive Social Media: @eplocomotivefc
WHERE TO DONATE: El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (CLICK HERE)
__

EL PASO – 28 de abril de 2020 – Los tres equipos deportivos profesionales de la región – El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC y FC Juarez Bravos – anunciaron hoy un plan para unificar aún más a la comunidad Borderplex durante la crisis COVID-19.

Los equipos encenderán sus respectivas luces de estadio y pantallas LED gigantes como un gesto simbólico y mostrarán mensajes a la región binacional el miércoles 29 de abril y el miércoles 6 de mayo de 8 a 8:30 p.m.

Los mensajes de fortaleza, coraje y unidad se mostrarán en los tableros de video del Southwest University Park y el Estadio Olímpico Universitario Benito Juárez en inglés y español. También se transmitirá en vivo en los sitios de Facebook, Twitter e Instagram de cada equipo.

“El deporte tiene una forma única de reunir a personas de diferentes orígenes bajo una sola bandera para animar a su equipo,” dijo el presidente de MountainStar Sports Group, Alan Ledford. “En este caso, y en nuestro papel de plazas simbólicas para El Paso y Juárez, estamos orgullosos de utilizar nuestro estatus y trabajar con los Bravos para proporcionar este gesto de apoyo durante un momento desafiante y único en nuestra historia. Todos esperamos con ansias el momento en que volvamos a estar juntos en nuestros respectivos estadios, pero hasta que esto suceda apreciamos la oportunidad de hacer nuestra parte para unir a la región de manera virtual.”

“Juntos, con fuerza y coraje, estamos unidos como uno solo,” dijo el presidente del FC Juárez, Guillermo Cantú. “Al reunir a los Bravos, Chihuahuas y Locomotive, podemos mostrar a nuestra comunidad que estamos unidos y esperamos con ansias el día en que veamos a nuestros fanáticos de regreso a nuestros estadios.”

Junto con el mensaje unificado, Chihuahuas, Locomotive y Bravos están pidiendo a los fanáticos que donen al Banco de Alimentos de El Pasoans Fighting Hunger para ayudar a aquellos directamente afectados por COVID-19. Foster Family Foundation y Hunt Family Foundation, a través de MountainStar Sports Group Foundation, igualarán cada dólar donado hasta $ 1 millón para ayudar al Banco de Alimentos. Cada dólar donado alimenta hasta siete familias.

Mientras la región continúa practicando el distanciamiento social, los equipos deportivos Chihuahuas, Locomotive y Bravos quieren que la comunidad se sienta conectada en un momento de aislamiento y muestren solidaridad entre las dos ciudades. Las tres organizaciones alientan a los fanáticos a usar las camisetas de sus respectivos equipos para mostrar su apoyo al esfuerzo y para etiquetar: #StaySafeAtHome y #UnitedWeAreOne.

QUIEN: Chihuahuas de El Paso, FC Juárez Bravos, Locomotive de El Paso
QUÉ: Serie de mensajes para conectar la región de Borderplex en un momento de crisis por el COVID-19. Fomentar el apoyo y donaciones al Banco de Alimentos de El Pasoans Fighting Hunger.
CUANDO: 29 de abril y 6 de mayo de 8 a 8:30 p.m.
DONDE: Southwest University Park
Estadio Olímpico Universitario Benito Juárez
Chihuahuas Social Media: @epchihuahuas
Bravos Social Media: @fcjuarezoficial
Redes sociales de locomotoras: @eplocomotivefc
DONDE DONAR: El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (HAGA CLIC AQUÍ)

 

TinCaps Team with Community Harvest to Host Downtown Fort Wayne Farm Wagon Distribution

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — In an effort to feed more individuals suffering from the economic effects of COVID-19, the Fort Wayne TinCaps have partnered with Community Harvest Food Bank to distribute food at Parkview Field’s “Silver” parking lot. The food bank has operated the Farm Wagon program since 1999, and has recently made changes to the schedule to eliminate unnecessary personal contact by using a drive through system.

“We want to reach as many people as possible who are living without affordable food access,” said Carmen Cumberland, Community Harvest Executive President. “This unique opportunity to partner with the Fort Wayne TinCaps allows us to get food distributed into the hands of vulnerable families downtown.”

“Although the TinCaps are not currently playing games at Parkview Field, we want to continue our focus on impacting the community during these tough times,” said Mike Nutter, TinCaps President. “We have been longtime partners with Community Harvest Food Bank and we are happy to be partnering with them again to get food to the families and folks in our region that need it the most.”

The Parkview Field Farm Wagon will be held for two weeks, and may extend for a third week. People in need of food assistance can drive to the location and Community Harvest will distribute food boxes into car trunks.

Parkview Field Distribution Schedule:

  • Monday, April 20, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field
  • Monday, April 27, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field
  • Monday, May 4, 1:00PM, Silver Parking Lot, Parkview Field (Added to original schedule)

The Farm Wagon at Parkview Field and all other Farm Wagon trucks are open to anyone in need with no ID required. Currently, Community Harvest operates Farm Wagons throughout northeast Indiana in their nine-county service area. Anyone in need of food assistance can visit CHFB.org to see the schedule and find out more information.

About Community Harvest Food Bank

Established in 1983, Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana, Inc. feeds 21,100 people every week. Last year, CHFB distributed 13.8 million pounds of food to nearly 85,000 unique individuals. Donna Van Vlerah serves as Board Chair, Carmen Cumberland serves as Executive President, and John Wolf serves as the Chief Executive Officer. Community Harvest is one of 200 Feeding America member food banks in the United States, and one of 11 regional members of Feeding Indiana’s Hungry. Community Harvest feeds hungry people in the nine counties of northeast Indiana. For more information, please visit www.chfb.org.

Sod Poodles To Host 2020 Team Mascot Auditions

 

Along with National Anthem auditions, the Amarillo Sod Poodles will also be hosting public team mascot auditions for the 2020 season on Saturday, March 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at HODGETOWN.

Individuals auditioning for the mascot position must be between five-foot-six and five-foot-eleven inches in height for the costume fit (please wear workout-type or athletic attire). Mascot experience with a high school, college and/or a sports team is preferred.

To request an audition time or for additional information, participants can email Austin Jackson at [email protected].

Walk-up auditions on Saturday, March 14 are welcome but are not guaranteed and will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis, as time permits. To ensure a slot, contacting ahead of time is recommended since time slots are also limited.

All participants for both the Mascot and National Anthem auditions can enter through the Sod Poodles Team Shop at 715 South Buchanan next to the HODGETOWN box office. Sod Poodles team members will direct all individuals to the check-in and audition area. Entrance to the audition area will begin at 9:45 a.m.

The Sod Poodles host their 2020 home opener at HODGETOWN on Thursday, April 16 against the Arkansas Travelers (Seattle Mariners Double-A affiliate) for a three-game set. First pitch for the 2020 home opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on promotions, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

TinCaps to Host Job Fair at Parkview Field

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are hosting a Job Fair at Parkview Field on Wednesday, March 11 (5-7 p.m.) and Thursday, March 12 (5-7 p.m.) in search of seasonal employees for the 2020 baseball season. Each year the TinCaps hire approximately 600 part-time workers to serve in a variety of roles around Parkview Field, which has been ranked the No. 1 Ballpark Experience in Minor League Baseball.

2020 Fort Wayne TinCaps Job Fair
WHO: Part-Time/Seasonal Job Seekers (must be at least 16 years old)
WHAT: Fort Wayne TinCaps Job Fair
WHEN: Wednesday, March 11 (5-7 p.m.) & Thursday, March 12 (5-7 p.m.)
WHERE: Parkview Field’s Suite Level Lounge (1301 Ewing Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802)

Special Notes:
– Those who’ve already submitted a 2020 application with the team don’t need to attend
– Those applying to be the team’s mascot should wear athletic attire

Applicants are encouraged to print an application to bring to the Job Fair, where they’ll have a chance to interview with TinCaps staff. Click here to access the application in PDF form.

Positions for hire are listed below.
Those who can’t make the Job Fair are still welcome to apply at TinCapsJobs.com or by completing an application at Parkview Field’s Administrative Office during business hours.
Candidates must meet age requirements and pass a background check. The TinCaps are a proud equal opportunity employer. The team is also flexible with employee schedules.

Questions can be directed to TinCaps Office Manager/HR Administrator Cathy Tinney (260-482-6400, [email protected]).

Opening Day at Parkview Field is set for Monday, April 13 (6:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the Cincinnati Reds-affiliated Dayton Dragons. The 70-game regular season runs through Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 7). The complete 2020 TinCaps schedule can be found at TinCaps.com. Tickets for all games are on sale at TinCapsTickets.com, at the Parkview Field Ticket Office, and by calling 260-482-6400.

Fort Wayne TinCaps Positions for Hire
Food & Beverage
– Back Counter
– Bartender (21 or older)
– Cashier (21 or older)
– Cook
– Dish Washer
– Food Cart
– Food Runner
– Group Party/VIP Areas
– Stocker
– Vendor
– Wait Staff
General Ballpark
– Kids Zone
– Parking Attendant
– Team Store
– Ticket Office
– Ticket Taker
– Usher
Specialty Positions
– Bat Boy (16 years or older)
– Cleaning/Janitorial (game-time and 3rd-shift positions available)
– Fan Photos Photographer
– Mascot
– Mascot Helper
– Special Events
– Video Production Crew (experience required)
*NEW for 2020: Tryouts at Job Fair (wear athletic attire)

Sod Poodles To Host 2020 National Anthem Auditions

The Amarillo Sod Poodles will be hosting public auditions for National Anthem performances for the team’s sequel season on Saturday, March14 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at HODGETOWN. Soloists, duets, and trios are invited to audition “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” for a chance to perform during the 2020 season.

Two winning participants will be determined by a panel of guest judges and will be given an opportunity to perform on either Opening Night or Independence Day. Many other individuals will be given opportunities to perform on additional game dates during the season. All participants will be contacted privately following the event.

All vocal performances must be a cappella or accompanied by a personal instrument and only traditional renditions of songs will be considered for selection. Each performer may audition for either “The Star-Spangled Banner” or “God Bless America” and will be considered for either song. Auditions will be performed in front of judges in a private, closed-off area during scheduled time slots.

To request an audition time or for additional information, participants can email Sam Wilson at [email protected].

Walk-up auditions on Saturday, March 14 are welcome but are not guaranteed and will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis, as time permits. To ensure a performance slot, contacting ahead of time is recommended since time slots are also limited.

All National Anthem participants can enter through the Sod Poodles Team Shop at 715 South Buchanan next to the HODGETOWN box office. Sod Poodles team members will direct all individuals to the check-in and audition area. Entrance to the audition area will begin at 9:45 a.m.

The Sod Poodles host their 2020 home opener at HODGETOWN on Thursday, April 16 against the Arkansas Travelers (Seattle Mariners Double-A affiliate) for a three-game set. First pitch for the 2020 home opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on promotions, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

 

TinCaps Team with Ball State University Class

 

College Students Gain Real-World Experience in Ticket Sales

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Minor League Baseball is all about development. That applies not only to the players on the field, but on the front office side as well.

With that mission in mind, the Fort Wayne TinCaps annually have partnered with Ball State University’s Sports Administration Program. The program actually predates the TinCaps, going back to 2008, when the team was known as the Fort Wayne Wizards. In a mutually beneficial program, BSU students gain real-world experience by making sales calls to TinCaps fans who’ve attended games in the past.

For students, it’s an immersive learning project that can’t be replicated in a regular classroom setting. Meanwhile, for the TinCaps, the partnership enables the team to keep contact with hundreds of fans during the winter.

“Many sport administration graduates don’t have the opportunity to make any real sales calls until they’re in their first job out of college,” said Paige Watson, TinCaps Director of Ticketing. “This partnership with Ball State gives students a head start in experience while still in school.”

As part of their professional development, students taking “Revenue Generation in Sport” also benefit from the chance to network with TinCaps full-time staff members. Over the years, the program has led to several students earning internships with the team and in some cases, even full-time employment. In fact, Watson was once a student in the class herself.

The 2020 program kicked off on Jan. 17 when this year’s class traveled from Muncie to Parkview Field. Professor Eric Klosterman‘s group toured the award-winning ballpark and also received training from Watson. Over the course of the spring semester, other members of the TinCaps Ticket Office and Ticket Account Management staff will visit the class on campus in Muncie for additional training and oversight.

“We truly appreciate the chance to team up with the TinCaps,” said Klosterman, Ball State’s Assistant Lecturer of Sport Administration and Coordinator of Undergraduate Sport Administration Program. “It’s an invaluable experience for our students to work with a professional organization. That the TinCaps are a first-class operation and one of the top franchises in all of minor league sports just makes it that much more impactful. TinCaps staff members go out of their way to make sure this is a meaningful experience for students.”

“As a student, this class not only helped me gain experience that was applicable to work after college,” Watson said. “But it also helped me become more familiar with the organization and the front office staff here, eventually leading to my full-time employment with the team.”

Watson is one of six Ball State alums currently on the full-time staff for the TinCaps.

“We’re grateful to have this partnership with Ball State,” TinCaps President Mike Nutter said. “Just about everyone working in this industry had guidance from professionals at some point as they were coming up. We’re glad to be able to pay it forward to BSU’s students and at the same time, we appreciate the help they’re providing us in return. It’s a credit to everyone involved in the program that it has produced interns and full-time employees for us in the past and we hope that trend continues for many years to come.”

The TinCaps open their 12th season at Parkview Field on Monday, April 13 (6:05 p.m.) against the Cincinnati Reds-affiliated Dayton Dragons. Tickets to all games are on sale at TinCapsTickets.com, at the Parkview Field Ticket Office, and by calling 260-482-6400.

Sod Poodles Announce Reading Program Presented by Kumon

The Amarillo Sod Poodles announced today the launch of their brand-new reading program presented by Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo.

The program’s mission is to help promote literacy and education among local Amarillo and Canyon students by providing incentives when they reach specific goals. The program is completely free for participating schools and is set to impact approximately 9,000 students in Amarillo and Canyon school districts in levels K-7.

“The Sod Poodles are committed to making a continued positive impact in our great community,” said Tony Ensor, President and General Manager of the Sod Poodles. “We are excited and proud to launch this motivating and fun program heading into our sequel season to promote lifelong reading and education to the future leaders of this community.”

“Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo is proud to announce our new partnership with the Amarillo Sod Poodles, who share our mission to help children succeed in life!” said Vibha Patel, owner of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo. “This is a new, multi-year marketing partnership between the world’s largest after-school learning program and the first-ever Sod Poodles Reading Program. In addition to enhancing math and reading skills, Kumon helps children gain confidence and improve critical thinking skills that are essential to succeed inside and outside of the classroom. This partnership provides a unique opportunity to reach children of all ages and emphasize the importance of learning and reading through sports. By providing a fun goal for our children, reading can be made easy for the whole family and increase reading fluency by just reading 10 minutes a night! We want to encourage our children to see a whole new world through books!”

“We look forward to partnering with the Sod Poodles on this reading incentive program,” said Denise Blanchard, AISD Program Director for Community Partnerships. “The ability to read and read well is imperative to the success of our students.”

Intended as a five-week program, students are encouraged to “complete a game” by reading nine books that are appropriate to their particular level of reading comprehension.

Like a baseball game, the program is divided into a nine-inning format. For every book a student finishes, they complete an inning. After the first three innings are completed and he/she moves on to innings four through eight, the students earn incentives from program sponsors including Whataburger, Cinergy, McDonald’s, Sonic, and Gatti’s.

After a student finishes the ninth (final) inning, they receive a free voucher for a Sod Poodles game and are entered in a drawing to win a prize on behalf of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Amarillo.

All materials for the free reading program will be provided and delivered to schools by the Amarillo Sod Poodles. The program is scheduled to run from March 2 to April 3.

To kick off the program, Sod Poodles team mascot RUCKUS will be attending school assemblies to promote the program and get students excited.

For information on how to be a part of next year’s Sod Poodles reading program presented by Kumon, call the front office at 806-803-7762 or email [email protected]. The Sod Poodles host their 2020 home opener at HODGETOWN on Thursday, April 16 against the Arkansas Travelers (Seattle Mariners Double-A affiliate) for a three-game set. First pitch for the 2020 home opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

For the most up-to-date news on the Sod Poodles along with detailed information on promotions, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

 

TinCaps Holding National Anthem Auditions for 2020 Season

Register for Tryouts at Parkview Field on Feb. 18, 20, and 22

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps are set to host auditions to perform the National Anthem before a game at Parkview Field during the 2020 season.

Singers, instrumentalists, and groups are welcomed to try out. Auditions will be held at Parkview Field on Tuesday, Feb. 18 (4-6 p.m.), Thursday, Feb. 20 (4-6 p.m.), and Saturday, Feb. 22 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.). Those interested in trying out MUST schedule a tryout time in advance by contacting Sarah Kendall at 260-407-2808 or kendall@tincaps.com.

Note: In recent years, all tryout spots have been filled within 24-48 hours. Therefore, if interested in auditioning, schedule a tryout slot as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind, not everyone who tries out will earn an opportunity to perform before a game. Tryout participants will be evaluated by TinCaps staff members and local musicians.

Those who are selected to perform the National Anthem at one of the team’s 70 scheduled regular season games will receive four tickets to the game at which they perform. (Click here for the team’s 2020 schedule.)

Opening Day 2020 at Parkview Field is Monday, April 13 (6:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the Cincinnati Reds-affiliated Dayton Dragons.

2020 TinCaps National Anthem Audition Key Details

– When: Tuesday, Feb. 18 (4-6 p.m.), Thursday, Feb. 20 (4-6 p.m.), Saturday, Feb. 22 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.)

– Where: Parkview Field’s Suite Level Lounge

– Who to Contact to Schedule Tryout: Sarah Kendall (kendall@tincaps.com, 260-407-2808)

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

Chihuahuas Cheer and Dance Classic Registration Now Open

 

EL PASO – January 6, 2020 – Leg Up Entertainment and Superior Festivals is proud to present the Chihuahuas Cheer and Dance Classic to be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Southwest University Park!

Teams from the southwest region are invited to participate! The dance competition is slated for 8:30 a.m. with the cheer portion scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

Registration closes on February 14, 2020 and payment deadline is February 21, 2020.

Registration fees are as follows:

DANCE (Groups and Solo):
$150 per team (seven or more)
$150 per ensemble
$150 per exhibition
$50 per solo routine

CHEER (Groups and Solo):
$150 per team
$50 per solo
$100 per exhibition

Please see below for rules and regulatios. CLICK HERE for more information.

TIME LIMITS
Team or Rec – Rules & Restrictions
• Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
• Up to 90 seconds of the routine may be performed to music 60 seconds must equal cheer.
• No voice-overs or words may be recorded to make the team’s vocal projection sound louder.

All Star – Rules & Restrictions
• Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
• Music is required for all of the routine.
• A .5 penalty will be assessed if music is not used for the entire routine.

BEST CHEERLEADER – RULES & RESTRICTIONS
• Each participant will perform for a maximum of 90 seconds and in the following order: three consecutive jumps, tumbling pass, and a cheer.
• Music IS NOT allowed.
• A partner may not be used during the performance.
• Judging is based on voice projection, showmanship, cheer execution, spirit, and ability in the areas of jumps and tumbling, as well as overall impression.
• There will be a .5 penalty if more than five tricks are performed in your cheer and a separate penalty if the routine exceeds the time limit.

TOP STUNT – RULES & RESTRICTIONS
• Groups of no more than four (4) cheerleaders. May have only one (1) male per group.
• Participants must be 9-12th grade and must be from the same squad/school/gym.
• Groups will have no more than 45 seconds to perform their stunt sequence.
• Each group must have at least one (1) extended stunt from a full down.
• Group will be dged on difficulty, execution, overall technique, and overall performance.

OVERALL GENERAL RULES
• All teams will follow standard competition and safety guidelines as printed on the waiver form.
• To ensure the competition runs as efficiently as possible, no teams will be allowed to change their performance order. Additionally, there will be no division changes allowed after the registration deadline. No refunds will be given once a team is registered.
• Before the day of competition, all participants must complete the Release and Waiver Form. This MUST be signed by Parent or Legal Guardian for the participant to be able to perform. All Participant forms must be given to the Registration Table upon checking into the competition.

COMPETITION SPECTATORS
Friends and families are more than welcome to watch the cheer & dance competition. Tickets will be sold through the Southwest University Park Box Office and can be purchased before and on the day of competition. Advanced ticket purchase is suggested. Click here to purchase.
Admission – $10 + Tax
Children under 3 – Free

REGISTRATION CHECKLIST
• Complete Cheer Registration Form
• Check division
• List number of participants in each specific division
• Indicate number of teams and total due
• Complete online registration
• Registration form should be completed by February 14, 2020. Payment should be completed and/or postmarked by February 21, 2020.

NO PERSONAL CHECKS
Methods of payment: School or business checks, money orders, school purchase orders or PayPal.

LATE FEE POLICY
It is extremely important we receive your payment before the deadline. If payment is not received by February 21, 2020, the prices will increase to:
Team – $200/team
Solos – $100/individual
Exhibition – $200/exhibition

REFUND POLICY
A full refund will be made for any registered event up to the designated cancellation deadline. After the designated deadline, there will be no refund and arrangements for full payment will need to be made. If payment is not made by the designated deadline, responsible parties will need to arrange for payment ASAP.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations of any registered event must be made in writing to Superior Festivals by the designated registration deadline.

TinCaps Auctioning Jerseys Worn by Team

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off the team’s batting practice tops from 2018-19 at TinCapsJersey.com. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the TinCaps CARE program.

The batting practice tops are gray with the team’s apple logo on the right sleeve. “TinCaps” is written across the chest in cursive red with uniform numbers underneath that and on the back in white. The “T” in TinCaps resembles a peeled apple.

The team wore these batting practice jerseys on a daily basis the last two seasons during pre-game activities. During this time, the TinCaps have had some of the Top 100 prospects in baseball, including left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore , right-handed pitcher Luis Patino , shortstop CJ Abrams, infielder Xavier Edwards , and catcher Luis Campusano , as well as left-handed pitcher Nick Margevicius , who pitched for the TinCaps in 2018 and then made his Major League Baseball debut in 2019 with the San Diego Padres.

The jersey auction is live and runs through Wednesday, Jan. 15 (5 p.m.). The website lists which players wore each available jersey.

Fans are encouraged to bid on jerseys regardless of their location. Winners who live outside of the Fort Wayne area can make arrangements to have their jersey delivered by mail.

Thanks in part to the team’s MLB affiliate, the Padres, the TinCaps CARE program allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that benefit members of the community facing hardship. In 2019, the TinCaps donated more than 1,000 tickets to 18 non-profits.

The TinCaps will have new batting practice jerseys for the 2020 season, which begins on April 9, when the team plays on the road against the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Opening Day 2020 at Parkview Field is set for Monday, April 13 (6:05 p.m.) when the TinCaps host the Cincinnati Reds-affiliated Dayton Dragons.

Parkview Field will feature an enhanced fan experience in 2020, which will include a brand new video board. Season tickets and tickets for group outings are currently available. Tickets to individual games will go on sale in February. For more information, visit TinCaps.com.

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

Southwest University Park to Hold Job Fair for 2020 Gameday and Event Staff

 

EL PASO – December 19, 2019 – Southwest University Park, home of the Chihuahuas and Locomotive, will host its 2020 job fair in a two-day event starting on Tuesday, January 14th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and concluding on Wednesday, January 15th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the WestStar Club at Southwest University Park.

Southwest University Park hiring managers are looking for qualified, hardworking candidates with great guest service skills who are able to work baseball and soccer home games as well as other sporting and non-sporting events in a variety of different positions.

Candidates must be 18 years of age to apply, must be able to pass a background check, and must be able to work all home games and additional events as needed. Interested candidates younger than 18 must send a resume or an email to the following Human Resources Jobs address: tripleaelpasojobs@gmail.com.

Southwest University Park is looking to fill the following positions for applicants 18 years or older:

•   Box Office Service and Cashiers
•   Cleaning Crew
•   Retail
•   Guest Services
•   Ushers
•   Ticket Takers
•   Cash Room Attendants
•   Parking Lot Attendants
•   Facilities and Grounds Crew
•   Security
•   Game Day Entertainment Staff
•   Bark Brigade and Social Square Staff
•   Kids Playground Attendants
•   50/50 Raffle Sellers
•   Part-Time Day Shift Administrative
•   Cashiers
•   Cooks
•   Line Managers
•   Suite Services
•   Wait Staff
•   Bartenders
•   Stand Managers
•   Expeditors
•   Warehouse

Candidates should enter through the Clock Tower/VIP Entrance on the corner of Durango St. and Franklin Ave. Candidates are urged to bring a resume and dress to impress. A positive, friendly attitude is essential. No calls please. Applicants who cannot attend can send their resumes to tripleaelpasojobs@gmail.com.

The El Paso Chihuahuas, El Paso Locomotive FC, and Leg Up Entertainment are proud to be equal opportunity employers.

TinCaps Auctioning Off Game-Worn Jerseys

 

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps are auctioning off game-worn jerseys at TinCapsJersey.com. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the TinCaps CARE program.

The jerseys up for auction are the team’s San Diego Padres jerseys that were worn by players and coaches during Sunday games at Parkview Field from 2017-19. The jerseys are white with navy piping and “PADRES” across the chest. The uniform numbers 1-39 are available, with the exception of 6, 19, 31, and 35, which are retired by the Padres.

The TinCaps’ Padres jerseys were sported by some of baseball’s top prospects, including nine who’ve already reached the major leagues. See list below.

NOTE: The No. 23 jersey worn by Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2017 is not up for auction. The team is preserving that jersey for historical purposes. As an 18-year-old, Tatis set the franchise’s single-season home run record with 21. He made San Diego’s roster in 2019 and instantly became one of the most exciting players in the big leagues. The team issued a new No. 23 jersey worn by players in 2018 and ’19. That jersey is available to bid on. 

The jersey auction is live and runs through 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Fans are encouraged to bid on jerseys regardless of their location. Winners who live outside of the area can make arrangements to have their jersey delivered by mail.

Thanks in part to financial support from the Padres, the TinCaps CARE program allows the team to donate tickets to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that benefit members of the community facing hardships. In 2019, the TinCaps donated more than 1,000 tickets to 18 different non-profits.

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Players Who’ve Reached the Major Leagues

  • No. 11: RHP Pedro Avila
  • No. 14: RHP Ronald Bolanos
  • No. 16: LHP Adrian Morejon
  • No. 24: RHP Andres Munoz and RHP David Bednar
  • No. 25: LHP Nick Margevicius
  • No. 26: LHP Logan Allen and RHP Michel Baez

Jerseys For Auction Worn By Current Top 30 Padres Prospects

  • No. 3: INF Gabriel Arias
  • No. 4: C Luis Campusano
  • No. 8: LHP MacKenzie Gore
  • No. 9: INF Xavier Edwards, INF Gabriel Arias, and OF Buddy Reed
  • No. 12: INF Esteury Ruiz and C Blake Hunt
  • No. 13: INF Owen Miller
  • No. 15: INF Tucupita Marcano
  • No. 18: OF Jeisson Rosario and RHP Reggie Lawson
  • No. 20: INF Hudson Potts
  • No. 22: LHP Joey Cantillo and RHP Mason Thompson
  • No. 25: LHP Ryan Weathers
  • No. 26: RHP Luis Patino
  • No. 28: OF Tirso Ornelas and RHP Mason Thompson

A complete rundown of who wore each jersey is available at TinCapsJersey.com.

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