South Atlantic League

Heroes & Legends Softball Game in Lakewood October 10th

July 9, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws, CJBC Blood Drive on July 26th

July 6, 2014

Annual Springsteen Appreciation Night follows

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws, United Way Book Drive on Friday

July 5, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday

June 26, 2014

USO and Upstate Warrior Solution on hand to support the military; Fireworks to follow the game

As part of an exciting kickoff to the Fourth of July weekend, the Drive are proud to honor both current and retired members of the military as they host Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday, July 1^st at Fluor Field. The game between the Drive and Asheville Tourists begins at 7:05.

USO will be on hand to show their support for all military members in attendance. USO is a nonprofit organization that relies on the generosity of individuals and other organizations to perform their mission of lifting the morale of America’s troops and their families. They will have an enter-to-win table on the concourse for a pair of Stars and Stripes hats signed by Drive players.

Fluor and Duke Energy, a pair of Drive partners, will also be on hand to support military members all game long.

Before the game, fans will get a chance to see parachute jumpers enter the stadium, and children of military members will participate in the “Field of Dreams” and take the field with Drive players.

During the game, the Drive and Upstate Warrior Solution will present Purple Hearts and Navy Commendation Medals on the field in between innings. Upstate Warrior Solution is a community-based nonprofit organization in the Upstate that connects warriors and their families to the resources they need in their lives.

A fantastic post-game fireworks show will cap off a special patriotic evening. Don’t miss out as the Drive honor the bravery of current and retired military members and thank them for their service for our country!

To purchase tickets for Tuesday’s game, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528, or log on to GreenvilleDrive.com.

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

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

June 26, 2014

Former UK star Riddle returns with Greensboro

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

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

The schedule:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Playcation Package Returns on July 2nd

June 23, 2014

Receive 4 Drive tickets and 4 passes to area attractions for just $40

The Greenville Drive’s Playcation promotion has proven to be a huge hit in the Upstate since its founding in 2011. The Drive’s first playcation package of the 2014 season produced a sold out event on June 4^th, including a Drive game attendance record of 7,176 fans. As a result of this early success, the Drive have been working with its Playcation partners to set another date for 2014.

The Drive, along with The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Zoo and Greenville County Rec Waterparks and Pavilion, are pleased to announce that Wednesday, July 2^nd will serve as the second date for the Playcation package in 2014.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer a second Playcation date for 2014 as the summer moves into full gear with the July 4^th celebration,” commented Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko. “We have worked tirelessly with our Playcation partners at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Zoo and Greenville County Rec Waterparks and Pavilion to create a family-friendly and affordable package for the summer, and the activities combined with the price make this an incredible opportunity for our fans.”

The package includes four tickets to the Greenville Drive’s game against the Asheville Tourists on Wednesday, July 2^nd at 7:05, plus four passes to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Zoo and Greenville County Rec Waterparks and Pavilion, for just $40, a savings of $100!

The passes for the Upstate attractions can only be purchased from the Drive Box office and are valid from July 2^nd through September 1^st. The package must be purchased as a whole and all four tickets for the attractions must be used in one visit to each of the attractions.

“We’re excited to be a part of the Playcation package” said Lisa Libertore, Director of Marketing and Sales for The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. “Working together to create such a great package for families is very important to all of us. This promotion includes the very best attractions in the Upstate for an incredible price, offering value and savings that families are looking for as they head into summer. Not only do they get to make lasting memories, but they can make decisions about summer camps and value-based memberships that offer unlimited visits.”

Jeff Bullock, Zoo Administrator for the Greenville Zoo, added, “The Playcation package cannot be beat because of the quality of the Upstate attractions and its affordability. All four of these attractions are already family-friendly and affordable, and we’re proud to work together to create such a terrific value for families as summer approaches.”

“With summer just around the corner, there’s no better way for Upstate families to hit all of the best attractions in town, and we’re glad to participate in the Playcation package with the Drive, The Children’s Museum and Greenville Zoo again,” said Ted Lambrecht, Special Use Facilities Manager for Greenville County Rec. “Families who have been to all of these attractions know what a terrific deal this is, and for those who have never been to these attractions, Playcation serves as a great introductory package for families looking for a fun time this summer.”

Act soon, because the Playcation package will sell quickly! To purchase the package, visit the Main Street Box Office at Fluor Field or call (864) 240-4528. At the time of purchase, fans will receive four Drive tickets plus a card that can be redeemed at any of the Upstate attraction locations starting on July 2nd.

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

15th Annual “Kindness Beats Blindness” Auction on June 21 Benefits MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute

June 18, 2014

List of high-end auction items released as RiverDogs battle Kannapolis

The Charleston RiverDogs will host their 15^th Annual “Kindness Beats Blindness RP Auction” on Saturday, June 21, at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.

The RiverDogs, fresh off their All-Star break, will face the Kannapolis Intimidators with the first pitch set for 6:05 pm.

With proceeds going to the Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Storm Eye Institute and their on-going fight to prevent the loss of sight, the RiverDogs’ silent auction begins when the gates open at 5 pm and concludes at the bottom of the 6^th inning.

The Charleston RiverDogs have donated more than $500,000 to the Storm Eye Institute to help fight Retinitis Pigmentosa, a disease that causes blindness and that has affected Rebecca Veeck, the daughter of RiverDogs President Mike Veeck and his wife, Libby.

The list of high-end auction items includes:

Blue 2002 EZ-Go Electric Golf Cart

Features a rear-flip seat; battery; top and charger; approved for street use during daylight hours;

A Week’s Vacation at “Serenity by the Sea”

Located in the Grand Pavilion at Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms; foursome at Harbor Course at Wild Dunes;

New York Yankees

Tickets to the New York Yankees Legends Club;

Fun in New Orleans

Two-night stay at a special bed & breakfast; Sunday Jazz brunch on the Steamboat Natchez; and a tour of historic New Orleans;

Watershed Cabins

Two-night stay in Bryson City, North Carolina; Biltmore Estates passes;

Swing Bed

Hand crafted porch swing from Lowcountry Swing Beds;

Edge of America Staycation

Folly Beach hotel two-night stay: paddle boarding, dinners, sailing tour, kayaking, bicycle rental and the use of a MINI Cooper for the weekend.

In addition, the RiverDogs will have a wealth of sports-related memorabilia including a Freddie Freeman autographed bat, a Chipper Jones autographed retirement poster, a LeBron James autographed Miami Heat jersey, a Muhammad Ali autographed photo and much, much more.

For additional information about the “Kindness Beats Blindness RP Auction” or if you are interested in a donation or purchasing tickets to the game, please call Melissa McCants Azevedo at (843)577-DOGS (3647) or visit www.riverdogs.com or www.rileyparkevents.com.

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

Girl Scouts Day on Sunday

June 18, 2014

SC Mountains to Midlands troops recognized at Fluor Field

The Drive will honor the Girl Scouts of South Carolina Mountains to Midlands on Sunday, June 22^nd to conclude the four-game series against the Savannah Sand Gnats.

The game begins at 4:05, but the action starts with Scouts receiving a commemorative patch and participating in a pregame parade around the warning track at 3:15, with participating troops getting their name displayed on DriveVision.

The fun continues during the game with between innings entertainment and an “education adventure challenge”, and scouts will lead BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases postgame.

Sunday is not just for Girl Scouts, so head to Fluor Field to support the Drive and the Girl Scouts for all they’ve accomplished so far this year.

To purchase tickets for Sunday, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or log onto GreenvilleDrive.com.

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

Phanatic, Military Appreciation Night June 19th

June 12, 2014

First of two Phanatic visits this year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YMCA Night at L.P. Frans Stadium

June 2, 2014

Hickory’s Biggest Cycle Class to happen during the game

The Hickory Crawdads and the YMCA are teaming up to host Hickory’s Biggest Cycle Class during YMCA Night at L.P. Frans Stadium on Tuesday, June 3^rd.

Open to both members and non-members of the YMCA, Hickory’s Biggest Cycle Class will take place during the Crawdads game against the Charleston RiverDogs beginning at 7 pm. Stationary bikes will be positioned throughout the ballpark, allowing fans to participate in the event while still watching the game. Participants in the class will receive free admission to the game.

There are three riding options for the class participants, including one rider for all two hours, a team of two riders for one hour apiece, or a team of four riders for 30 minutes each. Those wishing to register for the class can do so by visiting or calling any of the YMCAs of Catawba Valley.

YMCA baseball and softball players are encouraged to wear their jerseys to the game, or wear blue or purple in support of the Y.

Tuesday is also Dollar Day at the ballpark presented by 1290 WHKY. Fans can buy one ticket and get the second for $1, with $1 hot dogs and Pepsi products available as well.

For more information regarding YMCA Night and Hickory’s Biggest Cycle Class, call Naomi Mitchell at (828) 464-6130.

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

Drive Salute Service Industries on Monday

May 31, 2014

Members of service industry get $6 tickets along with food and drink specials

The Greenville Drive are excited to salute members of the service industry with Service Industries Night at Fluor Field for Monday night’s game against the Lexington Legends. The game begins at 7:05.

Members of the service industry with proof of employment will receive $6 tickets for the game along drink specials all night long, including $2 domestic drafts, $3 Yukon Jack and $4 Jager!

Don’t miss out as the Drive celebrate the service industry! To purchase tickets for Monday’s game, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or log onto GreenvilleDrive.com.

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

Urgent Care Centers to offer free sports physicals June 1

May 24, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a Playcation on June 4th

May 21, 2014

Receive 4 Drive tickets and 4 passes to area attractions for just $40

On June 4^th, fans can take their annual Playcation with the Greenville Drive and Upstate attractions, as 2014 brings another exciting package! For just $40, fans will receive four tickets to that evening’s Drive game, plus four passes to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the Greenville Zoo, and the Greenville County Rec Waterparks/Pavilion, a savings of $100!

The passes for the Upstate attractions are good through September 1^st. Fans who already have tickets for the game on June 4^th cannot add on the Playcation to their existing tickets, they must purchase the package as a whole.

Act now, because the Playcation package will sell quickly! It can be purchased by visiting Fluor Field’s Main Street Box Office or by calling (864) 240-4528. At the time of purchase, fans will receive four Drive tickets plus a card that can be redeemed at all of the Upstate attraction locations.

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

ALS Celebrity Waiter Event Returns June 4th

May 20, 2014

Fundraiser once again held at TGI Friday’s in Brick

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drive and Michelin to Celebrate Reading All-Stars on May 25th

May 16, 2014

First pitch at 4:05 PM; Pregame parade at 3:30

The Greenville Drive and Michelin, N.A. are excited to celebrate the 2014 Reading All-Stars from Greenville County middle schools and all Anderson and Spartanburg County schools on Sunday, May 25th! The Drive’s seventh annual reading incentive program is designed to encourage learning and education success through reading, and the program reaches over 75,000 students year-round.

First pitch for the game with the Augusta GreenJackets is at 4:05, but the fun starts at 3:30, as the Drive honor these Reading All-Stars for their hard work this school year with participation in a pre-game “Parade of Champions” around Fluor Field. Each Reading All-Star will also be presented with a Drive – Michelin Reading All-Star commemorative t-shirt.

During the game, five schools with continued success in the program will be inducted into the inaugural Reading All-Star Hall of Fame, and top performers for the school year will be recognized. In addition, students will participate in the in-game entertainment, including a tug-of-war, shoe scramble, sack race and more!

To purchase tickets for Sunday’s game, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or log on to GreenvilleDrive.com.

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