South Atlantic League

BlueClaws, CJBC Blood Drive on May 17th

April 21, 2014

All donors receive a ticket to a BlueClaws game

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Drive to Celebrate Reading All-Stars on Tuesday

April 17, 2014

Accomplishments to be celebrated with entertainment and pregame parade

The Greenville Drive and Michelin, N.A. are thrilled to celebrate the Reading All-Stars of Greenville County elementary schools and all Pickens County schools before and during Tuesday night’s game against the Asheville Tourists at 7:05.

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. To honor these Reading All-Stars for their hard work this school year, they will take part in a pre-game “Parade of Champions” around Fluor Field at 6:30 that celebrates their success in the program, and will be recognized with a Drive/ Michelin Reading All-Stars 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!

“We are extremely pleased with the continued success of the Reading All-Stars program,” commented Eric Jarinko, Drive General Manager. “Reading skills are extremely critical to a student’s ability to succeed and stay in school, and the Upstate community has really embraced this program as a way for students to stay engaged both during the school year and the summer. With three dates on tap this season, we are excited to celebrate the success of these Reading All-Stars at Fluor Field.”

For more information about the celebration game on Tuesday, click here.

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

BlueClaws Baseball Academy Open Tryout on May 4th

April 15, 2014

BBA will run three teams this summer based at FirstEnergy Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws Baseball Academy –

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

F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic opens on Wednesday with new format

April 15, 2014

Opening round, winners bracket held at CMC-NorthEast Stadium

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (April 15, 2014) – The annual F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic returns to CMC-NorthEast Stadium, home of the Kannapolis Intimidators, with a new format in 2014. The eight-team field will compete in a bracket-style tournament from April 23-25 with all opening round and winners’ bracket games taking place at CMC-NorthEast Stadium. Consolation bracket games will be held at nearby A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis. Tickets are only $6 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and children 3 and under will be admitted free.

This year’s field includes A.L. Brown, Carson, J.M. Robinson, Mt. Pleasant, North Rowan, Northwest Cabarrus, Salisbury, and South Rowan.

The F&M Bank High School Baseball Classic schedule is as follows:

Wednesday, April 23
Games 1-4 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 1: 11:00 AM – Carson vs. Salisbury
Game 2: 1:30 PM – J.M. Robinson vs. NW Cabarrus
Game 3: 4:00 PM – Mt. Pleasant vs. A.L. Brown
Game 4: 6:30 PM – North Rowan vs. South Rowan

Thursday, April 24
Games 5 & 6 at A.L. Brown
Game 5: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 1 vs. Loser Gm 2
Game 6: 1:30 PM – Loser Gm 3 vs. Loser Gm 4

Games 7 & 8 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Game 7: 4:00 PM – Winner Gm 1 vs. Winner Gm 2
Game 8: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 3 vs. Winner Gm 4

Friday, April 25
Games 9 & 10 at A.L. Brown
Game 9: 11:00 AM – Loser Gm 5 vs. Loser Gm 6
Game 10: 1:30 PM – Winner Gm 5 vs. Winner Gm 6

Games 11 & 12 at CMC-NorthEast Stadium
Third-Place Game:
Game 11: 4:00 PM – Loser Gm 7 vs. Loser Gm 8

Championship Game:
Game 12: 6:30 PM – Winner Gm 7 vs. Winner Gm 8

The Kannapolis Intimidators are in the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and the team’s 14th as the Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Since the team moved to Kannapolis in 1995, 77 players that have played in Kannapolis have gone on to the Major Leagues. This year’s team is managed by Pete Rose Jr. CMC-NorthEast Stadium is located off I-85 at exit 63. For ticket information, please contact the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or visit www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

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

Drive to Support Furman Baseball’s Vs. Cancer Initiative

April 4, 2014

Fans encouraged to donate as well

The Furman baseball program has raised over $30,000 in their annual initiative to raise awareness of pediatric cancer, and because Furman has been such a loyal partner to the Greenville Drive and play games at Fluor Field annually, the Drive are lending their support to the cause.

Because Furman reached $30,000 before their game at Fluor Field against South Carolina, Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko will participate in shaving his head with Furman’s players following the game, with Drive staff members taking turns shaving his head. Jarinko is also encouraging Drive staff members and fans to continue to donate money to Furman’s team.

“The Drive is pleased to contribute to Furman’s team as they continue to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer,” Jarinko said. “Furman is currently in first place out of 120 college baseball teams across the nation in the amount of money raised, but they are being chased closely by the University of Oklahoma. We hope additional donations from our staff and fans will help Furman reach their goal of being the top contributor in college baseball in the fight against pediatric cancer.”

“The Greenville Drive has always been supportive of Furman, our program and the Greenville community,” added Ron Smith, Furman’s Head Baseball Coach. “This is just another example of their extraordinary involvement that goes beyond the baseball field.”

In addition to being near the top of total money raised this season, Furman raised the most money of any college baseball program in 2013. Half of the money Furman raises benefits national childhood cancer research, and the other half goes towards a local children’s hospital.

To help donate to Furman’s team, log on to http://furman.vs-cancer.org/. Come out to Fluor Field on Tuesday night as the Paladins take on South Carolina at 7:00, and stick around after the game as Furman’s players, and potentially the Drive General Manager, shave their heads for pediatric cancer awareness.

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

Spirit of Boston Run to be Held on Monday

March 31, 2014

Timed 5K will benefit City of Greenville Youth Baseball Program

Greenville, SC – The Greenville Drive, emediagroup, Caine Halter YMCA and Setup Events have combined forces to coordinate the Spirit of Boston Run, a timed 5K, on Monday, April 21^st. The 5K will begin at 5:30 PM, and the run leads into the Drive’s game against the Asheville Tourists at 7:05.

All funds raised will go to the City of Greenville Community Youth Baseball Program, which provides inner city children with an opportunity to play baseball in a structured program at their community park.

“We are thrilled to host the Spirit of Boston Run on April 21^st,” commented Drive General Manager Eric Jarinko. “With over $20,000 raised, last year’s Run for One event was a huge success in support of the events at last year’s Boston Marathon, and making this an annual event will be a great step as we continue our efforts to bring the Greenville community closer to the city of Boston.”

Jarinko continued, “We are proud of our affiliation with the Boston Red Sox, and the run will live up to its namesake by channeling the spirit of Boston on the same day as the Boston Marathon. That combined with all funds benefitting the City of Greenville’s Youth Baseball Program will make this an exciting day for everyone involved.”

Runners and walkers will start at the Caine Halter YMCA at 5:30pm. The course will wind its way through Cleveland Park from the YMCA and have its own version of Boston Marathon’s “Heartbreak Hill”. Runners and walkers will finish by entering Fluor Field, running by its own version of the iconic Green Monster, and crossing home plate while high-fiving players and coaches from the Drive.

“We believe that having Drive players and coaches greeting runners as they finish adds a nice touch to the event,” said Jarinko. “They have aspirations of playing or coaching in Boston one day, so they understand the significance of this event and how much the Red Sox organization means to Boston.”

The Drive collected new and lightly used equipment at the Hot Stove event in January, and partly because of the Drive’s efforts, the league is all set for play in 2014.

“Having the Greenville Drive as the Title Sponsor of the Community Youth Baseball Program has been a huge benefit as the program continues to grow,” said Dana Souza, Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Greenville. “The Drive is such a positive force in the entire Upstate Region, and we are pleased that their generous support allows so many children to enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle through baseball.”

The Drive will provide all participants with a complimentary ticket to attend that evening’s game against the Tourists. Participants and fans will be given the opportunity to purchase t-shirts with the Spirit of Boston logo on them for just $10.

“emediagroup is thrilled to partner with the Greenville Drive and Setup Events on an event that will do so much good for the Greenville community now and in the coming years,” said Bill Bishop, co-owner of emediagroup.

“The Spirit of Boston Run is very important to the Drive organization with our ties to Boston,” added Drive Co-Owner and President Craig Brown. “We are pleased to channel the energy of the wonderfully lively city of Boston, and we are excited to make this inspiring event for a great cause an annual tradition here in Greenville.”

Registration and packet pickup for the race will begin at 4:30 PM. For more information, and to register before the day of the race, click here.

WHAT: Spirit of Boston Race

WHEN: Monday, April 21^st

WHERE: Fluor Field at the West End, Downtown Greenville

DETAILS:

-4:30 PM: Packet pickup/Registration

-5:30 PM: 5K begins

-7:05 PM: Greenville Drive vs. Asheville Tourists

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

Blood Drive Thursday at Fluor Field

March 28, 2014

Donors receive a t-shirt, 2 Drive tickets, a hot dog and a Pepsi

The Drive and The Blood Connection will team up for the first blood drive at Fluor Field of 2014 on Thursday, April 3rd. Those wishing to donate can come to the Field Street Gate between 11 AM to 7 PM.

Each donor will receive a commemorative t-shirt, a voucher good for two tickets to a 2014 Drive game at Fluor Field, a complimentary hot dog and a 12 ounce Pepsi product.

Donors must be at least 16 years of age.

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

Drive Partnering with Ronald McDonald House

March 28, 2014

One Night One Shirt campaign to help families in need

On Friday, May 9th, the Greenville Drive are partnering with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas for a fantastic cause, One Night One Shirt! That day has been designated by organizations across the Upstate as a casual day, and employees of these organizations who purchase a One Night One Shirt t-shirt for $13.00 will be able to wear the t-shirt to work, and in doing so, they will help sponsor a night at the Ronald McDonald House for a family in need.

In addition, employees who wear the t-shirt will receive a complimentary ticket to the Drive’s game that night at Fluor Field against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.

The deadline to order the T-shirts is Tuesday, April 1. For more information please contact Emily Muserallo at 864-272-0197 or by email, or visit the One Night One Shirt website.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greenville Drive1. Click here to view the original story.

‘Dads Reveal Winning Cover Design

March 28, 2014

Sawmills Elementary’s Nathan Connor creates winning artwork

Hickory, NC – The Hickory Crawdads are proud to announce the winner of this year’s Cover Design Contest, with Nathan Connor of Sawmills Elementary creating the winning entry. Nathan’s artwork will appear on the cover of the first edition of the Crawdads Chronicle, the ‘Dads game day program.

Nathan’s artwork depicting Crawdads mascots Conrad and Candy was chosen from nearly 2,000 total entries from area schools. The winning picture also incorporates the ‘Dads All-Star logo and a bright yellow banner with the Crawdads alternate claw logo.

“Nathan’s picture really stood out to us,” said Crawdads Director of Community Relations & Events Megan Meade. “I always love going through all the artwork and this year really gave us some great ones to choose from. In the end though, Nathan’s was the one that won us over.”

The Crawdads will honor Nathan at the ‘Dads April 15th home game against Kannapolis. Nathan and his family will receive 4 free tickets to the game, where the 4th grader will also throw out the first pitch as part of his VIP treatment for the night.

The remaining 24 finalists submissions in the Crawdads Cover Design Contest will be displayed in the stadium concourse for the game. All of the children who submitted artwork, along with their families, will be recognized in a pre-game parade around the outfield.

Now in its 4th year, the Crawdads annual Cover Design Contest allows children from all area elementary and middle schools to submit their unique artwork for consideration. The Crawdads select the top 25 covers from nearly 2,000 total submissions. The winning artwork is then voted on by the ‘Dads staff.

Sawmills Elementary will receive $200 from the Crawdads thanks to Nathan’s winning art, while St. Stephen’s Elementary in Hickory will also receive a $200 prize for having the most participants in this year’s contest.

The Crawdads open the season on Thursday, April 3 in Greensboro before playing their home opener at the newly renovated Crawdads Stadium on Thursday, April 10. Tickets are now on sale for all 70 ‘Dads home games, as well as the South Atlantic League All-Star Game on June 17. Tickets may be purchased online, over the phone, or in-person at the Crawdads Ticket Office.

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

“We Salute You” Wednesdays to Honor Military

March 24, 2014

Individuals or businesses can make tax-deductible donations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

Intimidators inaugural Reading All-Stars include hundreds of students from Kannapolis City Schools

March 19, 2014

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. (March 19, 2014) – The Kannapolis Intimidators are excited to announce that, as a part of the team’s new reading program, hundreds of students in Kannapolis City Schools are among the first in the community to be named 2014 Reading All-Stars.

The Intimidators’ Reading All-Stars Program challenges third through eighth grade students to read four extracurricular books in four weeks to be named a Reading All-Star and receive a complimentary ticket to an Intimidators game and participate in a pre-game parade around the field. The four-week reading program for Kannapolis City Schools recently came to a close, and students will receive a voucher through their schools in the coming weeks good for a ticket to the KCS Reading All-Stars Celebration Game on Friday, April 4, at 7:05 p.m. at CMC-NorthEast Stadium.

“The Reading All-Stars program has been a tremendous success, and we are extremely grateful to the Kannapolis Intimidators for bringing it to our schools,” said Dr. Pam Cain, Superintendent of Kannapolis City Schools. “Building a love of reading is one of the most important things we can do to help children succeed, and we look forward to continuing this outstanding partnership.”

In addition to working with KCS, the Intimidators have also teamed up with Cabarrus County Schools, Rowan-Salisbury School System and Stanly County Schools to offer this opportunity to more than 33,000 third through eighth grade students in the community. The reading period for students in Cabarrus, Rowan and Stanly counties is still in progress.

“We launched this program to do our part to encourage local students to get excited about reading,” said Intimidators General Manager Randy Long. “If giving these children a fun experience at the ballpark will get them to pick up a book, then we are more than happy to reward them for their hard work.”

In addition to providing a complimentary ticket to the students who are named a Reading All-Star, the Intimidators are offering discounted tickets for $3 to family members of the students to attend the Celebration Game.

Dates of Reading All-Stars Celebration Games for other school districts are Friday, May 2 for Cabarrus County Schools; Friday, May 16 for Stanly County Schools; and Sunday, May 18 for Rowan-Salisbury School System. Information on attending the Celebration Games will be distributed through the schools two to three weeks before the game.

The Intimidators are preparing for the 20th season of professional baseball in Kannapolis and 14th as a Chicago White Sox affiliate. Opening Night of the 2014 season is Thursday, April 3, against the Greenville Drive (Boston Red Sox) at 7:05 p.m. Since the team came to town in 1995, a total of 77 players have gone from Kannapolis to the Major Leagues, including 2007 NL MVP Jimmy Rollins and former NFL standout and 1998 Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams. Season tickets, mini-plans and single-game seats are currently available by calling the F&M Bank Box Office at (704) 932-3267 or by visiting the team website at www.IntimidatorsBaseball.com.

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

Learn From the Pros at BlueClaws Youth Baseball Camp

March 18, 2014

Three sessions available in 2014; registration now open

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

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

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

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

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

– BlueClaws –

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

BlueClaws Charities Luxury Suite Raffle

March 1, 2014

Four ticket holders won quarter-share of BlueClaws Suite

UPDATED April 7th – The four winners of the raffle were Lindstrom, Diessner & Carr PC, Galvin Law Firm, Keith Savage, and CIMS Gas. With any questions or to book a future Suite outing, call Kevin Fenstermacher at 732-901-7000 ext 115.

—

(original press release below)

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws have instituted a one-of-a-kind charity raffle where four winners will each receive a quarter-share of a 2014 BlueClaws Luxury Suite, giving each winner access to a BlueClaws Luxury Suite for 17 games this year.

There will be just 300 tickets sold for the raffle at $100 each and four winners will be drawn on Thursday, April 3rd at 10 am. Those that donate for multiple raffle tickets can win multiple shares of a Luxury Suite. Dates for each quarter-share are pre-determined and spread throughout the season.

Each raffle ticket purchase benefits BlueClaws Charities, a 501c3 organization and the official non-profit organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws.

“BlueClaws Charities does great work throughout the year. We are always looking for unique ways to raise money, and this is a great concept,” said BlueClaws General Manager Brandon Marano. “It’s perfect for area businesses or individuals who with a small investment can win a tremendous prize.”

Four winners will each win a quarter-share of a BlueClaws Luxury Suite, which comes with 20 tickets to 17 different games in a private suite on the second level of FirstEnergy Park. Each Luxury Suite includes indoor/outdoor seating, wait service, cable television, and access to the Upstairs Club (food is not included).

To purchase one of just 300 available raffle tickets, call Kevin Fenstermacher at 732-901-7000 ext 115. For additional information on BlueClaws Charities, contact Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114.

BlueClaws Charities works with over 40 Community Partner organizations each year and raises money through jersey auctions, unique raffles and auctions, and events like the Phillies Winter Banquet, Bowling With BlueClaws, and ALS Celebrity Waiter Event. Additional organizations partner with BlueClaws Charities to raise money through a fundraiser outing, and hundreds of others receive donations of BlueClaws tickets or auction items throughout the year.

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 and open the 2014 season on Thursday, April 10th. For a full schedule and list of promitons, visit BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

RiverDogs to Host 11th Annual “Run, Forrest, Run” 5K Race on April 19

February 28, 2014

Race Benefits MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute

CHARLESTON, SC – Fans of the Charleston RiverDogs may not be able to run forever like Forrest Gump, but they can lace up their running shoes and head to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park for the 11^th Annual “Run Forrest Run” 5K Race presented by Fleet Feet Sports on Saturday, April 19 at 4 pm before the RiverDogs game against the Rome Braves.

The course is TAC certified and features split times at each mile marker with chip timing for quick and accurate results.

Proceeds from the rain-or-shine event benefit the MUSC Storm Eye Institute.

“This race is fun for all ages and caters to every type of participant,” said RiverDogs Vice President of Special Events Melissa Azevedo. “Our 5K race begins in front of The Joe and finishes at home plate where runners are greeted by RiverDogs players and coaches.”

With the Cooper River Bridge Run just two weeks prior to April 19th, the top eight local finishers will be invited to participate in the Run Forrest Run 5K Race.

Pre-registration by April 17^th cost for the race is $30, and includes a race packet, T-shirt, one ticket to that evening’s RiverDogs game against the Rome Braves (6:05 pm first pitch), an in-game awards ceremony and a post-race party with dinner provided by Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Late registration and walk-up after April 17^th is $35. T-shirts are available while supplies last.

Additional game tickets are $7 each and can be purchased at packet pick-up.

Race packets may be picked up on Friday, April 18^th at Fleet Feet Sports in Mt. Pleasant from 12:00 noon until 6:00pm. On-site registration and packet pick-up on race day will open at 1:00pm at Joe Riley Park and close at 3:45pm before the 4:00 race begins.

Registration forms are available online at RileyParkEvents.com or active.com. For more information, please contact Kristen Wolfe at (843) 577-DOGS (3647).

–RIVERDOGS–

This article originally appeared on the official website of the 02/28/2014 9:35 AM ET. Click here to view the original story.

Return of Community Events

February 26, 2014

The Rome Braves announced today the return of two community wide special events at State Mutual Stadium, home of the Rome Braves. On Friday March 21^st and Saturday March 22^nd, the Rome Braves High School Invitational will be held for the third consecutive year. This year joining the Floyd County High Schools in competition will be Calhoun High School, Darlington School, Rome High School, and the defending GHSA-AAA State Champions, Cartersville High School. On Friday Armuchee High School will take on Calhoun High School at 6pm. The schedule for Saturday will feature Coosa High School vs. Darlington School at 11am, Model High School vs. Rome High School at 2:45pm, and Pepperell High School vs. Cartersville High School at 6:30pm. Gates will open 1 hour prior to the first schedule game each day. “We’re excited to announce the addition of these four baseball programs into our Invitational,” said Rome Braves General Manager, Michael Dunn. “It’s always a good day when we’re able to showcase and support local high school baseball.”

This two day Invitational directly benefits these local baseball programs based on their team’s ticket sales. Fans can purchase tickets directly from their favorite participating teams through March 14^th and the team that sells the most tickets receives an additional donation from the Atlanta Braves Foundation for their baseball program. Tickets are $5 per person and seating is general admission for all games. After the 14^th, tickets can be purchased through the box office at State Mutual Stadium.

Following the Invitational, in April, the Rome Braves will host the 2^nd Annual No Excuses 5k and 10k in memory of Scott Hines. This yearly race benefits the Braves Miracle Field of Rome. Competition will take place on Saturday April 19^th at 8am and is a part of the R.A.C.E. Rome series. In the inaugural race, almost 300 runners crossed the finish line at home plate to support baseball for disabled kids and adults in Northwest Georgia. Through programming at the Braves Miracle Field of Rome, over 100 athletes have suited up to play baseball during the first two seasons. A weekly school league is also available to special education classes in the area. No athlete is turned away due to the financial constraints. For more information contact Erin Elrod at 706-368-9388 or click here and sign-up online.

The Rome Braves 2014 home opener is Thursday April 10^th at 7pm against the Savannah Sand Gnats, an affiliate of the New York Mets. Tickets go on sale Saturday March 8^th at 9am.

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