South Bend Cubs

2018 Meijer Baseball Academy Registration Now Open

February 7, 2018

SOUTH BEND, IN – With Major League Baseball Spring Training right on the horizon, the South Bend Cubs are excited to open registration for the annual Meijer Baseball Academy. The South Bend Cubs will welcome young baseball players to Four Winds Field to participate in the Academy for two three-day sessions that run from July 11 through July 13, and again from July 25 until July 27.

The two academy training sessions are to help keep the camp sizes smaller and to allow more interaction with the South Bend Cubs players and coaches. Registration is open to children from 6 to 12 years of age. Instruction from players and coaches will be based on the age and skill level of each participant. Throughout the three-day experience, participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running.

“The Meijer Baseball Academy is an event we look forward to every year,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “It’s a chance for young boys and girls who are just getting into the sport to learn proper baseball fundamentals and for the more advanced players to improve their game with the help from the players and coaches in the Chicago Cubs organization. ”

The registration fee for one, three-day session is $125.00 per child. All attendees will receive a Meijer Baseball Academy t-shirt, a South Bend Cubs hat, lunch after each day of camp, and four (4) tickets to a South Bend Cubs game where all academy campers will participate in a pre-game recognition on the field.

Check-in for the first day of each session will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camps will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with lunch at 11:50 a.m. Do not wait to register, there is a limit of 85 players per session with the registration deadline set for June 11. To sign up, download the application form at www.SouthBendCubs.com/BaseballAcademy and email it to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com. Payments can be mailed or dropped off at the South Bend Cubs main office at Four Winds Field. Registration is not complete until payment has been received.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs Host Fallen Heroes Day on Saturday, August 27

August 22, 2017

SOUTH BEND, IN – On Sunday, August 27, the South Bend Cubs will honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the community on Fallen Heroes Day presented by Midland Engineering. In addition to the recognition, the club will announce the 2017 Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award recipient.

The Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award is presented annually to a South Bend Cubs player who demonstrates outstanding service to the Michiana community. The award is in honor of Corporal Paul Deguch, a City of South Bend police officer, who was killed in the line of duty in August 1997. Members of the Deguch family will be on hand to present the award.

“We are honored to keep the memory of Corporal Deguch alive with this community service award,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “Everyday police officers, firefighters, EMT’s and service volunteers put their lives on the line to serve and protect, some of which give the ultimate sacrifice. This day is to remember all who lost their lives protecting our community.

Members of the South Bend Police Department will line the field in their squad cars to honor their fallen brother and participate in the award ceremony.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Over a thousand local students will train in one day at Four Winds Field to save lives

August 17, 2017

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Andrew T. Berlin and the executive team for the South Bend Cubs will host an event to train over a thousand local students from South Bend Community School Corporation and School City of Mishawaka in the life-saving technique of hands-only CPR. The idea, led by enFocus and a volunteer task force, began as one of several strategies intended to improve survival outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest in the community. The region’s first CPR mass training event is sponsored by the South Bend Cubs, Saint Joseph Health System, Beacon Health System, IOI Payroll Services, the University of Notre Dame and other anonymous donors. Volunteers and support have been provided by Fire Departments across the county, Indiana University South Bend, Saint Mary’s College, Papa Vino’s Italian Kitchen, Unity Medical & Surgical Hospital, and the American Heart Association. With the assistance of 200 volunteers, the mass training will take place on Four Winds Field in South Bend from 9 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27.

“This training will have an immediate impact by educating our students and empowering them to teach others” said Dale Lobo, Senior Fellow and Project Manager for enFocus. “We’ve been planning this for a long time, and as of the afternoon of September 27th, there will be 1,600 more people throughout the community trained to save lives. All 1,600 students will be given a training kit, complete with inflatable manikin and an instructional DVD that they can use to train their own family and friends. We know that greater bystander intervention is correlated with increased survival. In conjunction with our other initiatives, by training an additional 10% of the population in the next 3-5 years, we anticipate an increase in bystander intervention and survival from sudden cardiac arrest.”

“We knew immediately this would be good for everyone in St. Joseph County,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “And this is a perfect place to do something of this magnitude. We have parking for school buses; the training video can be shown on our giant video screen; and we’re used to hosting thousands of people every day. We’re happy to be part of something that will impact our community for years to come.”

“The national survival rate for victims of sudden cardiac arrest is only 10%,” added Lobo. “It’s a sobering statistic. But here in St. Joseph County, the survival rate is even lower at only 5%. By training so many people in CPR all at once, we can make a big difference right away. And that difference will continue to grow as kids teach other people how to do it.”

More than 1,600 8^th graders from Mishawaka and South Bend will arrive at Four Winds Field in 30-40 buses. The training, which takes place on the playing field, will be supplemented with information on how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) and testimonies from survivors.

Media are invited to attend. For more information please visit www.savealifesjc.org.

About enFocus
Founded in 2012, enFocus is a local non-profit that brings together recent college graduates with organizations in need of fresh energy, innovative solutions and creative collaboration. Fellows are paired with community volunteers, business owners and political leaders who provide mentorship and guidance. With a board of mentors, advisors and successful entrepreneurs, enFocus creates a culture in which entrepreneurship is “caught” as well as taught. Fellows receive preparation for success in a diverse array of industries and fields. Their talents and gifts are helping to reshape northern Indiana as an innovative community. More information is available at www.sbenfocus.org.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs announce 2017 college scholarship winners

August 9, 2017

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Five college-bound high school softball and baseball players from across northern Indiana and southwestern lower Michigan have each earned a $5,000 scholarship from the South Bend Cubs.

To be considered for the scholarship, senior applicants had to graduate in spring 2017, be an active participant in an organized softball or baseball program and live in one of the 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend.

When announcing the scholarship opportunity in the spring, South Bend Cubs Chairman and Owner Andrew T. Berlin said the scholarships demonstrate support not just of softball and baseball, but also the team’s commitment to the future leaders of the region. The application process opened in April.

“After a good amount of deliberation over a stellar applicant pool, today we can finally announce this year’s list of winners,” Berlin said. “These athletes represent the best in our region. They not only have the characteristics needed to succeed in softball and baseball, they’re making an impact off the field. It’s our hope that these scholarships will help them become the bright leaders of our future.”

The 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarship winners:

Nikolos Kavadas , Penn High School
Halle Meredith, John Adams High School
Samantha Luzadre, Buchanan High School
Mattie Reese, John Glenn High school
Andrew Samuelson, LaPorte High School

“These five students are proven leaders,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “For this application process, we asked them to submit an essay, demonstrating why they deserved this. The answers blew us away. Some were deeply personal, others were motivational. Truly these are all great young people who we’re proud to award scholarships.”

All five scholarship winners will be recognized at the South Bend Cubs home game at Four Winds Field on Saturday, August 12.

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

Fourth of July Jersey Auction to Benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana

June 28, 2017

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are raising money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana through their 4th of July jersey auction this weekend.

The jerseys, worn by the South Bend Cubs players and coaches, feature the American flag on the front and back with Cubs written in block letters with red trim across the chest, white numbers with red trim on the back and primary South Bend Cubs logo on the left sleeve.

“After the success of last season, we are proud to once again partner with Ronald McDonald House in Michiana over the 4th of July weekend,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “The Ronald McDonald House relies on support from our community to operate and we are proud to continue supporting this great facility and the people who help families through the most difficult of times.”

Last season, the South Bend Cubs raised over $3,000 through the jersey auction.

“We are honored to partner with the South Bend Cubs,” said Lauren Smyth, director of development and communications for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana. “The money we raise for the Ronald McDonald House during these games directly impacts the families in our community and the surrounding area who stay in the House when their children are hospitalized – all at no cost to them. We are very grateful for the South Bend Cubs’ generosity.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana serves the families of critically ill and injured children at Beacon Children’s Hospital in South Bend. No family is ever prepared for the serious illness of their child, so while the hospital team takes care of the children, the Ronald McDonald House provides a place for families to relax or sleep, eat a hot meal or grab a quick shower at no cost to them.

In February of 2017, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana opened their brand-new House inside the Skyway building connected to Memorial Hospital. With more than 15,000 sq. ft. of space, the new House offers 20 overnight bedroom suites, multiple laundry facilities, living rooms, dining rooms, a large open kitchen, pantry, community room and children’s play room.

The jersey auction will begin on Sunday, July 2 and run through the end of the 7th inning on Tuesday, July 4. A silent auction table will be set up near Gate A at Four Winds Field with minimum bids beginning at $120.00. Auction winners will be able to collect their jersey after the game on July 4 or pick them up later at the South Bend Cubs Main Office. Winning bidders not in attendance of the game will be notified July 5.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest‘s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Deadline for $5000 scholarships extended to June 14th

May 24, 2017

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The South Bend Cubs have extended the deadline for scholarships reserved for college bound high school seniors to June 14, 2017. Up to $25,000 will be awarded to softball and baseball players from 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in South Bend.

“We make no small plans here at Four Winds Field. Nor should the young men and in this region who compete in high school softball and baseball,” commented Andrew T, Berlin, Chmn./Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “These are for any senior softball or baseball player who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school – whether they continue playing ball in college or not.”

In 2016, The South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships worth $5,000 each to high school seniors from Edwardsburg, MI, Bremen, LaPorte, South Bend and Walkerton, IN. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted until the close of business at the 1^st Source Bank Performance Center at Four Winds Field on June 14, 2017. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at www.1stSourceBankPerformanceCenter.com.

“We want to make sure people understand two things about these scholarships that are very important,” added Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “These are not just baseball scholarships. We hope to see as many softball applicants as baseball. And we want people to know that we’re doing our part to build a new baseball and softball dynasty in this region. That’s what the 1^st Source Bank Performance Center here at Four Winds Field is all about-year-round professional pitching, conditioning, fielding and at-bat training with professional instructors.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs Go to Bat Against Hunger and Honor our Fallen Heroes

May 22, 2017

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs, in conjunction with Express Employment Professionals, are proud to host a collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, during the Memorial Day weekend four-game homestand. The Cubs are asking all fans coming to the games to donate non-perishable food items and placing them in the orange barrels located inside all gates at Four Winds Field.

“The entire Express Employment Professionals team is thrilled that the South Bend Cubs have said ‘Yes’ to fighting hunger by hosting the Food Bank’s orange collection barrels at all gates for the upcoming home games,” said Norm Robertson, franchise owner of Express. “We know that the generosity of our community is unparalleled when it comes to helping others in need.”

Along with the food drive over the holiday weekend, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals are providing all active duty military and veterans with two free tickets the games on Sunday, May 28 and Monday, May 29 at Four Winds Field.

“Although a solemn day of reflection in remembrance of the multitude of men and women who have lost their lives in the defense of our country, Memorial Day also reminds us of the resilience of our constitutional republic, and how we are always the first to grab the flag and lead others in the direction of all peoples yearning to breathe free,” said Express Employment Professionals Director of Marketing Greg Mackey. “Express Employment Professionals is honored to sponsor Military Appreciation Days on behalf of our active-duty military personnel and our veterans and in partnership with Andrew Berlin, Joe Hart, and this great South Bend Cubs organization!”

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals to give back to our local veterans and those who are on active duty in the military as a small way to say thank you for your service,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “The collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana is a great addition to this weekend of giving back. We encourage our fans to bring non-perishable food items to join us in the fight against hunger.”

In order to receive the two free tickets, all active duty personnel and veterans must visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office and show a form of military ID. This offer is not available over the phone or online. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Should either game sell out, lawn tickets will be provided.

Sunday’s game has a special first pitch time of 7:05 p.m. with gates opening at 5:00 p.m. with fireworks after the game. Monday’s game has a scheduled first pitch at 2:05 p.m. and gates open at 1:00 p.m.

The South Bend Cubs are one of over 150 area volunteer organizations helping to fight hunger and food insecurity this summer with the North-Central Indiana offices of Express Employment Professionals, as a part of Express’s “Brand It Blue” food drive campaign.

About Express Employment Professionals:

Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Now accepting Scholarship Applications

April 10, 2017

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (April 10, 2017) – The South Bend Cubs officially published eligibility rules and the application form for $5,000 scholarships dedicated to softball and baseball players in 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend today.

“We make no small plans here at Four Winds Field. Nor should the young athletes in this region who compete in softball and baseball,” commented Andrew T. Berlin, Chmn./Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “These scholarships are a significant way to show our support of future leaders and the game we all love at the same time. They’re not just for current athletes who will go on to play on varsity teams in college. They’re for any high school senior athlete who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school-whether they continue competing at the varsity level or not.”

In 2016, the South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships worth $5,000 each to high school seniors from Edwardsburg, MI, Bremen, LaPorte, South Bend and Walkerton, IN. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted from April 10 through May 31. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at www.1stsourcebankperformancecenter.com

“We want to make sure people understand two things about these scholarships that are very important,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “These are not just baseball scholarships. There are over 1,600 colleges with softball programs in the United States, so we hope to see as many softball applicants as baseball. Also, we want people to know we’re doing our part to help build a new baseball and softball dynasty in this region. That’s what the 1st Source Bank Performance Center here at Four Winds Field is all about-year-round professional pitching, conditioning, fielding and at-bat training with professional instructors. The Chicago Cubs and every amateur player and coach in the region are excited about this facility-it’s one of the best in the country.”

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships cannot be made by e-mail or via any type of paid delivery or postal service. All applicants must deliver their applications in person to the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at the corner of South Street and Lafayette Boulevard in downtown South Bend.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs to offer Peanut-Free Suite on May 7

March 13, 2017

SOUTH BEND, IN – A day at Four Winds Field should be a fun, exciting experience, but that may be a challenge if you have a peanut allergy. On Sunday, May 7, the South Bend Cubs will offer a peanut-free area in the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to coincide with Food Allergy Awareness Month.

Food Allergy Awareness Month helps educate the public about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition. An estimated 15 million Americans suffer from food allergies, according to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies and according to studies funded by FARE, the number of U.S. children with peanut allergies more than tripled between 1997 and 2008.

“There are quite a few baseball fans that do not get to experience a day at the ballpark due to their peanut allergy,” said Team President Joe Hart. “In order to provide a sterile, peanut free environment, our staff follows a strict cleaning process that removes all allergens from the Old National Bank Home Plate Suite to ensure our fans with peanut allergies can enjoy the game.”

Tickets are only $19.00 and include a seat in the peanut-free Old National Bank Home Plate Suite, South Bend Cubs hat, and a ballpark buffet of hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. Space is extremely limited with only 40 tickets available. To order, visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office at Four Winds Field or call (574) 235-9988.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Meijer Baseball Academy Registration Now Open

February 27, 2017

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

SOUTH BEND, IN – Four Winds Field, the home of the South Bend Cubs, will transform into a training ground for young baseball players this July when Cubs players and coaches become instructors for the 2017 Meijer Baseball Academy.

There will be two academy training sessions to help keep the camp size smaller and allow more interaction with the players and coaches. Session one will be held July 12 through July 14 and session two runs July 26 through July 28. Registration is open to children from 6 to 12 years of age. Instruction from players and coaches will be based on the age and skill level of each participant. Throughout the three-day session participants will learn about hitting, pitching, fielding (infield and outfield), catching, and base running.

“This is a great opportunity for young players,” South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart said. “We’re excited to provide an opportunity for aspiring players to learn from pro ball-players within the Cubs organization.”

“One of our team slogans is ‘The road to the World Series starts in South Bend,'” Hart said. “We want to bring that slogan to our Baseball Academy so hopefully one day we’ll see a few of these youngsters playing professional baseball.”

Check-in for the first day of each session will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET. Camps will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., with lunch at 11:50 a.m.

To register, visit the Meijer Baseball Academy webpage and download the application form. Forms must be emailed to Marketing@SouthBendCubs.com and payment must be made at time of registration. For additional questions, call Stephen Cabe at (574) 235-9988 extension 262.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

South Bend Cubs to Host Polar Plunge in 2017

December 1, 2016

SOUTH BEND, IN – Four Winds Field will host the South Bend Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Indiana on Saturday, February 25, 2017. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. with the plunge beginning at 12:00 p.m. followed immediately by the After Splash Bash in the Pepsi Stadium Club.

“Special Olympics Indiana is really looking forward to holding our first-ever Polar Plunge in South Bend,” said Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Michael Furnish. “We’re extremely lucky to have a partner like the South Bend Cubs who knows how to bring the community together and create a positive atmosphere.”

“We are incredibly proud to host this event,” said Director of Media and Promotions Chris Hagstrom-Jones. “To help stimulate donations, the person who raises the most money for the South Bend Polar Plunge will receive four tickets to a South Bend Cubs home game and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch of that game.”

To participate in the 2017 Michiana Polar Plunge, individuals or groups must raise a “bear” minimum of $75 in pledges. All funds raised will benefit Special Olympics Indiana. Participants can register as an individual or gather friends, family members, co-workers, civic group or school group and register as a team.

Register by clicking here or visiting soindiana.org and clicking on the special events page. Funds raised by this event will help local athletes train and compete at local, area and state level.

About the Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in more than 20 Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, reaching more than 12,000 athletes across Indiana. The organization receives no federal- or state-appropriated funds, is not a United Way agency and relies entirely on corporate, civic and individual donations. For more information about Special Olympics Indiana, call (317) 328-2000 or visit www.soindiana.org.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are a Class A minor league team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs. Over the past 28 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.

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

Silver Hawks Recognize Local Heroes

August 15, 2014

Sunday, August 17th is Fallen Heroes Day at Four Winds Field presented by Midland Engineering. Each year your Silver Hawks pay tribute to police, fire and EMS workers for their extraordinary community service. Tickets to Sunday’s game are buy one get one free for police, fire and EMS workers. Must present an ID or badge at the Four Winds Field Box Office to purchase tickets.

In addition to recognizing all local responders, one Silver Hawks’ player will also be honored with the Corporal Paul Deguch Community Service Award for the 14th year. The award is named after Paul Deguch, a former South Bend police officer, killed in the line of duty in 1997. The Silver Hawks’ player who demonstrated outstanding community service throughout the course of the season will be presented with the award during pre-game activities on Sunday.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Silver Hawks. Click here to view the original story.

Silver Hawks to Collect 3,000 lbs. of Food for St. Vincent de Paul

August 13, 2014

August 15^th the annual Faith and Family Night returns to Four Winds Field. St. Vincent de Paul has partnered with your South Bend Silver Hawks to host the annual event. Through this partnership, your Silver Hawks and St. Vincent de Paul hope to bring the community together for a night of faith and fellowship.

Arrive early for a pregame concert featuring Cody Collier. The performance will begin at 6:30 p.m. Also taking place is a canned food drive to help stock the pantries of St. Vincent de Paul. Bring non-perishable food items, or a $5 donation, to the game that evening and receive two (2) complimentary tickets for August 18th, 19th or 20th. Guests who bring the most donations in weight will have a chance to win an outdoor suite to use during a game in the 2015 Silver Hawks season. The goal is to collect 3,000 lbs. of food during the food drive.

“The Silver Hawks are once again excited to be partnering with St. Vincent de Paul this year on our Faith and Family Night. We have built a great partnership over the last couple of seasons but what excites me the most is the canned food drive and the opportunity we have to help those around Michiana that are in need. We have set a goal to collect at least 3,000 lbs. of food on Friday night and it is my hope that we shatter that mark. We live in one of the greatest communities with some of the most generous baseball fans that I have ever met. So I am asking everyone to please bring at least one item on Friday night to donate and let’s help fill St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry.” states Joe Hart, Silver Hawks’ Team President.

To purchase tickets to the Friday, August 15^th Silver Hawks’ game contact the Box Office at 574-235-9988, stop by in person, or purchase tickets online at www.SilverHawks.com . The Four Winds Field Box Office is open Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Silver Hawks. Click here to view the original story.

Memorial Children’s Hospital and Your South Bend Silver Hawks Partner for Home Run for Life

June 11, 2014

Memorial Children’s Hospital and your Silver Hawks will celebrate Aileen Corona during a special celebration ceremony, Home Run for Life, on Friday, June 13^th.

The celebration will take place in the middle of the 3^rd inning at Four Winds Field. Your Silver Hawks, along with the Lake County Captains, will line the field to join in on the ceremony as Aileen rounds the bases. Upon completing the celebratory home run, Silver Hawks’ Manager, Mark Haley will present her with a personalized Silver Hawks jersey. Home Run for Life celebrates and honors children who have battled serious medical conditions. Each child is honored and takes a home run lap around the bases during a Silver Hawks home game.

At the closing of the celebration staff and volunteers from Memorial Children’s Hospital will pass around donation buckets. Please consider giving a donation to help enhance the care children can receive right here in your community.

Aileen’s Story

When Aileen Corona first arrived at Memorial Children’s Hospital after a diagnosis of Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), she was sad, shy, uncertain and unable to cope with being apart from her mom during long hospital stays.

“Aileen would shed many tears the nights her mom, Noemi, couldn’t be with her,” says Julie Kowalenko, a charge nurse for Pediatrics and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. “At times we would have to call mom at work so Aileen could talk with her. I began to notice how Aileen always had her nails done, and to help make her more comfortable and at ease, I would comment on how nice they looked.”

Julie, known in Pediatrics as an “Ambassador of Fun,” suggested setting up a nail salon for Aileen.

“I told Aileen – ‘You could really do something for us because nurses notoriously have the worst nails and our nails need your help!'”

Aileen’s eyes sparkled at the suggestion. With the help of Child Life Specialist Liz Eash, a pink and purple glittery sign announced Aileen’s Nail Salon was open for business on the sixth floor of MCH.

The first of its kind, nurses and patients regularly visit the salon to have their nails painted by the budding nail expert. But first, they have to obtain a ticket from the reception area.

“The tickets have a purpose,” Julie says. “For every five tickets, Aileen gets to pick out a prize.”

Thanks to the salon’s customers and repeat customers, Aileen has earned plenty of tickets and taken home some real goodies, including an MP3 player.

“I’ve painted a lot of nails and picked out several prizes,” Aileen says. “I walk the halls and know everyone by name and what their favorite nail color is. The children’s hospital is a happier place to me because the nurses have helped me feel at home.”

Since the nail salon opened, Aileen’s tears and fears have been replaced with joy, as well as newfound perseverance because of a lengthy course of treatment that comes with Osteosarcoma.

“Despite having to endure dozens of chemo treatments, she has actually blossomed into our little social butterfly on the floor,” Julie says. “She is an amazing, wonderful girl. I think she has done more for me than I’ve done for her.”

When Aileen was first diagnosed, her dad, Alejandro, took the news especially hard since he recently battled and overcame Leukemia.

“It was really hard because I knew what was ahead of her,” he says. “But we have an incredible thing in Memorial Children’s Hospital. The nurses have done more than we could have hoped for to keep our daughter’s energy and spirits up. MCH keeps kids strong.”

With three more treatments to go, Aileen excitedly anticipates a shopping trip with her family to Mall of America to celebrate an intense cancer journey and her victory over the disease.

Aileen will leave MCH with an experience that has given her more than a nail salon and prizes, but expert care and memories that inspire her to become a pediatric nurse one day.

“I love kids and love being around kids, so I want to become a nurse,” she says. In the meantime, Aileen has a colorful childhood left to enjoy, painting nails along the way.

Please join Memorial Children’s Hospital and your Silver Hawks in cheering on Aileen as she completes her Home Run for Life at Four Winds Field on June 13^th . For more information about Memorial Children’s Hospital and Pinwheel Heroes like Aileen, visit qualityoflife.org/childrenshospital .

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Cubs. Click here to view the original story.

Silver Hawks to provide a Peanut Free Suite

April 22, 2014

Your South Bend Silver Hawks on Sunday, May 18th will provide a peanut free area located in the Home Plate Suite in recognition of Food Allergy Awareness Week. Food Allergy Awareness Week helps educate the public about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition.

Allergy to peanuts appears to be on the rise in children; more than 3.5 million Americans suffer from it. There are 8 types of food that are responsible for more than 90% of allergic reactions, peanuts being one of those 8 foods.

“I am excited that we are able to do this again in 2014. Last year’s event was a huge hit and we were able to provide a fun day at the ballpark that many people were not able to experience in the past. We had one family in which their son had never been to a professional baseball game before because of his peanut allergies. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to experience a Silver Hawks game, so we will do whatever we can to make it a reality. Because of last year’s success I expect the tickets to sell out quickly and as result, we have already started looking at dates for an additional night.” states Joe Hart, Team President.

Tickets can be purchased through the Silver Hawks’ Box Office for $17.00; space is limited to the first 50 people. Price includes a game ticket, hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. Call the Box Office at 574-235-9988, or stop by the Box Office, located on W. South Street to purchase tickets for the peanut free suite.

The South Bend Silver Hawks are a Class A minor league team affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, IL. To purchase tickets to a game visit www.SilverHawks.com , call the Box Office at 574-235-9988, or stop by between 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Silver Hawks. Click here to view the original story.