RiverDogs Partner with Breeze Airways for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week

The Charleston RiverDogs and Breeze Airways have announced plans for Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week. From July 6-9, RiverDogs players and staff, as well as Breeze Airways team members, will be out in the community volunteering at various locations and working to spread niceness around the Holy City. The week will culminate at the RiverDogs 6:05 p.m. contest against the Augusta GreenJackets on Saturday, July 9.

“As an organization, we are always looking for opportunities to support our community in the same way that they support us each season. The chance to have our players and staff visit several non-profits and spread niceness in the community over the next several days is something we are extremely excited about,” said RiverDogs President and General Manager Dave Echols. “Our partnership with Breeze Airways has been outstanding and we are happy to join with them over the next several days to do some good for the city of Charleston”.

The week commenced at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital on Wednesday, July. The group played board games, air hockey and did arts and crafts with patients at the hospital.

On Thursday, July 7, the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will continue the fun at Fisher House Charleston. The Fisher House provides temporary lodging for family members of Veterans who are receiving care at the Ralph A. Johnson VA Medical Center. From 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., players and staff members will host a backyard barbecue. The RiverDogs Food Truck will provide lunch while everyone stays entertained with traditional yard games including giant jenga and cornhole.

The niceness will continue at The Joe on Friday, July 8 when kids and staff members from Windwood Farms are welcomed to the ballpark for a Field Day in the outfield from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Players and coaches will join the children for games including a pizza box race, uniform dress-up relay and kickball. A picnic will be held for all attendees at Murray’s Mezzanine and they will receive tickets to that night’s game.

Early on Saturday, July 9 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., the RiverDogs and Breeze Airways will be in RiverFront Park handing out Breeze Points, tickets to Saturday night’s game, merchandise and other fun gifts.

Everything will shift to The Joe during Saturday’s game, as fans in attendance will be on the receiving end of the niceness. Breeze team members will be making their way around the ballpark doing nice things for various fans, like buying them a hot dog or a beverage. In addition, Breeze will make a donation to each of the three non-profit organizations that were part of the volunteer events earlier in the week and give away one roundtrip flight to a lucky fan during each inning of the game. Following the contest, every fan in the ballpark will receive a bottle of bubbles and will send them airborne in unison along with Breeze.

“We are extremely excited to partner with the Charleston RiverDogs as we roll out the ‘Random Acts of Nice-Ness Week,’ it’s a really cool project and involves two fun organizations,” said Chris Plunkett, Breeze’s Charleston Base Leader. “Breeze continues to look for unique opportunities to support the Lowcountry community. We are sincerely grateful to serve Charleston and the surrounding areas.”

Breeze Airways is a new airline merging technology with kindness. Breeze provides nonstop service between underserved routes across the U.S. at affordable fares. With seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees and customized flight features delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to buy and easy to fly. Welcome to Breeze, Seriously Nice™ flights and fares.

Individual tickets to all home games are still available. Season tickets, Dog-E Coin plans, and group tickets, including options to the Segra Club at Riley Park, are already available at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The Segra Club is also open for events year-round. Visit segraclub.com for more information.

Portland Sea Dogs and KeyBank team up for KeyBank Assists Program 

PORTLAND, Maine – Portland Sea Dogs and KeyBank, a long-time sponsor, are collaborating on a #KeyBank Assists in-game promotion to support Westbrook-based nonprofit Woodfords Family Services. For every assist recorded by the Sea Dogs during all 69 home games throughout the entire season, KeyBank pledges a donation of $10 per assist, up to $10,000 total for the season.

“The Sea Dogs are proud to continue our partnership with KeyBank to help generate awareness and funds for local non-profits,” stated Geoff Iacuessa, the president and general manager of the Portland Sea Dogs. “KeyBank shares our commitment to the community, together we can hit out of the park to help make a lasting impact.”

Woodfords Family Services is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting and including people with special needs and their families in Maine communities. To learn more about the work of Woodfords Family Services visit woodfords.org.

KeyBank’s involvement in the Sea Dog’s in-game promotion is part of the bank’s #KeyBank Assists program, launched in 2020 to support local businesses and communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through #KeyBankAssists, KeyBank has already invested more than $1 million in their communities during a challenging time. KeyBank has worked to support over 250 small businesses in their markets and provided contributions to over 100 community organizations.

Last season the Sea Dogs and KeyBank partnered for the #KeyBank Assists program, where the Sea Dogs compiled 942 assists, resulting in a $9420.00 donation from KeyBank to Cooking for Community.

KeyBank currently has 42 branches in Maine. The bank has sponsored the Portland Sea Dogs since the inaugural season in 1994.

Learn more about KeyBank Assists at www.key.com/keybankassists.

Titans and Desjardins Launch Baseball Buddies Partnership

Ottawa Titans infielder A.J. Wright and a young fan
(Ottawa Titans)

Ottawa, ON – The Ottawa Titans Baseball Club, along with the Desjardins Ontario Credit Union are proud to announce the Desjardins Ottawa Titans Baseball Buddies program.

Thanks to Desjardins Ontario Credit Union, the Ottawa Titans Baseball Buddies program has taken off this season, with youth baseball teams being introduced one by one alongside Titans starters to the crowd at Ottawa Stadium.

“We are very pleased with this partnership as it strongly aligns with Desjardins’ values of contributing to the economic and social wellbeing of individuals and communities,” said Chantal Lajoie, Regional Vice-President for Ottawa at Desjardins Ontario Credit Union.

“The Ottawa Titans are proud to partner with Desjardins and provide youth team’s the chance to enter the field with the pros, with community response and participant applications being overwhelming,” said Titans Vice President and COO, Regan Katz. “We pride ourselves on bringing quality and affordable family entertainment to the city and believe the Baseball Buddies program will build life-long Titans fans.”

Over the course of the Titans’ home schedule this year, Baseball Buddies stand with Titans starters on-field during their own team intro and the National Anthems.

Each participant takes home an official signed Baseball Buddies certificate to commemorate the experience and share the story with their loved ones.

For information on the Desjardins Ottawa Titans’ Baseball Buddies program, along with 2022 season tickets, group outings, and 8-game mini packs, visit the Titans’ official website at www.ottawatitans.com.

Scrappers & 910th Airlift Wing Partner for Operation Fly Together Campaign

NILES, OH –The Mahoning Valley Scrappers (est. 1999) and Youngstown Air Reserve Station (est. 1955), home to the 910th Airlift Wing, have been pillars in the Mahoning Valley in Northeast Ohio for decades. Together, we’ve participated in ceremonies, flag salutes, fly overs, and more. With significant growth by both parties, the opportunity to rally the region even more has never been better.

Together, we are thrilled to announce the Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team is teaming with the 910th Airlift Wing for a Community Engagement Partnership campaign called “Operation Fly Together” beginning with the 2022 baseball season with the Warren Area Chamber of Commerce Education, Civic & Cultural Foundation as the primary sponsor.

With unique and creative marketing elements, this campaign is designed to celebrate the venerable C-130 Hercules tactical cargo aircraft and bring increased awareness to the local presence of 910th Airlift Wing and YARS in Northeast Ohio. This campaign will also bring together currently serving Reserve Citizen Airmen, civilians, and thousands of veterans within 50 miles of the base.

Since the Mahoning Valley Scrappers are leaders in fun, and experts at creating unique moments at the stadium and in the community, their team has created new specialty marketing components include a new logo, patch, flag, educational markers, caps and jersey that are unique to the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign.

Elements of this new Partnership will fall under five categories — Support, Honor, Educate, Celebrate and Community. Here are some details of each category of this new Partnership:

Support – To celebrate the C-130 Hercules and the ‘Operation Fly Together’ campaign in Mahoning Valley, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” in conjunction with the Scrappers game on Saturday, August 6, 2022. To support this exciting partnership, a new patch and logo have been created. This patch and logo will be used on the sleeve of a specialty jersey created specifically for the partnership of the 910th Airlift Wing and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers celebrating ‘Operation Fly Together.’ A new team cap featuring a “Winger” logo, inspired by the YARS Mascot Winger, has been created and players will wear these caps at the game. Additionally,

the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have developed a new merchandise line for the Team Store that features the ‘Operation Fly Together’ patch logo and the “Winger” logo. Mechandise is available now for pre-order here: https://scrappers.milbstore.com/collections/operation-fly-together

Honor – To honor the men and women assigned to Youngstown ARS and living throughout the surrounding greater Mahoning Valley area. A new ‘Operation Fly Together’ flag will be featured at Eastwood Field in honor of the campaign on ‘Military Appreciation Nights’ and “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night.” The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are continuing their ‘Military Appreciation Nights’. This weekly promotion has occurred at Eastwood Field for at least 15 seasons and will continue to occur during the 2022 season. Every Wednesday, military members can receive 2 free tickets to the Scrappers game. Military branches are recognized and featured on these days. Additionally, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers will host “The 910th Airlift Wing ‘Operation Fly Together’ Night” on August 6, 2022. During the game, the Scrappers will wear the specialty jerseys and caps; there will be in game/online auction of the game-worn specialty jerseys and caps; the 910th will have table displays at the game; the 910th’s Winger mascot will be in attendance and the members of the 910th Airlift Wing will participate in pre-game and in-game activities such as singing the National Anthem, ceremonial first pitches, pre-game ceremonies on field prior to the game, promotional videos during the game, kids activities, the 7th inning stretch and more.

Educate – To bring awareness about the C-130 Hercules and its history. The following items are being developed to accomplish this goal: C-130 Hercules educational marker signs throughout the concourse; C-130/Winger coloring sheets in Kids Fun Zone and a Winger marker in the Fun Zone.

Celebrate – To bring awareness in a fun and positive way with the general public. The following events and items are being developed to accomplish this goal: Kids meet and greet with Winger and 910th Airlift Wing members as well as special ticket and merchandise packages available for fans.

Community – To rally the community and bring positive awareness about the positioning of Youngstown Air Reserve Station in the community. In addition to the joint press event kicking off this Partnership, the following events are being planned to accomplish this goal: Mahoning Valley Scrappers Players visit to YARS and a Baseball clinic for 910th Airlift Wing Families.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers Baseball Team and the 910th Airlift Wing are excited to team up for “Operation Fly Together.” We look forward to bringing this new Community Engagement Partnership campaign to the Mahoning Valley and continuing our efforts together for years to come.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are one of six founding members of the MLB Draft League, joining the Frederick Keys, the State College Spikes, the Trenton Thunder, the West Virginia Black Bears and the Williamsport Crosscutters. For more information and to purchase tickets and merchandise, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

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Chihuahuas Launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser” with ADP to Benefit Humane Society of El Paso

EL PASO – June 28, 2022 – The El Paso Chihuahuas have partnered with ADP to launch “Fetch the FUNdraiser,” benefiting the Humane Society of El Paso. Fetch the FUNdraiser runs now through July 18.

The Chihuahuas and ADP are asking fans to donate a minimum of $5. Donations are being collected via text-to-donate by texting “FETCH” to 844-311-5007.

“We are proud to partner with ADP to raise funds for the Humane Society of El Paso,” said Brad Taylor, MountainStar Sports Group Senior Vice President and Chihuahuas General Manager. “The care the Humane Society provides is important to the lives of these local animals.”

Funds from the Fetch the FUNdraiser program will go towards purchasing blankets, toys, and supplies requested by the Humane Society. For every $5 raised, the El Paso Chihuahuas will donate an additional toy or leash.

“The generous donations of our community impact our shelter in many ways. With over 150 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens currently residing at our facility, we rely on donors to help support our animals and programs providing enrichment and care,” said Tayler Quintana, Humane Society Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator.

Fans who make a monetary donation of $5 or more will be entered-to-win one of five Chihuahuas Prize packs. For every $5 donation, a fan will receive one enter-to-win ($10=2 entries, $15=3 entries, etc.).

Along with the Fetch the FUNdraiser program, the Chihuahuas Volunteer Pack, presented by Helen of Troy, will volunteer at the Humane Society alongside ADP employees on Friday, July 22.

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is a no-kill animal shelter in El Paso operating for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster care, volunteer work, and community events according to the website.

“Without the help of our community, we would not be able to do what we do,” said Quintana. “Our community is an integral part of helping to rehabilitate and rehome the animals under our care.”

The 501(c)(3) non-profit does not receive local or federal government funding and is solely dependent on adoption and service fees, fundraising activities, grants, and donations from the community. HSEP is not associated with any national organizations.

A complete list of shelter needs can be found by CLICKING HERE.

The Chihuahuas return to action tonight versus the Oklahoma City Dodgers (Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate). The series includes three nights of Fireworks Spectacular as part of the GECU Independence Day Celebration. For ticket information CLICK HERE.

FETCH THE FUN!

About the Humane Society of El Paso

The Humane Society of El Paso (HSEP) is the oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter in the City and County of El Paso, Texas and have remained in continuous operation for more than 70 years for the purpose of building a better community for all animals through adoptions, education, foster-care, volunteer work and community events. The organization is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and does not receive any funding from the City or County of El Paso, the State of Texas or the federal government. In 2021, HSEP cared for nearly 2,000 shelter animals, and our adoption counselors placed 1,698 dogs and cats into loving homes. Our volunteer foster families cared for an additional 1,217 animals. In addition, more than 3,000 cats and kittens were spayed/neutered through our Mary Speer Program for Community (feral) Cats.

CLOTHING DRIVE AT FIRSTENERGY STADIUM ON JUNE 28

(READING) – FirstEnergy Stadium is proud to host a large clothing drive in conjunction with The Real Church 516. On Tuesday, June 28 from 8:00AM – 4:00 PM, they will be giving away over 7,000 pieces of clothing, shoes and more! All items are free of charge and are donated by Amazon, so everything is quality items in good condition. Please spread the word!

Things have been challenging for everyone over the past few years, and The Real Church is looking to give back to the community. Thanks to sponsors and the City of Reading, the greater community is welcome to come by FirstEnergy Stadium for any clothing and shoes that they made need. Items are in all sizes, so there is something for everyone.

​In September of 2016 Pastor Earl and his wife Shandale, started The REAL CHURCH. The REAL CHURCH is a non-denominational church that truly focuses on REAL Faith, REAL Worship, REAL People. Be REAL with yourself and watch what God will do in your life. Earl and Shandale are called to help people grow in a church setting without legalism, without judging, and without compromising the gospel of Jesus Christ.

FirstEnergy Stadium is the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and the home of the Reading Fightin Phils. The stadium is located at 1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.

Pink Ribbon Girls Survivor Celebration Night at the Ballpark

Dayton, Ohio – The Pink Ribbon Girls (PRG) and the Dayton Dragons will host a Survivor Celebration on Tuesday, June 21, at 7:00 p.m., when the Dayton Dragons take on the Lake County Captains at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.

The Pink Ribbon Girls provide transportation to and from treatment, housecleaning kits, and peer support and education to breast and gynecological cancer patients at their greatest time of need. The organization has the mission of making sure “No one travels this road alone” and serves anyone regardless of their age, stage, or socio-economic status.

The Pink Ribbon Girls will be in attendance at the game to promote awareness and to celebrate the breast cancer and gynecological cancer survivors they have helped. Proceeds from the Dragons 50/50 for the entire week (June 21 to June 26) will go towards the services and programs of the Pink Ribbon Girls.

If you want to learn more about how you can help support The Pink Ribbon Girls, check out their website here at: pinkribbongirls.org

Missions Announce Amount Raised from Uvalde Jersey Fundraiser 

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club is proud to announce that the Uvalde Jersey Fundraiser Event on Thursday, June 16th raised $50, 357. All of the money raised will go towards the Robb School Memorial Fund.

Donations began at 10 a.m. Thursday morning with the option of placing call-in bids. Beginning at 6 p.m., fans at Nelson Wolff Stadium were able to bid on the jersey and various items at an auction table inside the third base gate.

Bidding ended 15 minutes after the final out was recorded. The Missions also had options for individual donations throughout the game. During the third inning, a “Pass-the-Hat” occurred throughout the seating bowl, giving fans multiple opportunities to donate.

The San Antonio Missions hosted the Amarillo Sod Poodles for Thursday night’s game. The Missions defeated Amarillo 4-3 after a walk-off sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth inning.

A Robb School Memorial Fund is held locally at First State Bank to support the families and community affected by the tragedy. Donate at https://onestarfoundation.org/uvalde/ to support the local fund.

The San Antonio Missions are the Double-A affiliate for the San Diego Padres. This is the 120th professional season for the San Antonio Missions. Single game tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the 1st Base Box Office. Season seat memberships are available now. For more information call 210-675-PARK (7275) or visit samissions.com.

United Way of Greenville County Centennial Celebration Held at Fluor Field

United Way of Greenville County is celebrating 100 years of impact and service to the Greenville community and they’re inviting you to join in on fun! Starting at 6 PM when the gates open, enjoy the fun throughout the concourse with our Drive inflatables, face painting, balloon art, and magic!

Throughout the game, the Drive will honor and recognize different leaders, organizations and volunteers that have helped to shape the lives of so many throughout Greenville County. If you were a Hands on Greenville Day volunteer, make sure to wear your t-shirt to the game and pick up a free drink voucher at a specially marked table at either gate. End the night with a bang and make sure to stick around for the best fireworks show in town, courtesy of United Way of Greenville County.

Get tickets for the night HERE.

Drive Hosts Second Annual Aerospace Night

The Greenville Drive & the SC Aerospace Team are excited to host the second annual Aerospace Night at Fluor Field event this year on Wednesday June 22nd. Building on the incredible success of last year’s first-ever Aerospace Night event, this signature event at Fluor Field will highlight and showcase, in a unique and impactful way, the companies and leaders driving the success of the Aerospace industry in our community and throughout the state.

All aspects of the Aerospace Industry will be on display during the Drive game on June 22nd including impactful, educational, and engaging entertainment content on the stadium concourse as well as before and during the Drive game. The stadium concourse will come alive with engaging displays from leading Aerospace companies in the Upstate including Lockheed Martin, Champion Aerospace, Kelley Engineering, Gemba Systems, HTI, and more! The night will also feature additional entertainment including a pre-game stadium flyover from Prisma Health, a Color Guard performance by the Civil Air Patrol Squadron, a mini Airplane toss inning break, and much more!

To help build our community’s Aerospace workforce of the future, all K-12 students in the community can receive a complimentary ticket to the game. Students and the general public should follow the instructions below to claim their tickets:

  1. Students: visit www.GreenvilleDrive.com/groupportal and use the password “aerospace” to enter the portal. Also use the promo code “aerospace” to claim your complimentary ticket during check-out. Make sure to click apply!
  2. General Public: visit https://www.milb.com/greenville/tickets/single-game-tickets to purchase your tickets.

This will be a highly educational and impactful event at Fluor Field on June 22nd! Gates open at 6pm with first pitch to follow at 7pm. See you at the game!

More Information for Thursday’s Uvalde Jersey Auction 

Missions Will Accept Call-in Bids Beginning at 10 a.m. (CT)

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club has announced more information regarding the Uvalde Jersey Auction on Thursday, June 16th. The Missions will be accepting call-in bids beginning at 10 a.m. (CT) on June 16th. There will also be an auction table located near guest services at Nelson Wolff Stadium.

For anyone interested in calling in to place their bids, they can contact either of these two phone numbers: (830) 285-3850 or (210) 449-9120. Live bidding from the auction table will begin when the gates open at 6 p.m. (CT).

There will be 36 jerseys to bid on. 35 of those jerseys will be from the players and the coaching staff with the other jersey being a team signed jersey. The auction will also include various donated items from the San Antonio community. Each jersey will begin with an opening bid of $100.00.

During the game, there will be a “Pass-the-Hat” throughout the stadium for individual donations separate from the jersey auction. The auction table will also have an individual donation option.

The San Antonio Missions will be taking the field wearing Uvalde Coyotes high school baseball jerseys and the jerseys will be auctioned off with the proceeds benefitting the Robb School Memorial Fund.

A Robb School Memorial Fund is held locally at First State Bank to support the families and community affected by the tragedy. Donate at https://onestarfoundation.org/uvalde/ to support the local fund.

On Thursday, June 16th, the Wolff Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. (CT), with the first pitch at 7:05 p.m. (CT) for the game between the Missions and Sod Poodles.

The San Antonio Missions are the Double-A affiliate for the San Diego Padres. This is the 120th professional season for the San Antonio Missions. Single game tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the 1st Base Box Office. Season seat memberships are available now. For more information call 210-675-PARK (7275) or visit samissions.com.

WooSox Honor History While Celebrating City's Tercentennial at Start of Polar Park Homestand

WORCESTER — Even though the WooSox have been in existence for only two years, the team understands how to recognize 300 years of history for its new home.

The city of Worcester celebrated its tercentennial last weekend while the WooSox were on the road, so the team kicked off a 12-game homestand at Polar Park by continuing the historic celebration on the actual June 14 birthday.

In perfect Worcester fashion, the WooSox finished with a 4-0 victory over the Toldeo Mud Hens in front of 5,669 at Polar Park.

Prior to Tuesday night’s game, the WooSox presented Bill Wallace, the Worcester Historical Museum’s executive director, with a time capsule to be opened on the city’s 400th birthday.

WooSox team president Dr. Charles Steinberg had every member of the team sign a baseball to present as part of the time capsule. The ball was photographed from all sides and the players were asked to legibly sign the ball, so future generations will know who played for the team in 2022.

A key to the city was presented to members of the Tercentennial committee, including Kate McEvoy, Kim Salmon, Yaffia Fain, Mary MacKenzie, Amy Peterson and Julie Bowditch. Mayor Joseph M. Petty also was in attendance and threw out the ceremonial first pitch to celebrate the city’s birthday.

“We’re celebrating who we are,” Wallace said. “We have a commitment to the future.”

The WooSox also recognized Jose Santiago, who was a key member of the 1967 Boston Red Sox’ pennant-winning Impossible Dream Team. The right-hander posted a 12-4 record with a 3.59 ERA in 50 games. He also pitched Game 1 of the ’67 World Series and also hit a home run in a 2-1 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.

The tradition of honoring local nurses continued during the pregame ceremony, along with Worcester Chief of Police, Steven Sargent, and Worcester Deputy Fire Chief, John Powers, Deputy Chief Adam Roche and firefighter Jay O’Brien.

A moment of silence was held as the WooSox remembered police Officer Manny Familia, the Worcester 6 and three other firefighters who also made the ultimate sacrifice. The team also recognized Polar Park security guard Scott Gauvin, who passed away unexpectedly last week.

After Mary MacKenzie sang the national anthem, the WooSox announced the team is restoring the annual Police and Firefighter’s charity baseball game. The game will be played Sept. 26 at Polar Park.

Jovan Familia, the son of Manny Familia, who passed away June 4, 2021, attempting to save a drowning child, along with Ava Roy, the daughter of firefighter Christopher Roy, who passed away on call Dec. 9, 2018, will serve as the honorary captains of the charity baseball game. Jovan and Ava then threw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Prior to the top of the fifth inning, the team’s “In Debt to a Vet” recognized Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Joseph Paul Genduso, 93, of Worcester, who earned a Purple Heart in the Korean War.

Then, everyone in attendance sang “Happy Birthday” to the city of Worcester.

It was a night of recognizing everything that makes Worcester a special place to call home.

“We’re celebrating everything that’s good about Worcester,” Wallace said. “It’s past. It’s present, and the role of all of us, and the ballpark in the future. Our role is to preserve all this and we’re pleased to be recognized, but this is also an exciting time for Worcester.”

It was only four years ago when the dream of having the Red Sox’ Triple-A affiliate in Worcester became a reality. Steinberg, a historian of the game, quickly went to work learning everything he could about the deep roots of baseball in Worcester.

“When you’re first learning about Worcester, you start studying the dates, and you learn about the flag and the seal, and you see 1722,” Steinberg said.

From Day 1, the WooSox had their focus on 2022 and the Tercentennial. Steinberg believed it was a special opportunity to recognize the team’s new home. The WooSox spent countless hours with Wallace, who taught the organization about the city’s history, so it was only natural for the Opening Celebration’s fireworks to take place last Friday at Polar Park.

“To be able to have Polar Park bat leadoff in the 300th celebration felt really good,” Steinberg said. “It felt like we had created a place that beyond baseball was a focal point for such a special celebration.”

The city’s history is evident all over Polar Park. From the heart-shaped lights, the city seal on the end of each row of seats, the city’s flag beyond the right-center field wall, and the numerous artifacts, the inside and outside of the ballpark is a living time capsule.

“It’s a ballpark that’s filled with Worcester-isms,” Wallace said.

Wallace added he would give the WooSox an A-plus in a course of Worcester history.

The next 100 years in the Heart of the Commonwealth could be a special time in the next chapter of the city’s future. Anything and everything could happen.

“Who knows?” Steinberg said. “That’s the beauty of it.”

This piece originally was published in The Telegram & Gazette on June 14, 2022

Yard Goats to Host HBCU/Negro League Celebration Three-Day Event 

“LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD” June 15th-17th

(Hartford, CT) The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, announced it will be hosting a three-day event called LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD from June 15th through June 17th in Hartford. The events will take place at the South End Boys & Girls Club, Hooker Live and Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The three-day event is presented by the Hartford Yard Goats Foundation, and Charter Oak Family Health Center.

In 2021, the Yard Goats celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball Leagues through music, dance, exhibitions, presentations and more. This year, the Yard Goats are excited to highlight the history and experience of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Both the Negro Leagues and Black Colleges were formed as a result of racial discrimination, and on the premise of providing equal opportunities for Black students and baseball players.

Events Schedule:

Day 1: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15**th* *(5:00 PM)**

Location: SOUTH END BOYS & GIRLS CLUB (129-131 Ledyard Street, Hartford)

“LEGEND BEHIND THE PLATE” -THE JOSH GIBSON STORY

* -Documentary & talk back with Sean Gibson (great grandson of Josh Gibson)*

* -Doors open at 5:00 and program begins at 5:45*

Day 2: THURSDAY, JUNE 16**th* *(5:00 PM-7:00 PM)**

Location: HOOKER LIVE (1 Sequassen Street, Hartford)

AN UNFILTERED PANEL DISCUSSION AROUND RACIAL AND GENDER EQUITY

* -Moderated by Jay Williams, President & CEO of The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving*

-Panel includes: Sean Gibson (President of Josh Gibson Foundation), Mary-Jane Foster (President & CEO of Interval House), Tony Womack (former MLB All-Star & World Series Champion), Cheryl Sharp (Civil Rights Attorney/Deputy Director of CHRO), JP Blandin (Head Coach of Delaware State University Baseball)

Day 3: FRIDAY, JUNE 17 (4:00 PM)

PRE-GAME BLOCK PARTY

Location: Heaven Skate Park

YARD GOATS GAME

Location: Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Virginia State Trojans Marching Band, Live DJ Wrexx & Big Regg, Greek Strolls, Steppers, Dancers, Youth Marching Bands from across Connecticut, Painting & More

The first-place Yard Goats return home for a six-game homestand tonight (7:05 PM) against the Akron RubberDucks. Tickets for all games are available on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone or in person at the Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office.

Missions to Host Jersey Auction to Benefit Uvalde 

Missions will wear Uvalde Coyote High School Jerseys to be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Robb School Memorial Fund

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club, in partnership with Wilson Sporting Goods and the Uvalde CISD, will wear custom Uvalde baseball jerseys on Thursday, June 16th. These on-field jerseys will be auctioned off during and following the game with the proceeds being donated to the Robb School Memorial Fund.

The jersey design is a replica of the jerseys worn by the Uvalde Coyotes High School baseball team, and is being supplied by Wilson Sporting Goods. Wilson’s extraordinary efforts in making what is normally a two-month process work in less than two weeks to produce the jerseys was vital in making the event to benefit the Uvalde community happen.

“Uvalde has special meaning for the Missions. Wolff Stadium has hosted numerous groups outings and even Coyote Baseball playoff games,” said Missions President Burl Yarbrough. “Anything we as an organization can do in this awful situation to help provide for the Uvalde community, we are honored to do so.”

Fans in attendance of the Missions game versus the Amarillo Sod Poodles on Thursday, June 16 will be able to bid throughout the game on the Uvalde jerseys worn by the Missions. The auction will conclude 15 minutes following the game’s final out.

“On behalf of the entire Uvalde CISD, we express our gratefulness for the support of the San Antonio Missions,” said Uvalde CISD Superintendent, Dr. Hal Harrell. “We are heartbroken at the innocent lives lost. The Uvalde CISD Administration, staff, and families will forever be thankful for the generous support of the community and nation. We believe in ourselves, pray for a brighter future, and together we are #Uvaldestrong.”

A Robb School Memorial Fund is held locally at First State Bank to support the families and community affected by the tragedy. Donate at https://onestarfoundation.org/uvalde/ to support the local fund.

On Thursday, June 16th, the Wolff Stadium gates will open at 6:00 p.m., with the first pitch at 7:05 p.m. for the game between the Missions and Sod Poodles.

The San Antonio Missions are the Double-A affiliate for the San Diego Padres. This is the 120th professional season for the San Antonio Missions. Single game tickets are available now and can be purchased online or at the 1st Base Box Office. Season seat memberships are available now. For more information call 210-675-PARK (7275) or visit samissions.com.

RWJBarnabas Health And Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Host National Cancer Survivors Event with the Somerset Patriots

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, partnered with RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey to host National Cancer Survivors Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, June 7.

Over 200 cancer survivors and their guests gathered at the ballpark in celebration of their strength and commitment to defeat cancer and inspire others to do the same.

13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline and Dr. Rahul Parikh threw out ceremonial first pitches wearing Patriots home jerseys with “Beat Cancer” on the back.

“The opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch alongside 13-year old cancer survivor Grace Eline, with more than 200 cancer survivors and their families in attendance, was inspirational,” said Dr. Parikh, Medical Director, Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. “As an organization, the Somerset Patriots share our core values, and this was truly a special evening celebrating survivorship, while raising awareness for cancer research, treatment and prevention.”

Eline was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2018 and received her successful treatments including proton beam therapy at RWJBarnabas Health facilities- Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, the Laurie Proton Therapy Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Grace is cancer free and living her life as a “normal” teenager.

The event was also part of Hope At Bat, a Minor League Baseball initiative designed to help save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer. The Patriots will be auctioning off a team signed purple bat through MiLB Auctions. The online auction will run until 9:00 pm on Thursday, June 30. The proceeds from the auction will benefit RWJBarnabas Health Oncology Services. Bidding can be done at https://bit.ly/3Q9vZfp.

“We were honored to open our home to so many cancer survivors, their families and friends,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “There isn’t a person whose life has not been impacted by this terrible disease. It was a special night recognizing the unbelievable strength of those that are battling and beating cancer and hopefully encourage others to join the fight.”

Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Together RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute offer the most advanced cancer treatment options close to home.

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball. To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com.