Sounds Announce Online Auction of Camouflage Military Jerseys

 

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club announced today an online auction of their game-used Military Appreciation Jerseys to benefit the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center at Middle Tennessee State University. The auction begins today and runs until Friday, Aug. 13 at 6:00 p.m.

The Sounds wore the camouflage military jerseys during the 2019 season and twice so far in 2021 – Saturday, May 15 and on Saturday, July 3. The club will wear them for a final time as part of Military Appreciation Night on Sunday, Aug. 8.

Bids for the jerseys are now being accepted at https://bit.ly/SoundsMilitaryJerseyAuction.

The Sounds offer military family ticket discounts for every game at First Horizon Park. A $2 discount on single-game ticket prices is available for any Reserved Section seat – based on availability. The offer is valid for up to four tickets per government-issued military I.D. presented at the Sounds Ticket Office.

The Daniels Center at MTSU is the largest and most comprehensive veterans center on any public higher education campus. It enables the over 1,200 military-connected student population at MTSU to have a one-stop shop to meet a variety of academic needs. It also allows military-connected students to study, gather, and get help from fellow veterans, who will serve as peer advisors and sponsors.

The center is also a resource for veterans and their families without the restriction or requirement to be students, faculty or staff at MTSU. To find out more, go to mtsu.edu/military.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. Single-game tickets are on sale now for all remaining 2021 home games. For more information call 615-690-4487 or e-mail [email protected].

Smokies Stadium to Host Officer Robert Frederick Charity Softball Tournament 

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – Smokies Stadium will host the Officer Robert Frederick charity softball tournament on July 20, 2021 at 6:00pm in conjunction with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Frederick, an officer with the Gatlinburg Police Department, was injured over Memorial Day weekend when his family’s home was destroyed by a fire and took the life of his daughter, a recent Gatlinburg-Pittman High School Graduate, Shauna, and his father-in-law, Edmond Davis. The money raised during the event will go back to help cover costs the family has endured.

The tournament will begin at 6:00pm with gates opening at 5:00pm. This is a free event open to the public. During the tournament, $10 raffle tickets will be sold for items from various sponsors of the event. Smokies concessions and GoTeez Locker Room will be open, donating a portion of sales back to the Frederick Family.

There are currently five teams made up of local law enforcement, fire, EMS agencies, and 911 emergency dispatchers. Each game will be 50 minutes long, ending with a championship game.

For those that can not attend the event in-person, Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union has a benefit account set up with Officer Frederick and his family. Donations can be made online or inside any local Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union branch.

For additional information, contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office at 865-471-6000.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the eight-team Double-A South League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com.

Blood Assurance to Host Blood Drives outside First Horizon Park

 

*Press Release courtesy Blood Assurance*

Blood Assurance is seeking dozens of all-stars to save lives this July 4 weekend during its Proud to be an American Blood Drives.

The non-profit blood center is teaming up with Cumulus Media and the Nashville Sounds to host four blood drives outside First Horizon Park, home of the Triple-A Milwaukee Brewers affiliate, who are playing evening games all weekend long.

“We are very excited to partner with Blood Assurance and host these drives that will save lives in our community,” said Doug Scopel, Nashville Sounds Vice President of Operations. “We are happy to help give back to the Nashville community and we can’t wait to see all of our blood donors at the game.”

The July 1-4 blood drives are taking place at the Blood Assurance blood mobile from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. parked near First Horizon Park on Junior Gilliam Way. Blood donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online here, however, walk-ins will be accepted.

Blood donors will receive a free patriotic-themed t-shirt and two tickets to the July 29 Sounds game against the Columbus Clippers. Tickets are in section 103. Participants will also be automatically entered to win a brand new Traeger grill!

Blood usage tends to increase during the 4th of July weekend due to travel and water activities. Blood Assurance needs to be prepared with an adequate supply of blood on the shelf to help local hospitals meet the need of area patients. Blood cannot be manufactured and Blood Assurance counts on volunteer donors daily to save lives.

Representatives from 104.5 the Zone will be on site to meet and greet listeners.

To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids — avoiding caffeine — and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.

About Blood Assurance

Blood Assurance is a nonprofit, full-service regional blood center serving more than 70 health care facilities in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky and North Carolina. Founded in 1972 as a joint effort of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society, the Chattanooga Area Hospital Council and the Chattanooga Jaycees, the mission of Blood Assurance is to provide a safe and adequate supply of blood and blood components to every area patient in need.

Nashville Sounds Announce “Hometown Hero” Program Presented by MTSU Daniels Center

 

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club proudly announced today the return of its “Hometown Hero” program presented by Middle Tennessee State University – Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center.

During the 2021 season on select home games at First Horizon Park, the Sounds and MTSU Daniels Center will honor veterans, active members of the armed forces, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters.

Nominations for heroes are now being accepted here. All nominees must be, or have been, a member of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, or a paramedic, emergency medical technician, police officer or firefighter.

Selected heroes will receive complimentary tickets to a Sounds game and be recognized on the iconic guitar scoreboard during a special in-between inning feature.

The Daniels Center’s mission is to provide transition services for Veterans and their families as they return to civilian life after military service. The Daniels Center is the largest and most comprehensive veterans center on any Tennessee higher education campus. It enables the over 1000 military-connected student population on campus to have a one-stop shop to meet a variety of academic needs.

The Sounds offer military family ticket discounts for every game at First Horizon Park. A $2 discount on single-game ticket prices is available for any Reserved Section seat – based on availability. The offer is valid for up to four tickets per government-issued military I.D. presented at the Sounds Ticket Office.

Additionally, the Sounds began the partnership with the MTSU Daniels Center by wearing their special camouflage military jerseys yesterday on Armed Forces Day and wear them on select days during the 2021 season. The Nashville Sounds Foundation will auction the game-worn camouflage military jerseys at the end of the season with proceeds to benefit the Daniels Center.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. Single-game tickets are on sale now for all remaining 2021 home games. For more information call 615-690-4487 or e-mail [email protected].

Nashville Sounds and Folds of Honor Announce Rock-N-Jock Celebrity Softball Game on June 3

 

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club and Folds of Honor announced today the Rock-N-Jock Celebrity Softball Game presented by Budweiser and Bradshaw Bourbon at First Horizon Park on Thursday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m.

The inaugural event is headlined by several Tennessee Titans players, including A.J. Brown and Taylor Lewan, along with Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Joining Bradshaw on the field will be a slew of high-profile athletes, country music stars and celebrities.

“We’re excited to welcome Folds of Honor to First Horizon Park along with many of Nashville’s biggest stars,” said Sounds co-owner Frank Ward. “The Rock-N-Jock Celebrity Softball Game is a fun and unique way to showcase our great ballpark.”

Riley Green and Luke Pell lead a group of country music stars that includes Russell Dickerson, Walker Hayes, Chris Lane and Lacy Cavalier.

Additional participants include former Titans linebacker Will Compton, Cy Young Award Winner and former Sound Barry Zito and comedian Jeff Dye. Other celebrities will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here. Select Section (104-107, 119-121) tickets are $25 and Premium Section (108-118) tickets are $35. 100% of the net profits will benefit Folds of Honor.

For more information, visit www.FirstHorizonPark.com and/or www.tennessee.foldsofhonor.org/events.

ABOUT FOLDS OF HONOR

Since 2007, the Folds of Honor has carried forth this singular, noble mission. To provide educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service-members.

Our educational scholarships support private educational tuition and tutoring for children in grades K-12, as well as higher education tuition assistance for spouses and dependents.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. Single-game tickets are on sale now for all remaining 2021 home games. For more information call 615-690-4487 or e-mail [email protected].

Smokies Host Second Job Fair at Smokies Stadium 

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN –The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will be hosting a second Job Fair at Smokies Stadium this Saturday, March 13 from 10:00am until 3:00pm. When arriving please enter at the Restaurant located on the left side of the parking lot. Attendees will be required to wear a mask and maintain social distance while at the job fair.

The job fair will feature positions from many departments with part-time and seasonal positions within Smokies Stadium. The Tennessee Smokies are looking for employees who are able to work all home games and additional events as needed inside Smokies Stadium. Most games are held during evening hours of the week and many weekends.

Available departments include new hires for food and beverage, ticketing, production, promotions, merchandise, and stadium operations.

Food and Beverage is looking to fill positions for cooks, cashiers, runners, servers, picnic attendants, and group area attendants. Other available positions in the Restaurant include cooks, servers, bartenders, and hosts.

Ticketing is looking to fill positions for ticket takers, ticket sellers and group area attendants.

Promotions and Production are looking to fill positions for mascots, rally crew promotion team members, camera operators, and press box personnel.

Merchandise is looking to fill team store representatives.

Stadium Operations is looking for fill positions in first aid, ushers, and kid zone attendants.

Most Smokies Stadium positions require a person to stand and walk for extended periods of time, as well as run, sit, navigate stairs, kneel or crouch. Prospective employees may also be asked to occasionally lift and/or move up to approximately 25 pounds and be exposed to various weather conditions and noise levels.

Potential employees will be asked to fill out their top three job choices on their interview questionnaire, which will be provided at the job fair. All persons seeking employment may not be able to work in their area of choice, as jobs will be offered by strength of application and/or resume.

The Smokies will commence their 2021 home opener against the Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Season ticket information can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the eight-team Double-A South League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com.

Sounds Donate Copies of “Home Plate: Henry Kimbro and Other Negro Leaguers of Nashville, Tennessee” to Metro Nashville Public Schools 

 

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club announced today the donation of the book “Home Plate: Henry Kimbro and Other Negro Leaguers of Nashville, Tennessee” to every public middle and high school of Metro Nashville Public Schools as part of Black History Month.

The 41-page short story was written by Dr. Kimbro-Hamilton and her son, Patrick Hamilton. The book highlights the experiences and stories of Negro League players in Nashville and documents the history of the Negro Leagues specific to Nashville. Dr. Kimbro-Hamilton’s father, Henry Kimbro, played for the Nashville Elite Giants prior to the team’s move.

“I’m very pleased for the families that can now read about their loved one’s contributions to Nashville and its rich baseball history,” said Dr. Kimbro-Hamilton. “I’m also pleased for the many students who can now read about these heroes and learn about their careers in the Negro Leagues. Finally, I’m pleased with the Nashville Sounds organization for donating this book to Metro Nashville Public Schools. This is an important part of Black history of which is not currently in books for students. Knowledge is power and the Sounds have helped supply students the power of knowing the complete baseball history in our great city.”

First Horizon Park is home to several markers and signage that pay homage to the role the Negro Leagues and Sulphur Dell played in the history of baseball in Nashville. Many of the Negro League players featured in the book are also featured at First Horizon Park. As part of Black History Month, the Sounds have highlighted those areas on the team’s social media channels and can be viewed on the Sound Bytes Blog here.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. For more information on 2021 Season Ticket Memberships, call 615-690-4487, or e-mail [email protected].

Nashville Sounds Foundation Now Accepting Applications for the 2021 Scholarship Program

 

Again in 2021, the Nashville Sounds Foundation will award four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in the Fall of 2021.

The program, which began in 2016, has awarded $50,000 in scholarships and is designed to assist deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students in paying for college tuition during their freshman year.

“Amidst a year of financial hardship and uncertainty in education, we’re extremely proud to continue this scholarship program for a sixth straight year,” said Nashville Sounds General Manager Adam Nuse. “The Nashville Sounds Foundation is thankful for the consistent support of our fans through various fundraising efforts to make this possible.”

Interested seniors must complete the entire application process here. The process includes submitting a 250-or-less word essay explaining how they overcame a life challenge or obstacle in the year 2020.

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/or coach, and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select 2021 Nashville Sounds game and a special surprise from the Nashville Sounds Foundation. The deadline to be considered for the 2021 scholarships is Friday, February 26, 2021. Scholarship winners will be notified no later than April 9, 2021.

Winners from 2020 include Sydney Armstrong (Howard University), Tucker Lovell (Harding University), Osiris Pizen-Magana (Middle Tennessee State University) and Katherine Wright (Duke University).

The Nashville Sounds play at First Horizon Park. The 2021 Minor League Baseball Schedule will be announced at a later date. For more information on 2021 Season Ticket Memberships, call 615-690-4487, or e-mail [email protected].

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to utilize baseball to positively impact the communities throughout Middle Tennessee by emphasizing the importance of social responsibility, education and the power of sport to transform lives.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

Sounds to Host Blood Drive at First Horizon Park

 

The Nashville Sounds Baseball Club announced today it has partnered with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive at First Horizon Park on Wednesday, November 11.

The Veterans Day blood drive is limited to the first 50 participants. Those interested in donating blood are required to sign up here (Code: NASHVILLESOUNDS). Appointments are available from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in 15-minute increments and will take place in the Brauer Lounge at First Horizon Park.

All blood drive participants will be subject to a temperature check at the door. Anybody with a temperature of 100.4 or higher will not be permitted inside First Horizon Park. Pursuant to Order 8 issued by the Metro Department of Health on June 17, guests 13 and older will be required to wear masks at First Horizon Park while entering, exiting, and moving around the ballpark. Participants should expect to be at the ballpark for about one hour.

All participants will receive a 15% discount to Third and Home the day of the blood drive. Third and Home opens at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesdays.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play at First Horizon Park. The 2021 Minor League Baseball Schedule will be announced at a later date.

About the American Red Cross

The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill the need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. Download the Red Cross Donor App on the App Store, Google Play or text BLOODAPP to 90999. Schedule appointments, view your blood type and results of your mini-physical, and track your donations.

TENNESSEE SMOKIES ANNOUNCE 2020 YOUTH CAMP REGISTRATION

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will host a two day youth baseball camp specifically designed for 7-12 year olds on October 24 and 25, 2020. The camp will be led by former professional Major League Baseball Player and 2009 Chicago Cubs organization Pitcher of the Year, Casey Coleman.

Focus will be on ‘learning the game.’ Campers will take part in drills on pitching, hitting, fielding, base running, and the fundamentals of baseball. Participants can also look forward to individual drills and advice, batting inside of the Smokies Performance Center with the state-of-the-art HitTrax Data and Capture Simulation System, as well as playing baseball games on the field of Smokies Stadium.

“We are eager to host this great opportunity for local young athletes,” said Tennessee Smokies General Manager Tim Volk. “Involvement in this camp can extremely benefit each player’s skills and give them a once in a lifetime experience at Smokies Stadium.”

The fee to register is $125, and is good for both days of the camp. An official camp t-shirt and lunch will be provided.

For more information and to register for the Smokies Youth Camp taking place at Smokies Stadium, visit smokiesbaseball.com/youthcamp or contact [email protected].

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

Nashville Sounds Announce Virtual 5K Presented by First Horizon

 

The Nashville Sounds Postseason Run presented by First Horizon is now open for registration to participants around the world. The virtual 5K (3.1 miles) run will start on Tuesday, September 29 and end at the conclusion of the 2020 World Series. Registration options can be found at www.nashvillesounds.com/run.

For $40, all participants will be able to submit times throughout MLB’s postseason and in return receive the official run t-shirt, official run hat, finisher medal, a downloadable finisher’s certificate, and an invite to a post-run gathering at Germantown’s Bar with a Ballpark, Third and Home, on Saturday, October 31.

Runners will participate in one of the following age brackets with winners recognized from each:

Male Runners

  • 14 and under
  • 15-19
  • 20-29
  • 30-39
  • 40-49
  • 50-59
  • 60-69
  • 70+

Female Runners

  • 14 and under
  • 15-19
  • 20-29
  • 30-39
  • 40-49
  • 50-59
  • 60-69
  • 70+

The Nashville Sounds will provide course maps around the city of Nashville, playlists, and prizes for registered participants throughout the race period.

In addition to receiving an invite to the post-run gathering, all participants will be able to use their finisher’s certificate for one complimentary Michelob Ultra (21 and older) or Pepsi fountain soda (under 21) at Third and Home during the month of October.

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play at First Horizon Park. The 2021 Minor League Baseball Schedule will be announced at a later date.

SMOKIES ANNOUNCE PITCHING & CATCHING CAMP TO BE HOSTED AT SMOKIES STADIUM SEPTEMBER 15 AND 16

 

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have announced that the club will host a two day baseball camp specifically for pitchers and catchers at Smokies Stadium September 15 and 16, 2020. The camp is for players 13-18 years old. The camp will be led by former professional Major League Baseball Player and 2009 Chicago Cubs organization Pitcher of the Year, Casey Coleman.

“Since moving to the area, I’ve seen how much passion there is for baseball at the youth level. I want to put on camps to allow these young athletes to reach their full potential,” said Coleman. “Along with other amazing instructors and former professional players, our goal is to teach each and every player the value of hard work while learning new techniques that will help them become the best player possible.”

Along with Coleman, a staff of over 36 combined years of professional playing and coaching experience will lead the instruction, including Carson Newman coaches Pat Brown and Brandon Roberts. Pitchers can look forward to strength training, throwing programs, day-before pitch prep, and individual suggestions to craft their mechanics. Catchers will work on framing, footwork, pitch calling, and pop times, amongst other drills.

“We are proud to host this wonderful opportunity to local young athletes,” said Tennessee Smokies General Manager Tim Volk. “This hands-on experience can really benefit each player and give them a once in a lifetime experience at Smokies Stadium.”

The fee to register is $150 prior to September 11, and is $175 starting September 12.

For more information and to register for the Pitching and Catching Camp taking place at Smokies Stadium, visit smokiesbaseball.com/pitchingcatchingcamp or contact [email protected].

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

Tennessee Smokies Announce East Tennessee High School Baseball League All-Star Game Rosters

SEVIERVILLE –The Tennessee Smokies have announced the rosters for the East Tennessee High School Baseball League All-Star game to take place on Friday, July 3 at Smokies Stadium.

The two teams are split into a ‘East vs West’ format. The ‘East’ team consists of players from the Sevier, Jefferson County, Morristown, Kodak, Gatlinburg, and Newport areas. The ‘West’ team features players from the Hardin Valley, Seymour, South Doyle, Clinton, and Carter regions.

Main gates open at Smokies Stadium on July 3 at 4pm, and things kick off with the East Tennessee High School Baseball League (ETHSBL) Senior Game. This will be a 7 inning contest that will showcase just the senior talent participating in the league. At 7:30pm a second 7 inning game will begin, showcasing the top performers of the ETHSBL in the All-Star Game.

The Tennessee Smokies will host a fireworks show, provided by Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, in honor of Independence Day immediately following the conclusion of a packed day of baseball.

Tickets start at $7.50 each and are on sale now at smokiesbaseball.com. Tickets will be $10 each on the day of the game. Tennessee Smokies Full Season Ticket Holders will receive free admission. Tickets are good for both baseball games and fireworks show.

The Tennessee Smokies have made it a priority to practice social distancing, as tickets will be assigned seats and spaced out accordingly.

For league standings, statistics, and more information on the East Tennessee High School Baseball League, presented by Garza Law Firm, visit the Smokies online at Smokiesbaseball.com/SummerBall.

The Ballpark at Jackson to Host High School Baseball Tournaments

 

JACKSON, TN – Baseball is set to make its return to The Ballpark at Jackson, as the Jackson Generals announced Monday a partnership with Net Elite Baseball and Pastime Tournaments, which will bring high school tournaments to town over the summer. Tournament dates range from June 11th through August 2nd, and team registration is now available.

“The Generals are pleased to enter into a partnership with Net Elite Baseball and Pastime Tournaments and host baseball tournaments at The Ballpark at Jackson,” said Jackson Generals GM Marcus Sabata. “With the Minor League Baseball season in doubt, we were not going to let this beautiful ballpark sit idle this summer. If things change and we do play Minor League Baseball, then we will adjust, but until then, we look forward to hosting some of the best high school teams the region has to offer.”

In lieu of the temporarily suspended minor league season, the Generals recently repurposed to The Ballpark for outside community events, including Madison Academic and Liberty Tech High School graduations on May 21st. The Ballpark is scheduled to host a Father’s Day movie event on June 20th, plus the much-anticipated Snoop Dogg Concert on July 20th. The ball club hopes that the influx of hundreds of high school games between the Ballpark and the neighboring Sportsplex will provide the area with an entertainment resurgence.

“We believe that the ballpark is a great community asset and we will continue to be creative in providing entertainment events that appeal to Jackson and West Tennessee,” said Sabata.

Tournament dates and corresponding registration links are below:

– June 11th-14th (Net Elite HS Tournament): https://netelitesports.com/jackson-generals-summer-event-1/

– June 18th-21st (Pastime HS Tournament): https://pastimetournaments.com/team-event/?eid=2260

– June 25th-28th (Net Elite HS Tournament): https://netelitesports.com/jackson-generals-summer-event-2/

– July 2nd-5th (Pastime HS Tournament): https://pastimetournaments.com/team-event/?eid=2261

– July 9th-12th (Net Elite HS Tournament): https://netelitesports.com/jackson-generals-summer-event-3/

– July 16th-19th (Net Elite HS Tournament): https://netelitesports.com/jackson-generals-summer-event-4/

– July 23rd- 26th (Pastime HS Tournament): https://pastimetournaments.com/team-event/?eid=2262

– July 31st-Aug. 2nd (Net Elite HS Tournament): https://netelitesports.com/jackson-generals-summer-event-5/

For more information on Net Elite and Pastime Tournaments visit https://netelitesports.com/ & https://pastimetournaments.com/.

ABOUT THE GENERALS

The Jackson Generals, a West Tennessee franchise since 1998, are the Double-A minor league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Generals play at The Ballpark at Jackson, Tennessee’s 2017 & 2018 Pro Sports Field of the Year. For more information, call 731-988-5299 or visit JacksonGeneralsBaseball.com.

Generals Open Gates For Local Graduation Ceremonies 

 

As the public health risk escalated through March and April, thousands of Tennessee seniors nearing the finish line of their high school journey were left in limbo. After four laborious years, the chances of a traditional graduation were slim, and school officials were left seeking alternatives.

“We started tossing ideas around to see what other places were doing, like virtual, and things of that nature,” said JMCSS Superintendent Ray Washington. “Then my wife and I were talking, and she said, ‘what about Generals park? You should have plenty of room to space out,’ and I said, ‘Ya, I’ll float that passed the mayor.’”

“The Mayor and the Health Department said ‘yes,’ and we started formulating the plans about two weeks ago.”

The plans consisted of limiting tickets to six per student, placing spectators in alternating rows, and limiting the 6,500-seat stadium to roughly 20% capacity. Many wore masks, student chairs would be spaced out six-feet apart across the Ballpark’s infield, and staff members would maintain distance while handing out diplomas. Madison Academic Magnet High School Principal Chad Guthrie was mapping the ceremony with fellow staffers 24 hours before Pomp and Circumstance echoed through the stadium speakers.

“I’m usually shaking their hands and we are pretty much shoulder-to-shoulder for the photo,” said Guthrie. “When we have it in our auditorium at Madison they are probably about a foot or two apart, and here they are going to be six feet apart, all the way around. So that is different. It doesn’t have the feeling of closeness, but they all know that we care about them and that we are going to give them something for graduation this year.”

Walking down the third base line to home plate and receiving honors offers quite a unique landscape to that of a school auditorium, but it’s a scene that many students won’t soon forget.

“This will be an event that these kids will have that other generations of Madison academic students won’t have,” said Madison County Mayor Jimmy Harris. “The School system has done and excellent job in trying to get everything arranged, and we appreciate the Generals allowing us to use this stadium out here. It’s going to be a great event.”

Liberty Tech Magnet High School Principal Brad Barnett stood near the railing of the home dugout prior to his school’s ceremony. A former college baseball player himself, Barnett chuckled and shook his head when asked if he pictured graduating students on a professional baseball diamond.

“I didn’t even know if we would be able to have any kind of a ceremony,” Barnett acknowledged. “I didn’t dream about this, but I’m really happy to have it and we’re really thankful to be here tonight. [The students] wanted to have something as close to what a traditional graduation ceremony is, that every other kid has had for the last 50 or 75 years. This is a real once-in-a-century kind of deal.”

The Ballpark of Jackson hosted Madison and Liberty graduations on Thursday night, and was also scheduled to host Jackson Central-Merry Early College High and North Side High School on Friday. Due to impending rain, those graduation events were moved indoors to Oman Arena.