Paige Hathaway coming to Frisco for Get Fit Festival June 15-16

FRISCO, Texas (May 16, 2018) – Celebrity fitness icon and trainer Paige Hathaway is joining the Frisco RoughRiders as part of their Get Fit Night on Friday, June 15 and Get Fit Festival on Saturday, June 16.

For just $20, fans can attend both the game on Friday and the Get Fit Festival on Saturday. To take advantage of this special offer, click here.

Hathaway, 26, has dedicated her life to help others get healthy, fit and confident. She is well-known through her various social media platforms – including on Instagram (@paigehathaway), where she has more than four million followers – as well as for her PHFit program and for being an F45 Global Ambassador.

Hathaway’s visit to Frisco begins Friday when the Riders host Get Fit Night. She will be throwing a ceremonial first pitch and will also be available for a special public meet and greet session from 8-9:30 p.m. Plus, Hathaway will participate in some of the Get Fit Night activities between innings, as the Riders dedicate the night to personal health and well-being. To top it off, the first 1,500 fans through the Dr Pepper Ballpark gates will receive a free Riders pedometer to kick off their Get Fit journey.

The fun continues the next morning with Get Fit Festival at Dr Pepper Ballpark. The action begins at 9:00 with a Pure Barre class, 5k walk/run and a Tour de Frisco bike ride. Starting at 10 a.m., Hathaway will host an F45 workout on the field. The activities continue at 11:00 with a kids healthy fit challenge and a water aerobics program in the world-famous Choctaw Lazy River. During the entirety of the festival (9:00-noon), a free weight workout will be held at the BBQ terrace.

For tickets to Get Fit Night and other remaining home games during the Riders 15th Anniversary Season, visit RidersBaseball.com, call (972) 731-9200 or visit the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Military Appreciation Night headlines weekend homestand

FRISCO, Texas (May 15, 2018) – Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, May 19, highlights an action-packed four-game homestand for the Frisco RoughRiders, Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, this Friday-Monday at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

As part of the franchise’s annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by ABC Home & Commercial Services, the Riders are offering discounted tickets to all military personnel. The Riders will suit up in special military-themed uniforms, which will be auctioned during the game to benefit Patriot Anglers of North Texas. Additionally, the first 1,500 fans will receive a Riders “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave” T-shirt.

The LEGO Let’s Play tour visits Dr Pepper Ballpark Friday through Sunday. As part of LEGO Let’s Play, kids and their families will have access to plenty of hands-on activities and displays, with more than 2,000 square feet of LEGO fun in the park.

Here’s a full breakdown of what to expect this weekend at Dr Pepper Ballpark:

Friday, May 18 vs. Corpus Christi (Astros), 7:05 p.m.

* Fireworks Friday, presented by Ambit Energy: Fans can watch a sparkling fireworks show from the field after the game.
* LEGO Let’s Play Friday: Kids and their families will have access to more than 2,000 square feet of special LEGO displays and activities.

Saturday, May 19 vs. Corpus Christi, 7:05 p.m.

* Military Appreciation Night, presented by ABC Home & Commercial Services: The Riders honor the brave men and women who serve and have served our country. The first 1,500 fans take home a special Riders “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave” T-shirt.

* Saturday Post-Game Party: Enjoy live music from DJ Roven and DJ Chris Floyd, along with half-price drinks starting in the ninth inning at the Bull Moose Saloon.

* Kids Run The Bases: Youngsters can take lap around the diamond after the game

Sunday, May 20 vs. Corpus Christi, 4:05 p.m.

* Kids Sunday Funday: Kids and their families can participate in a free pregame catch on the field from 3:00-3:30 and enjoy $1 ice cream sandwiches from all game long.

* LEGO Let’s Play Sunday: Experience more than 2,000 square feet of special LEGO displays and activities.

* Kids Run The Bases: Youngsters can take lap around the diamond after the game

Monday, May 21 vs. Corpus Christi, 11:05 a.m.

* Education Day: The Riders welcome students from across DFW to Dr Pepper Ballpark. The day features in-game educational features in addition to a fun day of baseball.

For tickets to these games and other remaining home games during the Riders 15th Anniversary Season, visit RidersBaseball.com, call (972) 731-9200 or visit the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Riders Foundation raising funds for Boys & Girls Club of Collin County Bus Fund

FRISCO, Texas (May 11, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation has announced a season-long, multi-faceted initiative to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County Bus Fund. The foundation’s goal is to help purchase a 72-passenger bus to aid the organization’s mission.

“With the addition of at least one new full-size bus in each club in Frisco, McKinney and Plano, we will be able to add over 300 new members, impacting these young lives with great programs in a safe, nurturing environment, where we concentrate on academic success, character and leadership as well as health and life skills,” said Mike Simpson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. “New buses are the vehicles to great futures for more kids.”

A portion of the proceeds from following events will be earmarked for the Bus Fund:

* Riders Classic golf tournament (July 10)

* RoughRiders Baseball Academy (all summer)

* RoughRiders Foundation in-game fundraisers

* Riders 50/50 Raffle (Wednesday-Sunday raffles)

* Auctioned autographed items and sports memorabilia

“It’s important for the Frisco RoughRiders to make memories for our community in and out of the stadium,” said Breon Dennis, Executive Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “The 72-passenger bus will let children at the club know that the future is now and we support them. I hope the entire North Texas community will join in this campaign to make a difference together.”

To participate in the fundraising efforts, join us at Dr Pepper Ballpark all season. Tickets are available online at RidersBaseball.com, by phone at (972) 731-9200 or at the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County and North Texas for 50 years since 1968. BGCCC’s mission is to “Enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens“. The organization currently serves over 9,300 children each year through its after-school, summer and outreach programs.

BGCCC serves 71 schools in Collin County and has 21 buses and vehicles which must transport the children to the Clubs. The organization has branches in McKinney, Plano and Frisco and currently operates an on-site school program at Shepton High School in Plano.

Visit the BGCCC website at: http://www.bgccc.org

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Express Donate K-9 Unit to Round Rock Police Department

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express are proud to announce that the team has donated a 22-month-old Belgian Malinois K-9 unit named Vada to the Round Rock Police Department. Express Owners Don and Bret Sanders purchased Vada from Slovak Working Dogs overseas, brought her to the United States, and facilitated the donation on behalf of the team.

The gesture comes less than a year after beloved RRPD K-9 Dega passed away following the discovery of an inoperable tumor. Dega was honored for her service at the Round Rock Express game on April 10, 2017, less than a month before her passing.

“We are incredibly proud to present Vada to the Round Rock Police Department on behalf of the Round Rock Express,” Bret Sanders said. “After my Dad and I heard of Dega’s passing, we wanted to help. This is just a small token of our appreciation for everything that RRPD does to keep not only Dell Diamond, but the entire City of Round Rock safe on a daily basis.”

Vada began her career in the K-9 patrol division but is quickly working up the ranks. This spring, she was certified by the National Narcotics Detector Dog Association to detect the odor of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and methamphetamines. In fact, on her way home from being certified by NNDAA, Vada assisted in the arrest of an individual carrying illegal narcotics.

The RRPD is currently training Vada in the disciplines of article searching and tracking. Vada will soon be able to follow and track human odor and the disruption of the vegetative state to the source.

The Sanders Family are no strangers to generosity when it comes to animals and law enforcement. Don is the founder of the Houston Police Foundation and previously served as Director of the Houston Police Pension System. He also financed a state-of-the-art shelter and facility at the Friends for Life animal shelter, a no-kill animal rescue and adoption shelter in Houston. The Sanders Family also previously donated two K-9 units and a police horse to the Houston Police Department.

“We are very thankful and appreciative of the Sanders Family and the Round Rock Express ownership group.” RRPD Officer Robert Ramos said. “Vada has been an amazing addition to the Round Rock PD family, as well as my family at home. She has surpassed my expectations and I could not be happier with her performance and where we are as a K-9 team.”

Fans will have their first chance to meet Vada on Sunday, May 6 during Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond. Vada will be honored alongside Officer Ramos before the 1:05 p.m. game against the Iowa Cubs. Fans are encouraged to bring their own four-legged friends to the game as well. More information about Bark in the Park at Dell Diamond can be found here.

Single-game tickets, season memberships and flex plan ticket packages are on sale now. For more information on the Express, visit RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Riders invite fans to Spring EGGstravaganza on March 24 at Dr Pepper Ballpark

The Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are hosting the third annual Spring EGGstravaganza at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Saturday, March 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This special free event is open to the public and highlighted by an Easter egg hunt in the outfield starting at 11:20 a.m. for all kids 12-and-under.

FRISCO, Texas (March 9, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are hosting the second annual Spring EGGstravaganza at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Saturday, March 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This special free event is open to the public and highlighted by an Easter egg hunt in the outfield starting at 11:20 a.m. for all kids 12-and-under.

In addition to the Easter egg hunt, there will be coloring and spring crafts, airbrush artists and a bounce house. Both the Primrose Schools and Riders Playgrounds will be open during the event. There will also be appearances from RoughRiders mascots Deuce, Daisy, Ted E Bear, Bull Moose and Brooks.

The club encourages fans to bring gloves and baseballs to the park to play catch on the field after the Easter egg hunt. Kids also have an opportunity to run around the bases, just like their favorite RoughRiders players!

Select food and drinks will be available for $1, including candy, Cracker Jack, hot dogs, kettle chips, nachos, popcorn, beer, coffee, hot chocolate, water, and Dr Pepper products.

Doors open early for Founders season ticket members at 9 a.m. for the first opportunity to pick up tickets for the 2018 season. Season ticket holders will have exclusive access to Dr Pepper Ballpark to pick up tickets, interact with Riders staff and sit down for brunch. Starting at 11 a.m., season ticket members will have the opportunity to take advantage of all the festivities at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

Fans interested in purchasing single-game tickets to Opening Day on April 5, any of the Deep Ellum Party @ The Yard dates, or any of the 70 games during the regular season are encouraged to speak with a sales representative at Guest Services or visit the Box Office during the event. Tickets are also available at RidersBaseball.com and (972) 731-9200.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Nelson Cruz , as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor  and Nomar Mazara . For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

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

Hooks Direct Harvey Funds to Area Youth

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks plan to distribute $113,000 to Little League and youth programs in Rockport, Port Aransas, Refugio, Ingleside, and Aransas Pass.

The resources, generated by the team’s #CoastalBendStrong campaign and Minor League Baseball, will aid the funding of scholarships which cover entry fees and uniform expenses. Monies are also earmarked for new scoreboards and a spring break camp hosted by the Port Aransas Parks and Recreation Department.

In addition to cash donations at Whataburger Field, money was raised online at YouCaring.com/CoastalBendStrong.

The Hooks designated a portion of the proceeds from their final homestand of 2017 for Hurricane Harvey relief. During the Labor Day weekend series, fans were offered free parking and “Pay What You Can” seating. Hooks players dedicated their season-long home run dollar earnings to the recovery effort. An autographed Corpus Christi game-worn jersey auction, and the sale of Coastal Bend Strong t-shirts contributed to the initiative.

Ainsworth Trucking also assisted in the collection of critical supplies.

The Akron RubberDucks, Biloxi Shuckers, Lansing Lugnuts and Fort Wayne TinCaps joined the relief effort by sending clothes, toiletries, and other essential items.

“It’s overwhelming when you look at what our neighbors and Minor League Baseball have done to help those greatly affected by the storm,” Hooks general manager Wes Weigle said. “Now is the time to put those funds to good use. We want to lend a hand in making sure kids, who’ve had their world turned upside down, take the field this spring and summer.”

During the offseason, Hooks front-office staffers volunteered in Aransas Pass, Port Aransas, and Rockport, clearing downed trees and debris.

Teams across Minor League Baseball rallied to raise over $300,000 in the aftermath of Harvey and Hurricane Irma. Funds went to the Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group and other relief organizations, including the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and United Way Worldwide.

This announcement also coincides with the launch of the Hooks’ Community Leaders Program. The club is currently seeking to team with corporate partners and civic leaders to support local youth sports initiatives.

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

Need a Fundraiser? Try Ours!

CORPUS CHRISTI – The 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic, featuring Mississippi State, University of California-Santa Barbara, Nicholls and host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, is February 23-24-25 at Whataburger Field.

If your club, association, or organization has fundraising needs, we can help.

Your group can sell 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic tickets and retain half the proceeds!

Including tax, daily adult tickets are $10.83, $5.41 for children 4-12.

To start your Kleberg Bank College Classic fundraiser, contact Zach Kaddatz of the Corpus Christi Hooks at 361-561-HOOK (4665). You can also e-mail him at zkaddatz@cchooks.com

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2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic Schedule

Friday, February 23
Mississippi State vs. UC Santa Barbara, 2 p.m.
Nicholls State vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 24
Nicholls State vs. Mississippi State, 2 p.m.
UC Santa Barbara vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 25
UC Santa Barbara vs. Nicholls State, 11 a.m.
Mississippi State vs. Islanders, 3 p.m.

Click Here to read more on the 2018 KBCC field.

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

RockHounds to Donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters on Giving Tuesday

MIDLAND, Texas – The Midland RockHounds announced today that, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, they will provide a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland as part of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration, on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the widely-recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports generosity and philanthropy.

This past season, B.J. Boyd was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2017 Texas League All-Star Game in Frisco, Texas, after collecting three hits and three RBI in a 10-3 win for the South division. As an extension of this award, BUSH’S and the RockHounds will provide a $1,000 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland.

“This generous donation by BUSH’S shows their commitment to the communities and great nonprofit organizations within Minor League Baseball cities,” said Monty Hopper, General Manager of the Midland RockHounds. “We thank BUSH’S for their donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland. This donation further strengthens the tie between Minor League Baseball, its member teams, sponsors and local communities.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. BUSH’S is making a donation to a local charitable organization chosen by each MVP Award winner’s home club.

“One of the things that attracted BUSH’S to Minor League Baseball is how the clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of each BUSH’S MVP Award winner by giving back to his team’s local charity.”

Minor League Baseball unveiled a multi-year, strategic partnership with BUSH’S Beans last December, making it the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” and a “Preferred Partner” of a number of MiLB teams, beginning in 2017. Bush Brothers & Company is the recognized brand leader in beans. The partnership was activated across a range of touch-points this year, including in-ballpark celebrations such as National Baked Bean Month in July and the integration of a variety of BUSH’S Beans products in teams’ concessions.

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About the Midland RockHounds

The Midland RockHounds have been bringing the best fun and family entertainment to West Texas since 1972. A member of the eight-team, Double-A Texas League, the franchise began as an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, the Los Angeles Angels and since 1999, the Oakland A’s.

The RockHounds have won five outright Texas League titles since 2005, including four-straight from 2014-2017. The organization has also received the John H. Johnson President’s Award in 2007, the highest award for a franchise and in 2016, the team won the Larry McPhail Award in recognition for the organization’s outstanding promotional efforts.

About Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is the governing body for all professional baseball teams in the United States, Canada and the Dominican Republic that are affiliated with Major League Baseball® clubs through their farm systems. Fans are coming out in unprecedented numbers to this one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Minor League Baseball ballparks. In 2017, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.8 million fans to its ballparks to see the future stars of the sport hone their skills. From the electricity in the stands to the excitement on the field, Minor League Baseball has provided affordable family-friendly entertainment to people of all ages since its founding in 1901. For more information, visit www.MiLB.com.

About BUSH’S® Beans

BUSH’S® is all about friends & family, and a certain Secret Family Recipe. When you enjoy our beans (doesn’t matter if they’re baked beans, chili beans, black beans, pinto beans…well, you get the picture), you can trust that they’re the very best. Because we wouldn’t serve your family anything less. Since we got our start more than 100 years ago in Chestnut Hill, Tenn., BUSH’S® has always maintained that quality is the best policy. We pursue excellence and exceptional taste in our beans, sauces and everything we do. That’s why, from mouthwatering Baked Beans & Chili Beans to satisfying bean recipes, you’re cooking up the best with BUSH’S BEST®. For more information, visit www.bushbeans.com.

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

Custom Hooks Surfboard Up for Auction!

Here is a link to the original story on the team’s website.

CORPUS CHRISTI – A custom Corpus Christi Hooks/Nolan Ryan surfboard – one of three in existence – will be auctioned off by the Texas Surf Museum during its Third Annual Surftoberfest this weekend.

The board is presently owned by Ryan-Sanders Baseball/Entertainment COO JJ Gottsch, who’s donating the Robert August creation as part of Surftoberfest’s Port Aransas Education Foundation fundraiser.

Gottsch was the first Hooks president from the club’s 2003 inception through the 2008 season.

“Brad Lomax has been a great friend to me personally, the Hooks, and the community at-large for a number of years,” Gottsch said. “When I heard that he had Robert (August) coming to the event this year, and that the funds were going to help hurricane relief efforts, I immediately thought of the board and how it could hopefully help those efforts. It will be a truly unique gift for any Robert August, Nolan Ryan, or Corpus Christi Hooks enthusiast.”

To bid online for the Robert August surfboard, click here from midnight, Thursday, October 5, until 8:30 CDT on Saturday night, October 7.

August will personally autograph the board for the winner.

The board’s design was produced in a special collaboration between August, his son Sam, Reid Ryan, Reese Ryan, and Gottsch. A second Hooks/Ryan WIR “What I Ride” (9.2) surfboard is currently displayed at the museum. Unique features include a classic blue/white design incorporating the Hooks’ primary logo in various elements, plus Nolan Ryan’s iconic “34” logo.

Robert August (born 1945) is an American surfer and surfboard shaper, most famous as one of the subjects of Bruce Brown’s 1966 surf documentary “The Endless Summer” with friend Mike Hynson. The film follows the two pursuing their hobby world-wide during the California off-season, meeting other surfers and discussing surf culture. August picked up surfing in the 1950s, when the sport’s popularity had just begun. His father, Blackie August, was also a noted surfer. Robert’s enthusiasm for and involvement in “The Endless Summer” influenced the sport’s growth for decades to come. His surfboards are sold under the Robert August Surfboards brand. He continues to travel the world promoting surfing, and in 1994 was involved in the shooting of “The Endless Summer II,” in which surfers Pat O’Connell and Robert “Wingnut” Weaver retrace the places visited by August and Hynson 30 years earlier.

Nolan Ryan – Elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, Nolan Ryan was inducted on July 25, 1999, on 98.79 percent of eligible ballots, the second-highest figure in history. He is the only player to have his uniform number retired by three different teams, the Los Angeles Angels (#30) and Houston Astros (#34) joining the Texas Rangers (#34). Ryan compiled a 324-292 record and 3.19 earned run average over 807 appearances in an unprecedented 27 seasons with the New York Mets (1966; 1968-71), California Angels (1972-79), Astros (1980-88), and Rangers (1989-93). The all-time leader in strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (7), Ryan has owned or shared 53 Major League records. An eight-time All-Star, he also threw 12 one-hitters, tying Bob Feller for the most ever, and owns two of the top four single-season strikeout totals in Major League history, including an all-time best 383 with the 1973 Angels.

Ryan is executive advisor to Houston Astros owner Jim Crane.

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

Halloween with the Hooks

Here is a link to the original story on the team’s website.

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Fourth Annual Halloween with the Hooks Celebration, presented by Ashley HomeStore, is scheduled for Thursday, October 26.

Whataburger Field gates open at 6 p.m. that evening, and entertainment runs until 9.

“This is a wonderful community event, and we can’t wait to see many of our friends back at the ballpark,” Hooks President Ken Schrom said. “We’ll have a number of sponsors and non-profits giving candy away to the kids and there will be numerous fun activities for young families.”

Among the various activities on Stripes Diamond and in the Driscoll Health Plan Kids Zone:

  • Bounce House
  • Corn Hole
  • Playground
  • Obstacle Course
  • Rockwall
  • Trampoline

Kieschnick’s Korner will be the site of additional child-centered games and contests.

Guests can also enjoy a costume contest and Halloween-themed videos; selections this year come from the Scooby-Doo and Peanuts archives.

Admission to Halloween with the Hooks is free. Guests are encouraged to donate a canned food item for the Coastal Bend Food Bank.

Corpus Christi’s Ashley HomeStore is located at 5001 S. Padre Island Drive, or go to ashleyfurniturehomestore.com

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

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“One Team” Shirts On Sale to Benefit Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts

ROUND ROCK, Texas – One state, one team. The Round Rock Express launched specially designed t-shirts Thursday afternoon to raise money for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. The heather blue shirts showcase the outline of the state of Texas with the organization’s One Team motto in line with the state.

The shirts are currently on-sale for $20 plus tax both online and in-person at the Railyard Team Store at Dell Diamond. Sizes run from small to XXL.

Following the loss of Express President Chris Almendarez’s wife Jana in the spring of 2016 to a glioblastoma, the Express rallied together and got behind the “One Team” motto as a showing of support. There is a pillar in the front office filled with focus words from each staff member and topped with the words “One Team” to serve as a reminder of that support system.

“As an organization, we know we must rely on and help each other to be the best we can be,” said Express General Manager Tim Jackson. “No matter our differences, we are all working for the same end goal as one cohesive unit. Following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey, Texans exemplified this by coming together to help each other out. Even those who were impacted are reaching out to others to see how they can help. Texans truly are rebuilding in the spirit of one team.”

All proceeds from the sale of the shirts will go directly to the Rebuild Texas Fund, headed up by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. They are focused on helping people in their time of greatest need and also addressing the long-term rebuilding effort in South Texas.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Donation Drive for Hurricane Harvey Cleanup Efforts at Dell Diamond Sunday

ROUND ROCK, Texas – Wish For Our Heroes will be at Dell Diamond for the 9th annual Reckless Kelly’s Celebrity Softball Jam this Sunday collecting donations to aid in Hurricane Harvey cleanup efforts.

The non-profit said the biggest need is for cleaning supplies, garbage bags, rakes, tarps, tools and gift cards to home improvement stores. Additionally, they will collect new and gently used sports equipment and musical instruments to take to those in the affected areas that lost their gear or instruments in the storm and its aftermath.

All proceeds from the Celebrity Softball Jam are going straight to help with Hurricane Harvey relief efforts through Rebuild Texas. There will be a silent auction on the concourse featuring an autographed Josh Beckett jersey, a Willie Robertson autographed baseball and more. Proceeds from the auction will also go to Rebuild Texas.

The Jam features a celebrity softball game followed by a two-stage concert featuring over 30 acts. An all-star roster will take the field for an antic-filled celebrity softball game. Former Longhorns Ricky Williams, Cat Osterman, Quan Cosby, Kasey Studdard, Brooks Kieschnick and Greg Swindell will join MLB All-Stars Josh Beckett and Norm Charlton and more in the dugouts at Dell Diamond.

The packed musical lineup features Jack Ingram, American Aquarium, Randy Rogers, Roger Creager, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Cody Canada & the Departed, Midnight River Choir, Suzy Bogguss, Jamie Lin Wilson, John Evans, Charlie Robison, Rosie Flores, Jessie Dayton, Jason Eady, Mike and the Moonpies, Shinyribs, Bart Crow, Courtney Patton and more.

Since its inception, the Jam has raised over $350,000 through the Reckless Kelly Charitable Youth Foundation for area youth leagues, including the funding of a $150,000 renovation of Mabson Field in East Austin, TX.

Tickets for the 9th Annual RKCSJ are on sale now for just $25 and can be purchased online at RKCSJ.org. Tickets will go up to $30 on the day of the event.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit RKCSJ.org. For up to the minute event info, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

RoughRiders raise more than $30,000 for Hurricane Harvey relief

FRISCO, Texas (Sept. 6, 2017) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation raised $30,856 for Hurricane Harvey relief throughout the team’s final homestand of the regular season, which ended Sept. 4. The proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

“The outpouring of support for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey over the last week is truly inspiring,” RoughRiders Chief Operating Officer Scott Burchett said. “We’re so proud to witness the tremendous generosity of RoughRiders fans and their unwavering assistance for our neighbors along the southeast Texas coast.”

The RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, employed several fundraising efforts during the seven-game homestand, including 10 percent from all sales at the Riders Outpost team store, proceeds from special Pass the Boot activities during games, cash donations at the RoughRiders Foundation table and auctions of RoughRiders items.

Riders Outpost also has limited edition “Texas Tough” T-Shirts available both in store and online for a minimum $10 donation to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. More than 1,000 t-shirts have been ordered and will continue to be available at roughriders.milbstore.com through Friday, Sept. 8.

Fans can visit www.redcross.org/donate/cm/friscorr-pub for more information and to continue to donate. Donations through the American Red Cross are welcome by texting HARVEY to 90999.

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 12 seasons (2005-2016). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. The new ownership group, together with the city of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise improvements over the past two seasons, investing nearly $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a new state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the newest and biggest creation, the 174-foot Choctaw Lazy River. The upgrades made prior to the 2015 season earned the Riders and the City of Frisco “Best Ballpark Renovation” of 2015 by Ballpark Digest. The same publication also honored the Choctaw Lazy River as the best ballpark improvement over $1 million for the 2016 season. More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Nelson Cruz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Round Rock Express Announces Additional Hurricane Relief Efforts

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express announced a handful of additional relief efforts to aid in the recovery from Hurricane Harvey. For all remaining games in 2017, hurricane evacuees will receive complimentary tickets.

Fans from the storm-affected counties can show their driver’s license or other proof of residency at the Dell Diamond ticket office and receive general admission tickets for them and their family.

The Express has also partnered with the United Way of Williamson County to host a donation drive Friday, September 1 – Sunday, September 3 to aid in the cleanup and relief efforts in South Texas. Fans will receive two general admission tickets to Monday’s season finale for their donation. A list of needed items can be found here.

Fans who missed specialty theme nights earlier in the season will have a “last chance” to purchase an Express-branded wine glass ($10), beer stein ($10), tiara ($5), superhero cape ($5) and dog toy ($5), while supplies last, starting Friday night. All net proceeds will be donated to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

Additionally, the team, along with Minor League Baseball Charities, will host a 50/50 raffle on Sunday, September 3. Fans can purchase raffle tickets from the time the gates open at 5 p.m. until the end of the 7th inning. The winner will receive half of the total funds raised. The other half will be donated to Minor League Baseball Charities, who will match donations from all MiLB teams this weekend, up to $10,000. All funds will go towards hurricane relief efforts.

Regular parking fees will still be in place for the remainder of the season.

The Express close out the 2017 regular season with this final homestand. The team will face Colorado Springs Thursday night before welcoming in the Oklahoma City Dodgers for four games.

For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!

Proceeds from Reckless Kelly’s Celebrity Softball Jam Shifted Towards Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts

ROUND ROCK, Texas – For the past eight years, Reckless Kelly’s Celebrity Softball Jam has been about giving back to Central Texas. This year, the mission is even greater. Proceeds from this year’s Jam will go towards relief efforts in South Texas following the devastating path of destruction left by Hurricane Harvey.

“Every year, we have been able to raise money to make a difference in the community through this project,” said Cody Braun of Reckless Kelly. “After the events of the past week, we knew we needed to direct funds to the relief efforts in Houston and the gulf coast any way we could. That is the main priority for those of us in Texas right now.”

As those in South Texas continue to assess the damage and begin the rebuilding process, funds from this year’s event will go towards the areas that need the most support.

“We have this great platform to help the people of South Texas,” said Round Rock Express President Chris Almendarez. “By combining the resources of the artists, athletes and media personalities involved with this event, we can really make a difference in the relief efforts as people begin to rebuild across Texas.”

Organizers will continue to work with Kids in a New Groove and Honor Flight Austin throughout the year to support their missions with outreach, volunteer hours and donation drives.

Since its inception, the Jam has raised over $350,000 through the Reckless Kelly Charitable Youth Foundation for area youth leagues, including the funding of a $150,000 renovation of Mabson Field in East Austin, TX.

Tickets for the 9th Annual RKCSJ are on sale now for just $20 and can be purchased online at RKCSJ.org. Tickets will go up to $25 on September 1.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit RKCSJ.org. For up to the minute event info, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.