ValleyCats and American National Insurance to Honor 9 Community Heroes at “The Joe”

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats and American National Insurance Company have partnered again this season to recognize nine heroes within the Capital Region community during a special on-field ceremony prior to tonight’s rubber match against the Ottawa Titans.

The “Home Run Community Heroes Starting Nine” is chosen through an online fan nomination process. The ‘Cats and American National Insurance encourage fans to nominate hospital staff, health care workers, military personnel, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children, and everyday people that have helped make a positive impact within the Capital Region!

This year’s honorees are:

  • Cody Alessi, 7th Grade Student
  • Lindsey Bedell, Teacher, Corinth Elementary School
  • Jason Chevrier, Superintendent, Schodack Central School District
  • Chris DelVecchio, Communications Officer, Rensselaer County Public Safety
  • Heather McKenna, Physical Therapist, Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital
  • Jamie Panichi, Investigations Sergeant, Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office
  • Casey Rowland, Teacher, Sand Creek Middle School
  • John Soychak, Paramedic, North Greenbush Ambulance
  • Trevor Taylor, Teacher, School 12, Troy City School District

The ValleyCats and American National Insurance Company’s Glenmont Office will recognize our nine community heroes in a special on-field ceremony beginning at approximately 6:05 PM ahead of tonight’s game against the Ottawa Titans.

For tickets, stop by the box office, call 518-629-CATS, or log on to tcvalleycats.com. Enter the promo code “HERO” at checkout for discounted tickets.

518 Futures High School Baseball Classic Returns to Joseph L. Bruno Stadium on June 9th

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats have partnered with Built2Win to showcase the best high school baseball talent across New York’s Capital Region as Joseph L. Bruno Stadium will play host to the 518 Futures High School Baseball Classic for the second time on Thursday, June 9. The inaugural game was held in 2019 but the event was paused for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each team will consist of players from schools within each of the five classifications across New York’s Section 2. The rosters have been selected by a committee comprised of coaches, officials, and local media. Built2Win is providing each team with uniforms and is the designer of the 518 Futures High School Baseball Classic logo. This year’s game will begin at 6:30 PM with a new Home Run Derby taking place beforehand.

“We are thrilled to bring this game back to Joseph L. Bruno Stadium and look forward to making it an annual event. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the tremendous local talent playing high school baseball in and around the Capital Region,” said Matt Callahan, ValleyCats Vice President & General Manager. “It will be exciting to see our future stars play on the same diamond where so many major leaguers started their professional careers.”

Joseph L. Bruno Stadium has been home to the Tri-City ValleyCats since 2002, first as part of the New York-Penn League until 2020 and now as a member of the Frontier League, an MLB Partner League. Aside from the 53 ValleyCats home games, the stadium hosts the Hudson Valley Community College baseball team, regular-season high school games, regional postseason play, travel and charity tournaments, and many other special events.

ValleyCats Announce 2022 Edition of Annual Coach the Coaches Clinic



TROY, NY – Since their establishment in 2002, the Tri-City ValleyCats have been committed to growing the game of baseball in the Capital Region community. Throughout their 20-season history, the team has renovated local fields, hosted instructional clinics and summer camps, and traveled to local schools and community events in order to help improve and maintain the quality of life in the Capital Region. As the start of the team’s 20th season approaches, the ValleyCats have announced the 2022 edition of their annual “Coach the Coaches” event.

The free coaching clinic is geared towards youth coaches (13 and under) and will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, March 29 at 6 PM EST. Slated to participate in the event are: ValleyCats skipper and NCAA Player of the Century Pete Incaviglia, ValleyCats alum and former Oregon Duck pitcher Parker Kelly, along with Joshua Parrow, Hudson Valley Community College’s head baseball coach, who brings nine years of collegiate coaching experience with him. Attendees can reserve their spot by registering at https://bit.ly/3pVZohI.

Don’t miss out on the excitement of ValleyCats baseball at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium! Season tickets and mini plans for the team’s 20th Season are available now! To book a group outing or ticket plan, visit the team’s website or call 518-629-CATS. Individual game tickets go on sale March 21 at 10 AM! Visit tcvalleycats.com for more information regarding the 2022 season.

ValleyCats Announce Renovations to Four Youth Ball Fields as Part of Annual ‘4 in 24’ Project

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, are set to renovate four youth ball fields during the 10th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project. Renovations of the fields were put on hold back in April due to COVID-19. Despite the setback, the ValleyCats are excited to announce the recipients and move forward with a plan to renovate the fields while following NYS and CDC guidelines.

The four leagues to be renovated this year are Lansingburgh Little League, Red Storm Baseball in Stillwater, Shatford Little League, and the City of Watervliet softball field. The project will be focused primarily on the infield surface, with the mission to allow for a safe place to learn and play ball.

The scope of this project includes laying brand new sod, grading and raking the baselines, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, installing a new pitching rubber, home plate, bases, and more.

“With youth sports beginning to reopen across the region, we are thrilled to be moving forward with this project” said ValleyCats GM, Matt Callahan. “The need to support our youth by encouraging safe outdoor activity is more important now than ever. Although the pandemic has changed the look and timeline of this project, we are committed to restoring these fields.”

“Each year for the past ten years, BlueShield employees alongside volunteers from the Tri-City ValleyCats and Hannaford Supermarkets have rolled up their sleeves to renovate four little league fields throughout the Capital Region in just 24 hours,” said Keith Dolan, Regional Executive, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “Although this year looks different as we continue to practice social distancing, BlueShield is as proud as ever to be part of this amazing initiative that provides children in our community with safe spaces to stay active and healthy.”

Both longtime supporters and of the ‘4 in 24’ project, Hannaford and BlueShield make these renovations possible through the aid of necessary monetary resources, and the volunteer efforts of their staff. Community Relations Specialist, Brian Fabre, from Hannaford and Regional Executive, Keith Dolan, from BlueShield of Northeastern New York, will be available for remote video calls on Tuesday as the volunteers on site will be limited.

“Now more than ever, Hannaford is thrilled to support a project that keeps our community’s youngest members active and outdoors this summer,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue this partnership with the ValleyCats and BlueShield as we provide local ball players with not only improved facilities, but also the opportunity to grow as individuals and members of a team.”

The renovations will begin on Tuesday, June 30th, at the Red Storm baseball field. The field address is 33 East St. Mechanicville, NY 12118. The work on Tuesday will begin around 8:00 AM and last throughout the day. The project will be spread out over multiple days with a reduced number of volunteers at each field to ensure social distancing guidelines and proper safety protocols are followed. The schedule and location for the next phase of field renovations will be announced in the coming weeks with a celebration of the work to be scheduled in the fall.

The efforts are also supported by Admar Construction Equipment, Brightview, Profile Products / Turface Athletics, and SiteOne Landscape Supplies. These organizations are contributing some of the necessary equipment and materials. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

Home Run Community Heroes Starting Nine to be honored on Heroes Night, July 22nd

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats have partnered with American National Insurance Company to present Heroes Night at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium on Wednesday, July 22nd. Nine heroes within the Capital Region community will be recognized during a special on-field ceremony prior to the game vs. the Mahoning Valley Scrappers. The “Home Run Community Heroes Starting Nine” will be chosen through a fan nomination process and will be recognized on the ‘Cats social media platforms.

The ‘Cats and American National Insurance Company are encouraging fans to nominate hospital staff, health care workers, military, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children and everyday people that have helped make a positive impact within the Capital Region.

“The opportunity to recognize local heroes is something that we look forward to each and every year,” said Matt Callahan, ValleyCats General Manager.” In light of these unprecedented events and challenging times, we feel that it’s more important than ever to showcase and celebrate the efforts of people making a positive impact in the Capital Region community.” The Home Run Community Heroes Starting Nine will also be treated to a luxury suite as guests of American National Insurance, with complimentary food and beverage.

“American National Insurance Company is proud to partner with the Tri-City ValleyCats in honoring heroes who go above and beyond in making our community a wonderful place to live,” said Jim Marotta, Vice President of Human Resources, American National Insurance Company.

Fans who want to nominate a community hero can do so by filling out the form located online at tcvalleycats.com/communityheroes. The deadline for submissions is Monday, June 22. In the event that the 2020 season is delayed, the starting nine will be recognized at a later game, or during the 2021 season.

Individual tickets, Season tickets, mini plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com. In the event that the 2020 season is not played, tickets will become vouchers for the 2021 season.

ValleyCats now accepting online National Anthem submissions

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats, Crossgates, and 98.3 TRY are set to host the anthem audition contest online! Fans can submit their unedited video HERE until 4/15. We ask that all video submissions be no longer than 90 seconds. This contest is open to all soloists, groups, and instrumentalists of any age. We encourage all groups to utilize a group video conference service to record, please be sure to follow social distance directives.

The Top 3 finalists’ videos will be shared online on April 20th. Fans will be invited to vote for their favorite performance, with the top vote recipient having the opportunity to sing at a premier ValleyCats game at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium this summer.

Please note that if you are chosen in the Anthem Audition Top 3, your audition tape will be used on the Tri-City ValleyCats Facebook page.

Voting will remain open until April 27th and the winner will be announced April 28th. Good luck to all contestants!

The ValleyCats 2020 home opener is currently scheduled for Wednesday, June 24th as the 19th season of Minor League Baseball begins at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy.

Ticket plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com. The ValleyCats are also taking reservations for groups of 20 or more, and individual tickets are set to go on sale April 16th.

Many Valued Partners Of The Team Still Offering Takeout and/or Delivery

 

Troy, NY – As the Capital Region becomes accustomed to social distancing and working/learning at home, it is important to remember that we are in this together. The Tri-City ValleyCats would like to encourage our fans to support food establishments and businesses in our local communities.

Many great restaurants in our community are still open and offering takeout and/or delivery options. Many of these partners are small businesses and/or independently owned. They employ our neighbors and provide us with gathering places in better times. Right now, they can greatly benefit from any support we can offer during this time.

Any ValleyCats fans considering takeout or delivery as a meal option over the next several weeks should especially consider patronizing the following establishments that are valued partners of the team:

Bella Napoli

Bootleggers on Broadway

Brick House Tavern + Tap

Brown’s Brewing Company

BurgerFi

The Chuck Wagon Food Truck

The Cookie Factory

Curvy Girls Food Truck

Deli & Brew

Dunkin’

Five Guys

McAddy’s Pub

Muddaddy Flats Quesadillary

Nine Pin Cider

Pistana Brothers

Recovery Sports Grill

Slidin’ Dirty

Skyline Diner

Taco Bell

Wendy’s

ValleyCats fans can eat, drink, & support our local community all while staying safe and practicing responsible social distancing. We’ll all get through this together and when the time comes, the ValleyCats will be prepared to deliver a summer of baseball and fun right here at “The Joe!”

Please Note: As of Friday, March 20, all of the above listed establishments were offering takeout service, delivery service or both. This is subject to change as national, state & local authorities issue further COVID-19 updates & guidance. Please verify with each establishment by visiting their web site and/or calling.

National Anthem auditions set for April 4 at Crossgates

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats will be holding their 10th Annual National Anthem auditions on Saturday, April 4 at Crossgates from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Selected finalists will participate in an online fan vote, with the top vote recipient having the opportunity to sing at a premier ValleyCats game at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium this summer, in front of an expected crowd of over 5,000 fans.

Hosted by Jaime Roberts heard weekday mornings from 6am – 10am on 98.3 TRY, the auditions will take place on the lower level near Lord & Taylor. Registration will begin promptly at 9:30am and auditions will be conducted on a first-come, first-perform basis. Performances can be sung individually or as a group, and may also be performed on an instrument that does not require power.

A panel of judges will be scoring the performances based on sound quality, stage presence, and song accuracy.

The ValleyCats 2020 home opener is set for Wednesday, June 24 as the 19th season of Minor League Baseball begins at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy.

Season tickets, mini plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com or by calling 518-629-CATS. The ValleyCats are also taking reservations for groups of 20 or more, and individual tickets are set to go on sale March 26, MLB’s Opening Day.

ValleyCats to Host Job Fair for 2020 Season

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats will host their Annual Job Fair at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy on Saturday, March 14 from 10:00am – 12:00pm. The Class A affiliate of the Houston Astros will be holding on the spot interviews for various positions for their 2020 summer season.

Potential employees must be over the age of 15 and have the availability to work during the months of June through September. Applications are available at “The Joe,” or can be filled out in advance by downloading a copy from the ValleyCats website.

Each year the ValleyCats employ approximately 200 summer gameday staff in departments that include food and beverage, stadium operations, box office, merchandise, promotions and production. For more information on the types of jobs in each department, visit the Employment page of the ValleyCats website at tcvalleycats.com.

The ValleyCats 2020 home opener is set for Wednesday, June 24 as the 19th season of Minor League Baseball begins at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium in Troy.

Season tickets, mini plans and flex vouchers for the ValleyCats’ 2020 season are currently available for purchase online at tcvalleycats.com or by calling 518-629-CATS. The ValleyCats are also taking reservations for groups of 20 or more, and individual tickets are set to go on sale March 26, MLB’s Opening Day.

 

Applications being accepted for 2020 Youth Field Renovations

 

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats are currently accepting applications for the 2020 ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project, which will take place in April and feature infield overhauls of four youth baseball/softball fields. It’s a milestone year for the renovation program, as the number of fields renovated reaches 40 since the program’s inception.

The ValleyCats continue their strong partnership with Hannaford Supermarkets and BlueShield of Northeastern New York on this impactful community initiative. The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“Our mission for this project since day one was to fulfill our duty as ambassadors of the game by impacting as many youth ballplayers in our communities as possible,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We are extremely thankful to our tremendous partners in this endeavour, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets. Together, we have helped to provide safe and well-maintained ball fields for thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.”

“Each year, BlueShield employees alongside volunteers from the Tri-City ValleyCats and Hannaford Supermarkets roll up their sleeves and rally around this program,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As we approach a milestone year for 4 in 24, BlueShield is as proud as ever to be part of this extraordinary initiative that continues to impact the communities where we live, work and play.”

“As a committed community partner, Hannaford is thrilled to be a part of a program that has such a positive and long-lasting impact on our local neighborhoods. Improving these fields not only provides kids with a safe place to play ball, but also provides an opportunity to discover a love of an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue to partner with the ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York during a milestone year for this outstanding initiative.”

Youth baseball and softball organizations interested in having their field renovated may submit an application online at tcvalleycats.com, and are encouraged to send in current photos with their submissions prior to any snowfall.

The ValleyCats began assisting with youth field renovations since 2003, renovating one ballfield each year. In 2011 the program grew into the ambitious “4 in 24” project, with the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners renovating four local youth playing fields in a 24-hour time period.

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

Renovations to four youth ball fields set for April 11

TROY, NY- The Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, are set to renovate four youth ball fields on Thursday, April 11th during the 9th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project. Upon completion, over 36 fields will have been revamped by this strong community initiative which has positively impacted thousands of youth ballplayers in the Capital Region and beyond.

The four leagues to be renovated on April 11 will be Green Tech High Charter School, Rensselaer Little League, Broadalbin Little League, and Brunswick Girls Softball. The project will be focused primarily on the infield surface, with the mission to allow for a safe place to learn and play ball.

The scope of work includes laying brand new grass, rebuilding the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, grading and raking the baselines, installing a new pitching rubber, plate, bases and more.

“First I want to express our gratitude to BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets for being tremendous partners in this initiative,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We all share in the common goal of a bright future for our youth, and this project goes a long way to provide the resources to help them succeed.”

Both longtime supporters of the ‘4 in 24’ project, BlueShield and Hannaford make the renovations possible through the aid of necessary monetary resources, and volunteer efforts of their staff.

“With more than 30 fields renovated over the last nine years, BlueShield’s commitment to the community continues to provide our region’s young athletes access to healthy activities as they grow,” said Nicky Chlopecki, Manager, Community Relations, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “As a longtime partner of the Tri-City ValleyCats, our employees are eager to rebuild fields alongside the players as they work to make a positive impact in our community.”

“Hannaford is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles at all ages and youth sports are an ideal way to instill the importance of activity and wellness in our community’s youngest members,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We are pleased to continue this partnership with the ValleyCats and BlueShield as we provide local ball players with not only improved facilities, but also the opportunity to grow as individuals and members of a team.”

The renovations will commence at daybreak on Thursday, April 11, with four crews split up among the fields. A press conference will be held at Green Tech High at 9:00 a.m. to officially kick off the project.

The efforts are also supported by Admar Construction Equipment, Brightview, Profile Products / Turface Athletics, and SiteOne Landscape Supplies, who are contributing some of the necessary equipment and materials. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

League Snapshots

Green Tech High Charter School

Field Address: 99 Slingerlands Street, Albany, NY, 12202

Opening Day: April 1, 2019

League Information: Green Tech’s baseball team currently plays their home games off site because they don’t have a useable field at their high school. The ValleyCats and their partners will transform an old softball field at the school into a baseball field for their team to call home. The field will also be used for Eastern New York Travel Baseball league games.

League Statement:

“Green Tech is very excited to be getting a new baseball field that the young scholars will be able to play on. It has been tough the last four years finding a place to practice that didn’t require players to travel. Now with a field, the team will operate like a normal program. Green Tech thanks the ValleyCats for their time and effort building a field for the boys at Green Tech.” – Quentin Jensen, Green Tech Director of Athletics

Rensselaer Little League

Field Address: 112 Lawrence Street, Rensselaer, NY, 12144

Opening Day: April 6, 2019

League Information: Rensselaer Little League is utilized by 150 players across 14 teams. Fideli Field has had drainage issues and is need of a leveling of the infield playing surface. The current baselines are not aligned properly, and the pitcher’s mound and home plate area is in disrepair. With these renovations, the field will receive a much needed facelift to the infield surface with brand new sod, infield mix, a complete overhaul of the pitching and home plate areas, and more.

Broadalbin Little League

Field Address: 30 First Avenue, Broadalbin, NY, 12025

Opening Day: May 4, 2019

League Information: The work will focus on the Majors Field at Broadalbin, a league that serves over 160 players with 13 teams. The league was in the process of flipping the current field to avoid sun glare, but was unable to finish due to bad fall weather.

League Statement:

“Without the ValleyCats help, we were facing a decision of possibly not being able to host games for all of our Majors teams and even some of our Minors teams. We still feel like we are dreaming and can’t thank the ValleyCats and their partners enough. This amazing gift will truly benefit our small community for years to come.” – Mike Eglin, Broadalbin Little League President

Brunswick Girls Softball

Field Address: Brunswick Sports Complex, 4165 Route 2, Troy, NY 12180

Opening Day: April 13, 2019

League Information: With 13 teams and over 180 softball players, the renovations to Field 2 at the Brunswick Girls Softball League will go a long way in maintaining a safe field for the athletes to learn and grow.

League Statement:

“The athletes, families, and board of the Brunswick Girls Softball League would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats organization as well as their partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets for awarding us the 4 in 24 field renovation for 2019. We are a small rural league and depend exclusively on volunteers for all aspects of the league including field maintenance. Our field 2 was in dire need of repairs, and the renovation of this field will ensure that all of our athletes share the same great and safe softball experience. We appreciate the ValleyCats commitment to our local communities and the betterment of female centered youth sports.” – Brunswick Girls Softball League

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

ValleyCats, Community Resource Federal Credit Union partner to recognize Capital Region’s Community Heroes!

TROY, N.Y. – The Tri-City ValleyCats and Community Resource Federal Credit Union have teamed up again in 2018 on the “Home Run Community Heroes Starting 9” initiative, a program that aims to highlight those that go above and beyond in the Capital Region community.

A selection of nominees will be recognized in an on-field ceremony on Thursday, July 19, prior to the ValleyCats game versus the Brooklyn Cyclones.

“We are honored to join with the ValleyCats again this year to honor our Community Heroes,” said Marc DeNofio, VP of Marketing at Community Resource FCU. “Our everyday heroes are at the very core of what makes the Capital Region a great place to live. At CRFCU we enjoy supporting these selfless individuals, and offering banking services that enrich the lives of all residents.”

The ‘Cats and Community Resource FCU are encouraging fans to nominate personnel from military, law enforcement, firefighter/EMS agencies, non-profit organizations, as well as teachers, volunteers, children and everyday people that have helped make the Capital Region a better place to live.

“We are excited to partner with Community Resource Federal Credit Union to recognize the efforts of those who have had a positive impact within our community,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “There is plenty of heroic work being done within the Capital Region that many people may not know about, so we’re glad to be able to showcase a handful of those circumstances.”

The nine nominees selected will also be treated to a luxury suite as guests of Community Resource FCU, with complimentary food and drink.

Fans who want to nominate a Community Hero can do so by filling out the form located online at tcvalleycats.com/communityheroes. The ValleyCats will be accepting nominations through Friday, June 29. Forms can be faxed with attention to Elyse Zima at 518-629-2299, e-mailed to elysezima@tcvalleycats.com, or dropped off at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium.

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

RECAP: 8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ Youth Field Renovations!

The Tri-City ValleyCats, along with their corporate partners BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, undertook the 8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovation project on Wednesday, April 11.

The project’s mission is to assist local youth leagues with the maintenance and upkeep of their playing fields, allowing for a safe place for children to learn and play the game baseball and softball.

Each year since 2011, the ValleyCats and their partners simultaneously renovate four youth fields on one day in April, prior to the opening of the youth baseball season.

This year, the chosen leagues were American Little League in Albany, Cairo-Durham Little League, Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball, and Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Today is the day! #4in24! American Little League in Albany, Cairo-Durham Little League, Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball, and Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball will all receive brand new infields!! Thank you to our major sponsors, @BSNENY & @Hannaford!! pic.twitter.com/LRHMhXHaeD

Upon completion, over 30 fields have now been revamped thanks to this program, which has positively effected thousands of youth ball players in the ValleyCats’ community.

“When we first embarked on this ambitious project in 2011, we felt that it would have an enormous positive impact on many youth ballplayers within the Capital Region,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “Now in its eighth year, and 30 plus leagues later, the need and project scope continues to grow exponentially. We are incredibly thankful to BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets who have been instrumental in keeping the program going strong.”

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: A team on a #fieldofdreams #AlbanySouthEnd @ValleyCats @BSNENY @Hannaford @WNYT pic.twitter.com/blkv8CWpJ9

Both longtime supporters of this important community initiative, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets have aided in supplying the necessary resources and volunteer commitment to complete these renovations.

Tweet from @BSNENY: We���re kicking off #4in24 at Albany American Little League field! pic.twitter.com/0zYM939noF

Tweet from @BSNENY: The #4in24 renovation crew gathered for a press conference at the American Little League field in Albany. Thank you to the @TCValleyCats and all of the volunteers! pic.twitter.com/5U4AiWdAUA

“BlueShield knows how important programs like ‘4 in 24’ are to ensuring children in our community have access to healthy activities,” said Dr. Kirk Panneton, Vice President, Regional Executive and Medical Director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “Through our partnership with the Tri-City ValleyCats, our company and employees have helped transform over 30 fields and we are thrilled to be a part of this community initiative again this year.”

Tweet from @CBS6Leanne: #NOW: Renovations are beginning at the American Little League field in Albany. Four fields across the region are being renovated today as part of the @ValleyCats “4 in 24” project. https://t.co/kcMOJCzdwM pic.twitter.com/8fZ2fOtwJP

“Active kids make for healthy communities, which is why youth sports are so important. Hannaford is pleased to once again partner with the Tri-City ValleyCats to provide young people with wonderfully improved facilities for healthy play and growth,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We look forward to seeing kids throughout the greater Capital Region rush the field this spring as they learn the values of teamwork and dedication.”

The efforts were also assisted by Profile Products and Turface Athletics, who contributed some of the necessary equipment and materials. In order to complete the entire project, 300+ clay bricks, 23 tons of infield mix, and 3600 square feet of sod are needed. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Thank you, @Turfaceproducts!! #4in24 pic.twitter.com/MnCqvF658x

Tweet from @WTEN: ValleyCats team up to renovate 4 little league fields in 24 hours. https://t.co/LZ3gjx1hyz

It was an early morning for ValleyCats Media Relations Manager Chris Chenes, who arrived at American Little League in Albany at 5:00am for the morning news coverage. Each of the local TV stations went LIVE from the ballpark to talk about the ambitious project.

Crew call for the four renovation teams was 7:30am, and consisted of over a dozen volunteers at each of the four fields being renovated.

Each field had their old infield grass replaced with brand new sod (minus Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball), the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas completely rebuilt, infield surface leveled, graded and raked, baselines measured and cut to the correct specifications, and all new bases, a pitching rubber and home plate installed.

Tweet from @ValleyCats: We’re almost ready to lay new sod at @AmeLeagueAlbany! GM Matt Callahan making progress with the new home plate! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/E8JiZRdqP4

Tweet from @ValleyCats: Work is also progressing well at Round Lake Malta!! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/fCJ1PYBbAc

Tweet from @ValleyCats: About to begin laying new sod at Cairo-Durham Little League! #4in24 @BSNENY @Hannaford pic.twitter.com/jfnY3CNab3

Tweet from @SMLorey: Thank you @ValleyCats 4 in 24! Scotia Glenville girls softball field progressing pic.twitter.com/plS3YhBgl8

The temperature was unseasonably cold for spring, especially early in the morning, as frost covered the tips of the grass. That didn’t slow down the progress, though!

Tweet from @SPECNewsAlbany: While it may not feel like the start of baseball season outside, volunteers are upgrading the American Little League field in #AlbanyNY as part of the annual #4in24 project. https://t.co/nDHmQvZsqU via @JorjaRoman @ValleyCats pic.twitter.com/DSU5tQ9zWN

At 9:00am, the crew at American Little League in Albany paused for a brief ceremonial press conference to officially kick off the renovations. New York Senator Neil Breslin was in attendance, and praised the work of the program.

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: Former #littleleague player @NeilBreslin44 during #4in24 @ValleyCats field renovation #AlbanySouthEnd #KrankPark @BSNENY @Hannaford. Story at noon @WNYT pic.twitter.com/exZtZm3mzg

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan talked about the impact the renovations have on the local youth ballplayers.

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: During a break #4in24 @ValleyCats @Hannaford @BSNENY #albany #KrankPark @AlbanyCityHall. Story at noon @WNYT pic.twitter.com/xDKZFzeq0K

The ValleyCats were presented with a citation from both the New York State Senate and Assembly, recognizing this 8th annual community project.

 

MiLB.com’s Benjamin Hill ranks this ValleyCats community initiative as one of the best in Minor League Baseball.

Tweet from @bensbiz: One of Minor League Baseball’s best annual philanthropic endeavors. https://t.co/zBhh7qHkFA

The ValleyCats recognize that one of the major roles they play within their community is to be ambassadors for the game of baseball. Each year their staff, corporate partners and volunteers put a ton of work into making sure these renovations are a success.

ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan has served as the foreman for the project, and is now an expert at the installation of new home plates and pitching rubbers!

Tweet from @JohnCraigWNYT: The international field in American #LittleLeague #albany #southend gets home plate lined up. #4in24 @ValleyCats GM Matt Callahan @Hannaford @BSNENY @WNYT pic.twitter.com/dwVkVA9Wxu

Tweet from @CBS6Leanne: Fresh sod has arrived & home plate is close to being set! It’ll be a full day worth of work to renovate American Little League field. https://t.co/kcMOJCzdwM pic.twitter.com/7dVlbEnRyy

While the mound and home plate are being worked on, volunteers are busy removing the old sod from the infield, adding topsoil to level the playing surface, and then laying down brand new grass! (This was the first order of the year for Saratoga Sod here in upstate New York!)

 

And now, prepare to be amazed, as we check out the before and after photos from each field!

American Little League, Albany

League statement:

“The Albany American Little League would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners for their timeless efforts, support, and commitment to Little League Baseball. The renovation of our field will help our players develop into young athletes, provide our youth a safe and structured environment where they can grow to become productive caring members of our communities. The work that the ValleyCats will do for our field will add value to the community and place smiles on the faces of our little leaguers.”

Sentaria Depass-Murray, President

Before:

 

After:

Cairo-Durham Little League

League statement:

“During the past several years, little league participation has been falling, which has affected our ability to help afford all things needed to improve the conditions for the kids. Last year we focused on getting our kids all new catching equipment and renovating our girls softball field (all new dirt, excavation and a new drainage system). This year is on new bats and our main field really needs attention. Your help with our field will help improve the main baseball field, not just cosmetically but in functionality as well. This huge gift will allow us to focus on buying a machine to pull our rascal in order to maintain the 5 fields we play on.

It truly is an honor and a gift to be chosen and I am beyond grateful for your generosity. Look forward to seeing this all come together. Thank you again!”

Jesse Walz, President

Before:

After:

Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball

League statement:

“We are absolutely thrilled to be selected for the ValleyCat’s 4 in 24 Field Renovation project. The native soil at our field is particularly challenging to maintain and this overhaul will bring both the financial investment and expertise that we lack to make a lasting improvement to the ball field. The ValleyCat’s commitment to youth baseball programs is truly impressive. You make the kids feel like all-stars when they visit the stadium and I know they are going to feel like they made the big leagues when they step on to their newly renovated field! Thank you for supporting our players and the countless volunteers across the Tri-City area who work to bring a positive youth baseball experience to our children!”

Lori Sievers, President

Before:

After:

Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball

League statement:

“On behalf of Scotia Glenville Girls Softball League, our board of directors and our girls, we would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats organization as well as their sponsors, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford for awarding us the 4 in 24 field renovation for 2018. As a small community and league, we rely on volunteers for all field maintenance and fundraising. We appreciate the ValleyCats commitment to our local communities and the betterment of our area youth sports programs. Our secondary field was in dire need of renovation. Fixing this field will ensure that all of our girls share the same great, and more importantly safe, softball experience!

Lisa DiSorbo, League President

Before:

After:

The response from the community was tremendous, and many voiced their opinions on social media.

Tweet from @NYNick1127: The Cats are Champs on & off the field! Well done! We are lucky to call @ValleyCats our own can���t wait for the season!������ @CBS6Leanne @CBS6Albany https://t.co/XFHOMAvzhH

Tweet from @NLL_Albany: Congratulations to our friends at @AmeLeagueAlbany, and thank you to the @ValleyCats for this great program in giving back to the community! https://t.co/gLN3LFVY3j

Tweet from @hooseyadaddy: That���s awesome and definitely much needed! Thank you @ValleyCats for helping out my hometown!

Tweet from @LydiaOn10: 👍🎉Great job by the @ValleyCats “4 in 24 Baseball Field renovations” https://t.co/289Qf8oEpZ

Tweet from @dfleming16: Nassau���s kids benefited greatly from this program. Love the @ValleyCats ! https://t.co/VSx2A4AlZ2

Tweet from @CDSFSportandFit: 4 in 24 is a great initiative by the @ValleyCats to renovate four local youth baseball and��� https://t.co/yu8aGB6maN

Additionally, here are some of the stories from the Capital Region media outlets:

Tweet from @WTEN: ValleyCats team up to renovate 4 little league fields in 24 hours. https://t.co/LZ3gjx1hyz

Times Union: https://www.timesunion.com/7dayarchive/article/Volunteers-begin-marathon-4-in-24-effort-to-12824757.php

Hudson Valley 360: https://www.hudsonvalley360.com/article/cairo-durham-little-league-receives-facelift

Your Clifton Park: https://yourcliftonpark.com/2018/04/11/round-lake-baseball-field-gets-some-tlc-from-valleycats/

That concludes this recap, but be sure to join the ValleyCats on Friday, June 22 for their Youth Baseball Celebration! On that night the ‘Cats will recognize the 2018 ‘4 in 24’ renovations, while also inviting Capital Region youth baseball teams to come to the game and participate in a pregame parade on the warning track.

For all softball leagues out there, don’t you worry! Softball Night is on Thursday, July 5, and the same pregame parade will be taking place on that night.

Be sure to visit tcvalleycats.com for ticket information, or call 518-629-CATS.

If your league would like to apply for a renovation, visit the ValleyCats Community Grounds Crew page at tcvalleycats.com/fieldrenovations.

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

8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovations to take place April 11

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats and their field renovation teammates, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, are set to renovate four more youth ballfields in 2018. The 8th Annual ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovation Project will take place on Wednesday, April 11, where each of the chosen fields will undergo a necessary overhaul.

The four leagues to receive the work will be American Little League in Albany, Cairo-Durham Little League, Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball, and Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball.

Each baseball field will have their old infield grass replaced with brand new sod, their pitcher’s mound and home plate areas completely rebuilt, the infield surface leveled, graded and raked, the baselines measured and cut to the correct specifications, and all new bases, a pitching rubber and home plate installed. The softball field will receive the same scope of work, but without grass on the infield.

“When we first embarked on this ambitious project in 2011, we felt that it would have an enormous positive impact on many youth ballplayers within the Capital Region,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “Now in its eighth year, and 30 plus leagues later, the need and project scope continues to grow exponentially. We are incredibly thankful to BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets who have been instrumental in keeping the program going strong.”

Both longtime supporters of this important community initiative, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets have aided in supplying the necessary resources and volunteer commitment to complete these renovations.

“BlueShield knows how important programs like ‘4 in 24’ are to ensuring children in our community have access to healthy activities,” said Dr. Kirk Panneton, Vice President, Regional Executive and Medical Director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “Through our partnership with the Tri-City ValleyCats, our company and employees have helped transform over 30 fields and we are thrilled to be a part of this community initiative again this year.”

“Active kids make for healthy communities, which is why youth sports are so important. Hannaford is pleased to once again partner with the Tri-City ValleyCats to provide young people with wonderfully improved facilities for healthy play and growth,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “We look forward to seeing kids throughout the greater Capital Region rush the field this spring as they learn the values of teamwork and dedication.”

Work on each field will commence at daybreak on April 11 and will continue through the night if necessary. The efforts will also be assisted by Profile Products and Turface Athletics, who are contributing some of the necessary equipment and materials. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

2018 ‘4 in 24’ Youth League Snapshots

American Little League
Urban youth league serving approximately 200 children ages 4 to 12 playing at all Little League levels. The field is in much need of repair, and these renovations will make it a safer surface to play on.

League Statement:
“The Albany American Little League would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners for their timeless efforts, support, and commitment to Little League Baseball. The renovation of our field will help our players develop into young athletes, provide our youth a safe and structured environment where they can grow to become productive caring members of our communities. The work that the ValleyCats will do for our field will add value to the community and place smiles on the faces of our little leaguers.”

Sentaria Depass-Murray
President

Cairo-Durham Little League
10 teams serving multiple towns, approximately 150 children ages 4-12. The mound, home plate, and baselines all need significant work.

League Statement:
“During the past several years, little league participation has been falling, which has affected our ability to help afford all things needed to improve the conditions for the kids. Last year we focused on getting our kids all new catching equipment and renovating our girls softball field (all new dirt, excavation and a new drainage system). This year is on new bats and our main field really needs attention. Your help with our field will help improve the main baseball field, not just cosmetically but in functionality as well. This huge gift will allow us to focus on buying a machine to pull our rascal in order to maintain the 5 fields we play on.

It truly is an honor and a gift to be chosen and I am beyond grateful for your generosity. Look forward to seeing this all come together. Thank you again!”

Jesse Walz
CDLL President

Scotia-Glenville Girls Softball
The league serves over 100 girls ages 4-18, with approximately nine teams. The application was submitted by two girls that play in the league, as part of an initiative to earn a Silver Award through their Girl Scout Troop. The field is overgrown with weeds in portions, home plate is missing, and the pitcher’s mound is not in the correct location.

League Statement:

“On behalf of Scotia Glenville Girls Softball League, our board of directors and our girls, we would like to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats organization as well as their sponsors, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford for awarding us the 4 in 24 field renovation for 2018. As a small community and league, we rely on volunteers for all field maintenance and fundraising. We appreciate the ValleyCats commitment to our local communities and the betterment of our area youth sports programs. Our secondary field was in dire need of renovation. Fixing this field will ensure that all of our girls share the same great, and more importantly safe, softball experience!”

Lisa DiSorbo
League President

“Working towards our Girl Scout Silver Award has been an amazing experience, and having the Tri-City ValleyCats be part of that journey is awesome. We are so excited and happy that our softball field is going to be redone and fixed!! It has been in rough condition for awhile and nobody has wanted to play on it. Now with your help it’s going to be the best field ever! This will mean a lot to the younger kids and will hopefully bring more girls to the Scotia-Glenville Softball League!! Thank you again for choosing us and helping our Girl Scout Troop earn our Silver Award!”

Arrianna Stark and Maddie Cook
8th graders at Scotia-Glenville Middle School, Girl Scout Troop #2104

Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball
Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball serves approximately 140 players ages 5-10 across 12 teams. Portions of the infield are overgrown with weeds, and the mound and home plate areas need significant work.

League Statement:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be selected for the ValleyCat’s 4 in 24 Field Renovation project. The native soil at our field is particularly challenging to maintain and this overhaul will bring both the financial investment and expertise that we lack to make a lasting improvement to the ball field. The ValleyCat’s commitment to youth baseball programs is truly impressive. You make the kids feel like all-stars when they visit the stadium and I know they are going to feel like they made the big leagues when they step on to their newly renovated field! Thank you for supporting our players and the countless volunteers across the Tri-City area who work to bring a positive youth baseball experience to our children!”

Lori Sievers, President
Round Lake/Malta Youth Baseball

ABOUT THE ‘4 IN 24’ FIELD RENOVATION PROJECT
The ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovation Project is a collaborative effort between the ValleyCats, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets that takes place each April. In less than 24 hours, four youth ball fields receive a complete infield overhaul. The project’s mission is to assist local youth leagues with the maintenance and upkeep of their playing fields, allowing for a safe place for children to learn and play ball. Following the 2018 ‘4 in 24’ project, over 30 fields will have been revamped, impacting thousands of local youth ballplayers.

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

ValleyCats to donate portion of ticket sales to American Red Cross for disaster relief in Texas

TROY, NY – The Tri-City ValleyCats have announced that they will be donating $1.00 of each ticket sold between Monday, August 28 and Saturday, September 1 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Harvey disaster relief in Texas.

The ValleyCats are a Class-A minor league affiliate of the Houston Astros, who have been particularly affected by severe flooding in and around the Houston, Texas area. The Corpus Christi Hooks, a Double-A affiliate of the Astros, have also been severely affected.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those currently dealing with the horrendous situation in Texas, including the entire Houston Astros organization, those with the Corpus Christi Hooks, their friends, family, and fans,” said Matt Callahan, ValleyCats General Manager. “We stand by them during this tough time, and want to do what we can to assist in the ongoing relief efforts.”

There are currently four members of the ValleyCats roster who call Texas home, including pitcher Corbin Martin, who is from Houston and has family members dealing with the severe flooding. ValleyCats outfielder Corey Julks, who played at the University of Houston, is from nearby Friendswood, Texas, and also has close family and friends affected.

“Our hearts go out to the thousands of people affected by this catastrophic disaster in Texas”, said Kevin Coffey, American Red Cross Eastern NY Regional Chief Development Officer. “The Red Cross has launched a massive response to this devastating storm and needs financial donations to be able to provide immediate disaster relief. We know this is a challenging and emotional time, and Red Cross staff and volunteers are working around the clock to get help to where it is needed most.”

The ValleyCats have five more home games in the 2017 regular season, and tickets can be purchased online at tcvalleycats.com, by calling 518-629-CATS (2287), or at the Joseph L. Bruno Stadium Box Office. You can also help people affected by Hurricane Harvey by visiting redcross.org, calling 1- 800-RED CROSS or texting the word HARVEY to 90999 to make a make a $10 donation.

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