Fire Frogs a Hit with Miracle League

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (Aug. 13, 2018) – The Florida Fire Frogs competed against the Fort Myers Miracle in a contest between two Florida State League teams on at Osceola County Stadium, but it was a different kind of miracle that brought a joyous atmosphere to Kissimmee on Saturday.

The Atlanta Braves’ Advanced-A affiliate spent the afternoon with the Miracle League of Central Florida prior to taking on Fort Myers for a day of fun. According to the league’s mission statement posted on its website, the purpose of the Miracle League is to, “help individuals with disabilities build self-worth, overcome boundaries, and achieve their dreams by participating in America’s past-time: Baseball.”

Florida’s team president, Erik Anderson stated, “We want to let the community know that the results of this team aren’t always based on what happens on the diamond. It’s about winning in life and doing the right thing.”

Every player from the Fire Frogs roster participated with the children in attendance from the Miracle League. The club’s home run leader, Braxton Davidson, saw the occasion as a special opportunity.

“I like to give back to the community. That’s something that I’ve always been a part of ever since I was in high school,” the 2014 first-round draft pick said. “I wear a bracelet that says, ‘Autism Speaks,’ I have family members that are disabled.

“It’s a great opportunity for all the guys to put themselves out in the community in a good way.”

Fire Frogs manager Luis Salazar had a pleasure teaching the children of the Miracle League not just about the fundamentals of the game, but to always have fun while playing.

“It’s always a pleasure, and I enjoy the time with the Miracle League,” the skipper said. “To get those kids on the field, running, sliding…It’s a very special day for those kids.

The main thing is to have fun, and to give those kids the best that we can do for them. When they leave here, they know they can go home and say, ‘We played for the Fire Frogs.'”

To contact the Central Florida Miracle League, or volunteer, please visit cflmiracleleague.com.

About the Florida Fire Frogs

 

The Florida Fire Frogs are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves and compete in the Florida State League. The Fire Frogs play their home games at Osceola County Stadium, located at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla. For more information, please visit www.FloridaFireFrogs.com, and follow the team on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube.

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

Nominate a local youth field for a makeover

The Norfolk Tides today announced the return of The Youth Field Makeover Project presented by Orkin, a contest in which a local youth field will be renovated by Tides groundskeepers and front office staff.

This field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface, an improvement to existing dugouts, and pest prevention services courtesy of Orkin. The recipient of the makeover will be determined by a fan vote on the Tides Facebook page in September.

“Year in and year out, this is a special project that allows our staff to give back to very deserving members of the Hampton Roads community” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. Each time we help renovate a field, we’re just thrilled to be making a difference.”

Those interested in having the Tides make over their facility should submit a picture of their field to John Rogerson at JRogerson@norfolktides.com. Along with the photo, fans are asked to include a brief synopsis of why their league’s field should receive this enhancement. The deadline to submit this information is August 31, with online voting set to take place on the Tides Facebook page (Facebook.com/NorfolkTides) in early September.

Since the inaugural renovation in 2012, the Tides have renovated 11 local fields: Eason’s Crossroads (Gates, NC), Ocean View Little League (Norfolk), Smithfield Recreation Association (Smithfield), Bennett’s Creek Little League (Suffolk), Phoebus Little League (Hampton), Shore Little League (Nassawadox), Cradock Little League (Portsmouth), Little Creek National (Norfolk), Gloucester Youth Baseball (Gloucester), Surry County Pony Baseball (Surry) and Deer Park Youth Field (Newport News). The Tides are also set to renovate Thalia/Malibu Rec Association in Virginia Beach this fall.

The project is made possible thanks to the Tides Youth Baseball Fund, a program established by the Tides in 1990 as a way to raise money for youth baseball and softball programs in Hampton Roads. In addition to assisting with field renovations, the Youth Baseball Fund also helps local teams and leagues with travel expenses. The Youth Baseball Fund is partially financed by scoreboard announcements at Harbor Park throughout the season, and those wishing to make a donation directly to the Youth Baseball Fund can do so via norfolkides.com under the “Harbor Park” section.

For more information about Orkin’s pest control services, visit Orkin.com.

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

Learn From The Pros At Blue Jays Baseball Camp

Looking for a great baseball camp experience for your child? Look no further than your hometown Dunedin Blue Jays Summer Baseball Camp. The camp features four mornings of professional instruction from Blue Jays coaches and players, and will feature expert instruction in fielding, throwing, batting, and base running. Lunch will be provided for all attending each day.

Dates: Monday, July 9 – Thursday, July 12
Time: 9 AM – 12 PM (Lunch served until 12:30
Ages: 6-16
Location: Dunedin Stadium
Cost: $115 per camper ($100 with Jr. Jays Membership)

More information and sign-up

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

Lamontagne Presented with Troubh Community Service Award

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs are proud to announce that the 2018 recipient of the William Troubh Community Service award is Marc Lamontagne. Lamontagne was presented the award by Sea Dogs’ General Manager Geoff Iacuessa and members of Mr. Troubh’s family including wife Nancy in a pre-game ceremony at Hadlock Field on Sunday, June 24th when the Sea Dogs hosted the Trenton Thunder.

The “William Troubh Community Service Award” was established in 2015 to honor a local citizen who is making a positive impact within the city of Portland. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Mr. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Marc Lamontagne has spent 32 years volunteering for Portland youth baseball leagues as well as serving as a youth baseball umpire throughout the state. Lamontagne got started in 1986 as a volunteer coach at Portland’s Bayside Little League. After a short-time coaching, he realized there was a shortage of umpires, so he became trained as a volunteer little league umpire, where he spent 20+ years traveling from York to Presque Isle umpiring four to five games every week during the season.

All the while, Lamontagne kept his focus on his first diamonds Portland. In 1990, he joined the Bayside Board of Directors, a position he still holds today. Throughout that time, Lamontagne has taken on several roles including serving as the Director of Facilities for more than 20 years. He is responsible for maintaining and managing the volunteer efforts of over 20 youth baseball and softball fields throughout Portland. These efforts include grass maintenance, mowing, infield construction, fence and seating repair, painting, and fundraising.

In 2011 he was the lead Director for the Maine State Little League World Series that was hosted at his beloved Payson Park. Over 1,000 little leaguers and fans were treated to an exceptionally well-maintained facility thanks to Lamontagne’s efforts.

Past recipients of the award include Howard Spear (2017), Roger Goodoak (2016) and John Menario (2015).

The Sea Dogs will begin accepting nominations for the 2019 award in February.

Dodgers Foundation and San Manuel Team Up with Quakes

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) in partnership with the Dodgers, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes will host a Community Service Day at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 25 at LoanMart Field (8408 Rochester Ave.) in Rancho Cucamonga.

Dodger alumni Lee Lacy and Derrel Thomas along with players from the Dodgers’ Single-A partner Rancho Cucamonga Quakes and San Manuel volunteers will lead a youth baseball clinic and reading event for over 150 youth from Think Together, a LADF grantee that has afterschool and summer programming for students throughout the greater Los Angeles area, including Ontario, Colton, Rancho Cucamonga, Rialto and Adelanto. Following the activities, a healthy lunch will be provided to all participants.

“It’s important that we work with our partners like the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation to give back to the community and to inspire the youth who are the future,” said Lynn Valbuena, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Chairwoman. “The 2018 Community Service Day is one of many examples of the San Manuel team working hand-in-hand with great organizations to bring smiles to more than 150 children in our local community.”

“We are thrilled to be extending our reach, and partnering with the Quakes and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to bring this event to Think Together’s participants in San Bernardino County,” said Nichol Whiteman, Executive Director, Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. “Opportunities like this help multiply the impact of our investment in the communities we serve, and are an important part of our grantmaking program.”

This year’s program is the latest joint community initiative between LADF and San Manuel following a Dodgers Dreamfield Community Service Day last September at Bud Bender Park in Rialto, where youngsters took part in a youth clinic and community garden project. Think Together is a LADF grantee, receiving $25,000 since 2015 to support after school literacy and college access programs at 23 middle schools in Azusa, Baldwin Park, Duarte, Pico Rivera, Norwalk, Lynwood, El Monte and South Whittier.

Media interested in attending Monday’s event can RSVP by emailing Mike Lindskog (mlindskog@rcquakes.com). Media parking is available on site, and media can enter through LoanMart Field’s main entrance.

About the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation:

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation is the official team charity of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Its primary focus is to support cornerstone programs in Sports + Recreation, Education + Literacy and Health + Wellness benefitting children and families in need throughout the greater Los Angeles region. By leveraging strategic partnerships, the mission is to harness the power of the Dodger brand and the passion our fans have for Los Angeles into a vehicle for positive change in under-served communities. Visit the Dodgers Foundation online at www.dodgers.com/ladf, follow them on Twitter @DodgersFdn, Instagram @dodgersfoundation and like them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LosAngelesDodgersFoundation.

About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians:

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally-recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic and cultural development. As descendants of the indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region.

About Think Together:

Think Together partners with schools and communities to pursue educational equity and excellence for all kids. As a nonprofit organization, Think Together innovates, implements and scales academic solutions that change the odds for hundreds of thousands of California students. Think Together’s program areas include early learning, afterschool, school support services and leadership development for teachers and school administrators. For more information, call (888) 485-THINK or visit www.thinktogether.org.

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

Free Chevy Youth Baseball Clinics at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville June 29 & 30

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Local Chevrolet dealers are teaming up with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to provide an instructional clinic for boys and girls, baseball and softball players of all skill levels between the ages of 6 and 14. Registration is open for two sessions of the 2018 Chevy Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place Friday, June 29, and Saturday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Each session is limited to 200 players, and registration is required for each participant online at youthsportsclinics.com. For online registration, select “Market” as “Jacksonville CYB Clinics,” and click “Go!”. Enter the registration code “24389” and click “Submit.” Complete the registration form, starting with parent/guardian information, then adding clinic participant information. In addition to registering before the event, participants are required to present a completed waiver form (available to download here) at the registration table on the day of the clinic.

On the day of the event, check-in will begin one hour prior to each clinic at the Home Plate Gate of the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Participants should wear athletic apparel and bring their own glove, water bottle, and bat if available. Metal cleats will not be allowed; only closed-toed, lace-up athletic shoes and rubber cleats will be permitted. Family members are strongly encouraged to attend the entire clinic and park in lots around the Sports Complex. Clinic organizers recommend bringing a cooler with refreshments, as concessions may not be available. Immediately following the clinic, a snack will be provided for all participants.

Visit youthsportsclinics.com/faq to view a list of FAQs or contact CYB Coordinator, Jen Stoltz at (678) 313-2470 or jstoltz@gmdealerprograms.com.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp continue their series with Jackson at 7:05 p.m. Friday. Fans may visit any participating NAPA AutoCare Center to get a FREE general admission ticket (reserved seat upgrade available at the box office) for the game that concludes with NAPA AutoCare Family Fireworks. The Jumbo Shrimp wear red “Bold City” jerseys to support the military on Red Shirt Friday, when fans who wear red can save $1 per ticket at the box office or donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Friday Night Lites Miller Lite Happy Hour offers $1 12-oz. Miller Lite and $1 off craft beer specials in the Craft Cave by the third-base gates until 7:30 p.m. Awkward Family Photo Night includes a photo booth set up at the Budweiser Tiki Terrace with great props and costumes. The game is presented by 96.1 WEJZ.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are beginning a new era of affordable family fun with the 2017 season presented by Community First Credit Union at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. With a new lineup of ticket and group options, there is a reason for everyone to get part of the action by calling the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visiting www.jaxshrimp.com.

Thunder HOPE Week Honors Outstanding Organizations and Individuals

The Thunder, Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees, completed their HOPE Week during the most recent homestand. HOPE Week, helping others persevere and excel, is a New York Yankees initiative aimed at honoring outstanding organizations and individuals who do good in the local community.

Tuesday, June 5 – Dan Sczweck, Miracle League of Mercer County

Dan Sczweck, the Executive Director of the Miracle League of Mercer County, earned his recognition for the work he’s done running the Miracle League of Mercer County. To watch the HOPE Week Ceremony honoring Dan and MLMC Athletes, click here.

 

Wednesday, June 6 – Just Fight Foundation

The Thunder honored the Just Fight Foundation on June 6 as part of HOPE Week. On December 8th, 2015 in Abington, PA, a seven year old girl, Allyson Turner, was found unconscious in her bathtub. Her parents rushed to the scene and immediately began to perform CPR on Allyson until the EMT’s arrived. This was crucial to her survival as Allyson was immediately rushed to Abington Hospital and then flown to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. While Allyson was being treated by multiple doctors, her parents would say to her: “Just Fight!”

Her older brother Liam decided to take initiative and print Just Fight on t-shirts and began to sell them to friends and community members to support Allyson. The Just Fight Foundation was born to promote emergency preparedness in the community and educate the public on life saving techniques and provide support for families facing life-altering events due to illness or injury and spread the message: ‘Just Fight.’

To view the ceremony honoring the Just Fight Foundation, click here.

Thursday June 7 – Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton provides a network of comprehensive healthcare services which includes hosptial care, prevention and wellness, primary and specialty medical services and diagnostic & treatment services in the community. Thunder players and coaches visited patients and RWJ, to view the ceremony, click here.

 

Friday June 8 – Radiology Affiliates Imagaing and Breast Cancer Awareness

RAI (Radiology Affiliates Imaging) is a team of medical diagnostic imaging professionals dedicated to providing superior, integreated management and radiology imaging support services to the medical practices that we serve for the purpose of providing optimal patient care.

The Thunder welcomed over 50 breast cancer survivors to the ballpark for a pre-game pink rose ceremony where Thunder players honored individual survivors on the field at ARM & HAMMER Park. To view the ceremony, click here.

Saturday, June 9 – Isles Youth Institute and F.I.E.L.D. Renovation

Isles Youth Institute is a community development and environmental organization based in Trenton, New Jersey. With a mission to foster self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities, designs and develops effective services that support this mission and share what they learn with others who can make a difference. Beyond its central New Jersey base, Isles works to influence policy and practices that support healthy, self-help agendas.

Isles and members of the Thunder came together to renovate the field at North Trenton Little League as part of the F.I.E.L.D. Program. To view the ceremony honoring Isles and the F.I.E.L.D. Program, click here.

Sunday, June 10 – Thea’s Star of Hope

Thea’s Star of Hope was founded in 2012 in honor of Thea Danze, a child who had undergone continuous treatment for her brain tumor since 2007. The organization is the embodiment of Thea’s positive outlook and a testament to the indelible spirit so many diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer. The Thunder welcomed Thea and other patients for a special on-field ceremony, to view the ceremony, click here.

In addition to the HOPE Week honors this past week at ARM & HAMMER Park, Thunder players and staff participated in the United Way of Greater Mercer County Strike Out Hunger event. For video on that event, click here.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are in the midst of their 25th season in franchise history. For the latest information on Thunder baseball or to purchase tickets, visit

Generals announce 2018 Baseball Skills Camps

JACKSON, TENN. – The Jackson Generals will hold their annual Baseball Skills Camps for Jackson-area youth baseball players on Friday, July 13, and Thursday, July 26, 2018.

The two one-day camps, which will feature instruction in hitting, pitching, and defense from current Jackson Generals players, will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Ballpark at Jackson for kids ages 9 to 14 years old.

Parents and coaches who are interested in signing up their children for Baseball Skills Camps can register by filling out the attached flyer and returning it with payment to Promotions Manager Robbie Perry at 4 Fun Place, Jackson TN, 38305. The cost to attend a one-day skills camp is $50 per child, plus tax. Campers who participate in both one-day skills camps will be charged a discounted rate of $45 plus tax for each day.

2018 Generals Baseball Skills Camps Flyer

In addition to receiving instruction from current professional baseball players, campers will be given an exclusive Baseball Skills Camp t-shirt, as well as a private autograph session. Sack lunches will be provided to campers, and each camper will also receive a ticket and food passport to the Generals’ game occurring on either July 13 or July 26.

Feedback and questions about the Jackson Generals Baseball Skills Camps can be directed to Robbie Perry by email at rperry@jacksongeneralsbaseball.com or by phone at 731.988.5299.

UPCOMING GENERALS HOMESTAND

June 21-26 vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos

…featuring Sarge’s Carnival Weekend (June 22-23)

and a Sarge Doll Giveaway on Saturday, June 23rd!

Dial 731-988-5299 for tickets to see Jackson Generals Baseball,

OR log on to JacksonGeneralsBaseball.com!

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

Hillsboro Hops Contribute $300,000 to Fund State-Of-The-Art Turf Field for Boys Baseball & Girls Softball

July 3, 2017; Hillsboro, OR, USA; Hillsboro Hops vs Everett Aquasox at Ron Tonkin Field. Photo: Craig Mitchelldyer-Hillsboro Hops (Craig Mitchelldyer, Craig Mitchelldyer/Hillsboro Hops)

The Hillsboro Hops @Hillsborohops announced a major gift of $300,000 to the Hillsboro School District that will fund a new state-of-the-art Hillsboro Hops Youth Field. The Hillsboro Hops Youth Field will be used for boys baseball and girls softball and is part of Glencoe High School’s new multi-use turf field funded by the Hillsboro Bond.

There was a groundbreaking ceremony this morning with dignitaries including Mike McMurray (Chairman & Co-Owner, Hillsboro Hops), K.L. Wombacher (President & General Manager, Hillsboro Hops), Mike Scott (Superintendent, Hillsboro School District), Rian Petrick (Director of Extracurricular Programs & Community Outreach, Hillsboro School District), Steve Callaway (Hillsboro Mayor) and Jerry Willey (Washington County Commissioner-elect) to officially commence the construction of the field, which will be made of FieldTurf.

“We are excited about this collaboration with the Hillsboro School District to develop a high-quality year-round youth field,” said Hillsboro Hops President & GM KL Wombacher. “Over the last three years, youth baseball has seen an average yearly growth of 14.3%, which is exciting. Softball participation is also growing. To accommodate this growth and inspire more kids to play in the future locally, we need more fields, especially high-quality fields. We are very motivated to help accomplish that and expect this field to be a great starting point.”

“The Hillsboro Hops and Hillsboro School District share common goals with this collaboration,” Hillsboro School District Superintendent Mike Scott stated. “It’s about supporting our youth and helping them develop and grow, not just in sports, but in life. It’s about connecting them with teammates, caring adults, and their community to foster their future success. The Hillsboro Hops Youth Field provides the foundation for those goals.”

The field is expected to be completed by late August or early September 2018.

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

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TinCaps & Padres to Donate to Challenger Baseball League

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Wayne TinCaps and the San Diego Padres are donating $1,000 to provide bats and helmets to the local Challenger Baseball League at Northcrest Little League.

The Little League Challenger Division is an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. Any individual with a physical or intellectual challenge may participate. The Challenger Division accommodates players ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. Locally, there are six teams in the Challenger League that meet every Sunday. There are over 950 Challenger programs in 10 countries around the world with over 30,000 athletes participating in the Challenger Division every year.

 

“When we heard about the opportunity to support such a tremendous organization in our community, we were excited to help in any way possible,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “The Challenger Baseball League has an amazing mission, and we’re grateful to have a Major League affiliate like the Padres who are committed to helping us make a positive impact in our community.”

 

The Fort Wayne and San Diego organizations are in their 20th season of affiliation together, going back to 1999. Annually, the Padres sponsor more than 1,500 tickets that are donated to non-profit organizations in the Fort Wayne area that allow less fortunate fans to attend games at Parkview Field. In addition, the Padres underwrite the costs for 1,000 tickets for military families on Military Appreciation Day at Parkview Field (which this year is set for Sunday, June 10). Not to mention, Padres prospects with the TinCaps volunteer to make appearances in the community throughout the season.

 

“The Padres are always committed to helping the TinCaps make a difference in the community in Fort Wayne as we do in San Diego,” said Todd Stephenson, Padres Manager for Minor League Administration. “Like the TinCaps, as an organization, the Padres are committed to making the game of baseball inclusive for all. The Challenger Baseball League does an incredible job and hopefully our donations help these kids and young adults create special baseball memories that will last a lifetime.”

 

Representatives from the TinCaps, including team mascot Johnny TinCap, will deliver the equipment on Sunday, June 3.

 

About Challenger Baseball:

The Challenger Baseball program was initiated by Little League Baseball in 1989 to meet the needs of physically and mentally challenged brothers and sisters of Little League players. The Fort Wayne Challenger program began in 1991 with two teams totaling 17 players, playing games alternately between the Northcrest and Forster Park Little League complexes, to be accessible for wheelchairs.

 

In 1999, two additional teams were added with 46 players ages eight through age eighteen or High School graduation. In 2008, Fort Wayne was chartered with the first experimental Senior Challenger program for players ages 14 to unlimited age, which now serves an additional twenty-two players.

 

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

Tampa Tarpons Announce HOPE Week 2018

TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Tarpons will participate in HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) from Tuesday, June 5th through Sunday, June 10th, 2018. Throughout the week, players will visit and host families and organizations worthy of recognition and support.

HOPE Week is a community program, created by the New York Yankees in 2009, designed to bring to light five remarkable stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities. The initiative is based on the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than the recipient of the gesture. Visit www.hopeweek.com for more information.

Tuesday, June 5th – The Tarpons will visit a summer camp for underprivileged children at United Cerebral Palsy of Tampa Bay from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The children and their families will receive tickets and food vouchers to see the Tarpons take on the St. Lucie Mets at 6:30 p.m. at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Prior to first-pitch, the Tarpons will present a check for $2,500 to United Cerebral Palsy of Tampa Bay.

“The mission of United Cerebral Palsy of Tampa Bay is to guide and assist families and individuals with any disability or other barriers to achieve their full potential, resulting in community inclusion and independence.” – www.ucptampa.org.

Wednesday, June 6th – Tarpons players will visit the Children’s Home Network from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Kids and staff members will receive tickets and food vouchers to see the Tarpons battle the St. Lucie Mets later that evening. Prior to the game, a check for $2,500 will be presented to the Children’s Home Network. Select children will then take the field alongside the Tarpons as part of the Baseball Buddies program.

“We unlock the potential of at-risk children and families by providing compassionate and effective services that create opportunities for success.” – www.childrenshomenetwork.org.

Thursday, June 7th – The Tarpons will present Trinity Café with a $2,500 check and assist in serving lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Staff members and volunteers will also receive tickets and food vouchers to see Tampa host St. Lucie at 6:30 p.m.

“Trinity Café is a free restaurant, serving more than 380+ hot and hearty meals daily, at two locations, 365 days a year.” – www.trinitycafe.org.

Friday, June 8th – The Tarpons will partner with Seminole Hard Rock to host a baseball camp for the Boys & Girls Club at George M. Steinbrenner Field from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. All campers and Boys & Girls Club representatives will receive tickets to see the Tarpons take on the Bradenton Marauders at 6:30 p.m. Prior to the game, a check for $2,500 will be presented to the Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay.

Saturday, June 9th – Families from MacDill Air Force Base are invited to practice with the Tarpons from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Families will be playing catch as well as taking batting practice. Families will then receive tickets and food vouchers to see the Tarpons take on the Marauders at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 10th – Teenagers from “Starting Right, Now” will receive tickets and food vouchers to see the Tarpons play the Marauders at 6:30 p.m. Prior to the game, a $2,500 check will be presented to “Starting Right, Now.” The teens will then be invited to hang out with the players for an hour following the game.

“Starting Right, Now ends homelessness for youth by providing one-on-one mentoring, a stable home, assisting with employment opportunities, teaching financial literacy/life skills and promoting educational achievement.” – www.startingrightnow.org.

The Tampa Tarpons are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information, call (813) 673-3055 or visit www.tarponsbaseball.com.

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“Little Big Leagues” Grand Prize Game Winner Selected

DAYTON, OHIO – It doesn’t get much better than baseball played by kids. The love affair with our national pastime began on little league fields across the country for so many of us. In that spirit, the Dayton Dragons and IGS Energy are proud to continue a multi-year partnership to shine a spotlight on youth baseball players all across our region.

The Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, is a season-long program filled with amazing experiences for kids and a chance for all fans to celebrate youth baseball.

IGS Energy is sponsoring a Grand Prize Game on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 PM. Two local youth baseball teams from Midwest Ohio Baseball will square off under the lights at Fifth Third Field as if they were playing in a Dragons game. All the elements from a Dragons game, including PA announcers, video board graphics, Dragons in-game entertainment, and more, will be part of this experience. Gates open at 6 PM for this free open to the public event. The two teams won this opportunity by signing up for a Little Big Leagues Pre-Game Parade, presented by IGS Energy.

Thousands of youth baseball players have the opportunity to participate in one of the IGS Little League Parades before a sold-out Dragons game this summer. Leagues that come to a Dragons game as part of a group outing will be escorted for a lap around the warning track at Fifth Third Field during pre-game warmups and have an opportunity to take a league-wide photo on the field. Leagues were encouraged to sign up early so they could be entered to win the Grand Prize Game and other experiences.

For more information on how little league teams and players can get involved in the Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, contact the Dragons group sales department at (937) 228-2287, email dragons@daytondragons.com, or visit www.daytondragons.com/IGS.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power as well as compressed natural gas services. With over 25 years of experience, the company leverages extensive in-house expertise to bring innovation to the energy industry. By embracing new technologies, supporting alternative energy resources, and encouraging energy independence, IGS is inspiring homeowners, businesses, and communities to make smart energy decisions. The company also has a community investment program which provides employees with opportunities to get involved with and give to causes that are meaningful to the company and to them personally.

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

Drive Celebrate Mauldin Miracle League on Saturday

The Drive will celebrate Mauldin Miracle League Night at Fluor Field on Saturday night. First pitch is at 7:05, and prior to the gates opening, the Mauldin Miracle League will hold two games on the field with players, coaches and staff members from the Drive and Augusta GreenJackets.

The Mauldin Miracle League gives every child the opportunity to play baseball, no matter their disability, and these games will create lifetime memories for everyone involved. The Drive’s relationship with the Mauldin Miracle League has been ongoing for 13 years, and all of the players in Saturday’s games on the field will be wearing Drive and Red Sox jerseys, provided by the Drive.

The Drive will also be recognizing players and staff members from Mauldin Miracle League and Greenville Little League throughout the night.

To purchase tickets for Saturday’s game at Fluor Field, stop by the Main Street Box Office, call (864) 240-4528 or CLICK HERE.

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

Dragons Set for IGS Energy’s “Little Big Leagues” Takeover

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and IGS Energy continue their partnership to enhance the youth baseball experience all over the Dayton area in 2018. The “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, has been an integral part of connecting Dragons players with aspiring youth baseball players over the years, and this program extends out into the community as well.

The “Little Big Leagues” Takeover is one of the favorite events for youth baseball players in the area. The event, presented by IGS Energy, is on Saturday, June 9, and gives local kids the chance to “bring the Dragons to your home turf”. Not only will the famed Green Team, Heater, and Gem make appearances at local youth baseball fields and practices, but Dragons players will be in attendance too. Kids have the chance to learn baseball fundamentals from current Dragons players. Teams won this experience by signing up for a Little Big Leagues Pre-Game Parade.

Thousands of youth baseball players have the opportunity to participate in one of the IGS Little League Parades before a sold-out Dragons game this summer. Leagues that come to a Dragons game as part of a group outing will be escorted for a lap around the warning track at Fifth Third Field during pre-game warmups and have an opportunity to take a league-wide photo on the field. Leagues were encouraged to sign up early, so they could be entered to win the Grand Prize Game and other experiences.

For more information on how little league teams and players can get involved in the Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, contact the Dragons group sales department at (937) 228-2287, email dragons@daytondragons.com, or visit www.daytondragons.com/IGS.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power as well as compressed natural gas services. With over 25 years of experience, the company leverages extensive in-house expertise to bring innovation to the energy industry. By embracing new technologies, supporting alternative energy resources, and encouraging energy independence, IGS is inspiring homeowners, businesses, and communities to make smart energy decisions. The company also has a community investment program which provides employees with opportunities to get involved with and give to causes that are meaningful to the company and to them personally.

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

Dragons Baseball Camps Set for This Summer

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and IGS Energy continue their partnership to enhance the youth baseball experience all over the Dayton area in 2018. The Little Big Leagues program has been an integral part of connecting Dragons players with aspiring young baseball players over the years, and this program expands out into the community as well.

This summer, the Dragons will host two baseball camps at Fifth Third Field as part of the Little Big Leagues program, presented by IGS Energy. The camps run for two days each from 9 AM to 1 PM each day. Participants will learn baseball fundamentals from Dragons players and coaches. The experience includes player autographs, a Dragons shirt, Dragons hat, certificate of participation, a gift from IGS Energy, and four tickets to a future Dragons home game.

The dates for the camps are June 25 and 26 as well as July 30 and 31. Any youth baseball or softball player ages 7 through 14 is eligible to participate in the two-day camp. The cost is $90 for the two-days and lunch will be provided at the ballpark on the second day of the camp.

For more information on how little league teams and players can get involved in the Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, contact the Dragons group sales department at (937) 228-2287, email dragons@daytondragons.com, or visit www.daytondragons.com/IGS.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power as well as compressed natural gas services. With over 25 years of experience, the company leverages extensive in-house expertise to bring innovation to the energy industry. By embracing new technologies, supporting alternative energy resources, and encouraging energy independence, IGS is inspiring homeowners, businesses, and communities to make smart energy decisions. The company also has a community investment program which provides employees with opportunities to get involved with and give to causes that are meaningful to the company and to them personally.

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

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