4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive

AUGUSTA, GA – The Augusta GreenJackets, Single-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, in conjunction with Platinum Sports and Complete Game are excited to announce the 4th Annual Line Drive Canned Food Drive FREE Baseball Clinic in memory of Terry Childers Senior on Saturday, November 4th from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.

“We invite the CSRA to come out to Lake Olmstead Stadium, receive professional instruction and support a great cause”, stated GreenJackets Vice President Tom Denlinger. “Help us gather lots of canned goods and receive professional instruction from Platinum Sports and Complete Game.”

In memory of Terry Childers Sr., families across the CSRA are invited to come and take part in this FREE clinic benefiting Golden Harvest Food Bank. Families are encouraged to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to be donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank who will be on site to collect.

You can also bring items anytime between now and Nov. 4th to the Platinum Sports & Complete Game facility at 3855 Washington Rd. You do not have to participate in the clinic to bring food donations! Over the past three years, 1,209 meals have been raised with 1,449lbs of Donated goods! Come join us for this awesome event for our community!

Register online at www.playpscg.com. Go to camps/clinics for your free registration.

Matt Childers Quote “We look forward to seeing everyone at this Great event at Lake Olmstead Stadium. This is a great way to give back to our community and provide a wonderful FREE baseball clinic to the public and at the same time come together and support our local food bank through Golden Harvest. This event is held in Memory of Terry Childers Sr. who grew up just blocks away from Lake Olmstead Stadium and went to Richmond Academy and coached the Baseball Team at Augusta College and was a great influence on countless people. We thank the Augusta GreenJackets, the entire staff and especially Vice President Tom Denlinger for his outstanding leadership and partnership during this event.”

Event Details:

  • Saturday, November 4th from 11am-1:00pm
  • Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Road, Augusta, GA 30904
  • Giving back to the community with a FREE baseball clinic – beginning to experienced players welcome
  • Professional instruction from Platinum Sports & Complete Game
  • Bring canned food items and non-perishable food items to benefit Golden Harvest Food Bank
  • Opportunity to support the community together and have some FUN
  • Register in advance or onsite the morning of

About the Platinum Sports and Complete Game

Platinum Sports & Complete Game is the CSRA’s Home to an Amazing Indoor Sports Facility. We have recently added 8,000sq ft. of field Turf to our gym area for additional batting cages, pitching lanes for baseball & softball, a fielding area, workout area, Soccer & Lacrosse areas and much more. We have state of the art batting simulators for baseball & softball that give batters a realistic experience of the pitcher pitching the ball. Our Cosmic Birthday Parties have taken off! An amazing Birthday, Team function, or group Event held under the Black Lights with Music! Check us out at 3855 Washington Rd. Martinez, Ga. 30907 or at our website www.playpscg.com We Take Reservations every day for parties and group Events!

About the Augusta GreenJackets

The Augusta GreenJackets kick off the Inaugural Season at SRP Park on April 12th against the Lexington Legends (Kansas City Royals). SRP Park is the anchor piece of Riverside Village, a live, work, “playball” development which includes apartment living, senior living, retail, restaurants, class “A” office space, and a Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. Deposits are currently being accepted for Full Season Seats for the GreenJackets 2018 season. To learn more and for a 360-degree view of SRP Park and Riverside Village, visit www.greenjackets2018.com.

 

To stay up to date all season long, sign up for the ‘Jackets Buzz e-newsletter by visiting www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com/thebuzz/.

 

– GreenJackets

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

BlueClaws Upgrade Fundraising Options for 2018 Season

We’ve enhanced our Fundriasing Program heading into 2018!

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws have upgraded their fundraising program heading into 2018, crafting improved and varied offerings compatible with all types of groups and organizations.

This year, the BlueClaws Fundraising Program has been expanded to include two versions that enable groups to raise money by buying and selling either 125 or 250 tickets. Plus, groups will have a chance to raise additional funds by volunteering in a FirstEnergy Park concession stand during a game.

Buster’s 250 Fundraising Program – In this program, groups purchase 250 tickets at $7 per ticket and re-sell them for $11, making $4 per ticket. A maximum of 20 volunteers can work a BlueClaws concession stand, earning $37.50 per person, an additional $750 for the group. Through this program, groups can earn $1,750, or more with additional tickets.

Participation in the programs outlined above also gives groups the opportunity to take advantage of additional exclusive opportunities.

Youth Sports Organizations – Youth Sports Organizations that participate in the BlueClaws Fundraising Program will receive a Pre-Game Parade, the Future BlueClaws (up to 18 players run on the field with the BlueClaws for the National Anthem), Clawstars of the Game (up to 30 players can play catch on the field prior to the game), and a First Pitch for up to two members of the group. Additionally, the BlueClaws will purchase a sign at the organization’s Little League field (Program A).

Schools – Schools that participate in the BlueClaws Fundraising Program receive a Pre-Game Parade and a ceremonial first pitch. A school chorus can sing the National Anthem or God Bless America, plus the school band can perform on the field before the game. Additionally, Buster will attend an assembly at the school.

Dance & Entertainment Organizations – These groups will receive an on-field performance before the game and a table on the concourse to promote their studio and additional programs. Any pre-game performance will be posted on the BlueClaws Facebook page shortly after the performance.

For additional information on the BlueClaws Fundraising Program, contact a representative by calling 732-901-7000 option 3.

– BlueClaws –

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

2017 San Jose Giants Release 2017 Community Report

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants released today their 2017 Community Report. The report is an overview of the organizations outreach and community involvement as well as a summary of games and events at historic Municipal Stadium. From a record number of mascot and player appearances, donations and fundraising endeavors to the celebration of the #DiamondSeason, the San Jose Giants connected with and served the South Bay in more ways than ever before.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for your loyalty and support. You inspire us each day and are the motivation behind our efforts to give back to the community” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “2017 will be remembered as a hallmark year filled with countless memories all made possible by you. We are proud to contribute to this wonderful community and are working diligently to raise the bar even higher in next year.”

The 2017 Community Report demonstrates the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both inside and outside the stadium gates. Highlights of the report include the nearly 200 community appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, special community-centered nights and events at Municipal Stadium, the #DiamondSeason and introduction of We Care Wednesday, extensive fundraising programs, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help underserved youth and in-kind donations to well over 500 local and national organizations. For the complete 2017 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

2017 San Jose Giants Community Report

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

Biloxi Shuckers make major community impact in 2017

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

BIBiloxi ShuckersLOXI, MS – In a season marked by several on-field accomplishments in the third year of Minor League Baseball on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Biloxi Shuckers are most proud of their various community outreach efforts. From theme nights to jersey auctions, the Shuckers have made a financial and symbolic impact on their community throughout the 2017 season.

The Shuckers were nominated by the Minor League Baseball Community as a finalist for a prestigious “Golden Bobblehead” award for the “Best Community Promotion or Event” after helping with the Hattiesburg/Petal tornado relief efforts and William Carey vs. Biloxi Shuckers exhibition game. Shuckers’ employees traveled to Petal, Mississippi to assist cleanup crews. The tornado caused damage to the campus of nearby William Carey University, so the Shuckers scheduled a benefit exhibition game against the school’s baseball team before the first road trip of the season. The game raised $6,090 for the university’s tornado recovery efforts. This effort coupled with numerous other initiatives garnered the recognition.

Watch: Youtube Video

In addition to the recognition by Minor League Baseball, the Shuckers were also a finalist for the Southern League’s Community Service Award.

Shuckers’ front office members laid the groundwork for a successful season with several other community initiatives. Employees laid sod at an athletic complex in Moss Point, Mississippi to revitalize the area’s youth baseball program.

Watch: Youtube Video

In partnership with Walmart, the inaugural Shuckers “Hit the Books” reading program brought Schooner the Seagull to 17 schools and over 10,000 students to incentivize reading with Shuckers tickets as a reward.

Watch: Youtube Video

Since their inception, the Shuckers have had a strong relationship with nearby Keesler Air Force Base and the substantial military presence on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. That trend continued in 2017, as every Monday became “Military Monday” with special discounts for active and retired members of the armed forces. Special camouflage jerseys, worn every Monday and designed with input from Keesler staff, and were auctioned off at the end of the season with proceeds benefiting local military causes.

Throughout the season, the Shuckers have partnered with several charitable organizations to raise money and awareness for deserving local causes. Three additional jersey auctions earlier this season have brought in money for the March of Dimes, Mississippi Center for Autism, and Favre4Hope breast cancer research.

Watch: Youtube Video

The Shuckers have also hosted a Christmas in July toy drive for the Uplift Foundation, Seatbelt Safety night for the K&J Foundation (started by team photographer Brian Pearse), and Skin Cancer Awareness night in partnership with the MiLB Charities Sun Safety Initiative.

Youth outreach was not limited to the “Hit the Books” program. The Shuckers turned their two “Education Day” games into vocational field trips, with visits from Biloxi Fire and Police, NASA, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Department of Marine Resources, University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, and Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research Extension.

Former New York Mets catcher and Biloxi native Barry Lyons was formally invited into the Shuckers organization as an ambassador prior to the 2017 season, and the team assisted him in the creation of the first series of Shuckers Kids Clinics for local youth. In addition, the “Field of Dreams” program allowed more than 100 young baseball and softball players from the area to take the field alongside Shuckers players for the national anthem.

In partnership with the Knights of Columbus, the Biloxi Shuckers collected 765 lbs of food/product during a food drive on Sunday, July 30th for them to distribute in the community.

In addition to these widespread efforts, the Shuckers have also made numerous player and mascot appearances in the community over the course of the season. The Shuckers in-kind donations and in-stadium fundraising initiatives have raised $155,455.91 for over 100 charitable organizations. The Biloxi Shuckers understand the responsibility that comes with their platform in the community and are determined to make a positive impact on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

In addition to monetary contributions, the Biloxi Shuckers front office staff have logged 265 community volunteer hours thus far in 2017. Those hours have been spent working with area schools, NCBC’s Child Development Center, Humane Society of South Mississippi, VA Medical Center, Loaves and Fishes and cleanup efforts from Hurricane Harvey.

The Shuckers open up their 2018 season on the road at Montgomery before their home opener against Mississippi on April 11. More information on the fourth season of Biloxi Shuckers baseball will be available at biloxishuckers.com as the offseason progresses.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS: The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Southern League Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.com and follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.com.

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

Spokane Indians’ Staff Helps Install Youth Baseball Field at Glover Park

Spokane, WASH. – The off-season for the Spokane Indians Baseball Club remained busy this week as the front office staff was out in full force refurbishing a youth baseball field at Glover Park. In partnership with the KXLY 4 News Extreme Team lead by Mark Peterson , the baseball diamond located at Glover Park was identified as needed help from the community.  This presented an opportunity the Indians couldn’t resist.

The KXLY Extreme Team completely refurbished the old Peaceful Valley Community Center which sits adjacent to the park and has now been renamed the Recovery Cafe. While fully mobilized with construction equipment and volunteers, the idea of working on the baseball field at the same time was introduced. With permission from the Spokane Tribe of Indians and recommendation to work with a state historical archaeologist, a plan was established to add top soil and dugouts to the site without disturbing any of the ground.

“We want to promote baseball at all levels and it starts with having a safe place to play,” said Indians Senior VP Otto Klein. “Not only is it a beautiful setting, it has deep meaning to the community and our partners at the Spokane Tribe that makes it a perfect project to work on.”

Glover Field was renamed in 1917 and dedicated to James N. Glover, a founding father of the city of Spokane. The park is currently one of 87 parks operated by the City of Spokane Parks Department. It also has deep meaning to the Spokane Tribe of Indians as it often served as an encampment for the tribe throughout history. A state tribal archaeologist was on hand during the process to make sure no land or artifacts were disturbed.

“The City of Spokane Parks Department oversees 2,000 acres of developed parkland in the City of Spokane,” said Carl Strong, Assistant Director of Park Operations. “This is a historic area and we’re proud to see help from the community to make it even better.”

Spokane Youth Sports Association (SYSA), which provides sports activities for all youth, will add the field to its spring baseball line-up and start scheduling regular practices and games.

“Adding another youth baseball field in this community is huge for us,” said SYSA Executive Director Phil Helean. “We have a shortage of fields compared to other communities our size, so adding one more is a step in the right direction.”

The Spokane Indians Baseball Club is the Short Season Class ‘A’ Affiliate of the Texas Rangers. For more information, please visit SpokaneIndians.com or call (509) 343-OTTO (6886).

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SETS NEW RECORDS IN 2017

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program enjoyed a record year in 2017 by establishing new highs in participating groups, tickets sold, and total money raised.

During the 2017 regular season and playoffs, which consisted of 70 home games, the Naturals partnered with 171 groups that included but were not limited to High School Baseball teams, school and musical groups, churches, and non-profits. The new mark of 171 organizations was 46 more than the previous record of 125 groups set during the 2016 season at Arvest Ballpark.

The increase in participating groups caused an increase in tickets sold and the amount of money raised. In 2017, 33,653 tickets were sold by participating groups as part of the fundraising program. The increase of 4,483 tickets sold over 2016 led to an increase in the money raised as a combined amount of $132,557 went back to the participating organizations this year. The amount raised of $132,557 set a new record, which broke the existing record of $119,217 set during the previous season.

Fundraising dates are currently available for the 2018 season of Naturals baseball. Additional information on the Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check on date availability or if you have any questions about any of the group or fundraising programs offered by the Naturals, please call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

The Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program continues to grow in popularity and will be available to groups on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is designed to offer groups the chance to invite families and supporters of their respective cause to come out to a game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, the participating group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their organization can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of the ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on the upcoming 2018 season of Naturals baseball.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Beatty to host Fall Baseball Camp at BB&T Ballpark

CJ Beatty has transitioned from player to motivator and will share his knowledge on October 14. (Jody Stewart/Winston-Salem Dash)

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Sept. 13, 2017) – The Winston-Salem Dash are teaming with former Dash outfielder CJ Beatty to hold a Fall Baseball Camp at BB&T Ballpark on Saturday, October 14.

Players ages 5-12 will work on basic fundamentals with Beatty, who will also hold discussions with players on mental skills and parents on future planning throughout the event. Check in is set for 8 a.m., with camp running from 8:30 a.m. to Noon.

Call (336) 714-6865 to secure your child’s spot in this exciting camp, which costs just $50 per person. The Fall Baseball Camp is a rain or shine event.

Beatty is a native of Winston-Salem and an alumnus of North Carolina A&T State University, where he majored in Business and catapulted his baseball career. He was selected in the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. In 2014, Beatty joined the Chicago White Sox organization and played for the Dash in both 2014 and 2015.

Beatty is an international speaker who specializes in teaching people to believe in themselves when nobody else believes in them. Since 2009, he has traveled around the country and Australia hosting baseball camps, holding baseball workshops and delivering powerful messages. People have dubbed him as “The Baseball Motivator.” His YouTube channel has nearly two million views and has reached people in more than 220 countries. Fans can follow Beatty on various social media channels at cjbeatty44.

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

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Lexington Legends named 2017 Community Service Organization of the Year by South Atlantic League

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends have been named the 2017 Community Service Organization of the Year by the South Atlantic League, which recognizes a club’s outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, philanthropy and leadership within their community. The award is one of the league’s Outstanding Achievement Awards, which are announced annually following the conclusion of the regular season. In the five seasons in which the award has been given, the Legends have won twice, previously winning the inaugural award in 2013.

Throughout the 17 years of their history, the Legends contributed a total of more than $13 million to hundreds of charitable organizations in central and eastern Kentucky. The 2017 season donation total tops close to $1.1 million, a 21% increase in community support from the 2016 season. The Legends Community Organization of the Night program puts a charitable organization in the spotlight at every home game, and numerous special events and fund-raisers are held at Whitaker Bank Ballpark throughout the year.

 

In addition, the Legends have established partnerships with Chambers of Commerce in central and eastern Kentucky and have supported and welcomed youth baseball teams and coaches, religious organizations and other non-profit entities throughout the region.

 

“Being involved in the community is not only part of the Lexington Legends philosophy and mission statement, but it is also a part of the life of each individual that works 12 months a year representing the Legends,” said Legends President and CEO Andy Shea. “Every single employee works diligently with the community to provide a one of a kind, clean, safe, and family-oriented experience at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. It’s an honor to be recognized by our peers in the South Atlantic League for this prestigious award.”
Each of the 14 South Atlantic League teams, along with field managers and umpires, participated in the voting for the South Atlantic League Outstanding Achievement Awards. The Legends will now be nominated for the Minor League Baseball John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which honors the founder of the South Atlantic League for his dedication and charitable service to baseball and his community during his 50-year tenure as a league president. Moss founded the South Atlantic League and presided over it from 1959-2008. The winner of the award will be announced at the Baseball Winter Meetings this December.

For more information, please contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, recently completed their 17th season in Lexington, Kentucky at Whitaker Bank Ballpark. They open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5, 2018 against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees. For ticket information, call 859-422-7867 or visit www.LexingtonLegends.com.

PawSox Break Ground with RIBCTC in City of Woonsocket

  On Tuesday, September 5, the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council and the Pawtucket Red Sox announced their organizations’ newly formed charitable partnership, Building Baseball.

The concession stand will be in use by next baseball season, and will allow Nap Lajoie Field in the City of Woonsocket to be eligible for state and regional tournament play.

“We are grateful Building Baseball has chosen our city as its first project to enhance our Little League field,” said Woonsocket Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “The concession stand will fulfill the final requirement for utilizing the Napoleon “Nap” Lajoie Field for tournament play. I am looking forward with great anticipation and am extremely excited for the use of the concession stand and press box during next year’s baseball season.”

“One of the most vital tenets of the Building Trades is giving back to the communities where we work and raise our families,” said Michael F. Sabitoni, President of the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council (RIBCTC). “We know the positive impact the game of baseball has on youth and the life lessons it teaches. Through the Building Baseball collaboration with the PawSox, our highly skilled union tradesmen and women can volunteer their time and expertise to assist in the restoration and rejuvenation of ball parks, as well as inspire more passion for the sport.”

“As Rhode Island’s professional baseball organization, we are excited to enhance our support of the Ocean State’s Little Leagues by collaborating with the hard working men and women of the Rhode Island Building Trades,” said Dr. Charles Steinberg, President, Pawtucket Red Sox. “Our goal is to spark more children and young athletes to participate in the game and benefit from all the opportunities it provides. Our combined efforts through the Building Baseball partnership will translate into safer and more welcoming ballparks in Rhode Island’s communities.”

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

Chasers in the Community: August

Storm Chasers players and front office members participated in the third annual Chasers Community Week last month, which included visits to Southwest YMCA, Ronald McDonald House and Children’s Hospital. The Storm Chasers and Werner Enterprises were both honored to have The Wall That Heals at Werner Park which featured a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. In total, front office staff members also combined to record 208 hours of community service in the month of August.

Community Week Recap (208.75 Hours from front office)

  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon played baseball with kids at the Southwest YMCA– July 31
  • Meals that Heals for Ronald McDonald House with Summit Dental – August 1
  • The Storm Chasers organization along with Werner Enterprises hosted The Wall That Heals, half-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, at Werner Park – August 3-6
  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon visited Children’s Hospital  – August 4
  • Storm Chasers Players and Front Office Staff Members participated in Bellevue Buddy Baseball at Werner Park – August 5
  • The Omaha Storm Chasers organization teamed up with WOWT and First National Bank to Stuff the Bus – August 5

Community Events in August

  • Be the One Ralston Public Schools Kickoff – August 11
  • Stormy and Storm Chasers player Logan Moon attended the End of Summer Bash at First National Bank – August 12
  • Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Terrance Gore visited with patients at Madonna Hospital– August 15
  • Focus on the Future Welcome at Papillion La Vista South High School – August 16
  • Heartland Hope Mission Pantry Sponsor of the Month – August 17
  • ALS Walk – August 19

Upcoming Community Events in September

  • St. Robert Bellarmine School Walk – September 15 (10:00am)
  • St. Stephen the Martyr Event – September 15 (9:00am)
  • Prairie Queen Fun Run – September 22 (9:00am)

Notable Mascot Appearances for August (over 40 appearances)

  • Fremont Raising Cane’s Ribbon Cutting – August 8
  • JDRF One Walk – August 19
  • Millard Days Parade – August 26
  • Bellevue Public Schools– August 31

Upcoming Scheduled Mascot Appearances for September

  • Child Saving Institute Touch A Truck – September 9
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Fundraiser – September 10
  • Turner BBQ – September 22
  • Down Syndrome Alliance Buddy Walk – September 30
  • HyVee Pinky Swear – September 30

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

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Funding for Durham’s Miracle League Facility Grows

With the Miracle League of the Triangle expanding its services to Downtown Durham in 2018, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and EmergeOrtho have joined the program as Major Sponsors by each pledging $50,000 to support the organization and facility.

The new facility, initially announced in May of 2017, is set to open at 461 Morehead Ave., across the street from Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The $50,000 contributions from both Blue Cross NC and EmergeOrtho now turn into a $200,000 pledge, as the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting announced a $400,000 matching grant for the facility in May.

“The Miracle League ballpark will make Durham an even more inclusive place for all of us,” said Blue Cross NC Senior Vice President and Chief Sales, Marketing and Communications Officer Jon Roos. “Blue Cross NC is proud to call Durham our home and to support the construction of a gathering place that will bring joy to so many children and families. We’re honored to help realize the vision of children of all abilities coming together as friends.”

The Miracle League program and field are specifically designed to serve children and adults with special needs through the game of baseball. The program removes the barriers that keep children and adults with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field, and lets them experience the joy of America’s pastime. The facility in Durham, made possible by a partnership with the Durham Housing Authority, will feature a rubberized playing surface designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices.

“We are proud to partner with the Miracle League of the Triangle, in association with the Durham Bulls and Capitol Broadcasting, to build the new Miracle League facility with plans to be located across the street from Durham Bulls Athletic Park,” said Jim Carrier, Pharm.D., CEO of the Triangle Division of EmergeOrtho. “EmergeOrtho has continued the tradition of being partners with the communities we serve and feel a sponsorship of this tremendous program is a great cause that will bring joy to so many deserving kids.”

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

Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council and the Pawtucket Red Sox announce newly formed charitable partnership, Building Baseball

The Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council and the Pawtucket Red Sox are proud to announce their organizations’ newly formed charitable partnership, Building Baseball. By combining their talent and resources, Building Baseball aims to further advance the revitalization of Little League fields and Babe Ruth ball parks in urban and underserved communities throughout the state. Its first project will be the construc-tion of a state-of-the-art concession stand at the Lajoie Little Leaue Field in Woonsocket.

“One of the most vital tenets of the Building Trades is giving back to the communities where we work and raise our families,” explains Michael F. Sabitoni, President of the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council (RIBCTC). “We know the positive impact the game of baseball has on youth and the life lessons it teaches. Through the Building Baseball collaboration with the PawSox, our highly skilled union tradesmen and women can volunteer their time and expertise to assist in the restoration and rejuvenation of ball parks, as well as inspire more passion for the sport.”

The RILBTC is a coalition of sixteen (16) local trade unions with over 9,500 members in and around the state. Since its inception, it craftsmen and women have volunteered their time and skills in local construction pro-jects that serve our communities.

“As Rhode Island’s professional baseball organization, we are excited to enhance our support of the Ocean State’s Little Leagues by collaborating with the hard working men and women of the Rhode Island Building Trades,” states Dr. Charles Steinberg, President, Pawtucket Red Sox. “Our goal is to spark more children and young athletes to participate in the game and benefit from all the opportunities it provides. Our combined efforts through the Building Baseball partnership will translate into safer and more welcoming ballparks in Rhode Island’s communities.”

Not only will the concession stand at Lajoie Field add more convenience and a better experience for players and spectators, it will allow the city to host tournaments.

“We are grateful Building Baseball has chosen our city as its first project to enhance our Little League field,” states Woonsocket Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “The concession stand will fulfill the final requirement for utiliz-ing the Napoleon “Nap” Lajoie Field for tournament play. I am looking forward with great anticipation and am extremely excited for the use of the concession stand and press box during next year’s baseball season.”

Building Baseball will also offer other communities the opportunity to apply for services at their ballparks in the near future.
For more information contact: Gina Fattore at gina@neliunapr.org, 401.374.1012 or Joe Bradlee at jbradlee@pawsox.com 401.724.7300.

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

BlueClaws Collecting Baseball Gloves Over Last Homestand

The BlueClaws will be collecting new and used baseball gloves for Baseball Miracles at their remaining home games.

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BlueClaws pitching coach Brian Sweeney is embarking on an off-season journey to Argentina with Baseball Miracles, an organization that helps expand baseball and softball to boys and girls with economic and environmental disadvantages throughout the world.

As part of the trip, Baseball Miracles is collecting baseball and softball gloves as part of their 1 Glove initiative. The goal if this initiative is to get one glove donated from each Little League in the country and these gloves will be given out to help grow baseball across the world.

The BlueClaws will be collecting gloves, both new and used at their home games through the rest of the regular season, which ends on September 4th. These gloves will then be donated to Baseball Miracles and their 1 Glove initiative. Donations will be collected at the New Jersey Natural Gas Information Booth on the concourse behind home plate.

For tickets to any remaining BlueClaws home game, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Tides to renovate Deer Park Little League

After nearly 2,500 votes were cast on the Norfolk Tides Facebook page, Deer Park Little League has won the Youth Field Makeover Project presented by Orkin. This field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface and an improvement to existing dugouts.

Deer Park Little League received nearly 1,300 votes to win the contest, which consisted of three local youth fields. Tides groundskeepers and front office staff will visit Deer Park (located in Newport News) to assist in renovating their field.

2017 is the sixth consecutive year in which the Tides have renovated a field in Hampton Roads. Since the program was introduced in 2012, the Tides have renovated nine local fields: 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) and Surry County Pony Baseball (Surry).

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 “community” section.

Volunteers from Safelite AutoGlass will join the Tides staff in assisting with the field renovation efforts, which will take place in late September.

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

Mayor James A. Diossa teams up with PawSox for “PLAY BALL SUMMER” Initiative

Central Falls, RI – Mayor James A. Diossa and the Pawtucket Redsox will host Central Falls Youth youth in various baseball activities as part of the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) continued support of the “PLAY BALL SUMMER” initiative, which focuses on the fun nature of baseball and encourages an active and healthy lifestyle for kids in all communities. During the Summer of 2017 mayors are implementing the initiative throughout cities with the goal of strengthening the connection of communities with the National Pastime.

The National Mayor’s Play Ball initiative will at Higginson Avenue Sports Complex will take place from 10am-12pm. PawSox players will be out running drills and competitions for youth of all ages including a baseball game and home run derby.

Mayors across the country are hosting similar activities to engage citizens, families, and city departments to organize individual and community events (such as playing catch, running bases in the backyard, family gatherings, park and recreation activities, business-supported activities, etc.). These activities will be focused on exposing children to the sport of baseball and providing a fun opportunity to remain active throughout the summer.

“Baseball is America’s favorite past time and a great way to engage our youth, especially in urban communities like Central Falls,” stated Mayor James A. Diossa. “There is no better way to do so than together with the Pawtucket Red Sox. I’d like to thank the U.S. Conference of Mayors for this initiative.”

“The PawSox are happy to be teaming up with Mayor Diossa on this exciting and worthy initiative,” said PawSox Executive Vice President & General Manager, Dan Rea. “It’s our job to keep our local youth excited about baseball and we hope they have some fun with our ballplayers on Wednesday.”

Per Milb: “On May 18, MLB announced that baseball and softball combined to rank as the most participated team sports in the United States in 2016 (25 million participants), according to the annual Topline Participation Report produced by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). Overall baseball participation increased by 7.7 percent and slow-pitch softball participation increased by 8.1 percent in 2016, with casual participation in both baseball and slow-pitch softball showing the highest growth. In 2016, casual participation in baseball rose by 18.1 percent and slow-pitch softball increased by 12.4 percent. Casual participation in baseball and slow-pitch softball is up 34 percent over the last five years. When combined, baseball and softball (fast-and slow-pitch) have more casual participants than any other sport (10.25 million).”

The PLAY BALL initiative with the USCM focuses on recruiting cities to promote and support PLAY BALL through the use of baseball-related activities. Primary targets are cities with Major League and Minor League Baseball clubs, although the initiative toolkit and self-reporting strategy will be electronically distributed to hundreds of cities across the country with the assistance of Major League Baseball.

Local leaders and citizens will report their activities to PLAYBALL.org via usmayors.org. The site provides parents, coaches and kids with information on how to get involved with PLAY BALL activities as well as how to join community baseball leagues. Coaching tips and video tutorials from Major League Baseball players and coaches are also a prominent component of the site.

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