SMOKIES PLAYERS AND COACHES TO INSTRUCT YOUTH CLINIC

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies announced that they will host a Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz on Sunday, May 7. The Clinic will feature multiple stations on the field where clinic attendees can receive instruction and tips from the 2017 Smokies players and coaching staff.

The Youth Clinic will begin at 12:00 pm with gates opening at 11:30 am. The clinic is free of charge, and each child in uniform participating in the clinic will receive free berm admission to the Smokies game following the event. In addition, discounted meal vouchers will be available for purchase the day of the clinic.

“We love to be able to host events like this each year,” Stated Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “Getting kids involved in the game of baseball is something we are glad to be a part of. Baseball is a game that we take very seriously, but ultimately baseball is a game, and should be enjoyed by children alike.”

Fans can call 865-286-2300 to receive more details about this year’s Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz. The game is set for a 2:00 pm first pitch against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Sunday, as it is the last game of the homestand before the Smokies leave for a road series against the Jackson Generals.

The Smokies continue their home series at Smokies Stadium today on Friday, May 5, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

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

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

U.S. Cellular and Timber Rattlers Bring Back Little League Takeovers!

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Everyone had so much fun last year, they wanted to do it again! U.S. Cellular and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are taking over Appleton Little League at the Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex on Monday, May 8.

Next Monday will be the first of several “Little League Takeovers” sponsored by U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers. Fang’s Fanatics and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers promo crew along with staff from the Timber Rattlers and volunteers from U.S. Cellular will bring their high energy and fun in-game promotions to a girls’ softball game at 5:00pm and a baseball game that will follow the conclusion of the softball game.

“We’re focused on making connections that serve our local community,” said Eric Larson, U.S. Cellular’s area sales manager in Northern Wisconsin. “By teaming up with the Timber Rattlers, we will bring additional excitement and fun for the whole family to Appleton’s Little League Monday night games. Maybe in a few years, we’ll see these young athletes playing for the Timber Rattlers or the Brewers.”

Timber Rattlers public address announcer Joey D. will announce kids’ names prior to each at-bat and the team’s production staff will provide walk-up songs as well. The team will bring the Bratzooka!, the Bubble Ball Battle, and the Sub Race Characters and have an array of t-shirt tosses and other in-game surprises. U.S. Cellular volunteers will be distributing customized t-shirts and will also hand out complimentary hot dogs to fans throughout the games.

A highlight video of the day’s festivities will be produced and shown on the Timber Rattlers video board during Appleton Little League’s night at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on June 8.

“The Timber Rattlers are excited to once again team up with U.S. Cellular and local youth baseball and softball leagues to provide some fun-filled entertainment and lasting memories,” said Timber Rattlers Assistant General Manager, Jerrad Radocay. “These three leagues already do a great job of providing an awesome experience for these kids, so for us to be involved in bringing our on-field promotions, PA announcer Joey D., and world famous Bratzooka! is a win-win for everyone.”

U.S. Cellular and the Timber Rattlers have scheduled two other Takeovers this summer: June 14 at Plamann Park for Grand Chute Baseball and July 29 at O’Hauser Park for Suburban Athletics.

“We’re looking forward to the Timber Rattlers and U.S. Cellular again knocking our Takeover Event out of the park, as we dedicate our fields at Scheels USA Youth Sports Complex to the Kratzer and Gromer families, and unveil many great field improvements,” said Appleton Little League President Kevin Kostelecky.

Partial season and group ticket packages are currently available for the 2017 season. Tickets packages are available online, over the phone at (920) 733-4152 or (800) WI-TIMBER, and in person. Individual game tickets for this season are also on sale now.   Groups of 20 or more may order tickets over the phone or in person. The Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays.

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

Sunday is Greenville Little League Day

Join the Drive on Sunday afternoon for a 4:05 game as we celebrate Greenville Little League Day at Fluor Field!

Throughout the day, the Drive will host Little League teams and coaches from all over Greenville County for a pregame parade, participation in between-innings entertainment and a fun day of baseball and activities for Little Leaguers.

Following the game, stick around for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

To purchase tickets for Sunday, 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.

The Mudcats Baseball Clinic is on August 19

Come join the Carolina Mudcats players and coaches to learn the fundamentals of fielding, throwing, base running and hitting at the 2017 Mudcats Baseball Clinic!

The 2017 Mudcats Baseball Clinic will take place at Five County Stadium on Saturday, August 19 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.. The deadline to register is Wednesday, August 9 or until spaces are full. Registration is $40 per participant ($45 per participant if purchased after the deadline date or on the day of).

Children ages five to 14 years old are eligible. Each camper is responsible for bringing a glove, bat and any safety equipment normally worn in organized play (please remember to label ALL equipment).

Each participant receives a General Admission Ticket to see the Mudcats vs. Frederick Keys that same evening (August 19) at 5:00 p.m. and a Mudcats Baseball T-shirt.

Additional tickets can be purchased to the game by calling the Mudcats front office at (919) 269-CATS (2287).

Water and snacks will be provided during the clinic. An autograph session will take place at the end of the day. Limited spaces are available, call (919) 269-CATS (2287) to register today.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
(Check in begins at 8:30 am on 3rd base side of stadium)

FIVE COUNTY STADIUM
$40 per participant
$45 per participant if purchased after deadline or on day of the clinic)

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

Promise Kept: C’s unveil new Challenger Baseball Field

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, B.C.) – They say that these are the reasons that you get into a career in baseball. To have a platform where you can make a difference in someone’s life.

Back when the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation was still in its infancy, team president Andy Dunn stepped forward to a number of his staff and showed a field that catered specifically to the needs of children with physical and cognitive challenges. The playing surface was synthetic to help with the wheels of a wheelchair or walker, the dugout had no steps but had doorways that were wider and for the families — well, now they had a field to call their own.

When Andy first sold the idea to the Canadians, no team in Canada had a dedicated field specifically allocated to Challenger Baseball which could have played a factor in the decision to put the pedal to the metal and make this dream a reality.

To build something of this ilk, you couldn’t have been able to finance it alone. Not in Vancouver, not in the heart of Hillcrest’s vibrant community — or at least you would have thought. But it’s amazing to see how a community can come together when the vision is clear and the benefactor are a group of children who simply needed someone to step up.

Donations began coming into the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation from all across the Lower Mainland. Some from longtime fans, others chose to keep their significant donations private. Our partners from across the country also came together as suddenly the likes of Variety – The Children’s Carity, Jays Care, Challenger Baseball and the Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation all stepped forward and said we will help.

Not only did they help, the funded a majority of the project with Variety – The Children’s Charity offering up an amount that put our fundraising efforts over the top. The Vancouver Park Board delivered on the space which was significant as these bright, young and inspiring children now get to play their summer baseball just steps away from historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium. Now fans from both parks can trade roars when a big hit takes place a special moment is highlighted under the warm glow from the afternoon sun.

This was the vision all along. To bring give something to our community to say not only ‘thank you’, but that we ‘believe in you’.

Andy’s vision became our vision and our vision became yours.

We hope this summer before you enter the gates to our hallowed ballpark located at the base of majestic Queen Elizabeth Park that you take a few moments and go sit in the bleachers of what is now known as the Variety Challenger Baseball Field of Dreams. Watch these players play without challenge and understand in the blink of an eye why we made this promise to you.

They say that these are the reasons that you get into a career in baseball.

Yeah, this is definitely one of them.

-30-

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

McCoy Charity Softball Game Returns June 4

The LeSean McCoy Foundation and Rochester Red Wings have announced the fourth annual LeSean McCoy Charity Softball Game will be held at Frontier Field on Sunday, June 4 with festivities beginning at 2 p.m.

McCoy and his Buffalo Bills teammates will take on a team of local heroes comprised of police, firefighters and emergency medical technicians. Former NFL players who have participated in this event in the past include Cam Newton, Victor Cruz, DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Brian Westbrook, Thurman Thomas, Sammy Watkins, Chris Hogan and Tyrod Taylor.

Gates will open at 1 p.m. The Home Run Derby begins at 2 p.m. with the game starting at approximately 3 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale Friday, April 28 at 9:00 a.m. at Frontier Field Ticket Office, online at RedWingsBaseball.com or by calling (585) 423-WING. Tickets are $25 for platinum box, $20 for premium box, $15 for upper box and $10 for reserved. Red Wings Season Seat Holders will have until Thursday, April 27 at 5:00 p.m. to claim their seat location. On Friday, April 28, those seats will be released for sale to the general public.

A limited number of suites will be available for this event. A 16-person suite including food and non-alcoholic beverages will be $750. Fans purchasing these suites can buy additional tickets (up to four) at $25 each. A 10-person suite with the same amenities is $600 and additional tickets (up to two) can be purchased for $25 each.

This year’s softball game will feature live autograph signings, a silent auction and several raffles.

Proceeds from the event will be directed to the LeSean McCoy Foundation to provide educational and resource programs to disadvantaged youth and to raise awareness and funds directly benefitting individuals and families battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. LeSean’s grandmother, Maryann Branch, lost her battle with ALS.

Tickets to this charity event are considered a non-refundable donation the LeSean McCoy Foundation. No refunds will be issued due to inclement weather if the event cannot take place.

Media wishing to cover the event must contact Theresa Jones of the LeSean McCoy Foundation at theresa.t1@gmail.com.

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

Shuckers announce inaugural Kids Clinic series

BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers announced plans for their inaugural Shuckers Kids Clinic Thursday morning, launching another effort to engage with the community through baseball.

The Biloxi Shuckers Kids Clinic aims to help youth baseball players along the Mississippi Gulf Coast improve their baseball skills while receiving hands-on instruction from former Mets catcher and Shuckers team ambassador Barry Lyons.

Lyons, a Biloxi native and Shuckers team ambassador, will lead the series of events as he imparts his wisdom gleaned from a 7-year Major League career. The 1986 World Series champion will enlist the help of current Shuckers players at the four camps over the course of the summer.

The clinics are tailored to different age groups to ensure that instruction is as personalized as possible. Camps on May 31 and June 12 are targeted towards kids age 5-8, and the June 1 and June 13 dates are intended for kids age 9-12.

Registration and sign-in begins at 8:30 a.m., and the clinics will run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Participants will receive a Shuckers Kids Clinic t-shirt, autographs from Barry Lyons and Shuckers players, a Shuckers team photo, a ticket voucher for a 2017 game, Papa John’s pizza and pre-game recognition on the field before that night’s Shuckers game.

Kids are encouraged to bring their own baseball equipment and wear proper baseball attire, including a cap and athletic shoes or cleats. Water will be provided, and parents are invited to stay during the camp.

The cost of registration is $60 per child. Space is limited, so early sign-up is encouraged. Kids must be signed up by May 24 to guarantee the correct t-shirt size. For more information or to reserve your child’s spot at a Shuckers Kids Clinic, contact Community Relations Coordinator Jenifer Truong at (228) 271-3469 or jtruong@biloxishuckers.com.

DOWNLOAD THE PDF

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.

MBF Exceeds $1 Million in Grant Donations

MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan Baseball Foundation is pleased to announce that after awarding grants for the 2017 cycle, MBF has exceeded $1 million donated to non-profit organizations since 2008. This month, MBF distributed 26 grants totaling $104,515 across seven counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region this past year.

“Giving back to our local youth has been something we have taken pride in since MBF started awarding grants,” Michigan Baseball Foundation vice president Paul Barbeau said. “It’s an important part of what we do at Dow Diamond, not just providing fun entertainment during the baseball season, but also supporting the communities that surround us.”

MBF has awarded 283 grants totaling $1,022,761 to deserving non-profit organizations across 14 counties in the Great Lakes Bay Region over the past 10 years.

This year the Friends of Hoyt Park Foundation in Saginaw received $6,600 for dugout benches and a tractor. Midland Center for the Arts received a grant in the amount of $6,250 to upgrade the permanent microscope exhibit in the museum’s “Hall of Ideas.” The Bay Community Tennis Center will install net posts, while Gladwin Community Schools will use $3,000 to upgrade their athletic building and batting cages.

The Foundation began its annual grant process in April 2016 and solicited grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout the region. All applicants were required to meet one or more of the following guidelines, which reflected the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

•   The organization contributes to regional economic development.
•   The organization is based in Mid-Michigan and serves young people.
•   The organization promotes amateur sports and fitness

The Michigan Baseball Foundation considers funding mid-Michigan non-profit organizations that use the grant money to fund projects; the grants are not intended to fund day-to-day operations. Primary consideration will be given to organizations in the Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Genesee, Isabella, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac, Ogemaw, Sanilac and Iosco counties.

The 2018 grant process is currently in the planning stage. Updates will be communicated once the plans are finalized for the next cycle. For more information contact Carol VanWert at 989.837.6144, or at cvanwert@loons.com.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity that was founded in 2006 to create regional economic development through creative partnerships, and to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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

2017 Red Wings Baseball Camp, July 19-20

The Red Wings 2017 Baseball Camp presented by Advantage Federal Credit Union will take place at Frontier Field July 19-20. The camp is open to boy and girls ages 7-12. Camp will run 9 am to 12 om on July 19 and 9 am to 1 pm on July 20.

Campers will learn techniques and fundamentals of the game from Red Wings players and coaches. The instructors will cover everything from fielding and pitching to hitting and base running. Each session will include games.

CLICK HERE FOR A CAMP BROCHURE

The camp fee is $115 and includes two days of camp instruction from Wings players/coaches, FREE camp t-shirt, a picnic after the final day of camp, two tickets to a Red Wings game and refreshments/snacks during the camp.

Early registration is suggested as enrollment is limited. For more information call Kevin at (585) 454-1001 ext. 3046.

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

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ValleyCats to revamp four youth ballfields on April 13

TROY, NY- The Tri-City ValleyCats and their corporate partners, BlueShield of Northeastern New York and Hannaford Supermarkets, have teamed up on the 7th Annual ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovation Project, where four youth ball fields will be renovated in a 24-hour time period on Thursday, April 13.

The four leagues to receive the work will be Amsterdam Youth Baseball, Colonie Little League, Tri-Village Little League, and RC Little League. Each field will receive new sod placed on the infield, a rebuilding of the pitcher’s mound and home plate areas, raking and grading of the infield dirt, cutting the baselines to the correct specifications, and much more.

“Since we began the ‘4 in 24’ project back in 2011, it has been one of our most impactful community outreach events each year that has positively affected thousands of youth ballplayers within the Capital Region,” said ValleyCats General Manager Matt Callahan. “We can’t thank BlueShield and Hannaford enough for their tremendous support of this important initiative.”

This year marks the seventh consecutive ‘4 in 24’ project, and upon its completion, 28 youth ballfields will have been renovated. What has made it all possible is the support of the ValleyCats partners, who have aided in supplying the necessary resources and volunteer commitment to complete these renovations.

“BlueShield knows the importance of supporting programs that provide healthy opportunities for the children throughout our community to play and learn,” said Dr. Kirk Panneton, Vice President, Regional Executive and Medical Director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York.  “Our company and employees have helped to transform more than 24 fields since partnering with the Tri-City ValleyCats, and we are thrilled to support the ‘4 in 24’ program again this year.”

“Youth development and wellness are two of the things that matter most to our communities and to Hannaford,” said Hannaford Supermarkets Community Relations Specialist Brian Fabre. “Through this partnership with the ValleyCats and BlueShield, we are proud to provide young people with wonderfully improved facilities for healthy play and for growth as individuals and as members of a team.”

Work on each field will commence at daybreak, and will continue through the night if needed. The efforts will also be assisted by BrightView (the ValleyCats official grounds crew), Admar Construction, Turface, and SiteOne Landscape Supplies, who are contributing some of the necessary equipment, materials, and volunteers. Additional support comes from ‘Cats Care, the ValleyCats’ arm of the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation.

2017 ‘4 in 24’ Youth League Snapshots

Amsterdam Youth Baseball

Field Address: Lower Veterans Field, Locust Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010

Opening Day: Saturday, April 22

League Information:

Over 625 kids and 70 adult volunteers devote thousands of hours of cumulative time to making Amsterdam Youth Baseball run, and are the only organization in Montgomery and Fulton County that offers baseball to youngsters in the spring, summer and fall. They have T-Ball (5-6), Rookies (7-8), Minors (9-10) and Majors (11-12) as well as a travel team for each age group – 9U, 10U, 11U and 12U.

The 2017 renovation will focus on their lower Veteran’s Field, in order to make it a 50’/70′ field so that youngsters ages 5-12 can play. This renovation will allow for the field to also serve as a practice field, which the league doesn’t currently have. With over 600 children, this second field is crucial to providing adequate practice and playing time for each team.

League Statement:

“We appreciate everything that the ValleyCats do for local youth baseball leagues. We were in dire need of a secondary field and now we are able to accommodate the influx of kids ages 4-12 who play in our spring league as well as our fall league that had 18 teams last season – the largest in our 67-year history.”

-Paul Antonelli, President, Amsterdam Youth Baseball

Colonie Little League

Field Address: Pee Wee Field, Cook Park, Colonie, NY 12205

Opening Day: Saturday, April 29

League Information:

With 32 teams and almost 400 registered members, Colonie Little League has a big impact on their community. However, their Pee Wee level field is in need of repair, as the mound has sunken down, the home plate area has very poor drainage, which has caused an uneven batters box, and the infield grass is uneven and unsafe. Given the importance of providing a safe and fun place for the youngest level players to play and learn, where the love for the game is born, this project is of utter importance.

League Statement:

“I wanted to take a moment to extend our most sincere thank you for selecting Colonie Little League for this year’s 4 in 24. You have no idea how excited we are to have received notification that we were selected for the field makeover. It was truly a welcomed surprise and will save us time and money.

It is so exciting and terrific that the ValleyCats and their partners sponsor programs that continue to give to communities like ours. Having the field redone will be great for our kids and the league for years to come.

-Ron Filkins, President, Colonie Little League

Tri-Village Little League

Field Address: Magee Park, 23 Kenwood Avenue, Glenmont, NY 12077

Opening Day: Monday, April 24

League Information:

The Community Grounds Crew will be renovating Tri-Village’s Farm field, where the infield and mounds are dire need of replacement. The field also has grading issues which need to be resolved in order to improve water run-off. Tri-Village currently serves over 400 youth ballplayers aged 5-12.

League Statement:

“On behalf of Tri-Village Little League, our board of directors and all the kids that play in our league, I want to thank the Tri-City ValleyCats for selecting our organization to be part of their community field renovation program. The ValleyCats’ commitment to youth baseball is extraordinary and this is just another example of the tremendous support they are providing to the local baseball communities and the community at large. Having one of our fields selected for renovation is a tremendous support to our league from a financial perspective, but more importantly, it will create a safer and more enjoyable baseball experience for our kids.”

-Tyler Kattrein, President, Tri-Village Little League

RC Little League

Field Address: Major Field, 2445 1st Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12303

Opening Day: Friday, April 28

League Information:

RC’s Major field, which is in need of a complete overhaul of the infield, will be the recipient of the field renovation at their LCW Complex in Rotterdam. RC Little League, which was the result of a merger between Rotterdam and Carman Little Leagues in 2014, serves 430 players across 43 total teams.

League Statement:

RC Little League is anxiously awaiting the start of its 2017 season. We have many exciting changes for the league, as we have begun to work on player development for all divisions. RC Little Leagues major excitement is that we are the recipient of the Tri-City ValleyCats ‘4 in 24’ field renovation program, which will renovate our Major field at the LCW Complex in Rotterdam, NY into a field of dreams. We are anxiously looking forward to volunteering along with the Tri-City ValleyCats and their partners to create a safe and well-maintained field that our players, managers, coaches, their families, and the community will be anxious to come, play and/or watch a ball game!

-Chad Quinlivan, President, RC Little League

2017 San Jose Giants Announce 2017 Summer Camp Sessions

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants have announced two sessions for their Eleventh Annual Summer Camps at Municipal Stadium. The organization will offer one camp in June and one in July, providing families with the flexibility they need to get their kids involved. Session 1 will take place June 12-15 and Session 2 will span from July 17-20. Both camp sessions run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and finish with a 7:00 PM San Jose Giants home game on the last day of each camp. Summer Camps emphasize fun and focus on developing baseball skills for boys and girls ages 7 through 14.

The San Jose Giants are committed to providing each camper with a truly exceptional experience. During each Session campers will work on hitting, catching, fielding, base running and throwing mechanics while receiving personal interaction and focused attention as they hone their skills on the very same field that our Giants do.

“As the Diamond Season quickly approaches, I am eager to get on the field and help develop young athletes and instill valuable lessons that carry over into all aspects of life,” said Summer Camps Director and Junior Account Executive Jimmy Quintanilla. “With two action-packed camp sessions built for all levels of skill and experience and some special pricing opportunities, Summer Camps are certain to mirror our San Jose Giants mission of providing fun, affordable, family entertainment.”

New this year, six campers from our town will be selected to take part in camp free of charge, on behalf of Bay Area Self Storage. For participants to be eligible for the camp scholarship, parents must submit a letter explaining why their child should be considered for this opportunity to Jimmy Quintanilla. For any further questions, he can be reached at jimmyquintanilla@sjgiants.com or 408-380-4603.

In addition to this unique opportunity, our team is offering an Early Bird Special for those who register prior to May 5. Starting now through May 5, Summer Camp registration is marked down to only $295, a $20 savings. After the May 5 deadline, registration will return to the standard price of $315. Included in the registration price, each camper will receive tickets for their entire family to a designated San Jose Giants game, a Summer Camp T-Shirt, lunch for each day of camp, and over twenty hours of baseball instruction! To learn more about the San Jose Giants Summer Camps, visit sjgiants.com or contact Jimmy Quintanilla.

Registration and payment for San Jose Giants Summer Camps will take place through the San Jose Giants website and is an easy two-step process. To complete the payment, click here. To fill out the online waiver, click here. Please note that registering your child is not complete until both the waiver and payment have been finished.

The San Jose Giants 2017 season begins Thursday, April 13 at Municipal Stadium against the Stockton Ports. Single game tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit sjgiants.com or call (408) 297-1435.

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

Dragons Announce Little Big Leagues Program presented by IGS

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

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

  • Thousands of little leaguers will have the ability 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 the ability to take a league-wide photo on the field.
  • The Dragons and IGS are also teaming up to offer two skills clinics where little leaguers age 7-14 can register to get two days’ worth of training directly from Dragons players and coaching staff at Fifth Third Field.
  • The Dragons and IGS will also take the fun of a Dragons game on the road this summer. They will bring mascots, Heater and Gem, as well as members of the Dragons Green Team entertainment staff for surprise visits to area little league fields during their games and practices.

In addition to these activations, the season will culminate with a Grand Prize later this summer. Two little league teams will have the ability to square off under the lights at Fifth Third Field in a full game experience, including PA announcers, video board graphics, Dragons in-game entertainment and more.

“It doesn’t get any more American than little leaguers playing the game of baseball,” Dragons Team President Robert Murphy said. “This partnership is going to shine the spotlight on youth baseball in our region and give these kids some amazing memories they’ll keep with them for the rest of their lives.”

“We’re glad to support the Dayton Dragons, and the many ways they give back to the next generation of baseball players in the community. IGS has been proud to supply natural gas and electricity to area businesses and homeowners for over 25 years, along with home protection services, and we’re honored to give back to the community through this partnership, as well,” said Brandon Childers, chief marketing and technology officer.

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 or visit www.daytondragons.com.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power, and 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.

ANNUAL FREE YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC SET FOR SATURDAY, MAY 13

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will partner with Great Day Farms once again on the tenth annual FREE Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place at Arvest Ballpark from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 in advance of that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Youth Baseball Clinic is open to children ages 6-12 and will cover instruction of key baseball fundamentals, including hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. All kids that register will receive a complimentary 1B/3B Reserved ticket to that night’s game that features a Salvador Perez ‘Gold Glove’ Bobblehead Giveaway for the first 2000 fans in attendance courtesy of CCF Brands. Perez, an illustrious 2011 alum, is a four-time Gold Glove winner, the 2016 Silver Slugger winner for catcher in the American League, and was the 2015 World Series MVP. In addition, all clinic participants that attend the game that night will be recognized on the field prior to first pitch.

Instruction during the clinic will be given by select members of the Naturals’ team and coaching staff. Following the instruction portion of the clinic, an autograph session will occur on the concourse on the 1st base side for approximately 15 minutes before the ballpark is cleared in preparation for that night’s game against Tulsa.

There is a registration form titled YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC REGISTRATION FORM located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the TICKETS & PROMOTIONS tab that interested parents can fill out to register their son or daughter for the clinic. The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is also open to local youth coaches as they may also fill out the form for their respective players. The deadline to register for the event is Friday, May 5 but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Check-in begins at Arvest Ballpark at 1:30pm on the day of the event so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 500 children. Participants are asked to only bring their glove and wear proper baseball attire.

Following the FREE Youth Baseball Clinic, Arvest Ballpark will be cleared and then the gates will re-open at 4:35 p.m. for the Naturals game against the Tulsa Drillers that is scheduled to begin at 6:05 p.m. If you have any questions regarding the clinic or game, please call (479) 927-4900 or email streetteam@nwanaturals.com.

In The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will host the San Antonio Missions, the Double-A Affiliate of the San Diego Padres, on Thursday, April 6 at 6:25 p.m. for Opening Day of Season 10 of Naturals Baseball at Arvest Ballpark.

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.

2017 Baseball Camp

The Rome Braves will host our annual Baseball Camp this year on June 13-15. The cost is $150 per camper and the camp is open to children ages 4-14. Each camper will receive:

  • Instruction by members of the 2017 Rome Braves Baseball Team and Staff
  • One ticket to the game each night of camp
  • On-field recognition prior to the June 8 game
  • Official camp t-shirt and lunch served daily
  • Certificate of Achievement

Call the Rome Braves ticket office at 706-378-5144 for more information. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible to ensure a spot. Click HERE for registration form.

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

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Hops become first Anchor Sponsor for HSD

March 10, 2017, Hillsboro, OR -The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) and Hillsboro School District (HSD) announced a new partnership today where the Hops will help fund athletics and activities at HSD’s four high schools: Century, Glencoe, Hilhi, and Liberty, through an Anchor Sponsor arrangement. The District will offer five Anchor Sponsor spots for local businesses who want to make a difference in the lives of students by providing them greater access to extracurricular athletics and activities.

There are approximately 3,500 students participating in athletics and activities at the four high schools. Recent budget cuts have made it a challenge for the high schools fully support these students in their extracurricular endeavors, and to expand offerings to other students.

“The Hillsboro School District is so grateful for our generous community partners, and in particular the Hillsboro Hops,” said Rian Petrick, director of extracurricular programming and community outreach. “Through their willingness to partner as an Anchor Sponsor, the Hops will generate $24,000 toward extracurricular activities in our district during the 2017-18 school year. Research shows that students who participate in athletics and activities for multiple years in high school achieve graduation rates exceeding 95%. This partnership will help us stabilize existing programs and expand opportunities to enhance student engagement with the goal of improving graduation rates.”

Petrick goes on to explain that a district committee composed of various school-based personnel will oversee the distribution of funds based on general budget information and data analysis.

Hops chairman Mike McMurray adds: “The ownership of the Hillsboro Hops is proud to partner with the Hillsboro School District to provide opportunities for a well-rounded educational experience to local students. The Hops’ president KL Wombacher has made support of school athletics a key element of the team’s operation from day one, and this is an important manifestation of that commitment to our community.”

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