Youth Sports – Page 29

Local Charities to Benefit from Days of Giving

December 16, 2014

With the holiday season approaching the Chihuahuas are keeping with the holiday spirit, as they are proud to present the Days of Giving to take place starting today and will run through Dec. 23, benefiting six local charities.

Each charity is assigned a day in which the organization will receive 10% of the Chihuahuas net sales in the Chihuahuas Team Shop. In its inaugural season, the Chihuahuas raised more than $6,700 for local organizations.

The selected charities and days are as follows:

STARS – Tuesday, Dec. 16

Alzheimer’s Association – Wednesday, Dec. 17

YMCA – Thursday, Dec. 18

El Paso Border Youth Association – Friday, Dec. 19

Make-A-Wish North Texas – Saturday, Dec. 20

Salvation Army – Monday, Dec. 22

Armed Services YMCA– Tuesday, Dec. 23

The Chihuahuas Team Shop is located at Southwest University Park, 1 Ballpark Plaza on the corner of Franklin Ave. and Durango St. The shop is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is closed Sundays.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the El Paso Chihuahuas. Click here to view the original story.

ValleyCats accepting youth field renovation applications

December 5, 2014

‘Cats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York extend Community Grounds Crew partnership

The Tri-City ValleyCats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York will team up for the fourth straight year to continue the efforts of the Community Grounds Crew Program, an initiative that assists local youth leagues with maintenance and upkeep of their playing fields throughout the spring and summer.

The Community Grounds Crew will begin in early April 2015 with the annual ‘4 in 24’ Extreme Field Renovation Project, as four select youth fields will receive a facelift in less than 24 hours. The extent of the work includes new sod placed on the infield, 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 more.

“BlueShield is proud to renew our support of the ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovations,” said Kirk Panneton, Regional Executive and Medical Director, BlueShield of Northeastern New York. “Year after year we see the positive impact these field renovations have on the children using the spaces and the community as a whole. At BlueShield we strongly believe that every child should have the opportunity to explore his or her potential through safe and healthy recreational activities.”

“The Community Grounds Crew and ‘4 in 24’ renovation project are key initiatives for our organization each year. Our goal with these programs is to create a positive impact on the community by making a difference in the lives of so many young ballplayers,” said ValleyCats Vice President/General Manager Rick Murphy. “Thanks to our outstanding partnership with BlueShield of Northeastern New York, we are continually able to provide safe and well-maintained fields for youth sports organizations throughout the Capital Region.”

The ValleyCats are currently accepting renovation applications from youth leagues across the Capital Region who are interested in having their field considered for the ‘4 in 24’ or other Community Grounds Crew projects. Applications can be found on the ValleyCats website, www.tcvalleycats.com. New for this year, applicants have the ability to submit their form electronically. Leagues are required to submit photos of the field along with their application.

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT AN APPLICATION>>

In order to be eligible for the ‘4 in 24’ renovation, applications must be returned by Monday, February 16. Those submitted beyond that date or not selected for the ‘4 in 24’, will remain in consideration for the Community Grounds Crew program, which will accept and evaluate applications on an ongoing basis.

The efforts of the Community Grounds Crew will be recognized at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium during the ValleyCats 2015 season. Youth leagues from across the area will take part in Youth Baseball Night tentatively scheduled for June 26 and Softball Night on June 25.

Mini-plans, season tickets, and flex plans for the ValleyCats 2015 season are on-sale now. For full details, or to purchase tickets, call 518-629-CATS, log-on to tcvalleycats.com, or visit the Joseph L. Bruno Stadium Box Office.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Tri-City ValleyCats. Click here to view the original story.

One Day High School Baseball Clinic Announced

December 4, 2014

Learn from Mickey Morandini & Dong Lien on January 17

The IronPigs are hosting an indoor hitting and strength and conditioning clinic featuring former Major League All-Star and current IronPigs coach Mickey Morandini along with IronPigs Strength & Conditioning coach Dong Lien on Saturday, January 17 from 9 a.m. to noon at Coca-Cola Park. The clinic – available to current high school baseball players in grades 9 through 12 – costs $80 per player. Interested participants are encouraged to register by contacting Hannah Ishida at (610) 841-1228 or at hishida@ironpigsbaseball.com as space is extremely limited and the event is expected to sell out.

As an added bonus, sign-up by Friday, Jan. 9 and be entered to win one of three Mickey Morandini autographed baseballs!

The clinic will take place in Coca-Cola Park’s indoor batting cages and weight room area with players receiving hitting instruction as well as learning strength and conditioning techniques that are designed to prepare them for the upcoming baseball season as well as take their game to the next level. Players must bring their own equipment, including a water bottle. Water jugs will be provided. This event is limited to high school baseball players only.

About the instructors:

Morandini begins his fifth season on the Phillies developmental staff after spending four years as the head coach for Valparaiso (Ind.) High School. After being drafted by the Phillies out of Indiana University in the fifth round of the 1988 draft, the native of Leechburg, Pa., went on to an 11-year major league career that was highlighted by a trip to the 1993 World Series and a selection to the 1995 National League All-Star team. Morandini finished his career batting .268 with 32 home runs, 351 runs batted in and 123 stolen bases in 1,298 games – 956 (74%) of which he donned a Phillies uniform. In fact, Morandini finished his career as the Phillies’ all-time leader in most seasons (eight) as a regular starter at second base (later surpassed by Chase Utley, who recorded his ninth in 2013).

Lien is entering his second season as the IronPigs strength and conditioning coordinator and his tenth in the Phillies system. Prior to joining the IronPigs, he spent the previous six seasons in a similar post at the Major League level with the Phillies. Lien holds a Master’s from California University of Pennsylvania and was part of the Phillies’ 2009 Dick Martin Award winning training staff. Lien was born in Indonesia and resides in West Chester, Pa.

For more information or to register today, please call (610) 841-1228 or email hishida@ironpigsbaseball.com. Space is limited and the registration deadline is Wednesday, January 7, 2015 (if space remains).

The IronPigs 2015 season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

Brooklyn Baseball Academy

December 4, 2014

The Brooklyn Baseball Academy is recognized throughout New York City as one of the premier developmental baseball programs in the five boroughs. This winter, MCU Park will host a five-week program designed to develop and sharpen the fundamental skills that all of our athletes need in order to be successful on the baseball diamond. The offseason is not a time of rest for the serious baseball player. Our winter program is designed for the serious athlete in mind who wants to gain that competitive edge on the field.

The Brooklyn Baseball Academy is available starting on Monday, December 8th. There will be four different sessions per week.

Monday: Hitting (Swing Mechanics, Advanced Drill Work, Plate Approach, Live BP and Video Analysis)
Tuesday: Hitting (Swing Mechanics, Advanced Drill Work, Plate Approach, Live BP and Video Analysis)
Wednesday: Pitching (Mechanical Work and Drills, Grips, Pitchers Fielding Practice and Video Analysis)
Thursday: Open Development (Players Will Have Option to Choose What they Want to Work On)

* Each session will last one (1) hour and there will be a limit of four players per group.
** Sessions start at 5:00 PM and run through 9:00 PM each night

WHERE: The five-week Winter Baseball Developmental Program will run at MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones. The program will use the same training facilities that the professionals use every day during the Cyclones season.

WHEN: We will be training athletes ages 8 and up.

REGISTRATION: The cost per player the for the five-week program is $200 which also includes two ticket vouchers for a 2015 Brooklyn Cyclones game.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Individual Lessons

30 Minutes	$50
60 Minutes	$90
5 Pack of 30 Minute Lessons	$230
10 Pack of 30 Minute Lessons	$420

Group Lessons

Two Players	$60 per player
Three Players	$45 per player
Four Players	$40 per player

Batting Tunnel Rentals

30 Minutes	$35
60 Minutes	$60

To Reserve Your Spot Contact :

Tommy Cardona

718 – 382 – 2682 / TCard@BrooklynCyclones.com

Gary Perone, Founder – Brooklyn Baseball Academy,

718 – 382 – 3608 / Gary@BrooklynCyclones.com

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Brooklyn Cyclones. Click here to view the original story.

Squirrels Nominated For John Henry Moss Community Service Award

October 7, 2014

Richmond Tabbed by Eastern League for Award in 5th Season

The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the organization has been nominated by the Eastern League of Professional Baseball Clubs for the 2014 John Henry Moss Community Service Award. The league nominates just one team for the award, presented annually by Minor League Baseball.

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is bestowed upon a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and within the baseball industry.

Community impact has been a foundational focal point for the Squirrels since their inception in 2010. The Squirrels’ nomination comes following a season in which they continued to expand many of their community aims. That included the launch of the Squirrels’ new non-profit arm, Flying Squirrels Charities, created with the goal of growing opportunities for local children. The first major fundraising campaign for Flying Squirrels Charities was “Smooch-a-Pig,” which included the involvement of 10 local celebrities and benefitted “Operation Renovation.” The campaign, which endeavored to rebuild 12 little league fields for the Richmond City Department of Parks & Recreation, raised over $60,000.

“There are many awards that the Squirrels as an organization would be delighted to receive,” said Flying Squirrels’ Vice President & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “However, this nomination is of particular significance to us. Community service is the bedrock of the Squirrels’ organization, and it is gratifying that our sustained effort continues to have a profound impact.”

The Squirrels continue to be one of the most active teams in professional sports within their community. Among their other programs and highlights:

“Go Nuts for Reading Program (39,000 student participants)
Flying Squirrels Art Contest (5^th Year)
Score an “A”, Score a Ticket Program
Kroger Squirrels Tails Kids Club (24,000 Members)
In-Season Youth Camps
Drives (Food, Books, School Supplies, Blood)
Mustaches for Kids Program
Ed Randall’s Bat for the Cure
Charitable Events (Turn Left Golf Classic, Hot Stove Banquet, Nutzy’s Rotary Funn Run, Squirreloween, Puritan Cleaners Coats for Kids Drive, etc.)
450 Mascot Appearances Annually (Local Schools, Businesses, Non-Profits, Festivals, etc.)
30 Player and Coaches Appearances During the 2014 Season (200+ Hours of Community Service)
Executive Speaking Engagements (100+ in 2014)
ASK Fun Walk & 5K (Ask Foundation – 9^th Annual)
Camp Warrior
Flying Squirrels Regional Youth Baseball Tournament
Monetary Gifts & Gifts In-Kind ($150,000)

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is named after the longtime, former South Atlantic League president, who founded the SAL and presided over it for a half-century (1959-2008).

The John Henry Moss Community Service Award will be presented at the Baseball Winter Meetings, which will be held in San Diego, CA, from December 7-11.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders 2014 Community Report

September 24, 2014

Over $360,000 Given Back to NEPA, 66% Jump from Award-Winning 2013

Coming together for the greater good. All baseball teams try to accomplish it on the field. In the case of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) – the off-the-field efforts in that same vein added up to a whole lot of good to date in 2014.

Among the highlights:

– Five jersey auctions raised over $20,000 to benefit: Hunt of a Lifetime, IamMore Foundation, Allied Health Services, Fisher House and the Dave Miley HOF Scholarship Fund.

– The debut of the team’s Fit Track program, presented by Odak.

– Another successful HOPE Week in concert with the rest of the New York Yankees organization.

– An increase in charitable giving from $217,000 to over $360,000 including cash and in-kind gifts.

– Over 550 hours volunteered in the community by full-time staff, players and coaches.

– Over 200 mascot appearances.

– Support of our military with the Metlife Military Appreciation program, Honor Guard program, veterans parade appearances in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, and a players/field staff visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center.

– The RailRiders and Kost Tire and Auto raised $14,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of NEPA with the Hurl the Pearl promotion (up $2,000 from 2013).

-The addition of several other new initiatives including: Breast Cancer Awareness Night which raised $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Girl Scouts of NEPA; an Easter Egg Hunt for children with special needs; and special school day themes for including an anti-bullying day and an anti-drug and alcohol day.

The RailRiders franchise prides itself on engaging with the community. The signature addition in that regard for 2014 – the Fit Track program. Fit Track’s inaugural year sported over 30 schools in NEPA and over 12,000 children. It encourages children to develop healthy habits during their youth that will transition into adulthood. The Fit Track focuses on three main healthy behaviors: being active for 60 minutes each day; making healthy food choices; and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Each enrolled child received a free RailRiders jump rope to aid in their physical activity. Each child that completed the program received a free ticket to one of four RailRiders home games with Fit Trackers honored on the field during the pre-game festivities.

The Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro’s Pharmacy, came back for its second season. Each of the team’s 72 home games spotlighted a local non-profit/civic organization. That COG had the opportunity to spread its message to every guest through a pre-game on-field interview, a ceremonial first pitch, an on-air radio interview and a concourse table display.

A standard from previous years, the Adopt-A-Field program, renovated four local fields (one high school field; one softball field; two youth fields). Front office staff and grounds crew members spent the entire day at each park cutting the infield, rebuilding pitching mounds, fertilizing/mowing grass, cleaning dugouts and more. The fields were chosen through a contest on the team’s website with fan votes deciding the lucky winners.

As the top affiliate of the New York Yankees, the RailRiders proudly played their part in the organization’s annual HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week effort. The week-long community outreach program’s purpose is to touch as many lives as possible in your area. Members of the RailRiders’ coaching staff, players and front office folks made their way throughout NEPA.

HOPE Week 2014 in SWB included partnerships with the Children’s Miracle Network and Make-A-Wish Foundation to welcome children in for an unforgettable day; shaved heads and over $13,000 raised for childhood cancer research; a visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center; and laser tag with the NEPA Boys and Girls Club.

The RailRiders’ Military Appreciation program was brought back to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The serviceperson and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

SWB’s patriotic pride continued by Setting A Seat Aside. To honor men and women affiliated with our nation’s military whom could not be at PNC Field, one significant seat (section 13, row 15, seat one) remains forever empty and unsold.

“2014 was a great year,” said community relations manager Rachel Mark. “Seeing the impact our community outreach makes in NEPA is priceless. We are excited to continue these efforts and watch them grow in 2015.”

Invested in the community, the RailRiders franchise has more than 30 full-time employees. Combined with concessionaire Legends, PNC Field boasts over 500 seasonal employees. The franchise prides itself on customer service and affordability as the bar-setting destination for affordable, family entertainment destination in NEPA.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

Register Now for Braves Miracle Field of Rome

September 9, 2014

Registration for the Braves Miracle field of Rome has begun and will continue until September 26th through Rome-Floyd Parks & Recreation Authority. The registration fee is still $50 per player, however, there are scholarship opportunities for interested families.

A pre-season practice will be October 4th at 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm. Uniforms will be distributed at this time. The season will open on Saturday October 11th with games at 12:30pm, 1:30pm, & 2:30pm. A break will take place on October 18th and play resumes October 25th. Starting October 25th, games will move back to 11am, 12pm, & 1pm for the remainder of the season through November 15th.

For more information contact the Rome Braves at 706-378-5100 or the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Authority.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rome Braves. Click here to view the original story.

Little League State Champs to Be Honored Sunday

August 18, 2014

Toms River Little League team recognized in ceremony before the game

The Toms River Little League team that won the New Jersey State Little League Championship will be honored at FirstEnergy Park in a pre-game ceremony on Sunday prior to the BlueClaws 5:05 pm game against Greensboro.

The Toms River Little Leaguers won the New Jersey State Championship at the Berkeley Little League complex on July 28th, defeating Ocean City in the championship game. They then went to the Mid-Atlantic Regional in Bristol, Connecticut, where they went 4-0 in pool play before falling in the semi-finals to Newark, Delaware.

“These young players captured the attention of everyone at the Jersey Shore while they made their magical run,” said BlueClaws General Manager Chris Tafrow. “We are honored to bring them out on Sunday and give them the recognition that they deserve.”

In addition to the ceremony on Sunday, the BlueClaws could reach the 6-million fan plateau at this game. They return home on Friday night and are within 12,245 fans of the milestone.

At the game on Sunday, the first 2,000 fans 17 & under will receive a BlueClaws Back-to-School Folder. Plus, Kids Eat Free thanks to ShopRite and Kids Run the Bases after the game thanks to Brick Plaza. Adults can enjoy $2 Corona throughout the game as well.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League in attendance in all 13 years of existence.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

G-Braves Announce 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp

July 22, 2014

Camp is open to anyone ages 8 and up with special needs

Last year's Baseball Buddies Camp participants gathered for a group photo at Coolray Field. (Gwinnett Braves) — Last year’s Baseball Buddies Camp participants gathered for a group photo at Coolray Field. (Gwinnett Braves)

The Gwinnett Braves will host their 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp at Coolray Field on Saturday, August 30 from 9 AM to 12 PM. The camp is open to anyone ages eight and up with special needs.

For $20, each Baseball Buddies camp participant will receive hands-on instruction from Gwinnett Braves players and coaches. Each participant also receives a Camp T-shirt and lunch, as well as an opportunity to get autographs and take pictures with the G-Braves.

Each sign-up also includes one (1) Baseline Box ticket for the August 30 game against the Charlotte Knights at 7:05 PM. Camp participants will get to take the field for a special pre-game parade that night.

Spots for the 2014 Baseball Buddies Camp are limited and expected to fill up quickly. To register, download the form from GwinnettBraves.com and turn it in to the Community Relations Department at P.O. Box 490310, Buford, GA 30043. The form can also be faxed to 678-277-0338.

For more information, contact Gwinnett Braves’ Community Relations Trainee Alison Atkins by phone at 678-277-0313 or by email at alison.atkins@braves.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Gwinnett Braves. Click here to view the original story.

U.S. Bank Aces baseball camp set for Saturday

July 22, 2014

The 2014 U.S. Bank Reno Aces baseball camp is set for Saturday, July 26 and is accepting participants. Instruction will be led by Aces players and former Major League Baseball pitcher Roric Harrison.

The camp is open to children ages 7-14 and will be from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Campers will receive instruction in pitching, hitting, fielding, outfield defense and infield defense.

For just $99, campers will receive instruction, a camp t-shirt, catered lunch, camp photo and a ticket to Saturday night’s Aces game against the Albuquerque Isotopes at 7:05 p.m.

Space is limited and interested participants are encouraged to reserve their spot. To sign-up, contact Cody Lyford at (775) 334-7076 or clyford@renoaces.com. Click here for registration form.

Single-game tickets are on sale for the remainder of the 2014 season. For more information, or to purchase an Aces ticket plan, call (775) 334-4700. For up-to-date news and notes throughout the offseason, visit www.RenoAces.com, follow the club on Twitter (@aces) or like the team on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reno Aces. Click here to view the original story.

Pig-Smooching Raises Nearly $40,000

July 21, 2014

Ten Local Leaders Bring Home the Bacon for Area Youth

The Richmond Flying Squirrels Charities, the non-profit foundation of the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, are pleased to announce that the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig charity fundraising campaign raised nearly $40,000 for Richmond area youth athletics. Ten dedicated local business leaders and celebrities (listed below) executed vigorous fundraising campaigns for the honor of smooch Parker the Rally Pig at home plate during the Squirrels game on July 17^th. While all of the participants went “whole hog” in their tireless efforts, Dan Schmitt from RMC events brought in the most bacon and won the privilege to kiss Parker. Schmitt brought along chocolates and a rose to give the celebrity swine and the two shared a special moment at home plate (photos attached) prior to the game. All the proceeds raised will go directly to “Operation Renovation,” a dedicated community impact project to renovate 12 Richmond youth baseball facilities (details below).

The Smooch-A-Pig Participants:

Jon Bibbs, Richmond Prep School Administrator
Matt DiNardo, WRIC TV Meteorologist
Jack and Melissa, 103.7 Play
Cla Meredith, Former MLB Player
Barry Moore, Volvo of Midlothian
Kim Scheeler, Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
Dan Schmitt, RMC Events President
Latrell Scott,Virginia State University Head Football Coach
Norman Way, Puritan Cleaners Director of Operations
Lisa Watkins, Coca-Cola East Region Key Account Development Manager

“We can’t thank these ten leaders enough for their extraordinary efforts,” Flying Squirrels Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino said. “These candidates share our vision for what Operation Renovation can do for the community. The money raised here is an important start of what will be an ongoing effort from Flying Squirrels Charities.”

The four phases for Operation Renovation are projected as follows:
Phase 1- build 24 dugouts on 12 designated youth baseball fields in Richmond
Phase 2 – improve these same playing fields
Phase 3 – develop the Henderson Complex into a Little League Complex, including the concessions building
Phase 4– recover and renovate unused fields as demands dictate.

Operation Renovation Youth Baseball Fields

Battery Park, 2000 Fendall Ave.
Bellemeade, 1800 Lynhaven Ave.
Bill Robinson, 701 N. 37^th St.
Blackwell, 16^th & Everett St.
Calhoun, 436 Calhoun St.
Chandler, 201 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Hotchkiss (Two Fields), 701 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Lucks Field, Rodgers & T St.
Powhatan, 5051 Northampton Ave.
Westover (Two Fields), 1301 Jahnke Rd.

Although the inaugural Smooch-A-Pig campaign is over, additional information and donations can still be made to Flying Squirrels Charities through the website www.smoochapig.com. Any individuals or business interested in getting involved with Operation Renovation and Flying Squirrels Charities can contact Squirrels Charity Liaison/Media Relation Manager Jay Burnham at 804-482-6791 or email at jay.burnham@squirrelsbaseball.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Richmond Flying Squirrels1. Click here to view the original story.

Baseball Academy – Pitcher/Catcher Camp in August

July 16, 2014

For pitchers and catchers ages 8-14

BlueClaws Baseball Academy will host a Pitcher/Catcher Baseball Summer Camp at FirstEnergy Park on August 12th and 13th. The event will run from 7 pm – 8:30 pm each day.

This two-day program is designed to teach players ages 8-14 how to build their individual skills as a pitcher or catcher.

Pitchers will learn proper throwing mechanics to keep them healthy during the season, along with information on proper grips for fastball and off-speed pitches. This is a drill intensive camp that will give players a multitude of new ways to practice at home.

Catchers will learn in order of responsibilities of being a catcher (receiving, blocking, throwing, tag plays, bunts and pop-ups) while learning the most specialized position on the field. Catchers camp has by far been our most popular camp. Camp will take place under the lights at FirstEnergy Park.

Each camper will receive 2 days of advanced instruction, use of the Lakewood BlueClaws facilities at FirstEnergy Park, and a FREE 1-on-1 Lesson*

For more information about our programs visit our website at Blueclawsbaseballacademy.com, check us out on FACEBOOK at BlueClawsBaseballAcademy, or follow us on Twitter @BBA_Claws.

Registration is $110. To sign up, please contact Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 x209 or jagnello@blueclaws.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lakewood BlueClaws. Click here to view the original story.

Muckdogs Announce Youth Camp

July 15, 2014

Join us at Dwyer Stadium August 18, 19^th and 20^th for our youth baseball camp!

Kids ages 6-14 will receive two days of on-field instruction from the Muckdogs players and coaches on August 18^th and 19^th from 9am – 12pm. Children will learn from the pros in the areas of hitting, fielding, pitching, catching, base running and bunting. Then on August 20^th, campers will be able to come back to Dwyer for a private autograph signing with the team 30 minutes before the gates open (5:30pm) and then be recognized on the field prior to the Muckdogs game vs. the West Virginia Black Bears (Pittsburgh Pirates affiliate).

Campers will also receive a special t-shirt not available in the team store, a camp photo, two tickets to the August 20^th game, as well as daily lunch, all for only $70. Registration forms are available at Dwyer Stadium or by clicking here. Space is limited and all registrations and payments must be turned in by Friday, August 5th.

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

Muckdogs Announce Youth Camp

July 15, 2014

Join us at Dwyer Stadium August 7th, 8th and 9th for our youth baseball camp!

Kids ages 6-14 will receive two days of on-field instruction from the Muckdogs players and coaches on August 7th & 8th from 9am – 12pm. Children will learn from the pros in the areas of hitting, fielding, pitching, catching base running and bunting. Then on August 9^th, campers will be able to come back to Dwyer for a private autograph signing with the team 30 minutes before the gates open (5:30pm) and then be recognized on the field prior to the Muckdogs game vs. the Brooklyn Cyclones (NY Mets affiliate).

Campers will also receive a special t-shirt not available in the team store, a camp photo, two tickets to the August 9th game, as well as daily lunch, all for only $70. Registration forms are available at Dwyer Stadium or by clicking here. Space is limited and all registrations must be turned in by Thursday, July 31^s^t.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Batavia Muckdogs. Click here to view the original story.

HOPE Week Headlines Seven-Game Homestand

July 14, 2014

July 19 Includes Military Appreciation Night, Bill Veeck Bobble-Leg, Modern Sequel of Disco Demolition Night

The Charleston RiverDogs are back at home for a seven-game homestand from Tuesday, July 15 through Monday, July 21. HOPE Week 2014, an annual New York Yankees outreach initiative, runs through the first five days of this homestand. Saturday, July 19 will be full of fun as the RiverDogs will host Disco Demolition 2: You Better Belieb It along with Military Appreciation Night and a Bill Veeck Bobble-Leg Giveaway.

Tuesday, July 15, 7:05 pm: HOPE Week 2014 begins as the RiverDogs partner with Warriors 4 Warriors. It is Harris Teeter 2-for-$20 Date Night, presented by Nash FM. Couples that show a VIC Card at the box office will receive two tickets to the game, two tacos, two fountain drinks and a nacho tray for just $20. It is also Choose Your Knight Night. Upon entering the ballpark, fans can choose one of three colored cards which correspond with three knights that will compete throughout the night in various contests. The knight with the most total points will be the winner, and fans who selected that color may turn in their card to receive a ticket voucher for an upcoming RiverDogs game.

Wednesday, July 16, 7:05 pm: Day Two of HOPE Week 2014 features South Carolina Youth Advocate Program. HealthSouth Senior Wednesday, sponsored by MeTV, offers a food voucher for all senior citizens (age 65 & older) who enter the park before 7 pm. The voucher is good for a free hot dog, a bag of chips and a 16-ounce fountain drink. The RiverDogs are also hosting “Dogs with a Cause” to support The Spokes Group Charleston. It is also a Guaranteed Wins-Day, so if the RiverDogs are not victorious, all fans in attendance may use their tickets to get into the next Wednesday home game for free.

Thursday, July 17, 7:05 pm: HOPE Week 2014 continues with Lowcountry Food Bank’s Food Works Program. It is also Budweiser Thirsty Thursday, courtesy of 95SX, with $1 drafts and DJ Natty Heavy in the Ashley View Pub. Wild Wing Café will also sponsor a wing-eating contest in the Ashley View Pub. The RiverDogs are also continuing their Thursday concert series, which is presented by Palmetto Brewery and Awendaw Green. Cheap Hats and Bourbon, an acoustic band that plays covers and original songs, will be playing adjacent to the Beer Garden.

Friday, July 18, 7:05 pm: The RiverDogs will partner with Mighty Mack and Scout on Day Four of HOPE Week 2014. ISHPI Red Shirt Friday, presented by 103.5 WEZL, encourages fans to wear red to the game and save $1 off your ticket purchase at the box office or donate that dollar to Canines for Veterans and Folds of Honor. United States Air Force Night will be celebrated as well. There will be a pregame awards ceremony for the annual Youth Baseball Camp, which is presented by The Kickin’ Chicken. The RiverDogs will wear red jerseys on Friday and will receive help from Titus the Wonder Dog, who will serve as a batdog for an inning. Miller and Coors present $3 Aluminum Pint Night in the Ashley View Pub. Stick around following the contest for another stellar fireworks display over the scenic Ashley River.

Saturday, July 19, 6:05 pm: HOPE Week 2014 wraps up, featuring Fields to Families. The first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive a Bill Veeck Bobble-Leg from WCBD Channel 2. In honor of Military Appreciation Night, presented by ISHPI, all active and retired military members and their immediate families can get into the game for free. The RiverDogs are also hosting Disco Demolition 2: You Better Belieb It. Fans that bring Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus merchandise and memorabilia will get a $1 ticket. All of the donated items will be destroyed in a postgame demolition on the field. Social Media Saturday invites fans to use Facebook and Twitter to send the RiverDogs requests for songs, promotions and other ballpark features. It is also West Ashley Night at The Joe. Barefoot Night includes a Barefoot wine sampling around the Beer Garden.

Sunday, July 20, 5:05 pm: CCPRC and Crews Subaru Kids Club Sunday, sponsored by Y102.5, offers free admission for all members of Charlie’s Kids Club. Parking is free, and all children will receive a voucher for a free hot dog, a fountain drink and chips for Kids Eat Free from Pepsi. Pirates and Princesses Night is also set for Sunday. Children can make their own crown and treasure at the game while pirates from Blackbeard’s Cove roam the ballpark. An ice princess pregame meet and greet and Disney gift card giveaways are also scheduled. All fans can enjoy pregame catch on the field and postgame autographs with the RiverDogs. Patriots Point and its mascot, Scrappy, will be on hand for Sunday’s game as well. Charleston will wear its stylish seersucker uniforms on Seersucker Sunday. Fans that wear seersucker to the game can save $1 off their ticket purchase at the box office or donate that dollar to the Preservation Society of Charleston and the Historic Charleston Foundation. Celebrity “Smokin’ Chef” Aaron Siegel from Home Team BBQ will serve smoked pork belly pastrami with pickled local slaw and smoked Poblano mustard on a brioche bun at the RiverDogs’ new meat smoker.

Monday, July 21, 12:05 pm: The homestand closes with a special 12:05 pm start time, setting up the Business-Man’s Special and Service Industry Day. Play hooky from work or ask the RiverDogs to send an intern to your business and cover your shift so you can come to the contest. The Business-Man’s Special offers $7 upper reserve tickets. Members of the service industry will be rewarded for their hospitality with $5 general admission tickets for Monday’s matinee. Coors and Magic 107.3 present Dollar Dogs and Beers Night in the Ashley View Pub. There will also be an Old Mexico DVD Giveaway at the homestand finale.

This seven-game RiverDogs homestand is the longest home stretch in July at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park. For more information or to order tickets to any RiverDogs game, visit the Riley Park Box Office, call (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or head on-line to www.riverdogs.com. If fans cannot make it to the ballpark, they are encouraged to tune in to all the action this year both home and away worldwide on www.riverdogs.com and locally on 1250 WTMA, the new radio home for RiverDogs baseball.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Charleston RiverDogs. Click here to view the original story.