2014 Baseball Camp Sign-ups Now Underway!

Sign-up now: Each Camp is Limited to 110 Campers

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Sign-ups are now underway for the 2014 Youth Baseball Camp presented by Capital BlueCross! Make sure to sign up early because each camp is limited to 110 children and each is expected to sell out.

The camps will run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for all days of the session. Boys and girls of all skill levels will have the chance to learn baseball and fundamentals from the future stars of the Philadelphia Phillies. Each day, members of the IronPigs coaching staff and select IronPigs players will teach the basics of the game and help all campers become better ballplayers!

In addition to meeting and playing with IronPigs players, each camper will receive a daily lunch, two tickets to a selected IronPigs game during the camp (Camp #1, June 19; Camp #2, July 23; Camp #3, July 31), on-field recognition prior to the IronPigs game and an official IronPigs Fantasy Camp T-shirt!

2014 Camp Dates:

  • Camp #1 ($160/camper): Ages 7-8 only (June 18-20) – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer
  • Camp #2 ($160/camper): Ages 9-10 only (July 22-24) – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer
  • Camp #3 ($110/camper): Ages 11-13 only (July 31-August 1). – Sign-up Online / Download Flyer. Please note that this is a two-day camp only and features individual instruction in one of four chosen positions (Pitcher, Catcher, Outfielder or Infielder).

For more information, please contact Kelly Gooley at (610) 841-1213 or kgooley@ironpigsbaseball.com. 2014 Youth Baseball Camp 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.

Modern Woodmen Park to host 2014 Davenport Little League Registration Feb. 8

River Bandits will also offer exclusive deal on 2014 Kids Club memberships for youth 14 and under

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For the sixth consecutive year, the Quad Cities River Bandits will host Davenport Little League baseball and softball registration indoors at Modern Woodmen Park. On Saturday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Little Leaguers from throughout the Davenport area will visit the ballpark to register for their upcoming season.

By centralizing the registration at Modern Woodmen Park, this event incorporates all the Davenport Little Leagues, regardless of age or level, into one central location and has greatly assisted organizers in streamlining the registration process the last five years.

“We welcome these young athletes and their families to the Modern Woodmen Park experience, which is all about families creating memories that last a lifetime,” said River Bandits co-owner Dave Heller. “Kids and parents alike love incorporating Modern Woodmen Park and professional baseball into the Davenport Little Leagues, and we are thrilled to continue our support of the Little League programs and youth sports in the Quad Cities.”

All the local leagues – including the North, Northwest, East, Southeast, West Softball, Emeis, East Softball, Pony, Colt and Challenger Leagues – will hold registration on Feb. 8. Registration is required even if the child has previously played. At least one parent or legal guardian must be present with proof of residence and an original or state-certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, which will be returned at the registration. Also, the leagues require a completed registration form, medical release form, and the fee for registration.

For children ages 14 and under attending the Little League registration, the River Bandits will also offer an exclusive, one-day special on 2014 Kids Club memberships. Normally $30 per child 14 and under, a Kids Club membership will be $25 at Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday, Feb. 8, only. A Kids Club Membership includes a free bleacher ticket good for all River Bandits 2014 regular season home games, a membership card, a T-shirt, a 10 percent discount off purchases in the team store, an email newsletter with exclusive special offers and much more.

The River Bandits will also have select merchandise available for purchase, as well as information about ticket plans and group outings at the ballpark this season. Families and individuals may also purchase or renew their season ticket packages for the 2014 season.

“As a community-based venue, Modern Woodmen Park is ideal for kicking off the little league year,” said Genearal Manager Andrew Chesser. “As added fun, kids will register at a professional ballpark within the same week the pros are reporting for spring training!”

Questions about the Feb. 8 registration can be directed to Brittany Carter in the River Bandits front office at 563-324-3000.

UP NEXT: Call today to reserve a Valentine’s Day dinner at Modern Woodmen Park for Friday, Feb. 14, or Saturday, Feb. 15. Couples can enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner in a private luxury suite or take in the spectacular views of the ballpark, Centennial Bridge, Mississippi River and downtown Davenport from a table in the glass-enclosed, climate-controlled Sky Deck. Reservations are due Thursday, Feb. 6, by calling 563-324-3000. To order ticket plans – with new lower prices – for next season, call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest’s winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a “Drop and Twist,” an expanded zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team’s major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs – the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Quad Cities River Bandits. Click here to view the original story.

Indians Announce Youth Baseball

Pony, Babe Ruth, SYSA Form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball

Pony, Babe Ruth and divisions of SYSA have combined to form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.
Pony, Babe Ruth and divisions of SYSA have combined to form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.

SPOKANE, WA – The Spokane Indians are excited to announce the formation of Spokane Indians Youth Baseball, a non-profit youth baseball organization that will encompass all of Spokane Pony Baseball, Spokane Babe Ruth and the baseball and softball divisions of Spokane Youth Sports Association (SYSA).

“When discussing youth baseball with Spokane Pony Baseball, Spokane Babe Ruth and SYSA, it became clear that this was the right time to combine our efforts and form Spokane Indians Youth Baseball,” said Otto Klein, Senior Vice President of the Spokane Indians. “By bringing together the leagues and brands, we will be able to enhance the baseball experience for families and volunteers of the Inland Northwest. It’s an exciting time for all of us.”

“With one united organization, we will be able to clearly communicate information and simplify player registration and coordination of fields,” said Dana Richardson, President of Pony Baseball. “Having the Spokane Indians associated with youth baseball will increase the exposure for our league, and in turn increase the number of youth on the baseball diamond.”

In 2013, over 3,000 kids participated in Pony, Babe Ruth and SYSA baseball and softball across the Inland Northwest. The mission is to increase and promote participation and opportunities through a cohesive and unified marketing effort, while also creating a fund to facilitate future field development.

“The main component of this partnership is simple – it’s the common goal of doing this for the kids,” says Philip Helean, Executive Director of SYSA. “We want every child in the Inland Northwest involved so we can see them smiling as they take the field.”

Registration is now open for Spokane Indians Youth Baseball at www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org, and city-wide draft evaluations will occur in March. Players can sign up individually for all skill levels, or as a full team in both recreational and competitive divisions. Teams in the younger divisions will be formed based on schools and neighborhoods.

Volunteer coaches are always needed! Coaches may register online, and must provide photo identification. Criminal background checks are conducted for all volunteers in Spokane Indians Youth Baseball.

Parents will have the option of registering online at www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org, or by stopping by either of the SYSA offices, located Downtown at The Warehouse (800 North Hamilton, Suite 201) or in the Valley at the HUB Sports Center (19619 East Cataldo).

For more information please visit www.SpokaneIndiansYouthBaseball.org or call (509) 321-1999.

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

Baseballtown Charities Complete Baer Park Renovation

Eight month project reaches finish line thanks to generous donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation

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After close to eight months of fundraising and construction, Baseballtown Charities, in conjunction with the Reading Fightin Phils, has completed the Baer Park Renovation Project in the northwest section of the City of Reading. The project, first announced in May, was made possible through nearly $90,000 in donations from Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation and private donors through Baseballtown Charities.

“Baseballtown Charities is very pleased with the completion of the renovations at historic Baer Park,” said President of Baseballtown Charities Chuck Domino. “We are anxious to see the kids and parents enjoy the improvements starting this spring. A special thanks to the Colonial Oaks Foundation and the Wyomissing Foundation as well as many other community minded donors who stepped up to the plate to allow Baseballtown Charities to continue our mission of improving the lives of our inner city youth through the sport of baseball.”

Construction on the field began in late summer after a joint cleanup effort from members of the Reading Fightin Phils and students at Alvernia University. The project included a total replacement of the bleachers, major field renovations, and the installation of a chain-linked fence that encompasses the entire facility.

The large scale renovations to Baer Park have earned the praise of city officials, including Mayor Vaughn Spencer.

“On behalf of the City of Reading, I would like to thank Baseballtown Charities, the Colonial Oaks Foundation, and the Wyomissing Foundation, as well as, the other donors,” said Mayor of Reading Vaughn Spencer. “The renovations at Baer Park will improve the lives of our city youth by providing them with a much improved facility.

The project was the first among several fields identified by Baseballtown Charities and the City of Reading Parks and Recreation Commission as area in dire need. Like Baer Park, most of the targets have fallen in repair since their heyday and will hopefully see a revival thanks to the non-profit organization.

“The Reading Recreation Commission is excited for the youth of Reading and the community to begin to enjoy the newly renovated Baer Park this spring,” said Reading Recreation Commission Executive Director Daphne Klahr. “The new turf, fencing, bleachers, and field improvements will be the catalyst for future baseball programming at the park and hopefully marks the beginning of the revitalization of the Northwest Reading community. A big thank you to Chuck Domino and Baseballtown Charities for seeing this project through to completion as well as [to] the Wyomissing Foundation, the Colonial Oaks Foundation and all of the individuals and businesses whose financial support made the project possible. The Reading Recreation Commission looks forward to continuing their partnership with Baseballtown Charities to help improve inner-city parks and ball fields for Reading youth.”

Baer Park was named after the 19th Century Reading Railroad magnate George Baer. Located in the 15th Ward of the City of Reading, the park features a lighted baseball field, tennis courts, basketball courts, a playground, a concession stand and a stone field house on its nine acres of land.

Today, Baer Park is a nerve center of activity in the 15th Ward. On any given day, hundreds of youth can be found using the various attractions or having fun by spending time with friends. Throughout the spring and summer, the park’s baseball field is home to numerous city baseball and softball organizations. It is also the home field for junior high teams from the Reading School District.

On top of donations from the Colonial Oaks Foundation and Wyomissing Foundation, funds were raised at Reading Fightin Phils home games in the summer of 2013. The centerpiece of the team’s fundraising efforts came late in the season when first baseman Jim Murphy donated his prized 1991 Jaguar XJ6 Sovereign for a raffle. Fans came out in droves to support the cause thanks to Murphy’s Jaguar and raised over $5,000 for Baseballtown Charities.

As an unconventional means of raising awareness and funds for a non-profit, the raffle helped cement Reading as the Eastern League’s nominee for the inaugural John Henry Moss Community Service Award presented by Minor League Baseball.

Baseballtown Charities, a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity, was founded in 2002 in association with the Reading Phillies in order to keep baseball alive in Reading through charitable donations to underprivileged youth who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to play baseball. The organization also pays tribute to Reading’s rich baseball history.

Since its inception in 2002, the Baseballtown trademark has played a necessary part in the baseball community of Berks County. Under the Baseballtown namesake, FirstEnergy Stadium has played host to the High School All-Star Game and the Olivet’s Boy’s and Girl’s Club Championship. Each year, the organization crowns the King or Queen of Baseballtown to honor the past by recognizing that individual’s accomplishments and contributions to baseball/softball.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment the organization has overtaken was the construction of Gordon Hoodak Stadium at Lauer’s Park in 2006. Through contributions exceeding $900,000, the youth ballpark was built in a neighborhood that is quickly returning to its glory days. It sits on the grounds of Lauer’s Park Elementary School, named for the former stadium where Babe Ruth and Shoeless Joe Jackson both played. The original housed several professional teams and hosted barnstorming tours from 1907-1941. Reading’s own baseball legend, the late “Broadway” Charlie Wagner, former Red Sox pitcher and roommate of Ted Williams, began his career there.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Reading Fightin Phils. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves Award December Grant to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center

“Season of Giving” themed grant will help fund therapeutic horseback riding program for disabled youth

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of December to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. of Snellville, GA. The “Season of Giving” themed grant is designed to assist organizations that benefit youth, education or sports programming.

Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. is a multi-discipline therapy center that offers non-traditional therapies for children with a variety of disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and intellectual disability. One of the key non-traditional therapies is therapeutic and recreational horseback riding lessons provided through the Parkwood Farms Equestrian Program. The Parkwood Farms grounds include nine acres of riding space, a handicap accessible arena, a large outdoor arena and a wooded sensory trail.

Parkwood Farms is also the training facility for the Gwinnett County Special Olympics Equestrian Team. The center hosts year-round equestrian and athletic training giving the riders opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of friendship with other Special Olympians.

The grant awarded to Parkwood Farms will be applied to the purchase of new equipment for the Equestrian Program, including new helmets, saddle blankets, saddles and other riding gear. This new equipment will help keep therapy riders safe and comfortable for years to come.

“The grant from the Gwinnett Braves has allowed us to purchase new equipment for the horses and to expand the riders’ lending closet,” said Dr. Marilyn Peterson, Director of Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. “The riding outfits offer our athletes a way to take pride in their appearance and make a respectable presentation of their athletic abilities. The farm maintains the lending closet so the riders can borrow what they need and no one is excluded because they can’t afford the uniform.”

About Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc.:  Based in Snellville, GA and opened in May 2002, the Parkwood Farms Therapy Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of physically, emotionally and mentally challenged children and adults by offering a spectrum of therapeutic services in one safe and loving environment. To find out how you can donate your time or money to Parkwood Farms, call 678-344-6821 or visit www.parkwoodfarms.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply, call Community Relations Manager Shay Marlowe at 678-277-0346 or email shay.marlowe@braves.com.

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

Cutters Banquet raises over $5,000 for Special Olympics

Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg discussed his career and expectations for his 2014 squad at the Cutters Hot Stove Banquet
Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg discussed his career and expectations for his 2014 squad at the Cutters Hot Stove Banquet

With a star-studded guest list and a jam-packed Genetti Ballroom, the Williamsport Crosscutters 8th Annual Hot Stove Banquet was a great success while raising over $5,000 for charity.

On a cold winter night in Williamsport, Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg, third baseman Cody Asche, Phillies TV Field Reporter Gregg Murphy & Phillies front office personnel entertained attendees with stories and answered audience questions.

In talking about the 2014 Phillies, Sandberg stated, “”I think we have that talent. We do have some young players that have a chance to chip in. Ben Revere was going good last year when he got hurt. The young arms in the bullpen got a shot to get some work last year and did a good job for the final six weeks of the season. I think that’ll go a long way for us.” When asked what is goal was, he said, “I want to get to a World Series, and I want to get there more than once.”

The night, presented by Lycoming Mall, Woodlands Bank, WRAK Radio and the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, was also highlighted by live and Chinese auctions that featured a wealth of sports memorabilia including a bat and glove signed by Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz, a special breakfast with the Phillie Phanatic, jerseys signed by Sandberg and Asche and much more.

Other highlights of the event included the induction of R.D. Slingerland into the Bowman Field Hall of Fame. Slingerland has worked on the Bowman Field playing surface for more than 25 years including installing an entirely new playing surface and irrigation system in 1997.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening were donated to Lycoming County Special Olympics whose mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. At the conclusion of the festivities, Special Olympics was presented with a check for $5,150.

The Crosscutters open the 2014 season on June 13 at Susquehanna Bank Park at Historic Bowman Field. Season tickets, bonus books and group packages are currently available and can be purchased online or by calling the Cutters at (570) 326-3389.

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

Tides organization to renovate local youth field

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The Norfolk Tides today announced the return of a contest in which a local youth field will be renovated by Tides groundskeepers and front office staff. Proudly presented by Goodwill, this field makeover will include an upgrade to the playing surface and an improvement to existing dugouts, with the recipient of the makeover being determined by a fan vote on the Tides’ Facebook page.

“After the overwhelming community support we’ve received over the first two years of this program, we are thrilled to be continuing this project again” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory. “Our entire staff looks forward to helping out these worthy organizations, and we enjoy doing our part to ensure children can be proud of where they play baseball.”

Those interested in having the Tides makeover their facility should submit a picture of their field to Heather McKeating at hmckeating@norfolktides.com. Along with the photo, fans are asked to include a brief description of why their league should receive this enhancement. The deadline to submit this information is February 7, with online voting taking place on the Tides’ Facebook page from February 17 to February 21.

2014 is the third year in which the Tides will be renovating a local youth field. Over the first two years of the program, the Tides have helped renovate five local fields – Ocean View Little League (Norfolk), Smithfield Recreation Association (Smithfield), Bennett’s Creek Little League (Suffolk), Phoebus Little League (Hampton) and Shore Little League (Nassawadox).

“Goodwill is proud to get behind such an amazing program, and we know the importance of supporting local initiatives like this one” said Goodwill Community Relations Manager Danielle Cronin. “Goodwill delivers employment services to moms and dads throughout Hampton Roads every day, which we refer to as Family Strengthening. If mom and dad have the right supports in place at home, the likelihood of being and staying successfully employed is greater. Keeping kids positively influenced through a sport like baseball is critical to the success of everyone – individuals, families and communities.”

The project is made possible thanks to Goodwill and 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. Those wishing to make a donation directly to the Youth Baseball Fund can do so by clicking HERE.

The Tides open their 2014 regular season at Harbor Park on Thursday, April 3 with a four-game series against division rival Charlotte. Season tickets, group tickets, picnics and patios are currently available for the 2014 season. For pricing and additional information, stop by the Harbor Park Box Office, visit norfolktides.com or call (757) 622-2222.

 

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

Reckless Kelly & Ryan-Sanders Announce Double-Play Charity Effort

6th annual Celebrity Softball Jam & Inaugural Pitchin’ Party announced

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ROUND ROCK, TX – Award-winning roots-rock band Reckless Kelly, in conjunction with Ryan-Sanders Entertainment, announced a pair of events today that will benefit youth baseball and softball for years to come.

The duo’s signature event, Reckless Kelly’s Celebrity Softball Jam, will be held on Sunday, May 11 at Dell Diamond. Tickets for the 6th annual event go on sale this Friday, December 20 at 10AM.

RK and RSE also announced the inaugural Reckless Kelly’s Pitchin’ Party, to be held at The Belmont Austin on Tuesday, January 28th. Building off of the response received over the years through the annual Celebrity Softball Jam, RK is throwing a first-ever downtown Austin charity event in support the Reckless Kelly Charitable Youth Foundation. Reckless Kelly’s Pitchin’ Party will have celebrity guests, an acoustic show by Reckless Kelly and Friends, once-in-a-lifetime auction items, and other special surprises. Go to www.RecklessKelly.com/PitchinParty for more details and to purchase tickets.

Why the need for two events this year?

“This year we decided we really wanted to raise the bar,” said Cody Braun of Reckless Kelly. “The Mabson Field project could be a game changer for kids locally along with similar programs and leagues around the country.”

Proceeds from both events will go towards installation of an artificial turf playing surface at East Austin’s Mabson Field, a youth baseball/softball field located in the heart of one of the most under-resourced neighborhoods in Austin. The field serves boys & girls ages 4 -12 in RBI Austin and the Greater East Austin Youth Association (GEAYA). Through a partnership with AstroTurf and generous contributions from MLB’s Baseball Tomorrow Fund, the Nolan Ryan Foundation, the Round Rock Express, Ryan-Sanders Sports Turf Services and the Reckless Kelly Charitable Youth Foundation, the $270,000 project will be completed by spring 2014.

“This is a huge project, not just in terms of its physical and financial nature, but what it can do for the community,” said Reese Ryan, CEO of Ryan-Sanders Baseball. “We’ve got a great group of partners on this and it’s going to be something everyone can really be proud of.”

 

RECKLESS KELLY CELEBRITY SOFTBALL JAM

The Celebrity Softball Jam combines nine innings of fun-filled, athleticism-optional softball with a talent-packed postgame concert on two stages in centerfield.

Tickets can be purchased online at RKCSJ.org, by phone at 512.255.BALL (2255) or in person at Dell Diamond box office. Early bird tickets are offered at a discounted price of just $10 until December 31. Starting January 1 tickets will available for $20. Gates open at noon on May 11 with the softball game starting at 1 p.m. The postgame concert is slated to start at 3 p.m. with two stages.

The long list of musicians and athletes that have participated in the past include Kevin Fowler, Randy Rogers, Los Lonely Boys, Mickey & the Motorcars, Hayes Carll, Muzzie Braun, Dale Watson, Charlie Robinson, Wade Bowen, Bruce Robinson & Kelly Willis, Cody Canada & the Departed, Kyle Park, The Trishas, Midnight River Choir, Pauline Reese, Kyle Petty, Norm Charlton, Bret Boone, Kevin Millar, Eric Winston, Brooks Kieschnick, Jesse James Leija, Curtis Thigpen, Ahmad Brooks, Kirk Dressendorfer and Greg Swindell. The 2014 line-up will be announced this spring.

Led by brothers Willy and Cody Braun, the band wanted to create a signature event with friends from the worlds of music and sports combining America’s pastime and music to benefit Austin’s youth. In five years, the Reckless Kelly Celebrity Softball Jam has raised over $150,000.

The Celebrity Softball Jam is a natural extension of band members’ love of the game (and singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” in more than a dozen Major League ballparks). It was conceived by a perfect match: Reckless Kelly, whose members are keenly enthusiastic about baseball and the Round Rock Express, which had long had an interest in bringing music to Dell Diamond.

The Reckless Kelly Celebrity Softball Jam, created and produced by Reckless Kelly in conjunction with Ryan-Sanders Entertainment, is a registered 501C-3 through the Reckless Kelly Charitable Youth Foundation. Ryan-Sanders Entertainment is a division of Ryan-Sanders Baseball, owner/operator of the Round Rock Express (Texas Rangers Triple-A affiliate) and Ryan-Sanders Sports Services. They also operate Dell Diamond.

For more information on the 6th Annual Celebrity Softball Jam, visit www.RKCSJ.org.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Round Rock Express. Click here to view the original story.

Sign your little slugger up for 2014 Youth Camps!

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The Mud Hens Youth Baseball Camps are back for the 2014 season! There will be two separate three-day camps, a one-day camp for kids, an adult/child one-day camp, and a special needs baseball clinic. Details on each camp can be found at www.mudhens.com/camps. These camps will sell out, so make your reservation early to guarantee a spot!

Call 419-725-4367 with any questions or to make your registration by phone.

Click the links below to order online:

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Toledo Mud Hens. Click here to view the original story.

ValleyCats Accepting Applications for ‘4 in 24’ Youth Field Renovations

‘4 in 24’ kicks off a new season for the Community Grounds Crew, a partnership between the ‘Cats and BlueShield of Northeastern New York.

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TROY, NY- The Tri-City ValleyCats are now accepting applications from youth leagues across the Capital Region for the 4th Annual ‘4 in 24’ youth field renovations. The renovations will take place in a 24-hour time period in early April 2014, as four chosen youth fields will have new sod placed on their infield while also seeing their pitcher’s mound and home plate areas rebuilt.

The ‘4 in 24’ is the kick-off event for the Community Grounds Crew, an expanded initiative with the assistance from BlueShield of Northeastern New York. This program will undertake additional projects and renovations on numerous other youth fields throughout the spring and summer.

“BlueShield is proud to continually support the ‘4 in 24’ Field Renovations,” said Brian O’Grady, vice president, 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. Our company takes pride in encouraging children to learn the importance of making healthy choices, like playing and staying active, because we all know – Healthy Changes Everything.”

“With the continued loyal support of BlueShield of Northeastern New York, we are able to provide safe and well-maintained fields of play for the youth in our community, an initiative that is immensely important to us,” said ValleyCats Vice President/General Manager Rick Murphy.

Leagues interested in having their field considered for the ‘4 in 24’ or other Community Grounds Crew renovations must complete an application that can be found on the ValleyCats website, www.tcvalleycats.com. Leagues are required to submit photos of the field along with their application.

In order to be eligible for the ‘4 in 24’ renovation, applications must be returned by Monday, February 3. 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 2014 season. Youth leagues from across the area will take part in Youth Baseball Night tentatively scheduled for June 16 and Softball Night on June 24.

The ValleyCats’ field renovations have been an annual tradition since 2003 when the first field was officially renovated by the ‘Cats in South Troy, just one mile away from Joseph L. Bruno Stadium. Each year since, they have expanded upon its success.

Each project is also supported by the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation. Contributions come from past events such as the Capital Region Craft Brewers Festival, hosted by the ValleyCats and Brown’s Brewing Company, and two corporate baseball tournaments that take place at “The Joe” including the Battle of the Beverages and the Capital Region Series.

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

Baseball Dinner Breaks $1 Million Mark

Surpassed $1 million in total money raised during 2013 dinner

MANCHESTER, N.H. – With a retrospective video and a burst of confetti, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats announced tonight that the 2013 edition of the Granite State Baseball Dinner has pushed the event’s fundraising total beyond a milestone marker. Tonight’s proceeds, which are still being finalized, have driven the money raised by the dinner since 2007 beyond $1 million to benefit the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Museum, and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

“Since our team became involved in reviving the dinner in 2007, this event has meant so much to our organization,” said Art Solomon, Fisher Cats owner and Chairman of the Fisher Cats Foundation Board. “We are so pleased to reach this milestone, and we take pride in being able to continue the rich tradition of this dinner. We want to thank all of the celebrated guests, sponsors, and fans over the years that have joined us in making a positive impact on three incredible organizations.”

The Fisher Cats first involvement in the Granite State Baseball Dinner, now presented by Northeast Delta Dental, came in January of 2007. In 2008, the team followed up its January event with a second dinner in November, permanently shifting the state’s largest fundraising dinner to its current place on the calendar on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

Since the revival in 2007, the total funds raised by the dinner sat at $979,794.46 entering tonight. During that time, CHaD has received nearly $430,000 to support the programs at one of the world’s leading research hospitals. The Fisher Cats Foundation has received a similar amount, and it has used that money, in part, to fund scholarships to 80 college-bound seniors in New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. The Ted Williams Museum has been gifted with $125,000 to continue its mission to provide youth baseball programs and scholarships while adding to the heritage of the national pastime.

The 2013 dinner was highlighted by World Champion Boston Red Sox outfielder Jonny Gomes and New Hampshire legend Chris Carpenter, who announced the end of his illustrious career just a few days ago. Additional past celebrities have included baseball Hall-of-Famers Wade Boggs and Jim Rice, ‘Mr. Red Sox’ Johnny Pesky, renowned sluggers Cecil Fielder and Fred McGriff, and legends of the Boston sports scene including the Bruins’ Terry O’Reilly, the Celtics’ Cedric Maxwell, and the Patriots’ Steve Nelson. More than 7,200 fans have enjoyed the company of these celebrities – and many more – since 2007.

The 2014 Granite State Baseball Dinner will be held on Saturday, November 22.

Opening Day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium is Thursday, April 10, 2014, against the Binghamton Mets (New York Mets). Fisher Cats Full and Half-Season Tickets packages and Mini-Ticket Plans are on sale now. Each package comes with an array of benefits and free gifts, ranging from free birthday parties and all-you-can-eat barbecues to free ski passes and gift cards to local restaurants. To view all the ticket packages for the 2014 season, visit www.nhfishercats.com or call (603) 641-2005.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Baseball Academy to Host Holiday Clinics

December 26th – 28th at FirstEnergy Park

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Baseball Academy will host two holiday camps, each for players ages 8-13 running from Thursday, December 26th through Saturday, December 28th at FirstEnergy Park.

The Holiday Hitting Camp runs from 9 am – 10:30 am each day. This three-day program is designed to teach players the essential techniques and philosophies of hitting. Each day, players will work on pre-pitch techniques, stride, balance, grip, bat path, and hitting zones among other aspects of hitting. There will also be games to make this a fun, informative environment.

The Holiday Pitching Camp runs from 11 am – 12 pm each day. This three-day progressive program is designed to teach players the proper throwing mechanics to keep them healthy during the season. Each session will build on the previous in order to give the players a multitude of drills that they can use at home throughout the winter months to be ready to pitch when the season starts.

All camps are kept to a maximum of 16 players to allow for an intimate setting.

Registration for the Hitting Camp is $149 and registration for the Pitching camp is $129. Those that register for both can do so for $235, savings of 15%. To sign up, call Joe Agnello at 732-901-7000 ext 209 or sign up on line by clicking here.

Camps will be run by Agnello, BlueClaws Baseball Academy Executive Director, and the staff of the BlueClaws Baseball Academy Claws, the 17-under travel team. Agnello, who played Division 1 baseball, has experience coaching for MLB Player Development at the international level and has eight years of collegiate coaching experience at the Division I, Division III, and Junior College levels.

About BlueClaws Baseball Academy: BlueClaws Baseball Academy provides elite baseball instruction to youth players throughout the year at FirstEnergy Park and is fully supported by the Lakewood BlueClaws, single-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. This fall, the BlueClaws and BlueClaws Baseball Academy ran two 17-under teams, believed to be the first time that a Minor League Baseball team had their own youth teams playing home games in the Minor League stadium. 33 players from Monmouth, Ocean, and Burlington Counties participated.

– BlueClaws Baseball Academy –

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

Baseball Camp set for Thanksgiving weekend

Learn baseball from the Rams inside BB&T Ballpark

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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Nov. 11, 2013) – After a successful event last week, the Winston-Salem Dash and Winston-Salem State University are partnering to hold a three-day Baseball Camp at BB&T Ballpark from November 29 through December 1, the three days after Thanksgiving.

All participants will work with the Rams players and coaches on various baseball skills, such as hitting, throwing and fielding. All campers will also receive a t-shirt to commemorate their experience, along with a free token to The Hitting Zone. Also, lunch will be provided after Friday and Saturday’s activities.

The registration fee is $50 per day or $120 for the entire three-day camp. Here is the camp schedule:

Friday, November 29: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Saturday, November 30: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Sunday, December 1: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

To register, parents can call Brian Boesch at (336) 714-2287 (extension 1130), stop by the Dash’s front office at 926 Brookstown Avenue or fill out this form and fax it to (336) 714-2288. Payment via cash, check or credit card will be accepted, and parents must pay in advance.

The baseball camp is open to young baseball players at least five years old. Participants must bring a glove, and they are encouraged to bring their bat, too.

Full- and partial-season ticket plans for the 2014 season are on sale now, and the Dash’s schedule will be released soon. For more ticket information or to purchase Dash tickets for next season, call (336) 714-2287 or visit wsdash.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Winston-Salem Dash. Click here to view the original story.

Grand Junction wins Moss Award

Rockies affiliate captures inaugural community service honor

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Minor League Baseball announced Thursday that the Grand Junction Rockies are the winners of the first John Henry Moss Community Service Award for their ongoing commitment to charitable service and their support and leadership within the Grand Junction community and the baseball industry.

The Rockies are committed to make an ongoing annual gift to the NJCAA World Series played annually each year in Grand Junction, Colo., with a substantial monetary contribution per year that is earmarked for the capital building and remodel plan for Suplizio Field, “Home of the JUCO World Series” and the Pioneer League club. Colorado Mesa University (CMU), local high schools and many other groups also use the facility on a regular basis throughout the year. The Rockies have also made a multi-year commitment to the Mesa County School District #51 athletic program to pay for varsity uniforms for all four local high school baseball and softball teams.

The Rockies also partner with the CMU Sports Management/Marketing and Mass Communication departments to provide on-the-job training for students during the season. Each year, six students receive class credit for working as paid interns with the club. This season, another half dozen students gained valuable experience by being responsible for the entire production and video streaming of all 38 home games that were seen on MiLB.com.

Grand Junction principal owners Dick and Charlie Monfort’s monetary contribution to CMU was a key component to the construction of a performance lab built on campus. General manager Tim Ray is a member of the Community Hospital Foundation Board and the NJCAA World Series Baseball Committee. Other Grand Junction staff members serve on the committees of civic organizations as well.

The Rockies conduct an indoor baseball camp in January for local youths with professional coaches and players from the Colorado Rockies organization serving as instructors. All net monetary proceeds from the camp benefit the CMU baseball scholarship program.

Numerous other charities benefited from Grand Junction’s support in 2013 as well, including Special Olympics Colorado, Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure, Riverside Education Center, A.C. Foundation, Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra, City of Grand Junction Audubon Society, Mesa County Firefighters and the Community Hospital Foundation.

“The Rockies have fully immersed themselves into their community since relocating to Grand Junction just two seasons ago,” Pat O’Conner, president and CEO of Minor League Baseball, said. “Their numerous philanthropic endeavors with civic organizations, local high schools and Colorado Mesa University are examples of their strong commitment to give back to their community and contribute to its quality of life.”

“This honor is a reflection of the community commitment by our ownership” said Ray. “The opportunity to partner with a community that has such a rich history of baseball and has already shown such enthusiasm for Minor League Baseball is exciting.”

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

Grand Junction will receive their award at the Baseball Winter Meetings Banquet at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Fla., on Thursday, Dec. 12.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Rookie Pioneer League. Click here to view the original story.

Baseball Camp at BB&T Ballpark on October 30

Young players will learn from Rams players, coaches

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The Winston-Salem Dash and Winston-Salem State University are teaming up for a Baseball Camp at BB&T Ballpark on Wednesday, October 30, from 5-8:30 p.m.

For just $50, participants will work with the Rams’ baseball team on various skills, such as hitting, throwing and fielding. All campers will also receive a t-shirt to commemorate their experience.

To register, parents must call Brian Boesch in the Dash’s front office at (336) 714-2287, extension 1130 by noon next Wednesday. Payment will be accepted over the phone in the form of a credit card, or parents can bring cash or check to BB&T Ballpark on the day of the baseball camp.

The baseball camp is open to kids of all ages, but it is designed for players from ages 8 to 13. Participants must bring a glove, and they are encouraged to bring their bat, too.

Full- and partial-season ticket plans for the 2014 season are on sale now, and the Dash’s schedule will be released soon. For more ticket information or to purchase Dash tickets for next season, call (336) 714-2287 or visit wsdash.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Winston-Salem Dash. Click here to view the original story.