Youth Sports – Page 37

C’s Community Corner

April 15, 2012

Have you seen Bob Brown Bear or Chef Wasabi lately?

From pipe bands to first pitches, its been a busy week for C's mascot Bob Brown Bear! — From pipe bands to first pitches, its been a busy week for C’s mascot Bob Brown Bear!

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – With spring in the air and kids from all across the Lower Mainland kicking off their Little League seasons, the Vancouver Canadians are out and about cheering on our future stars of the diamond.

This past weekend, the C’s were out in full force including stops at Vancouver Minor, South Vancouver, Trout Lake, Little Mountain, White Rock, Forest Hills and New Westminster. As well the Canadians were thrilled to cheer on our little sluggers with Challenger Baseball and out at the Children Hearing and Speech Centre.

“It’s a busy time of the year but we couldn’t be happier to get out into the community and see the excitement on all these kid’s faces,” says Vancouver Canadians Manager of Community Relations Jeff Holloway.

You can follow the Canadians around the clock at www.facebook.com/vancouvercanadians as well as on twitter at www.twitter.com/vancanadians.

If you’ve got a great photo from one of your Little League games or events, send it to us through our social media and we’d love to share it with our great fans!

The Canadians open up the 2012 home schedule on Wednesday, June 20th as we host the Tri-City Dust Devils at 7:05pm.

For ticket information, give us a call at 604.872.5232 or click on the ticket options at the top of this story.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

‘Topes Staff Begins Belen Little League Renovations

March 25, 2012

On Tuesday, March 20, the Isotopes award-winning field staff began upgrades to Belen Little League as part of “Minor League Makeover.” The staff was met by several sponsors volunteering both time and donations to the project.

The first Albuquerque Isotopes “Minor League Makeover” turned out to be a smashing success, with Belen Little League earning a field makeover by virtue of amassing the most “Likes” in the ‘Topes’ Facebook contest.

Belen got the word out early and racked up a total of 4,718 likes and 813 shares, barely holding off West Gate Little League, which accumulated 4,682 likes. The 13 fields participating in the contest ended up generating a total of 13,865 total likes and 1,515 total shares, testament to the passion the area has for Little League baseball.

The Isotopes field staff will continue refurbishment to Belen’s Little League field throughout the day on March 20th. The Home Depot has also decided to chip in on the effort, providing fences and dugout materials. The makeover is scheduled to include field surface refurbishment, outfield fence repair, and dugout renovation.

Donate to Help the Elkhart FOP Little League

March 19, 2012

South Bend, Indiana (March 19, 2012) – The South Bend Silver Hawks are asking the local baseball community to join them in efforts to help the Elkhart F.O.P. Little League recover from vandalism. Last week unknown vandals broke into the park and stole about 80% of their equipment.

The Silver Hawks announced today they are initiating a donation drive to help replace the little league’s stolen equipment. Anyone who makes a $10 donation or donates new or gently used baseball equipment will receive two complimentary tickets to see the Silver Hawks play the Dayton Dragons on Saturday, April 14. People can drop off donations of bats, baseballs, helmets, gloves and other equipment at the Silver Hawks’ centerfield box office Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The little league is in particular need of catcher’s equipment and helmets, but will be grateful for any help.

“This is one of the best ways kids can spend time in the summer,” said Joe Hart, President of the Silver Hawks. “More than 150 kids and teenagers participate in the Elkhart F.O.P. Little League, but without equipment they can’t play. Their season starts in only two months, so we want to do all we can to help. The Hawks are going to donate $500 to kick off the donation drive. We’ll deliver everything we collect directly to the league, so people can bring their equipment to the Cove and know they’re making a difference for these kids.”

The South Bend Silver Hawks are a Class A minor league team affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, IL.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Cubs. Click here to view the original story.

ValleyCats Announce Community Grounds Crew, 2nd ‘4 in 24’ Extreme Field Renovation

February 23, 2012

Cats partner with BlueShield of Northeastern New York to expand their youth field renovation initiative

SouthPaw and volunteers renovate Westland Hills in Albany during 2011 '4 in 24' program. — SouthPaw and volunteers renovate Westland Hills in Albany during 2011 ‘4 in 24’ program.

TROY, NY- As the Tri-City ValleyCats, Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, prepare to enter their 11th-season in the Capital Region, they’ve announced that they will be teaming up with BlueShield of Northeastern New York to create the Community Grounds Crew. This crew will lead the 2nd ever ‘4 in 24’ Program and also assist in renovating numerous other youth fields from April through September.The ‘4 in 24’ renovations will take place in early April, with work scheduled around the clock. In order to bring the selected fields to game ready conditions, each one will have new sod placed in their infield while also seeing their pitcher’s mound and homeplate areas re-built.

C’s In The Community

February 20, 2012

The Canadians and Bob Brown Bear were busy in our local community this past week

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – From diamonds to dining, it was another busy week for Vancouver Canadians mascot Bob Brown Bear who made stops at Mission Possible as well as registration day out at Trout Lake Little League.

Mission Possible was founded over 20 years ago and has become one of Canada’s most respected street-level initiatives helping a number of local families in need with both compassion and a loving heart on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

Bob Brown Bear’s presence at Mission Possible brought a number of smiles to young children’s faces as they enjoyed a warm meal along with their families. The Vancouver Canadians wish to congratulate everyone associated with this effort for a job well done.

Our mascot was also happy to hand out high-fives and a few hugs out at the registration for Trout Lake Little League’s upcoming season.

Since 1953, Trout lake Little League has been giving local children the opportunity to play organized baseball. With divisions for kids four through 12, Trout Lake Little League is based out of John Hendry Park (Vancouver) and is a league run completely by local volunteers.

The Canadians were proud to be out making new friends within the league and wish to thank the organizing committee for allowing us the chance to share in the excitement of the upcoming season.

Discovered in 2008, Bob Brown Bear has become one of the most recognizable faces on the Vancouver sports circuit making nearly 1,000 community appearances. If you would like to have the official mascot of the Vancouver Canadians at your upcoming event, feel free to contact us at 604.872.5232 to learn more about Bob Brown Bear’s availability.

The Vancouver Canadians return to Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium on Wednesday, June 20th to face the Tri-City Dust Devils in a re-match of last season’s Northwest League Championship. Tickets to Vancouver Canadians Baseball are available by calling 604.872.5232, or by visiting the Vancouver Canadians Box Office located at 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver, B.C.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

Owlz Support Little League Teams

February 16, 2012

As the Pioneer League affiliate of Angels Baseball, the Owlz have enjoyed a long standing tradition of excellence on the field. The Owlz have qualified for the playoffs in each of the 11 seasons the team has been in existence, and been fortunate enough to capture 4 Pioneer League Championships. Many of the fundamentals that have helped our players find success on and off the field were learned playing Little League Baseball.

The Owlz would like to help your team as they prepare for the upcoming season. As part of the special offers for your team the Owlz are proud to offer a 20% discount off your order from our online store, The Perch. The discount applies to all items in the store including sale items! This coupon code can be used by your players and also by friends and family members of your team as they help cheer on the next generation of Owlz players. To receive your coupon code, please contact Owlz General Manager Brett Crane by sending an e-mail to brett@oremowlz.com.

We also would like to feature your team on our website. Once you have taken a team photo, please send it to brett@oremowlz.com along with a brief 2-3 sentence description of your season highlighting your record and labels featuring your players and coaches.

We always love hearing about our Owlz teams from around the country. We wish you the best of luck with your upcoming season, and appreciate your support of Orem Owlz Baseball!

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

“An unforgettable moment”

February 4, 2012

Local kids steal the show at 2nd Annual Scotiabank Hot Stove Luncheon

Scotiabank's David Poole gives a high-five to a future baseball star. (Paul Yates) — Scotiabank’s David Poole gives a high-five to a future baseball star. (Paul Yates)

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, BC) – When nearly 30 young, bright-eyed children began running through the aisles at the 2nd Annual Scotiabank Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation Hot Stove Luncheon, the show had officially been stolen.

Friday afternoon, the Canadians hosted their annual Hot Stove Luncheon which featured Toronto Blue Jays President and CEO Paul Beeston who was overwhelmed by the support shown by the sold out crowd all tucked inside the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in downtown Vancouver.

“I’m speechless,” said Beeston who’s keynote address tipped largely toward his organization’s support of the Vancouver Canadians.

“What Jake, Jeff and Andy have done here in Vancouver is unbelievable. The way Vancouver has supported this team is something that should become a blueprint for other teams at any level of baseball”.

The afternoon program kicked off with Canadians owner Jake Kerr giving the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation membership his ‘State of the Franchise’ address which included his praise to the Toronto Blue Jays for delivering on their promise to make Vancouver a Northwest League Champion.

Kerr was followed by longtime friend and co-owner Jeff Mooney who gripped the sold out venue with a stirring story and introduction of the newly-formed Vancouver Canadians Baseball League, a 28-team, eight-game season built for kids between the ages of 5-10. Mooney announced that the Canadians through their Foundation would support nearly 300 local children in need each summer.

Included in the commitment is league fees, transportation, food and all equipment covered by both the Canadians and a host of corporate sponsors including Scotiabank, BC Hydro and The Sports Exchange. A number of local supporters also worked to give these children a summer to remember including Al DeGenova and the Mooney Family. Jeff Mooney and Suzanne Bolton donated $50,000.00 toward the Foundation to kick-off the afternoon.

Just before Mooney wrapped up his request to help support the VCBF, he trotted out 28 bright-eyed, excited children in full uniform all there to give our guests a high-five and ask for their support this summer.

Smiles filled the room as the kids from The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Vancouver dazzled with plenty of energy to spare and high-fives to go around to each and every guest. It was one of the most talked about elements of the afternoon.

The stage then became Paul Beeston’s who promised to keep building back in Toronto and committed to tell the story of the Vancouver Canadians who had ‘blown him away’ with what they had been able to accomplish within the community.

The afternoon wrapped up with a Live Auction that exceeded the hopes of the Canadians organization thanks to the generous support of our membership.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club, Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation and Scotiabank would like to thank each and every person associated with the Foundation for a fantastic afternoon that ensured more than 300 children from our own community got the chance to play baseball this coming summer.

For more information, please visit our Foundation page right here at canadiansbaseball.com
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vancouver Canadians. Click here to view the original story.

2011 Frisco RoughRiders Foundation Grant Recipients Announced

August 22, 2011

The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation awarded 5 grants to The Special Olympics, West Dallas Community School, Plano Children’s Medical Clinic, Buckner International and the Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco during the 2011 season.

“The RoughRiders Foundation is thrilled to award our five grants to these deserving organizations,” said Michael Davidow, Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “Each organization helps execute the RoughRiders Foundation’s mission of motivating and rewarding children and families in the areas of education, good health and community service activities.”

Each organization received a $1,000 grant from the RoughRiders Foundation to help continue its mission serving the North Dallas Community. 2011 marks the fourth year of the RoughRiders Foundation’s Grant Program and each of the five grant recipient organizations plan to use their grant in different ways.

“Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is truly grateful to the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation for the generous $1,000 grant,” said Margaret Larsen, SOTX President and CEO. “This funding will provide much-needed support to afford the opportunity for more than 400 local SOTX athletes to compete in an eight-week softball training program, followed by the chance to compete and go for the gold!”

Each organization that received a grant also received 4 tickets to a RoughRiders game and participated in an on-field check presentation.

Non-Profit Organizations interested in applying for a grant in 2012 can visit www.ridersbseball.com/foundation or contact Michael Davidow at mdavidow@ridersbaseball.com.

Frisco-Special Olympics Check Presentation Pic Web — (Left to Right) Special Olympics Texas Development Director and Program Director, Alice Brimelow and Cyndi Murchison, and RoughRiders Foundation Director, Mike Davidow.

Frisco-Grant 2 — Buckner International President, Dr. Albert Reyes and his wife tour Dr Pepper Ballpark before their check presentation.

RoughRiders Foundation Awards Five Scholarships

August 22, 2011

The RoughRiders Foundation awarded $10,000 in scholarship money to five graduating high school seniors in North Texas during the 2011 season.

The 2011 scholarship recipients are Rooks Patterson and Blake Harrell from Frisco, Mauro Santos and Arturo Gonzalez from Dallas, and Kenbea Walker from McKinney.

Each scholarship winner received $2,000 for their college education, tickets to a RoughRiders game, all-you-can-eat food and Dr Pepper products and a VIP tour before the game.

“The RoughRiders Foundation Scholarship Program is one of our biggest financial contributions of the season,” said Mike Davidow, Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “The RoughRiders appreciate the importance of getting a college education and are proud to help these outstanding students pursue their goals.”

Since the RoughRiders Foundation started their scholarship program seven seasons ago, they have awarded over $55,000 in scholarship monies to local students.

Over 270 applications were submitted by high school seniors around the Dallas and Fort Worth Metroplex. All applicants must have met the criteria of a minimum 3.0 GPA and participated in at least one athletic activity during their senior year. Winners were selected by the RoughRiders Foundation Board of Directors based on academic merit, financial need and athletic accomplishments.

SONY DSC — Scholarship Winner, Kenbea Walker (left), and RoughRiders Foundation Director, Mike Davidow.

Frisco 08-10-11 2 — Scholarship Winner, Blake Harrell, and his family.

Annual Community Events Raise Money for Ports Anchor Fund

July 22, 2011

Two very popular events for the Stockton Ports were recently held at Banner Island Ballpark. Root Beer Float Day was held on Sunday, July 10. Not only did fans get to cool down with “bottomless” root beer floats on a hot day, but the proceeds from the event went towards the Ports Anchor Fund, which in turn helps local youth centers and youth sports.

The event was sponsored by Metro PCS and all of the root beer and ice cream was generously donated by Sunnyside Farms and Super Store Industries. Metro PCS also donated all of the mugs used for the event.

Root Beer Float Day also gives fans the opportunity to interact with their favorite Ports players. Ports pitchers Scott Deal, Mike Hart, Josh Lansford, and Rob Gilliam helped out with the event by scooping ice cream and pouring root beer for eager fans. Alongside the players, the Ports had help form radio DJ Lucas from KWIN, Dinger from the Sacramento River Cats, several Sunnyside Farms employees, and of course Splash got in on the fun as well.

The Ports were also host to two sessions of a youth baseball camp. Youth camp serves a number of purposes. First, all proceeds from the camp go to the Ports Anchor Fund. Camp also gives kids, boys and girls alike, ages 5-13 the chance to learn from the pros. Campers are able to get up close and personal with the Ports players and coaches. Youth camp is all about a fun experience for the kids, but it is also organized each year to teach young kids the fundamentals of baseball. Kids look up to the Ports players, so they always enjoy learning a few new skills from them.

Session one of baseball camp was held on June 17 & 18 and session two on July 16 & 17, both from 9 AM to 2 PM. Campers started the day with a warm-up with Ports Strength and Conditioning coach Chris Borgard. After the warm-up, the kids were broken up in to six different groups, according to age. Each station was staffed with a Ports player and the kids were taught a different skill at each one. Ports Manager Webster Garrison & Pitching Coach Craig Lefferts roamed through out each station to ensure the camp ran smoothly.

Campers learned all about outfield throwing, base running, hitting, in field throwing, and pitching. The campers also got a special treat with a visit to the clubhouse. A favorite of camp was the end-of-the-day game that they played with the Ports players. The group was divided into four different teams. Two teams in left field, two in right. Each camper had a chance at bat as well as in the outfield.

Joining Webster Garrison, Craig Lefferts and Chris Borgard was Ports Hitting Coach Brian McArn. Position players Connor Crumbliss, Leonardo Gil, Ryan Lipkin, Anthony Aliotti, Michael Choice, Rashun Dixon, and pitchers Jose Guzman, AJ Huttenlocker, Connor Hoehn, Scott Deal, and Murphy Smith all helped out.

Not only did the campers receive detailed instruction and advice from the players, they were also given a camp T-shirt, were entered in a raffle to win prizes, were given a free Ports ticket, took part in our Jr. Ports program, and were provided lunch each day of camp by Subway and Pizza Guys.

If you would like any information on any of these events, or would like to donate to the Anchor Fund, please contact Community Relations Manager Margaret Sacchet at (209) 644-1900 or msacchet@stocktonports.com.

Stockton 07-10-11 1 — Ports pitchers Scott Deal & Mike Hart scoop ice cream and pour root beer for fans.

Stockton 07-10-11 2 — Ports coaches, along with former Oakland A Rickey Henderson, and University of the Pacific baseball coaches all participating in the Home-Run-a-thon.

Frisco RoughRiders Host Hoot’s Chalk Talk

July 18, 2011

The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation teamed up with the Taylor Hooton Foundation to host the the 3rd Annual Hoot’s Chalk Talk on Saturday, July 16th, at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

The free clinic was open to youth baseball and softball players between the ages of 12-15.

Donald Hooton, director of development for the Taylor Hooton Foundation, spoke to over 150 youth baseball and softball players, and their families, about the dangers of steroids.

“I was thrilled by the turn out of kids and parents to our 3rd annual Hoot’s Chalk Talk,” said Donald Hooton of the Taylor Hooton Foundation. “We fielded a lot of great questions and I feel the kids got a lot out of it.”

After Donald’s speech, Frisco RoughRiders team trainer, Carlos Olivas, and strength and conditioning coach, Eric McMahon, spoke to the group about the smart and safe way to train for athletic competition.

The second half of the event was an on-field clinic where Mr. Olivas and Mr. McMahon lead different training exercises, and RoughRiders players, Elio Sarmiento and Renny Osuna, executed baseball drills with all of the attendees.

“I’m so happy the RoughRiders Foundation hosted this event,” said Jack Brewer from Plano, whose grandson attended the Chalk Talk. “This clinic helped kids learn the right way to train and stay healthy, while trying to become top athletes.”

Frisco 07-16-11 Donald Hooton — Donald Hooton speaks to Chalk Talk attendees about the dangers of steroids.

Frisco 07-16-11 Player Drills — RoughRiders catcher, Elio Sarmiento, organizes a fielding drill on the Dr Pepper Ballpark outfield grass.

RiverDogs Team Up with Area Youngsters for HealthyPlay! Wiffle Ball League

June 13, 2011

Heathcott and Murphy instruct PlayToday! Foundation kids

Whether they make it to high school ball or the Major Leagues, everyone has memories of playing wiffle ball in the street or backyard. Members of the HealthyPlay! Wiffle Ball League had the privilege of learning some wiffle ball skills and tricks from future New York Yankees on Saturday, June 11.

Charleston RiverDogs center fielder Slade Heathcott, and catcher J.R. Murphy, tutored the youngsters in a two-hour session at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park Saturday morning.

The HealthyPlay! Wiffle Ball League (HWBL) is presented by the PlayToday! Foundation, in partnership with the City of Charleston Parks and Recreation Commission and the Charleston Miracle League. The goal of the HWBL is to provide 8-12 year old children from underprivileged backgrounds a chance to participate in an organized sports league over the summer.

“We are happy to team with the HWBL and the PlayToday! Foundation,” said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. “Part of our ‘Be Your Own Fan’ philosophy is affording each and every child a chance to grow up with the game of baseball. This is a great step in that direction, and we’re pleased our players feel the same way.”

Following the instruction, all participants capped off a memorable morning with a game, supervised by the RiverDogs’ two newly minted SAL All-Stars.

In addition to the lessons learned from being part of a team, the HWBL is designed to boost children’s self-esteem, and encourage exercise and overall physical fitness through nutritional guidance. Throughout the season, prominent members of the Charleston community will take time to address the children and answer questions about what it takes to succeed in today’s world.

Ports Hit Home Run with Challenger Little League Game

May 14, 2011

The Stockton Ports and District 8 Little League hit a home run yesterday, May 12, after hosting the first Challenger Little League game at Banner Island Ballpark. Participants from the Special Children’s Sports League took to the diamond Thursday with the Stockton Ports players for what some might say the highlight of their little league careers.

“You could just tell how much fun the kids were having,” said Community Relations Manager Margaret Sacchet. “This was the first time that we have held an event like this, and it was a huge success. I think our Ports players had just as much fun as the kids did! We are already looking forward to having another game next season!”

It was the orange Tigers versus the maroon Bulldogs, but it was all friendly competition. With on-field MC ‘Hot Rod’ on the mic introducing each batter, every child had a chance at bat with help from their buddies as well as the Ports players. Pitchers Scott Deal, AJ Huttenlocker, Dan Straily, Murphy Smith, as well as position players Rashun Dixon, Michael Choice, Max Stassi, Mitch LeVier, and Myrio Richard, took part in the event and couldn’t have been happier to be involved. When AJ Huttenlocker was told that a hug from him had made a little girl’s day, he in turn said, “No, she made mine.”

At the end of the game, everyone gathered together for a big group photo and autographs from the Ports players. This gave all the parents and families the opportunity to snap a few photos of their children with the Ports and mascot Splash.

A special ‘thank you’ to Dee Dee Martinez, District 8 Little League Administrator, for helping put the event together.

Stockton 5-13-11 1 — Ports pitcher AJ Huttenlocker hangs out with one of his biggest fans.

Stockton 5-13-11 2 — Group shot with Ports mascot Splash.

Frisco RoughRiders Players Support the Frisco Miracle League

April 27, 2011

On Saturday, April 23rd, 2011, Frisco RoughRiders players Davis Stoneburner, Elio Sarmiento, Justin Miller and Guilder Rodriguez visited the Frisco Miracle League fields to play baseball with children who had mental or physical disabilities.

The RoughRiders Entertainment Crew, mascots and various staff members joined the fun to entertain the crowd, and players, with various skits during inning breaks.

Miss Texas International 2011, Kelli Ansley, also made a special appearance at the event to sign autographs and take pictures with the kids.

“This is the 4th consecutive year we’ve had RoughRiders Day with the Frisco Miracle League,” Michael Davidow, director of the RoughRiders Foundation said, “It’s grown every year and it’s one of those special events our players can’t wait to attend.”

RoughRiders players pitched to kids, helped refine their fielding skills and signed autographs for everyone after the games.

“Frisco is very fortunate to have the RoughRiders in our city, and being a part of our community,” said Steve Johnson, Board Liason with the Frisco Miracle League, “The players, mascots and staff mean so much to our players.”

For more information on the RoughRiders Foundation, please visit, www.ridersbaseball.com/foundation.

Frisco2 04-23-11 — RoughRiders seconbaseman, Davis Stoneburner.

Frisco3 04-23-11 — RoughRiders shortstop, Guilder Rodriguez.

Frisco1 04-23-11 — RoughRiders mascot, Deuce, Miss Texas International 2011, Kelli Ansley, and RoughRiders pitcher, Justin Miller.

Sounds Connect With Hearing Impaired Children

April 25, 2011

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Three Nashville Sounds players spent part of their Monday morning at Greer Stadium as instructors for the team’s Annual Fantasy Baseball Camp for the Sylvan Park Elementary, West End Middle IB World Deaf and Hard of Hearing School, and Eakin Elementary, sponsored by Sertoma Club of Nashville.

Catcher Patrick Arlis and pitchers Justin James and Chase Wright provided hands-on instruction to a group of 35 children from the three schools.