Bulls Launch Anti-Bullying School Program

The International League Champion Durham Bulls have announced the launch of "Bully Busters," an anti-bullying program aimed at raising awareness for a priority issue in local elementary schools. Utilizing the star power of beloved mascot Wool E. Bull, the Bulls will provide free school assemblies and incentivize students with the goal of making a strong impact in the fight to stop bullying before it starts.

Developed with the assistance of Durham Public Schools administrators, the Bully Busters program will kick off this month and run through the end of March in DPS elementary schools. Each assembly will star Wool E. Bull, who will engage students in recognizing bullying behavior and exploring what to do should they witness or experience bullying.

At the conclusion of each interactive assembly, students will be asked to take the "Bully Buster Pledge" at home with their families. Students who do so will be rewarded with two complimentary tickets to a select Bulls game this spring. The Bulls will also provide teachers and counselors with a take-home activity book for students, further reinforcing the importance of the anti-bullying message. 

Bully Busters also draws content from Capitol Broadcasting Company's "Character Matters" initiative, which works in conjunction with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

"This is a fun program that will catch our elementary students' attention. It's exactly the kind of community involvement our students and schools need," said Hugh Osteen, DPS interim superintendent. "Our staff worked with the Durham Bulls to ensure that 'Bully Busters' is aligned with our existing programs to prevent bullying and teach our children to respect themselves and others."

"We are thrilled to launch the Bully Busters program here in Durham and look forward to growing it throughout the Triangle in subsequent years," said Bulls General Manager Mike Birling. "This is an incredibly serious issue and the more children we can reward for taking the Bully Buster Pledge, the better."

School administrators interested in booking a Bully Busters assembly can contact Nicholas Tennant at 919.687.6502 or [email protected].

The Durham Bulls open their Governors' Cup title defense at the newly renovated Durham Bulls Athletic Park on April 3, 2014 versus the Gwinnett Braves. Season Ticket and Mini Plan packages for the 2014 season, which include the ability to secure Triple-A All-Star Game and Home Run Derby tickets, can be purchased by calling 919.956.BULL or visiting durhambulls.com.