Opening Day 10th Anniversary Celebration Highlights 2013 Promos

MANCHESTER, N.H. - With Opening Day just nine weeks away, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, unveiled a celebratory kick-off to their tenth season in the Queen City.  On April 4, 2013, the team will open its tenth year with a flurry of activities and mementos to honor its time in Manchester.  Highlighting that first game is the return of the original uniforms worn during the inaugural season in 2004.  Fans will also be treated to additional 10^th Anniversary recognitions, including a commemorative ticket for the first five thousand fans entering the stadium and a new plaque to honor fans who have been Season Ticket holders since the franchise's inception.
 
The unveiling of the Opening Day festivities, and the entire 2013 promotional schedule, ushers in the start of individual game ticket sales for Opening Day, and all other games in April and May, beginning Friday, February 1.
 
"We cannot wait to open our tenth season in grand style on Opening Day," said Rick Brenner, Fisher Cats President.  "Our fans welcomed us into their state on day one, and we look forward to honoring their commitment with a special night on April 4, sparking what we hope is our most memorable season for our fans and their families."
 
The 10^th Anniversary season opener highlights a full slate of promotions that features fan favorites - 29 Atlas Fireworks shows - as well as new ideas that showcase each Fisher Cats game as New Hampshire's best entertainment value.  On Saturday, April 20, fans will be treated to all the hamburgers, hot dogs, and nachos they can eat during All-You-Can-Eat Day presented by Rock 101 and Greg & The Morning Buzz.  On two dates in May - May 4 & 24 - fans will receive one free ticket with the purchase another ticket.  All kids will get in free courtesy of Hannaford Supermarkets on June 24 and July 22.
 
Red Sox fans will get to see some of the top prospects of their favorite team a total of 14 times in 2013.  The Portland Sea Dogs visit Manchester on four occasions, beginning May 14-16. The Sea Dogs return for their lone weekend series from June 27-30 followed by a three-game set in mid-July.  During their final visit August 26-29, the 'Splendid Splinter', Ted Williams, will be presented to the first 1,500 fans in bobblehead likeness on August 27.  Two other Red Sox legends will also be given to fans on select dates - Johnny Pesky (June 2), courtesy of Northeast Delta Dental, and David Ortiz (June 12), presented by Easter Seals.
 
Fans entering the ballpark on other days will receive giveaways including fleece blankets, caps and t-shirts, and player card sets and posters.  A series of kids' giveaways features jerseys, mini bats, batting helmets, gloves, tin lunch boxes, footballs, and Pillow Pets.  Kids can also run the bases after every Sunday contest.
 
Students who complete the Fisher Cats Reading Challenge will receive recognition at a handful of games, courtesy of the Community College System of New Hampshire.  Additional dates will recognize kids who complete the Northeast Dental Dental Oral Health Challenge in conjunction with their local dentist.  Five games have been designated for weekday matinee start times - three EnergyNorth Propane Educational Days spread over April and May, and a pair of Whale's Tale Camp Day/Splash Day games in the summer.
 
The Fisher Cats will be home once again for multiple holiday weekends, highlighted by a 4^th of July fireworks spectacle.  On Memorial Day, all active and veteran military receive free admission courtesy of BAE Systems.  Families can play catch on the field after the game on Father's Day.
 
Action-packed themed games include Coca-Cola College Night (April 8), Regional Chamber of Commerce Mixer Nights (April 9 & 24, May 7), Law Enforcement Night (June 2), Scout Night Sleepovers (June 14, August 16), Faith & Family Nights (June 29, August 9), Healthcare Appreciation Night (July 25), WMUR 'Play Ball for CHaD' Night (August 8), Granite State Ride (August 18), and Fan Appreciation Night (August 29).  AutoFair will award a high school senior with a new car on Make the Grade Night on Friday, May 31.  Fans can also win prizes every Saturday night by playing free USA Subs Baseball Bingo.
 
Individual tickets for April and May games go on sale on Friday, February 1, but the best way to enjoy great benefits and premium seat selection now is by purchasing Full and Half-Season Tickets or Mini-Ticket Plans.  Benefits include free birthday parties and monthly barbecues, invitations to exclusive events, and free gifts like ski passes and gift cards.  To see the full list of benefits and gifts with each plan visit www.nhfishercats.com or call (603) 641-2005.  Opening Day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium is Thursday, April 4 against the Reading Fightin Phils (Philadelphia Phillies).