BlueClaws Fans Will See Much New in 2011
The BlueClaws installed a new playing surface in the fall and a bright new logo mat behind home plate in early March. The new playing surface installation included removing 90,000 square feet of sod, much of which was given to fans, Little Leagues, or golf courses, and then adding new sand and dirt. Finally, 90,000 square feet of new sod was added, marking the first time the BlueClaws have re-done the playing surface since opening play in 2001.
Every fan in the ballpark will, at some point this season, get to enjoy instant replay on the 19' x 23' video board. This will be the first time the BlueClaws have offered instant replay.
"We're excited about all of our enhancements to the BlueClaws experience," said the team's General Manager Geoff Brown. "Every year, we try to make things better for the fans and we think we've done that this year."
Upstairs, the BlueClaws made a significant upgrade to the SkyBox level, turning three SkyBoxes into the Champions Club, a 50-person party room. With a décor of "great moments in BlueClaws history," the Champions Club can hold parties and business functions in a private, climate-controlled room featuring indoor/outdoor seating and an all-you-can-eat buffet. For more on the Champions Club, call 732-901-7000 option 3.
Of course, the BlueClaws will have a new South Atlantic League championship banner flying atop FirstEnergy Park. The 2010 banner, the third earned in five years, will be raised on Opening Night. A replica, along with replicas from 2006 and 2009, now hangs in the team's Wall of Fame at the first base gate.
BlueClaws picnic outings now include a southern-style barbecue buffet, featuring pulled pork, BBQ chicken, beef brisket, and more. Fans can enjoy a BlueClaws picnic in one of three areas around the ballpark. Typically used for family, friends, and business, these picnic outings include an all-you-can-eat buffet from the new-and-improved menu.
The BlueClaws have made improvements to their Kids Club. All members who utilize their free tickets to Sunday home games will receive a pass to the Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College. Kids can sign up for the BlueClaws Kids Club at www.BlueClaws.com.
Those enjoying a birthday party at FirstEnergy Park, which includes a trip on the field for the Happy Birthday song, will now sit in one special Birthday Bash section near Dr. Bernard's Kids Zone.
Last, but not least, the BlueClaws have switched ticketing vendors to Ticket Return. Those that order their BlueClaws tickets online will find a new interface with an easier and smoother buying process.
The 2011 season starts on Thursday, April 7th, when the BlueClaws raise the South Atlantic League Championship Banner.
Tickets for all 2011 home games are now on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 2 or online at BlueClaws.com.
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