Independence Weekend a McKechnie Blast!
The Marauders' patriotic weekend kicks off Friday, July 1, with Military Appreciation Night and a chance for fans to win an all-expenses paid trip for two - including airfare from Tampa - to the MLB All-Star Game in Phoenix, AZ. Members of America's armed forces will be on hand with games and interactive activities, and any person that shows a military ID at the box office will receive our group ticket rate of five dollars. Military support group Manasota Operation Troop Support will be on hand to accept items for troops and with post cards that fans can fill out to be mailed to troops serving oversees.
Friday also hosts the Florida chapter of the ALS Association. The group will be at the game to raise awareness and visibility for Lou Gehrig's Disease - a neurological disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This disease affects nearly twice as many military personnel as civilians.
Saturday, the fun continues with a performance by America's Got Talent finalist Eli Mattson. Mattson, a vocalist and pianist, gained fame for his rendition of 'Walking in Memphis' during season three of America's Got Talent. He will perform the National Anthem, God Bless America in the seventh inning and a post-game concert. The Marauders will also host 'Bat for a Cure,' an initiative that raises awareness and support for prostate cancer.
Sunday's game, sponsored by Wells Fargo, begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be the final opportunity for fans to bid on the game-worn red, white and blue jerseys. Winning jersey auction bidders will have the unique experience of collecting their prize on-field from the player immediately following the final out. Winners can have their jersey autographed and take a photo with the player.
A Fireworks extravaganza caps the night and the Patriotic Weekend Celebration. The post-game fireworks are presented by Gold Coast Eagle Distributing and 106.5 CTQ, 12 in a Row Country. World-renowned Zambelli Fireworks will present the unforgettable post-game fireworks show.
A special three-game package - the Patriotic Package - is available for fans that would like to take advantage of the entire three-day weekend. The package is $15 and includes one ticket to all three games and a complimentary Marauders hat.
For more information, including how to purchase tickets, call the Marauders offices at 941-747-3031 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. or visit our website at BradentonMarauders.com.