Minor League Alumni Association promote events
Other events will take place at the Birmingham, Lowell and Burlington, N.C., ballparks and at a reunion of former players from clubs located in Georgia, Alabama and Florida.
The Alumni Association assisted the participating organizations in locating former players for their event. Some also received financial support. The organizations will promote their events through components including public address announcements, scoreboard recognition and distribution of Alumni Association literature. Here is the list of scheduled events:
Birmingham Barons - Turn Back the Clock Game - June 22, 2006
Pawtucket Red Sox - 25th Anniversary of the Longest Game - June 23, 2006
Burlington Indians - Old Timers Game & Home Opener - June 24, 2006
Georgia-Florida-Alabama Reunion - August 4-5, 2006
Lowell Spinners - Jonathan Papelbon Night - August 17, 2006
Rochester Red Wings - 25th Anniversary of the Longest Game - August 23, 2006
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the longest professional game ever played, a 33-inning contest between Pawtucket and Rochester, which featured players such as Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs.
"We are excited to partner with the Minor League Baseball Alumni Association to celebrate this milestone event, not only for our franchise but for the game itself," stated Rochester General Manager Dan Mason. "We're thrilled to be able to host some of the players from the 1981 team, thanks to the support of the Alumni Association. Dallas Williams, who still holds the record for most stolen bases in a season by a Red Wings player, will be on hand to sign autographs pregame and we hope to announce soon some of his teammates from that season who will be joining him here that evening."
The Georgia-Florida-Alabama Reunion will take place in Moultrie, Ga.
"Working with the Minor League Baseball Alumni Association has been a great experience," said Clint Chafin, Program Chairman of the Georgia-Florida-Alabama Reunion. "Without the help of the Alumni Association, the 2006 Georgia-Florida-Alabama Minor Leagues Reunion might not take place. It is a pleasure to work with people who care about the history of the game and the men who played.
"The money that the Alumni Association provided to our reunion allows us to mail out our newsletter/invitation to former Minor League stars all over the USA," added Chafin.
About the Minor League Baseball Alumni Association:
The Minor League Baseball Alumni Association was established in 2001 to celebrate the contributions of the players, coaches, managers, umpires and front office personnel that have dedicated their time and talent to the game of Minor League Baseball. Those that helped build a solid foundation for the game's success have an opportunity to remain involved in its future.
The Alumni Association is committed to building relationships between the current Minor League Baseball family and all of the participants who once called a Minor League Baseball park home. Through these relationships, Alumni Association members can help educate future players and fans, participate in activities to promote the growth of baseball and celebrate their part in history with others who shared their dream.
Minor League Baseball has laid the foundation for the Alumni Association. With the support and participation of alumni around the country, the Association will mature into a vital and interactive part of the baseball community.
Membership is available to current and former Minor League Baseball players, coaches/managers, umpires, bat boys/girls, scouts, trainers, owners, front office and game-day staff, as well as clubhouse personnel.
PRESERVE HISTORY. CELEBRATE THE GAME. SHARE THE DREAM.
Please call Noreen Brantner at 727-456-1718 or email her ([email protected]) for more information about these events, assistance in hosting an event or to become a member.