Bowman named Community Service Award Winner

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Dallas Braden Community award will be presented to Ports pitcher and Florida native Josh Bowman during a pre-game ceremony on September 2 (gates open at 5:05 p.m.). First pitch against the Visalia Rawhide will follow at 6:05 p.m. Bowman has been a leader in the community since his time with the Ports began in April. Bowman has accumulated approximately 15 hours of community service through out the entire 2012 season. Josh participated in sponsor appearances, Education Day, the Challenger Little League game, Fish with a Port, Pink Night, and other events involving the Stockton community.

The Dallas Braden Community Award is named after former Ports pitcher and current Oakland A's pitcher Dallas Braden, who is known for his strong community efforts for his hometown of Stockton. This award will honor the community efforts of a Ports player each season. The award was created in 2009 and was first given to former Ports first baseman Steve Kleen. Braden stays true to his roots and continues to give back to the community through is childhood Little League, Hoover Tyler. He has set up a sponsorship program and every season sponsors a child who plays for Hoover Tyler and is being raised by a single parent. He provides the child with a uniform, equipment, league fees and photo package.

"Josh has been a pleasure to work with during the 2012 season," said Ports Community Relations Manager Margaret Sacchet. "His kindness and giving manner really resonated with the fans. He always had a positive attitude and he took pride in participating in events around the Stockton community."

Bowman was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 10th round of the 2010 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Tampa. On July 9th he was awarded the CAL Pitcher of the Week.

"Serving the community of Stockton has been such a great experience," said Bowman. "So many come out and support us every night, it's the least we can do to go and support our city. Christ served me by going to the Cross on my behalf. It's that grace that spurs me on to serve those around me."

To learn more about the Ports Anchor Fund and how you can be involved in the community, visit the Ports website at www.stocktonports.com .