Diamond Classic to benefit Children’s Hospital
DOWNTOWN AKRON — The baseball programs from The University of Akron (UA) and Kent State University (KSU) will team up for the Diamond Classic for Kids April 24 at Canal Park Stadium.
All proceeds from the contest between the Mid-American Conference rivals will benefit Akron Children’s Hospital.
“The Akron Children’s Hospital is pleased to be partnering with two outstanding institutions such as UA and KSU to raise both money and awareness for our children’s hospital,” said Laura Jo Hawk, director of annual programs. “Community involvement such as the Diamond Classic for Kids is vital to continuing the mission of Akron Children’s Hospital, where we treat each child as if they were our own, regardless of a family’s ability to pay.”
Both universities are hoping the Diamond Classic for Kids will become an annual event.
“Any time our players can do something for a group such as the Akron Children’s Hospital, it is a great opportunity,” said UA head coach Pat Bangtson. “We are looking forward to the game against Kent. The first Diamond Classic for Kids will be something the community can support for years to come, and our 2007 Zips baseball team is proud to get this event up and running.”
The Diamond Classic for Kids will represent the 128th meeting between the rival schools and third meeting at Canal Park. Players, coaches and mascots from both schools will visit children at the hospital in early April.
“It’s an opportunity for our fans and Akron’s fans to support their teams and, more importantly, support a great cause with Children’s Hospital,” said KSU head coach Scott Stricklin. “It’s a great rivalry game, and it’s going to be a fun atmosphere to play in a professional park.”
The Diamond Classic for Kids will be considered a nonconference contest for the two schools. The Zips will host the Golden Flashes in conference play at Lee Jackson Field May 11-13.
Game time for the event is 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youths (ages 3-17) and for UA and KSU students with valid identification. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the ticket office at either school or call (888) 99AKRON.
|
