The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have announced their new Presenting Sponsor for the 2010 season, Civista Health Foundation. The hospital, located in LaPlata, MD will be the team’s chief charitable partner for the foreseeable future. The step to this partnership is a logical one for Civista, who was already one of the organization’s Founding Partners. The combined logo pictured above will also be the Blue Crabs main mark for the upcoming season. 2010 will be the Blue Crabs third season of play at Regency Furniture Stadium.
The new partnership is designed specifically to raise financial support and awareness for Charles County’s only not for profit hospital. Through the partnership, Civista will be taking advantage of unique promotional events the stadium and the Blue Crabs provide, including five “Civista Health Nights” for Blue Crab home games, access to skybox suites rentals for home games, signage throughout the ballpark, a 5K walk/run, a golf tournament, and plans for a 2010 World Cup Soccer Fan Fest Celebration on June 12 at the stadium. Complete details about the activities of the partnership will be available on Civista’s website on April 1. (www.civista.org.)
“This is a natural match, two of the most successful and charitable operations in Charles County joining forces,” said Southern Maryland Blue Crabs General Manager Chris Allen. “Both Civista and the Blue Crabs are community oriented first and foremost, so it’s terrific we are able to partner with them to help each other meet our goals,” Allen continued.
As part of their commitment throughout the season, the Blue Crabs will also hold three separate game worn jersey auctions, to raise funds for the hospital. The special jerseys, themed with that night’s promotion, are worn by each player then handed to the highest bidding fans at the conclusion of the game—literally right off the player’s back. Such events have proven to be immensely popular with fans, and are among the most successful fundraisers. During the 2009 season alone, roughly $15,000 was raised through game-worn jersey auctions.
Foundation Board Chairman Gary Simpson knows the fundraising opportunities like the jersey auctions are just a part of the overall partnership, and invites the community to get involved this season. “We’ve got sky suites that the community can rent for a night, and opportunities to partner with us on our feature nights right on the concourse,” said Simpson.
“We are excited about this partnership and the chance to utilize the season to increase the visibility of the hospital to all attendees at the stadium,” added Civista President and CEO Noel Cervino.
The Blue Crabs 2010 home opener at Regency Furniture Stadium is Friday, April 30 at 7:05 p.m. against the Long Island Ducks. The first “Civista Health Night” of the season is a night later, on Saturday May 1. First pitch that evening is scheduled for 6:35 p.m.