Independence Day Record!
The Fourth of July always marks a festive occasion at “The Joe” . . . and 2011 was no different. 6,888 fans packed the place to help produce the second largest crowd in ValleyCats history and the largest ever for a July 4th. Fans set up blankets and lawn chairs all along the outfield berms which provided an amazing visual.
Eliza Benfer provided a great rendition of the national anthem to kick off the evening and the ValleyCats dressed the part by wearing the “Stars & Stripes” caps. Rich Anthony, from Sunmark FCU, may have taken home the “best dressed” award as one of the ceremonial first pitch representatives.
On the field, the ValleyCats seemed happy to be home and responded with a 4-0 shutout of Vermont. Jonas Dufek kept the Lake Monsters off the board through six innings with Adam Champion and Ryan Cole coming on in relief to finish the job. John Hinson and Miles Hamblin paced the offense with two hits apiece.
The ‘Cats are home again tomorrow as they conclude this brief two-game, holiday homestand. On Tuesday, the ValleyCats will team up with CSEA and the Albany VA Medical Center to pay tribute those who serve our country. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00 PM with another great fireworks display following the game. There are still limited seats available and don’t forget to arrive early for the pre-game entertainment, beginning at 5:00 PM.
Happy Fourth of July and thank you to all those who were a part of another amazing attendance mark.
Here’s a great slideshow followed video highlights of a picture perfect July 4th evening!
