By Eric Moore
In August the Indianapolis Indians hosted the First Grade Noblesville Youth Baseball at Victory Field for a real pregame treat. The youth were invited to the ballpark early to take the field and observe the National Anthem with the team they collectively refer to as “the big Indians.”
“This was a great opportunity for the kids to get up close and personal with professional baseball players,” said Eric Moore, head coach and father of youth player Jadon Moore. “The pros did a great job of welcoming the youth onto the field and making it an event to remember.”
“It was awesome! I got to give the pitcher high five and ‘knuckles’!,” Jadon said.
The Noblesville youth participated in the pregame ceremonies through the Indianapolis Indians’ Knot Hole Club kids program, which provides members multiple perks and benefits during home games.
“Since my day job is in the community relations division of PNC Bank, it is encouraging to see a professional baseball organization that we work closely with and sponsor so invested in giving back to the community. This afternoon was a tremendous experience for the kids and we look forward to coming back again next year,” said assistant coach Chip Wood, father of youth player Ethan Wood.
In 2013, the professional Indianapolis Indians won the International League West Division for the second time in as many years. The Noblesville first graders look to begin a similar streak next year – their league starts allowing teams to keep score at the second grade level.