Mike Parker: What lies ahead for the Freedom Classic? – Neuse News

Some facts and figures demonstrate the impact of the Freedom Classic on our local economy.Average attendance for the three-game series is around 2,500 per game. Between 30 and 50 parents follow teams into Kinston each year. Players, coaches, staff and parents occupy between 80 and 100 hotel rooms that weekend.

In addition to the economic impact of players, coaches and parents, between 200 and 400 people come from out-of-town to eat at Kinston restaurants.

Each year, the Freedom Classic holds a banquet and Saturday night social at Kings Restaurant on the US 70 Bypass. This year, Chris Hatcher was scheduled as the guest speaker.Hatcher is a Kinston native who played professional baseball as a pitcher with the Miami Marlins, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Oakland Athletics.

Hatcher played for Kinston High School as both a pitcher and a catcher. After graduation, he attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. He batted above .300 in his freshman, sophomore and junior seasons.

In my view, the most important aspect of the Freedom Classic is our communitys opportunity to honor and give a Thank You to our military. All active military personnel are admitted free. Retired military, military dependents, and veterans receive a reduced admission cost.

The Freedom Classic always offers stirring pre-game events designed to recognize and show appreciation for the military. This year, helicopters from New River Air Station, the F-15E Strike Eagles from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, and the Bandit Flight Team out of Raleigh were all scheduled for pre-game flyovers.

We are all disappointed this years Freedom Classic had to be canceled and the games moved. But we must never forget the purpose of sponsorships is not just to see baseball games. The true purpose is to honor and appreciate those who protect us and ensure our liberties.

Mike Parker is a columnist for Neuse News. You can reach him atmparker16@gmail.com.

See the original post:

Mike Parker: What lies ahead for the Freedom Classic? - Neuse News