Here comes the Cavalry, charging into new era of local sport

Canberra’s home baseball team has big plans for this summer season, with more than a dozen themed game days and evening celebrations ready to excite and entertain fans from across the ACT.

Following the Canberra Cavalry’s recent licence extension with the Australian Baseball League (ABL) and Baseball Australia, general manager Ciaran O’Rourke says a new era of local baseball beckons.

“We’ve worked hard and are ready to hit the ground running this season with a fresh take on the gameday experience for our loyal fanbase to enjoy,” he said.

“We look forward to welcoming plenty of new faces and introducing them to the rich history, strong partnerships and passionate competition fostered by our sport.”

Visitors to MIT Narrabundah Ballpark can expect a couple of thoughtful changes this season, including a refresh of Sarge’s Saloon, an exclusive entertainment marquee nestled along the 3rd baseline, and new first-class ticketing options for the Bunker Boxes featuring premium seating and table service.

“Kids get in free on Sundays, and we’ve also organised games and entertainment along the concourse for them, including a pitching challenge,” Ciaran says.

“We’re fostering a more robust atmosphere between innings, with on-field entertainment and an opportunity for fans to run the bases during the 7th inning.

“Gone are the days when you show up to a game and just spend it with the family in uncomfortable seats. Narrabundah Ballpark is such a great location – we plan to take advantage of that by showing off a broader offering and activities for everyone.”

Carrying through all five home series and into mid-January, activities for the coming season include:

Opening Day on 23 November kick starts the season with a Thanksgiving theme to celebrate the US’s long history and love of baseball.

The Bushrangers’ 30th Anniversary will be celebrated on 24 November. Cavalry players will pay tribute to their predecessors, three decades after Canberra’s original team stood on the pitch.

Asia Series 10th Anniversary hosts a viewing party on 25 November to celebrate when the Canberra Cavalry became the only Australian team to win the international Asia Series competition.

Country Night makes its debut on 2 December, complete with themed music, merch and decor. Country costumes and bush fashion are encouraged!

Korea Night on 14 December will feature a visit from the Korea Baseball Organisation’s Kia Tigers alongside tasty Korean food and K-pop.

Japan Night on 15 December will host Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiro Suzuki and welcome Japanese players.

USA Night follows on 16 December to highlight the ABL’s relationship with American baseball and acknowledge US sportspeople who have travelled to play for the Canberra Cavalry this season.

Planning to show that there’s more to Canadian sport than ice hockey, Canada Day is on 17 December.

Christmas Day will be celebrated on 23 December, giving Canberra a chance to visit Santa, donate to the gift tree and support local charities a few days early.

First Responders Night starts 2024’s celebrations on 11 January, placing a well-earned spotlight on Canberra’s police officers, paramedics and firefighters.

CBR Sports Night on 14 January recognises the value of playing sport – no matter what kind. All sporting communities throughout the ACT and its surrounds are invited to fuel some healthy competition and meet their peers from across the field.

Other events for the 2023/2024 season include Latin Night, Pride Night, Baseball Canberra Club Night and Indigenous Night. Contact the club to find out more.

Scope out Sarge’s Saloon and Bunker Boxes hospitality packages, upcoming events, game schedules, memberships, and more on the Canberra Cavalry website, or grab your tickets and come along to a home game at MIT Narrabundah Ballpark.

Original Article published by Morgan Kenyon on Riotact.