Lakewood BlueClaws: Welcome

BlueClaws fit locally in providing great entertainment at bargain prices

LAKEWOOD, N.J. – According to a recent NBCSports.com article, Minor League Baseball is the top family value destination in the sports world, finishing ahead of other minor league sports, like football and hockey, and small college and non-revenue sports at bigger schools.

The writer, Bob Cook, describes the setting as “a place where you can enjoy a game and enjoy your kids enjoying the picnic-like atmosphere.

Cook set out to find the best “affordable ways to get your sports fix” and settled on Minor League Baseball as his number one option.

Cook’s opinion is one that has been confirmed by fans across the country over the last several years, as affiliated clubs of Minor League Baseball set a single-season attendance record for the fifth straight year in 2008. Last year, the sport, for the first time, eclipsed the 43-million fan mark, and there was an increase of over 450,000 fans compared to the 2007 season.

“Each of our host communities and teams should be proud of the job we do to provide this great game to the greatest sports fans in the world,” said Pat O’Conner, the President of Minor League Baseball.

Locally, the Lakewood BlueClaws have been the most popular destination for New Jersey baseball fans since the team’s inception in 2001. The BlueClaws provide affordable entertainment for fans of all ages, and special discounts and benefits for package holders and group leaders.

“We’ve always felt that Minor League Baseball should be at the top of a list like this,” said BlueClaws General Manager Geoff Brown. “It’s always nice to see major news organizations agree.”

The BlueClaws also annually have one of the top promotional schedules in the country, featuring Fireworks Fridays, entertainers like the Phillie Phanatic and ZOOperstars, and giveaways ranging from bobble-head dolls to light-switch covers.

Twenty-five former BlueClaws have reached Major League Baseball, including 2006 NL MVP Ryan Howard, and reigning World Series MVP Cole Hamels.

The Lakewood BlueClaws welcomed 425,166 fans to FirstEnergy Park during the 2008 season which upped their eight-season total to 3,595,378.  They have led the South Atlantic League in average or overall attendance in each of their eight seasons. 

For more information call 732-901-7000 or visit the BlueClaws website at www.BlueClaws.com.

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