The Cougar Baseball On Deck Campaign is set to feature a notable alumnus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) who spent 14 years in Major League Baseball, alongside the voice of the Cleveland Guardians, for an event aimed at supporting MVNU's baseball team. The event will take place on January 18, 2025.
According to Mike Cheek, MVNU executive director of Major Gifts and a baseball alumnus, "MVNU baseball has a rich history of quality baseball on the field and quality relationships, experiences, and memories off the field." He added that while there are many wins and championships, there are even more alumni making significant contributions in various sectors such as homes, communities, businesses, and churches. "This project and this event celebrate this wonderful alumni family and tremendous history of our program," Cheek said.
The news release from MVNU indicates that alumnus Tim Belcher will be joined by Tom Hamilton, the voice of the Cleveland Guardians, with Mark "The Shark" Howell from 97.1 The Fan serving as emcee. Belcher and Hamilton are expected to share career highlights during the evening. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a live auction featuring unique experiences like an in-booth Cleveland Guardians radio experience with Hamilton. Other auction items include MVNU baseball memorabilia, MLB autographed collectibles, an Amish Country experience, Columbus Blue Jackets tickets, among others.
Tickets for the event are priced at $200 each and include a gourmet dinner. Tables accommodating eight people can also be purchased. All proceeds from the event will support the On-Deck campaign for Cougar baseball. The campaign aims to enhance baseball facilities through renovations including a clubhouse upgrade, new stadium lights, a new entry plaza with press box facilities, ticket windows, concession stands, and improved stadium seating.
For more information about the program or to purchase tickets, interested parties are directed to visit mvnu.edu/on-deck.
