The crack of the bat and cheering crowds filled the stands of Historic Dodgertown’s Holman Stadium last Saturday night, as fans gathered over their love of America’s favorite past time to honor the great Jackie Robinson.
Hot dogs and beer, peanuts and crackerjacks helped set the stage as the St. Lucie Mets defeated the Florida Fire Frogs in front of a nearly sold-out stadium during the fourth annual Jackie Robinson Celebration Game hosted by the United Way of Indian River County.
The United Way’s “Live United” mantra resonates with the beliefs Jackie Robinson held true to his heart. Robinson’s avowal, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives,” echoes the organization’s central mission.
“We are here to honor Jackie Robinson and give back to the community,” said Michael Kint, UWIRC CEO. “Proceeds from the game benefit the United Way, but that’s not what it’s about. It’s about bringing the people of Indian River County together.”
“It’s a privilege for us to be working hand in hand with the United Way to serve the community of Indian River County and Vero Beach,” said Craig Callan, Historic Dodgertown vice president. “This is the biggest day of the year for us and we always look forward to commemorating Jackie Robinson, who started his career here in Vero Beach.”
During the pregame ceremony, local youth ballplayers paraded across the field with the St. Lucie Mets’ mascot, Klutch.
Pat O’Conner, Minor League Baseball president/CEO, and Ken Carson, Florida State League president, were also on hand.
“This is hallowed ground we’re standing on,” said O’Conner. “To combine all those memories and that legacy as a reminder to the next generation of what this stands for and how many liberties we have today, as a result of trailblazing people like Jackie Robinson, Walter O’Malley and Branch Rickey, is incredible. I’m glad we could marry this special place and special time, and share it with the community.”
This year’s first pitch had a spin of its own with three first pitchers – Bill Romans from the Massey Romans Wealth Management Team of Raymond James, and Kyle and Debbie Morgan, the 2016-2017 United Way Campaign co-chairs – giving the ball a toss.
The game celebrated the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s first major league game. Robinson played for the Brooklyn Dodgers as the team began its spring training in Vero Beach, and Dodgertown became the first fully-integrated spring training site in the south. Robinson’s number, 42, was retired permanently to honor his efforts to break the color barrier in what many refer to as one of the most significant triumphs in civil rights history.
After the game, as the fireworks began to fade and the crowds left the stands, the ghosts of past players took the field; a reminder to fans that when faced with adversity, to lace up their cleats as Robinson did, and focus on the ball.
