LANCASTER, PA — A testament to their innovative spirit and commitment to community engagement, the Lancaster Stormers have been honored with the 2024 Atlantic League’s Ken Shepard Award for Promotional Excellence. This prestigious accolade, named in memory of Ken Shepard, a revered baseball executive who left an indelible mark as the Bridgeport Bluefish’s general manager before his untimely passing in 2014, celebrates the Stormers’ unique ability to captivate and connect with fans through creative promotions.
The crowning achievement for the Stormers this season was the record-breaking Stadium Showcase, which attracted an astounding 8,636 spectators for a regular-season game on June 27. This event not only set a new attendance benchmark but also highlighted the Stormers’ ability to draw fans into the electrifying atmosphere of baseball at Clipper Magazine Stadium.
The Stormers’ promotional prowess is founded on a robust three-pronged strategy that weaves community involvement into every aspect of their game day experience. Each night of the week is infused with distinct promotional themes, ensuring there’s something special for everyone. Tuesdays invite seniors with the A & E Audiology Silver Stormers, while Wednesdays showcase canine companions on AAA Central Penn Wet Nose Wednesdays. Thursdays are dedicated to honoring the military, presented by Rhoads Energy, and Fridays are all about fun, courtesy of WellSpan Health. The excitement continues into the weekend with Penn Medicine/LGH Fireworks Saturdays and Penn State Health “Superhero” Sundays, where young heroes facing health challenges are celebrated alongside kid-designed jerseys.
Adding to the Stormers’ promotional success are the vibrant themed nights that spice up the season. School Spirit Nights, sponsored by Saint Joseph’s University, foster school pride across Lancaster County. Youth sports and community identities are celebrated with events like the Lebanon County weekend, where the team temporarily adopts the moniker Ironmasters. Special nights also include festive Christmas and Halloween themes, and mesmerizing performances by talents like Tyler’s Amazing Balancing Act and Steve Max, the Simon Sez master. Notably, the Harry Potter Night enchanted fans with a spectacular laser light show, while a helicopter beef stick drop from Seltzer’s Meats added a whimsical twist to traditional candy drops.
The game-day experience is further enriched with dynamic in-game promotions. From engaging game show antics by Gochnauer Appliances to enticing giveaways like Nothing Bundt Cakes vouchers for bunt singles, every visit to Clipper Magazine Stadium promises unforgettable memories for fans of all ages.
The significance of winning the Ken Shepard Award lies not just in the honor itself but in the affirmation of the Stormers’ dedication to creating an immersive fan experience that transcends the game. “We appreciate the recognition from our peers on the Shepard award,” expressed Mike Reynolds, Stormers’ president and general manager. “We have a talented group of employees who work hard to create great promotions. And we are fortunate to have our fans who are engaged nightly in these promotions.”
The Lancaster Stormers’ victory in securing this award is a reflection of their relentless pursuit of excellence in fostering community bonds and enhancing the baseball experience. It’s a nod to their legacy of innovative spirit and a love for the game that resonates deeply with fans, both old and new, ensuring that baseball in Lancaster remains a cherished tradition.
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