JERSEY SHORE – “BlueClaws baseball is for everyone,” is the message BlueClaws wants to spread throughout to all its fans, celebrating with their second Pride Night being held on June 4.
In 2019, BlueClaws held their first Pride Night, presented by Coca-Cola, with a sold-out crowd at FirstEnergy Park. Although the second Pride Night in 2020 was cancelled due to the pandemic, the BlueClaws are excited for it to return for 2021.
“We consider ourselves to be a very open and inclusive organization and proud member of the community,” BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti said. “We want to show the LGBT community that they are, and always will be, welcome at BlueClaws games!”
“It seems so simple – players should be judged on their athletic ability – not by who they love or how they identify. Unfortunately, the sports world can often be the deepest, darkest place in the closet. That’s why Garden State Equality is proud to partner with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws on their annual Pride Night – an evening that sends a message of positivity to LGBTQ people and their families,” Christian Fuscarino, executive director of Garden State Equality said. “You have to imagine how inspiring it is for all those young kids sitting in the stands – who might be gay or transgender – when they look up and see their home team saying: ‘It’s okay to be who you are. We support you.’ That’s life changing.”
Pride Night will consist if a special BlueClaws Pride Night cap giveaway for the first 1,500 fans that will be handed out beginning when the gates open at 6 p.m. At 7:05 p.m., the first pitch will be thrown against the Brooklyn Cyclones, affiliate of the New York Mets, and fans are encouraged to stay for post-game fireworks. Special jerseys will also be worn by the BlueClaws and will be auctioned off during the game.
The BlueClaws will run a panel discussion with Christian Fuscarino of Garden State Equality and Joe Votruba of NJ 101.5 on the 1,857-square foot video board before the game. Aziza Callahan, a Garden State Equality member, will sing the National Anthem.
Additional resources will be made available for fans at the game. Those interested in attending the night or partnering with the BlueClaws are encouraged to email pridenight@blueclaws.com.
