FlyersFest offers baseball fans sneak peek at spring
If baseball fans have ever needed an early shot of spring, it's now.
The Schaumburg Flyers are offering temporary relief from the frigid cold and endless snowfalls at their annual FlyersFest Sunday.
Manager Steve Maddock will be joined by some of this year's players, team mascot Bearon and "America's Sports Magician" Jeff Scanlan at Eaglewood Resort and Spa in Itasca.
Maddock, returning for his second season as manager, said he's looking forward to meeting the fans and players before the season -- even if it means leaving the warmth of his home in Arlington, Texas.
"I don't like the cold weather, but I like going there and talking with the fans," Maddock said. "I know a lot of the players who'll be there. I think it's perfect timing."
Though Maddock has been with the Flyers for only a year, he's been involved with baseball for the past 15. He remembers last year as being distinctly unsuccessful, but sees signs that pattern won't be repeated.
"It was a tough year. It wasn't what I expected," Maddock said. "This year, I'm putting a little more investigation into the players. I think it's no secret that we had some problems in the clubhouse last year."
One aspect of last season that's still up in the air is the "Fan Club" online reality show that followed the players' lives on and off the field.
Maddock said he'd have no reservations about that returning this year, as he felt it had no effect on the players' performance on the field.
Activities at FlyersFest include the Pepsi Inflatable Speed Pitch, a silent auction, raffle prizes and a goodie bag for all youngsters.
FlyersFest is not only a time for fans to get autographs and buy tickets for the 2008 season, but it's also an opportunity to sign up for various kids' programs.
These include programs for youth baseball teams and girls' dance teams to be part of a game at Alexian Field for $210 per team. There's also Bearon's Kids Club for those 14 and under, which costs $25 per child and includes a baseball clinic on July 12.
More information about these programs can also be obtained by calling (847) 891-2255, ext. 110, or visiting flyersbaseball.com.
This year's season begins May 15 with a 6:20 p.m. home game against the Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks.
If you go
When: 1 to 3 p.m., Sunday
Where: Eaglewood Resort and Spa at 1401 Nordic Road in Itasca
Tickets: Advance tickets are available for $5 by calling the Flyers at (847) 891-2255. Tickets will be $7 at the door.