By Rod Hirsch
SBPA Executive Director
The
Atlantic League Champion Somerset Patriots return to Somerville on
Tuesday, April 20th for their traditional Parade of
Champions to kick off the 2010 season.
The festivities will begin with an autograph session with all the
Somerset Patriots players and coaches at Borough Hall, 25 West End
Ave. at 5:15 p.m. The parade leaves Borough Hall at 6 p.m. and will
march down Main Street to the historic Somerville Courthouse. At the
courthouse steps, Somerset County elected officials, Patriots team
officials, and community members will address the crowd in a special
program designed to welcome the 2010 Somerset Patriots team and kick
off the season. Somerset Patriots Manager Sparky Lyle will introduce
the entire 2010 Patriots team during the program.
The
Patriots Parade will include several organizations marching
alongside the Somerset Patriots. Veteran groups, US Armed Forces
members, little league teams, scout troops, marching bands, fire
companies, police squads, cheerleaders, non-profit groups, mascots,
and partners of the team will march with the team.
“The parade is one of those special events that have become a
pre-season tradition for us. It’s a great opportunity to meet all of
our coaches and players, but more importantly, to recognize some
great community organizations that march alongside our team. I know
our fans look forward to the Parade each year,” said Patrick McVerry,
President/ General Manager of the Somerset Patriots Baseball Club.
The
Somerset Patriots are members of the Somerville Business &
Professional Association.
Following the parade, fans will be able to meet and greet players at
restaurants throughout Downtown Somerville.
Groups interested in participating in the parade should contact the
Somerset Patriots at (908) 252-0700.
Winners of five Atlantic League Championships the Patriots will defend their 2009 title at home beginning April 30. Game time is 7:05 5p.m. Tickets are on sale for the home opener at TD Bank Ballpark, Bridgewater. For more information, call (908) 252-0700 or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.