Field of Dreams Fundraising Event a Success
The 2022 First Pitch Field of Dreams fundraiser for Catawba Baseball on February 12th was a tremendous success. The event was scheduled to align with the opening home games at the newly renovated Newman Park. Over 300 people attended the event, which raised an incredible $100,000 for Catawba Baseball. Special thanks to Shari Graham ’83, Hen Henderlite, Bill Hall ’66, and Bob Setzer ‘73 for leading this extraordinary effort. Also, a special thanks to our First Pitch Field of Dreams Committee:
- Pam Barber
- Michelle Caddigan
- Jeff Childress
- Don Don Clement
- Doug Rice
- JoAnne Faavvesi
- Dave Najarian ‘96
- Buddy Ferguson
- Coach Jim Gantt ‘89
- Tommy Readling ‘10
- Russ Weiker ‘17
The highlight of the night was having the current Catawba Baseball players, along with Catawba President Dr. David P. Nelson, walk in from the outfield just like in The Field of Dreams. A light show using the newly installed lights was a wonderful addition to the event. Watch the video.
 
Above: Catawba's current baseball players emerge from the outfield.
 
Above Left: Rev. Dr. Ken Clapp ’70 begins the event with a prayer.
Above Right: Shari Graham ’83, Coach Jim Gantt ’89, and Dr. David P. Nelson.
 
Above Left: Neil Wilkinson sang the National Anthem before the first game against Shippensburg, then sang "God Bless the USA" to open the First Pitch Field of Dreams event. Above Right:
Dr. David P. Nelson welcomes everyone to the event.
Above:Former Catawba Baseball player Bill Butts ’82 delivered the alumni remarks. His father Bobby Butts ’57 played baseball at Catawba, and his son Joe Butts ’22 is a member of the current Catawba Baseball team.
Above: Former Catawba Football and Golf coach was the keynote speaker.
Above: Shari Graham ’83, Hen Henderlite, and master of ceremonies Doug Rice listen to Coach David Bennett's remarks.
Above: Coach Jim Gantt ’89, Coach David Bennett, and Bill Butts ’82 with a check for $100,000 to help support Catawba Baseball.
Above: Coe Brier, Ron Bivens, Merionne Hunt ’22, and Mr. Gordon Hurley.
Above: Kimberly Nelson, Deirdre Blabon ‘93, Gary Blabon ‘91, Dr. David P. Nelson, and Josh Nelson ‘25
Above: Danielle Corriher, Graham Corriher, Sarah Busby, Meg Dees, Jay Dees, and Dr. Bret Busby.
Above: The Lefkos and the Smiths.
Photo credits – Emily Marcincavage ‘24
Alumni Return for Home Run Derby
An alumni home run derby was held on Friday, February 11th, 2022 at the newly renovated Newman Park. The event was organized by former Catawba Baseball player and current Catawba Athletics staff member, Russ Weiker ’17. This first-time event will continue to grow and is a very good way to get those former Catawba Baseball players back on campus.
  
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