PRESS RELEASE – One of the most popular events on the Rockland Boulders schedule returns with a promise of being bigger and better, as Irish Heritage Day comes to Provident Bank Park on Saturday, July 7.
The day’s blockbuster festivities will begin at 3:30 with a game between the Irish National Baseball Team and the Fire Department of New York’ (FDNY) team, before the Boulders take on the Quebec Capitales at 7:00. From 3 to 6 p.m., fans can enjoy 20 oz. Killian’s drafts for just $3. And after the Boulders post-game Fireworks Extravaganza, fans can head to the Coors Light Bridge Bar to see the U2 tribute band ‘U2 Nation’ makes its triumphant return to Pomona.
Team Ireland features several local players including Brian Smith from Stony Point. Smith played baseball at North Rockland High School prior to a college career at both Concordia College and Dominican College and he is now a coach at Albertus Magnus High School. Smith most recently participated with the Irish National Team in Barcelona, Spain. Another Rockland native, Pat Gorman, who lives in Pearl River, pitches for the national squad. Gorman played for and graduated from Albertus Magnus High School prior to being drafted by the New York Mets, and also pitched for the Baltimore Orioles organization. Two hopeful local candidates will spend the week trying to solidify a spot on the national team. Mike Murphy, a graduate of Clarkstown North High School, is an outfielder who played at College of Saint Rose College and Suffern native Tom Enright, who recently completed his senior season pitching at Saint Thomas Aquinas College, will attempt to gain a spot on the Irish National squad as well.
With two-baseball games, fireworks and the post-game concert on the agenda, fans can enjoy a full day at the park for the price of a single ticket.
“Last season, Irish Heritage Day was a rousing success. So this summer we decided to take it to a higher level,” said Boulders Team president Ken Lehner. “We are truly honored to be hosting the Irish National Baseball Team as part of our second annual Irish Heritage Day at Provident Bank Park. In addition to two baseball games and our Saturday fireworks spectacular, we will feature Irish food, beverages, dancing and music. Buy your tickets now and get your green on as interest is already high for this date as we anticipate a large if not capacity crowd.”
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