The University of Akron Athletics
Baseball Gets Clipped to Support Akron Children's Hospital
May 15 | Baseball
AKRON, Ohio – The University of Akron baseball team took on a different look Monday, all in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Akron Children's Hospital's School Health Program.
In conjunction with Thursday's Diamond Classic for the Kids baseball game against rival Kent State at Canal Park, members of the team shaved their heads to show support for those battling illnesses and raise awareness for the hospital.
"Playing collegiate baseball at The University of Akron gives our student-athletes an enormous opportunity to do something good in our community," first-year Akron coach Rick Rembielak said. "It's a privilege for our guys to be able to do their part and help the Akron Children's Hospital."
The UA baseball program presented the hospital with over $7,800 in donations prior to Monday's event, while Kent State brought in over $1,700. Over the past five years the Diamond Classic for the Kids has raised $56,349 for the school health program.
"The Diamond Classic has become a spring tradition and a great representation of the many ways local community organizations support Akron Children's Hospital," said Sara Lundenberger, special events coordinator at Akron Children's. "It's inspiring to see The University of Akron and Kent State University baseball teams come together to give back to the patient families who are served by the hospital."
Akron Children's School Health Services supports the academic success of children through health promotion, education and child advocacy. Additionally, School Health serves as a liaison among school staff, family, community and healthcare providers. Akron Children's pediatric registered nurses work closely with school staffs to ensure a comprehensive school health program is in place. In 2011, School Health staff had 309,378 clinic visits in 117 schools throughout the region. Additionally, 71,113 medications have been administered to students so far this school year.
The Diamond Classic for the Kids is scheduled for Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Canal Park. Tickets are $5 and all proceeds from the game will go directly to the Akron Children's Hospital.
