It was “Natick Night” at Polar Park May 20. 

Over the course of the 2022 season, the WooSox are hosting 18 “Town Takeover” games, during which they spotlight a city/town from Central or Western Mass during pre-game ceremonies. 

The team was thrilled with the support they received from the town of Natick and many of its proud residents. It was a sellout crowd!

During pre-game ceremonies at every home game, the team recognizes a nonprofit organization doing excellent work in the community as the “Heart of Worcester.” At the Natick Night celebration, they honored the Redhawk Foundation, which enhances the experience for all Natick youth sport participants by providing financial support, upgrading equipment, and improving fields and facilities. 

Specifically, they honored the founder of the Redhawk Foundation, Peter Warren.

As the “Hometown Hero,” they honored Rick Jennett, a longtime Natick resident whose love of his town has led to more than 22 years of service, between Natick’s Finance Committee and Select Board. 

The team welcomed more than 500 youth athletes of all ages and sports to Polar Park, including more than 250 Natick Little Leaguers.

Natick Little Leaguer Alan Steinman (14) threw a Ceremonial First Pitch.

After every Friday home game, fans enjoy Unibank Fireworks. On behalf of Unibank, Natick resident Teddy Dupuis (11) threw a Ceremonial First Pitch. Accompanying him was his aunt, Christine Stickland, who owns Christine Strickland Photography.

Patrick Pass was in attendance to throw a Ceremonial First Pitch and meet with fans in the Sherwood’s Diner during the game. Pass helped the New England Patriots win their first three Super Bowls, and as head coach in 2021 he led the Massachusetts Pirates to their first- Indoor Football League Championship. He is now the director of football personnel with the Pirates.