Firebirds Fan Club

July, 2012

The Firebirds Fan Club was launched in 2011 as the focus of fund raising in support of the Orleans Firebirds Cape Cod Baseball League franchise.  In 2010, the Firebirds faced a potentially devastating financial challenge after carrying out wide ranging improvements of the Town’s Eldredge Park baseball field while enduring two seasons of poor operating results.   As of July, 2012 over $380,000 has been invested in capital improvements with the support of a $150,000 Yawkey Foundation Grant and enthusiastic support of Firebirds fans, local businesses, community-minded individuals, and local contractors….and no cost to taxpayers.  

Operating expenses in 2009 and 2010 were subpar and led to a substantial debt.  In 2010, the Firebirds Fan Club Challenge  raised over $100,000 and helped move the team toward a healthier and more stable financial position.  Debt has been reduced to a manageable level.  Every revenue-generating activity has been upgraded to provide exceptional fan entertainment and contribute to better financial results.

In addition to a superior professional baseball diamond and fan viewing area and an exceptional coaching staff and collegiate baseball players, the team has a “new” Yearbook which is second to none; a website offering great insight into every area of team activities and led by a talented team of college interns with access via Twitter, Facebook, and on line; a terrific broadcasting team with combined audio/video coverage; Special Nights and Special Events for fan entertainment; a Youth Baseball Clinic under the unrivaled leadership of Coach Nicholson and enthusiastic participation of Firebirds players…highlighting a “Run with the Birds” before one game each week at Eldredge Park; a nightly 50-50 Raffle; a team of Collectors accompanied by players to give away free autographed baseball raffle tickets to kids 16 and under….along with special keepsakes (Rally necklaces and bracelets/2012 “Rally the Birds” pins and magnets); a Home Plate Shop featuring Firebirds merchandise plus an on line merchandising store; and opportunities to meet every Firebirds player after every game and at other opportunities (Baseball Clinic/Schools/special local events).

In 2011, 625 Firebirds Fan Club donations were received.  Through June, 2012, the number of donations totals 525 with total tax deductible gifts of $61,000.  The 2012 goal is 900 donations and $90,000…… critical goals as the Town required the team to effect over $30,000 of unbudgeted capital improvements before start of the 2012 season.  The Firebirds financial challenges continue.

The Firebirds are the best and safest nighttime family entertainment from Orleans to P-Town…and the  team needs your enthusiastic fan and financial support.  Come join the fun for any and all games…. enroll your children 5-15 in the Baseball Clinic…volunteer in a variety of Firebirds activities….support our team in every way you can.  And, please support the Firebirds with a generous donation to “Firebirds Fan Club” and mail it to Orleans Firebirds, P.O. Box 504, Orleans, MA 02653.  The 2012 Firebirds Yearbook has a pre-addressed envelope in the centerfold.  Your support will make all the difference in nurturing this Orleans treasure.

Thank you.

Board of Directors
Orleans Athletic Association/Orleans Firebirds
P.O. Box 504, Orleans, MA 02653