Tucked away in the picturesque coastal town of Newport, Rhode Island, lies a summer baseball tradition that has been thrilling fans for over two decades. The Newport Gulls, a member of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL), have been a staple of the community since their inception in 2001, providing exciting baseball action and fostering a love of the game among local youth.
The Early Years (2001-2005)
The Newport Gulls were founded in 2001 by a group of local business leaders and baseball enthusiasts, who saw an opportunity to bring high-quality summer baseball to the Ocean State. The team began play in the NECBL, a collegiate summer league that features top-notch talent from colleges and universities across the country.
In their early years, the Gulls played their home games at Cardines Field, a historic ballpark located in the heart of Newport. The team quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to their exciting brand of baseball and commitment to community involvement.
The Move to Cardines Field (2005-Present)
In 2005, the Gulls made the move to their current home, Cardines Field, a state-of-the-art facility that features a playing surface, seating for over 3,000 fans, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The team has called Cardines Field home ever since, hosting countless games, tournaments, and special events over the years.
Notable Players and Alumni
Over the years, the Newport Gulls have been fortunate to have had many talented players don the team’s iconic blue and white uniforms. Some notable alumni include:
- Chris Dominguez, a former Gulls infielder who went on to play in the San Francisco Giants organization
- Ryan Thompson, a former Gulls outfielder who was drafted by the Houston Astros in 2014
- Nick Zammarelli, a former Gulls infielder who was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016
Schedule and League Play
The Newport Gulls play a 42-game regular season schedule, which typically runs from mid-June to early August. The team competes in the NECBL, a 13-team league that features teams from across New England.
The Gulls typically play a mix of home and away games, with weekday games starting at 6:30 PM and weekend games starting at 1:00 PM. The team’s schedule is always packed with exciting matchups, including rivalry games against the nearby Ocean State Waves.
Community Involvement and Outreach
The Newport Gulls are deeply committed to giving back to the local community. The team hosts a variety of special events and promotions throughout the season, including:
- Youth Baseball Clinics: The Gulls offer free baseball clinics for local youth, providing instruction and guidance from experienced coaches and players.
- Fundraising Nights: The team hosts fundraising nights for local charities and organizations, donating a portion of ticket sales to support worthy causes.
- Military Appreciation Night: The Gulls host an annual Military Appreciation Night, honoring the service and sacrifice of local military personnel and their families.
Conclusion
The Newport Gulls are a beloved summer baseball tradition in the Ocean State, providing exciting baseball action and fostering a love of the game among local youth. With their rich history, talented players, and commitment to community involvement, the Gulls are a must-see attraction for baseball fans of all ages.