Tucked away in the picturesque coastal town of South Kingstown, Rhode Island, lies a summer baseball tradition that has been thrilling fans for over a decade. The Ocean State Waves, a member of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL), have been a staple of the community since their inception in 2004, providing exciting baseball action and fostering a love of the game among local youth.
The Early Years (2004-2007)
The Ocean State Waves were founded in 2004 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 Waves played their home games at Old Mountain Field, a historic ballpark located in Wakefield, Rhode Island. The team quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to their exciting brand of baseball and commitment to community involvement.
The Move to Old Mountain Field (2008-Present)
In 2008, the Waves made the move to their current home, Old Mountain Field, a state-of-the-art facility that features a playing surface, seating for over 1,500 fans, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The team has called Old Mountain Field home ever since, hosting countless games, tournaments, and special events over the years.
Notable Players and Alumni
Over the years, the Ocean State Waves have been fortunate to have had many talented players don the team’s iconic blue and white uniforms. Some notable alumni include:
- Ryan O’Rourke, a former Waves pitcher who went on to play in the Minnesota Twins organization
- Eric Cantrell, a former Waves infielder who was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2014
- Tyler Gambardella, a former Waves outfielder who was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016
Schedule and League Play
The Ocean State Waves 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 Waves 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 Newport Gulls.
Community Involvement and Outreach
The Ocean State Waves 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 Waves 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 Waves host an annual Military Appreciation Night, honoring the service and sacrifice of local military personnel and their families.
Conclusion
The Ocean State Waves are a beloved summer baseball tradition in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, 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 Waves are a must-see attraction for baseball fans of all ages.