It was perfect weather for a baseball game last Wednesday as students from across Buncombe County Schools crowded into the Asheville Tourists stadium during Education Day.
Under sunny skies, the kids held up souvenir bats and balls; munched on hotdogs, popcorn, and Philly cheesesteaks; and cheered as the Tourists beat back the Greenville Drive’s early 2-0 lead to clinch an 8-4 victory. BCS Beginning Teacher of the Year Mikayla Wright threw the first pitch as her Clyde A. Erwin Middle School students proudly watched.
“I was definitely nervous to throw the first pitch,” Ms. Wright said. “But I really am glad that I was able to give the kids the experience of going to the baseball game and seeing their teacher be the one to throw it.”
The trip was a reward for students who did their classwork and made good decisions at school, she added. That added a sense of pride and excitement to the trip, and they enjoyed cheering on the local team.
“The Tourists host Education Days to celebrate students, teachers and faculty members as they near the end of another great school year,” said Tourists Promotions Manager Alyssa Quirk. “Many of the kids who attend Education Day have never been to McCormick Field, or a baseball game in general, and it's really special to be able to provide them with that opportunity. It's one way we can get them to see and experience more in their own community.”
The second Education Day game will take place on May 14 against the Rome (Georgia) Emperors.