By Rich Palzewic
Sports Editor
ASHWAUBENON – A new era in Green Bay baseball began Tuesday, May 31, at Capital Credit Union Park in Ashwaubenon.
Formerly known as the Green Bay Bullfrogs and Green Bay Booyah, the Rockers, members of the Northwoods League, got another name change last November.
New owner Mark Skogen, who acquired the Rockers a year ago in January, also owns and operates Epic Event Center – a music venue located down the street from Capital Credit Union Park.
When the team became the Rockers last November, Skogen said it made sense to “provide live entertainment and bring the game level of excitement to the stadium.”
The Rockers have committed to having live music at each of their 36 home games.
On Opening Day, “The Cougars,” a six-piece band with three female lead singers, rocked the stadium for about an hour before the game and in between the first few innings.
I hadn’t heard the band before, but I was impressed.
It looked like people had a good time, and there was a nice crowd in the park well before the first pitch was thrown.
One local fan, Thomas Grasta from Green Bay, said he liked the music feel to the game.
“I’ve come to several games in the past – all the way back to when the Bullfrogs were the name playing at Joannes Stadium,” he said. “I’ve always thought the team has done a good job trying to keep the fans energized and engaged, but the live music gives the experience a whole new feel.”
I’m not a great guesser of attendance, but I’d say the stadium was about two-thirds full.
After Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon threw out the first pitch, the game began.
The Rockers couldn’t muster much on offense in a 3-0 loss, but I’m looking forward to a nice season of Rockers baseball at Capital Credit Union Park.
If you get the chance, get out and enjoy a game – the list of performers is available on the Rockers website.
As always, thanks for reading.