Take me out the ball game! That’s exactly what families can do (and shout!) in Macomb County when they enjoy watching a baseball game at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica.
We spoke with Katie Page, the Senior Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the United Shore Professional Baseball League on what makes this experience unique for families.
About the USPBL
The league consists of four teams in the United Shore Professional Baseball League (USBPL) — Utica Unicorns, Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers, Eastside Diamond Hoppers and Westside Woolly Mammoths.
“All the teams take turns being home and away at the ballpark,” says Page. “There is no travel for any team.”
The players are from all over the country, but they all live nearby with a host family.
“Our host families provide a family-like experience for players,” she says. “There’s a small interview process that our Host Family Coordinator does before placing a player with a family. The only restriction is that the player needs to have their own bed.”
Enjoying Jimmy John’s Field
“We offer a very family friendly and Disney-like experience,” says Page. “There is so much to do! We have a kids’ area that includes a playground, full whiffle ball field and a speed pitch machine.”
She explains that mascots also walk around and interact with fans and that there are balloon twisters at every game. They have different themed days, so be sure to check their online calendar beforehand.
“Sundays are for kids,” she says. “There are always characters from Fairytale Entertainment.”
The games at Jimmy John’s Field are also affordable for families.
“Our lawn tickets start at $6 and our front row club tickets are $35,” she says. “Parking is always free in downtown Utica for anyone that’s attending games, or any event, at Jimmy John’s Field. Our pricing, for both tickets and food and beverage, is very affordable for any family.”
How to make the most of your experience
Families can have great baseball experience close to home at Jimmy John’s Field, with many of the activities geared toward kids of all ages.
“Walk around the ballpark because there is so much to do,” says Page. “We do an amazing fireworks spectacular show after every game on Fridays and kids can also run the bases after every single game.”
Be sure to sign your kids up for the USPBL Kids Club either online or when you arrive.
“There is a Kids Club table right when you walk in the main gates,” she says. “There are crafts or games for kids at that table every game as well.”
There is also a form online to fill out for the Bat Kid for a Day contest and teens and tweens can audition to become a part of the USPBL Dance Crew.
“We also do a campout every summer — sponsored by Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers, so families can visit their local dealership to participate,” says Page. “There are still spots available for this summer!
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
