Knights Pay Tribute to Charlotte Baseball Past, Present & Future
(Uptown Charlotte, NC) - The Charlotte Knights unveiled four murals along the South Graham Street side of BB&T Ballpark commemorating the four former Charlotte-area homes of professional baseball. The Knights also detailed plans of events coinciding with the April 11th home opener starting at noon in Romare Bearden Park across the street from the team's new Uptown Charlotte kingdom.
Dating back to 1892, the Charlotte area has housed America's pastime professionally at four different baseball ballparks including Latta Park, Wearn Field, Calvin Griffith Park/Jim Crockett Memorial Park and Knights Castle/Knights Stadium. Charlotte Knights' graphic artist Bill Walker designed the murals, which were painted by North Carolina artist Scott Nurkin. Nurkin's company is called 'The Mural Shop'.
"As we were building BB&T Ballpark and embarking on a new chapter of Charlotte baseball history, we wanted to make sure we tied in the rich tradition of baseball in Charlotte with our new home," said Knights Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer Dan Rajkowski. "Scott (Nurkin) did a fantastic job painting these murals, and we are very pleased with how they turned out. We plan to honor the history of Charlotte baseball in many ways throughout the course of this season as BB&T Ballpark will not only feature these murals, but also special plaques, and other important dedications this year."
As the Knights transition from the past to the future, the team invites all Charlotte baseball fans to celebrate Opening Day Center City-style with a Party in Romare Bearden Park starting at noon on Friday, April 11. The kickoff rally will feature the official introduction of the 2014 Knights followed by an autograph session for fans. The entertainment will continue with live bands, jugglers, magicians, an aerial performer and kid-friendly activities throughout the day. Performers from the Carolina Renaissance Festival as well as the world famous Budweiser Clydesdales will be on hand throughout the afternoon. Other activities will take place throughout Bearden Park up until game time when the focus will shift to BB&T Ballpark. More details on Opening Night festivities that will take place inside BB&T Ballpark will be announced at a later date.
During the course of the team's inaugural season at BB&T Ballpark, the Knights will host three historic Tribute Nights. A Negro League Tribute is planned for Jackie Robinson Day, Tuesday, April 15. Robinson broke baseball's color barrier on April 15, 1947, and Major League Baseball honors his legacy every year on that date. Knights players will wear #42 on the backs of their jerseys for that game. Three days later (Friday, April 18), the Knights will welcome over 30 former members of the Charlotte O's baseball team for a special Charlotte O's Tribute Night. Former O's managers Grady Little, and John Hart will be joined by numerous former players, including Cat Whitfield, Sammy Stewart, and Kenny Dixon. On Tuesday, August 5, the Knights will host a Charlotte Hornets Tribute Night. The Charlotte (baseball) Hornets were founded in 1892 and lasted in some form until 1972. A full list of former Hornets coming out for August 5th tribute will be announced at a later date.
Season tickets, as well as group tickets, 18-game partial season ticket plans and single-game tickets for the 2014 inaugural season at BB&T Ballpark are on sale now and can be purchased by phone at 704-357-8071 or by email at [email protected]. Uptown Knights are Better Than Ever!