April 2008
                                          
Fenty Announces Congressional Bank Baseball Classic To Be Played At Nationals Park

(Washington, DC) – Washington, DC—Mayor Adrian M. Fenty announced today that the first Congressional Bank Baseball Classic, a regional high school baseball tournament, will be played at Nationals Park on May 31, 2008.

The Classic will include four games being played between area schools. The day will begin with a game between the DC Interscholastic Athletic Association (DCIAA) East and West Division champions, which will be followed by a game between the two top private school teams, followed by an All-Star game featuring players from across the region. The tournament will end with the DC High School Baseball Classic, where the DCIAA and private/parochial game winners will face off.

“I am looking forward to watching youth from all over the area play in this state-of-the-art ballpark,” said Mayor Fenty. “This event will be a great opportunity for our students to showcase their talent for their fans and for the viewing audience.”

The tournament will be preceded by pre-game clinics and hitting demonstrations, ending with an evening celebration to award the champion the Classic Cup, as well as announce each team’s Most Valuable Player. The All-Star Game and the championship game will be broadcast on Comcast SportsNet.

The Classic’s primary sponsors are Congressional Bank, Modell’s Sporting Goods and The Washington Post. Event proceeds will benefit DCIAA activities, equipment, mentoring programs and the participating schools. In addition, college scouts and coaches will be invited.

“We are excited to work with Mayor Fenty, Council, and sponsors to showcase high school baseball in the District at the new Nationals Park,” said Gregory A. O’Dell, DC Sports and Entertainment Commission chief executive officer. “We are committed to building sports programs for our District youth and this event is just one way to recognize student athletes and encourage them to become responsible leaders through teamwork, physical fitness and community involvement.”

Promotion for the tournament will include an in-store campaign at Modell’s Sporting Goods, pro bono advertising in The Washington Post and promotions at Nationals Park during the teams’ home games. A rain date has been set for June 1, in the event of inclement weather.