Head of School Brent Bell will join teammates from around the community this weekend to raise money for charity at the inaugural Sliding into Christmas Wiffle Ball Showcase. The wiffle ball tournament will take place on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 11:30 a.m. at the Braves Miracle Field of Rome.
Following a lighthearted "ambush" by team representatives in costume last month, Bell happily signed a one-day contract to play with the Rome Braves for the special event.
Current and former Atlanta and Rome Braves personnel will coach four teams of local celebrities, each of which has given a set donation, or their "signing bonus," to secure their spot on a team. All proceeds collected from the event will be donated to needy families identified by local school systems.
"The response for our first Sliding into Christmas Wiffle Ball Showcase has been phenomenal. The money raised will stay in Rome and Floyd County to help local children have a very merry Christmas," said Michael Dunn, Rome Braves general manager. "We're excited to have Brent and some Darlington alumni supporting us in this first-time event."
Darlington's head of school will be in the company of a host of other Tigers also in the showcase, including former faculty member Gus Bell, Brian Dulaney ('79), Kevin Evans ('87), and Sam Lucas ('97). Supporting the tournament from the sidelines are alumni Matt Sirmans ('88), Jimmy Smith ('94), and Bill Temple ('90).
Gates open to the public at 11 a.m. The event is free to attend after a $5 parking fee, which will also be donated to charity. Concessions will be available for purchase during the games.
The Braves Miracle Field of Rome is located at 755 Braves Blvd. For more information, visit RomeBraves.com or call 706-368-9388.
Click here to view a video of Bell's "signing" with the Rome Braves.
