Sussex Miners to open season on May 25

AUGUSTA — The Sussex County Miners announced the season opener on Memorial Day, May 25, against the New Jersey Jackals will honor America’s men and women of the armed forces with a Military Appreciation Day.

The team is dedicating its inaugural game, which starts at 7:05 pm at Skylands Stadium in Augusta to those who have fought and lost their lives to protect American freedom.

Picatinny Arsenal Brigadier General Patrick W. Burden, as well as area veterans, will be the team’s honored guests at the game. The first pitches will be thrown out by veterans of World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf War. Historic military trucks will be positioned in the stadium parking lot for fans and visitors to see.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., the B-Street Band, a Bruce Springsteen tribute band, will start playing in front of the stadium’s main entrance and will continue to play until the on-field ceremonies begin. A spectacular fireworks display will follow the game.

“The Miners are privileged to have Brigadier General Burden and several veterans in attendance at our season opener on Memorial Day, giving the community an opportunity to gather together to remember and honor our nation’s fallen,” said Dave Chase, general manager of the Miners. “We hope this Sussex County Miners Military Appreciation Day will be the first of many, that will give all local residents, young and old, an opportunity to say ‘thank you for your service’.”

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m.
On Wednesday, May 27, the Miners will hold a special Meet the Players event from 4-6 p.m. Fans will have the opportunity to meet players, get autographs and take photos.