MACOMB, Ill. – The Leatherneck Baseball team got the spring 2025 season off to a great start, raising more than $22,000 at their annual First Pitch Dinner on February 1, 2025. The event was held at Park Place of Macomb and brought together the community, alumni, and the team and coaching staff in support of the 2025 Leatherneck Baseball season. 

The event featured a silent auction with various items, dinner, an alumni appreciation acknowledgment, an introduction of the 2025 team, and a question and answer session with former Major League Baseball coach Larry Owens, who had stints with Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox. 

"Our Annual First Pitch Dinner is a great way to kick off the season, and this year's event was bigger and better than last year," said Head Baseball Coach Terry Davis. "We would like to thank everyone who supported in any way and made the event possible. Thank you to our guest for the evening, Larry Owens, for taking the time out of his busy schedule to spend an evening with us. Our program got better and it's always good for our players to hear from those that have been successful at the highest levels."

The money raised is being allocated to various aspects of the baseball program, including to assist with costs for travel and competition during the 2025 season. Western Illinois Athletics and the Leatherneck Baseball team would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those in attendance at this year's event.

While the silent auction has closed, opportunities to support the baseball program are still available. Coach Davis is bringing back the Baseball Meal Club for the 2025 season, which is aimed at improving nutrition and performance for WIU Baseball student-athletes. Giving Level details can be seen below: 

• Platinum – $500

  • Sponsor a team meal on the road for the WIU Baseball team and join us for the meal where possible

• Gold – $250

  • Partially sponsor a team meal on the road for the WIU Baseball Team and join us for the meal where possible

• Silver – $100

  • Sponsor an in-game nutrition package to maintain optimal energy levels throughout the game

Those interested can make a gift to the Meal Club by clicking here. For more information about Leatherneck Baseball and their fundraising initiatives, please call 309-298-1190.

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