On Thursday, the Long Island Ducks (independent; Atlantic League) will host a pre-game ceremony to celebrate the 8 millionth fan entering through the gates of Bethpage Ballpark.
“We are proud to add another milestone to this already historical season,” said Ducks President/GM Michael Pfaff. “We would like to thank our tremendous fan base for their support in helping us achieve this feat and are forever grateful that they have been able to share in all the memories we have created.”
On Wednesday, August 28, six-year-old Declan McCann from Yaphank entered through the East/West gate prior to the Ducks game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. In doing so, he became the 8 millionth fan in franchise history to attend a Ducks game in their home ballpark. Long Island became the first club in Atlantic League history to reach the milestone attendance figure despite having begun play in the league’s third year of existence (2000). The Ducks are also currently the Atlantic League’s all-time leader in sold out crowds with 689 and have led the Atlantic League in attendance 14 times.
Prior to Thursday’s game between the Ducks and Blue Crabs, Declan will be recognized during a VIP on-field ceremony for being the 8 millionth fan. The Ducks will present him with a commemorative 20th Anniversary teal jersey featuring “8 Million” as the name on the back and the number “20”, representing the milestone being surpassed during the 20th Anniversary Season. Declan will also receive a luxury suite for Thursday’s game, complete with food and beverage included, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, a 2019 Ducks team-signed baseball, and other exciting prizes.
The Ducks wrap up their four-game set against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs on Thursday night, with game time slated for 6:35 p.m.