Atlanta Braves to host the Inaugural Jackie Robinson Youth Baseball Invitational presented by Delta Air Lines this Saturday, April 14
Braves Outfielder Michael Bourn will be Honorary Host; Jesse Simms, Jackie Robinson's grandson will address the teams
The Atlanta Braves will host the inaugural Jackie Robinson Baseball Invitational this Saturday, April 14 at the Villages of Carver YMCA to commemorate the 65th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. The Braves have invited 16 teams ranging in age from 5-12 to honor Robinson's legacy by competing against each other in a free tournament sponsored by Delta Air Lines. Games will take place from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The tournament will consist of each team playing three games in a round robin format with tie breakers in place if needed. The winning teams in each age division will receive a championship trophy and each team will have the opportunity to take a photo with Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Bourn. All participating players will learn more about Jackie Robinson's record-breaking story and receive a copy of "Testing the Ice", an affectionate tribute to Robinson's courage and character written by his daughter Sharon Robinson. Additionally, the youth will hear words of inspiration from Jesse Simms, grandson of Jackie Robinson, at the tournament. All players will receive a commemorative Jackie Robinson Invitational t-shirt and Braves promotional items.
On Sunday April 15, Major League Baseball celebrates Jackie Robinson Day around the league and the Atlanta Braves will host the Milwaukee Brewers. Participating teams will receive two complimentary tickets for Sunday's game. The Braves will recognize each team from the Jackie Robinson Invitational at Sunday's game during a pre-game presentation and Jesse Simms will present trophies to the winning teams.
The non-profit arm of the Atlanta Braves, the Atlanta Braves Foundation actively supports community organizations and their programs within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Atlanta Braves Foundation has provided support to thousands of metro Atlanta based organizations and has contributed more than 3.5 million dollars in financial assistance to the community. Through the generous support of Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans, the Atlanta Braves Foundation continuously strives to improve the quality of life for our youth.