For the Kids – Philadelphia Sports Nation

For Young Fans in Philly, There Is No Time Like the Present.

I still remember my first Phillies game like it was yesterday. It makes me happy to remember it that way — because that’s how my grand pop wanted it. From the first frame of his earliest recollections of visiting the ballpark when he was ten years old, grand pop always had that first view of the perfectly quaffed field of grass embedded in his memory forever. Even at age 90, he still talked about it and looked back with fondness recalling that warm summer day in 1938. Now his attention turned to providing me with that same experience.

Fifty years later, when he led me into the stadium — we didn’t stop for drinks or to use the restroom. We went right up that narrow causeway which opened up to the inside of the stadium. He paused for a moment before we made our way to the seats — allowing me to take in the sun-soaked diamond, the reflection of the scoreboard, and the Philly Phanatic wreaking unbridled havoc on the away teams’ dugout.

For young Philly sports fans, the time has never been better for a first time at the ballpark. First Energy Stadium — the home of the Reading Phillies — has a pool for the kids during the game. For young Phillies fans at Citizens Bank Park— who attend games each season for the chance at being swept up and hugged by the Philly Phanatic — don’t even need a ticket if under the age of two. Attractions include The Yard a 13,000 foot interactive experience as well as rock climbing. Fans under 14 get a first Phillies Game Certificate.

Young Sixers fans ages 4–14 who sign up for the Jr. Sixers Club get a welcome kit, as well as discounts to the Sixers store. Kids ages 5–12 can join the Eagles Kids Club — allowing them access both Eagles merchandise and content as well as invites to meet the players as well as special events. Currently, Campus Philly has discounted tickets for Philadelphia Union games as well as for the upcoming Flyers season for local college students.

Perhaps the most important youth athletic event is happening this week in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. On Saturday, another generation of Phillies fans — Council Rock Newtown — staved off elimination by beating Salem New Hampshire 5–0. On Sunday — the kids from the Philly area won again — beating Puyallup Washington by a final score of 12–2.

It’s strange — thinking back to my first Phillies game thirty-five years ago — I don’t even remember who won. All I remember is the excitement of that great view of Veterans Stadium.

Just the way that Grandpop wanted it.