WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – The Wichita Wind Surge says the franchise will participate in the MiLB community outreach initiative, The Nine. The black community-focused outreach platform is named after the number Jackie Robinson wore during her only season in minor league baseball. The program is designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous black baseball pioneers had on the sport. It will also provide opportunities for youth and focus on further diversifying the baseball business.
The Wind Surge would celebrate the milestone by becoming the Wichita Monrovians on August 5, 2023. The Wichita Monrovians were an all-black semi-pro baseball team best known for their 10-8 victory over the Ku Klux Klan in June 1925 at Ackermann Park . The legend of the game and the events leading up to the first roll will be highlighted throughout the night through historical experiences and stories shared by various community members. Additionally, Wind Surge say they will use the opportunity to educate fans by highlighting the many influences the black community has helped to develop and shape its cultural influence on baseball and Wichita.
“This is an opportunity to share the rich history of baseball in Wichita while honoring those who helped pave the way for Jackie Robinson,” said Wind Surge President Jay Miller. “We would also like to reiterate that Riverfront Stadium is a place where individuals and families from all walks of life should feel accepted, and we are grateful to have a vehicle like the ballpark and the big game of baseball to provide this inclusive environment.”
Learn more about The Nine here.
