Two of the state’s premier high school baseball programs will face off in the inaugural St. John
Health System “Battle of the Bats” at Broken Arrow High School’s Tiger Field on Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m.
“The Broken Arrow Tigers and Owasso Rams are recognized in Oklahoma and on a national level for having outstanding baseball programs,” said David Phillips, chief executive officer of St. John Broken Arrow and St. John Owasso. “Since St. John Health System has established hospitals in both Owasso and Broken Arrow, it made sense for us to partner with the schools and celebrate their exceptional baseball programs and accomplishments.”
The Tigers and Rams will compete for the “Battle of the Bats” trophy – a three-foot high bat made of alder wood “specifically designed for this event,” Phillips said. The handcrafted trophy was created by Rita and Doyle Roller, Jr. of Handcrafted Woodwork in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Additionally, Phillips noted that the first 400 fans to the game will receive a “Battle of the Bats” pennant courtesy of St. John Health System. Other event extras include St. John Kids Club giveaways, a Tulsa Bone and Joint informational booth. National Merit Finalists from both schools will also be recognized during the event.
“St. John could not have picked a better rivalry to be a part of – the partnership between these schools and St. John will take this series to yet another level,” said Zach Duffield, Owasso High School Assistant Principal.
Broken Arrow baseball coach Shannon Dobson agreed that the addition of the St. John sponsorship “will make this great rivalry game even better. The two teams look forward to playing each other every year, and anytime there’s a trophy involved that just adds a little more player intensity and fan interest to the game.”
A press conference featuring players and coaches is scheduled for Tuesday, April 2, at 10:30 a.m. in the Broken Arrow Senior High School Varsity Club, which is located at the south end of the football stadium.
For more information about “Battle of the Bats” contact Meg Schaefer, St. John Health System Marketing Specialist, at 918-274-5110 or Tara Thompson, BAPS Public Information Officer, 918-259-5700.
(Article courtesy of Broken Arrow Public Schools)
