Play Whatcom 2015
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Bells, United FC, Blazers provide year-round fun for sports fans Whatcom County offers fun and exciting recreational opportunities yearround, and the same is true when it comes to being a spectator on the local sports scene. Between the Bells, Bellingham United FC and the Blazers, there’s always a team to pull for, no matter the time of year. Bellingham Bells Catch a ballgame this summer and cheer for the defending West Coast League champion Bellingham Bells, a summer, wood-bat baseball team made up of collegiate players from across the country. Headlining the summer slate is the 2015 WCL All-Star Game, which the Bells will host in Bellingham on July 20. The game will feature the league’s top players and be preceded by a home run derby. The Bells play their home games in the Civic Athletic Complex at Joe Martin Field, which will be sporting new, all-weather, synthetic turf this season after renovations this spring. Joe Martin Field has its place in history as the site where former Seattle Mariners superstar Ken Griffey Jr. made his professional debut in 1987 for the Bellingham Mariners, one of the city’s previous teams. Fellow Seattle Mariners legend Edgar Martinez is also among the notables to have played Joe Martin Field for the Bellingham Mariners, and several former Bells have gone on to play in the major leagues. The season’s Bells roster is highlighted by players from
Soccer action, whether indoor or outdoor, is at the Civic Athletic Complex in Bellingham. (Courtesy photo/Bellingham United FC) the University of Washington, Washington State University and Gonzaga University, as well as several players from powerhouse collegiate programs Stanford and Arizona State. Burlington native Walker Olis and Mount Vernon native Aaron Stroosma are also on the team. The Bells’ regular season spans from June 5 to Aug. 9 and includes a number of weekly promotions.
Family Fun Day Sundays (June 7, 21 and 28; Aug. 2 and 9) feature a number of children’s activities provided with the price admission, including face painting, balloon art and a bounce house. On $2 Tuesdays (June 16 and 30; July 7 and 21), with the purchase of a full-price ticket, you can get a second ticket for just $2. There will also be $2 food and beverage specials on select items.
On Salute to Armed Forces Wednesdays (June 17; July 1, 8 and 22), special ceremonies honor current and former members of the United States military before and after the games. Throwback Thursdays (June 18; July 2, 23) will recognize the former teams, players and coaches that have contributed to the rich See Sports on 6