First Pitch

 

The First Pitch Fundraising Banquet is one of the most prestigious fundraising events in our UCM community and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the storied tradition of Mules Baseball. Through the fundraising banquet, Mules Baseball has raised nearly $600,000 for equipment needs, expanded the student-athlete experience, supplemented the operational budget and implemented facility improvements, such as the $2.1 million Mules Baseball Clubhouse at James R. Crane Stadium. 

This is a powerful gathering of Mules Baseball alumni and community leaders who come together to support Mules Baseball, induct former players into the Diamond Club, and positively impact the current generation of players. Proceeds from the annual First Pitch Banquet will ensure Central Missouri remains one of the nation’s top NCAA Division II baseball programs. 

 

Save the date for February 6, 2027, for the 11th Fundraising Banquet!

 

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Registration and Fundraising

The success of this event relies on the support of corporate donors and partners, community members, and attendees. By sponsoring our fundraising banquet, companies and community members can show their commitment to Mules Baseball.  

The First Pitch sponsor gifts include an exclusive gift designed to celebrate Mules Baseball and elevate the game-day experience. Those purchasing a Grand Slam, Diamond Club or Legacy sponsorship will receive a Mules Baseball dugout jacket—perfect for both ballpark days and everyday use. 

Over 150 items will be available for bidding during the silent auction.  If you have goods or services to donate, please contact Bailey Kliewer at kliewer@ucmo.edu.

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Questions and Additional Information

• General event and registration inquiries can be directed to Tiffany Cochran and Erick Vargas at events@ucmo.edu. 
• The Fairfield Inn in Warrensburg offers a room block for attendees. Please note that all hotel arrangements and inquiries are handled directly by the Fairfield Inn and are not managed by UCM staff.
• The attire is business professional/cocktail.

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Planning Committee

Mules Baseball would like to thank its planning committee.  Without them, this event would not be possible.  The committe includes:

Eric Clark, ’99, Kyle Crookes (Head Coach), David Ezell, ’78, ’79, Alex Kent, ’11, ’14, Adam Maddox, ’12, Billy Maloney ‘16, ‘17, Rob Ruth, ’75, Brennen Van Breusegen, ’23, '24, Carter Young, ’24.

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*Mules Baseball will receive 80% of the net proceeds and 20% will support the Cardinal and Black Fund, which supplements the UCM Athletics operational budget supporting all 550 student-athletes.