Opening Day is just around the corner, bringing with it a number of exciting changes for the Cougars this season at Elfstrom Stadium.  From a new affiliation to giveaways, food and events, the Cougars continue to strive to add to the ballpark experience.

On the diamond, the Cougars will field a team of entirely new faces from the Oakland Athletics, as the A’s replace the Florida Marlins after ten seasons as the Cougars Major League parent organization.  For the most part, the Cougars uniform will remain the same for the new club with the exception that the entire Cougars squad will now sport white cleats, an Oakland A’s tradition.  Even our favorite furry friend, Ozzie T. Cougar is currently out shopping for a new set of white kicks.  Speaking of Ozzie, on at least three occasions this season, the Cougars will be handing out a first-ever Ozzie T. Cougar Pez Dispenser at the gate to the first 2,000 guests, ages 14 and under, to enter the ballpark on each selected date.

Off the field, the Cougars will introduce the KidZone to the ballpark.  Featuring a number of interactive inflatable attractions, such as a moon bounce, obstacle course and slides, the KidZone will be located inside the ballpark behind the centerfield bleachers.  Stay tuned for additional details.   

For all the Cougars food connoisseurs, the popular “Hot Corner” will move just down the third base line to be part of the Cougars Patio Grill, which will feature carved prime rib sandwiches along with a new item, jumbo polish sausage.