NEWS & MEDIA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                        Contact: Michael Falcone

September 27, 2024                                                                                                                             Director of Baseball Operations

                                                                                                                                     401-845-6832// operations@newportgulls.com

 

A Summer of Inclusion

Gulls Reflect on Impactful Partnerships

 

On a vibrant summer evening at Cardines Field, the Newport Gulls transformed the ballpark atmosphere into a sanctuary of inclusion, community, and compassion. This special event was more than just a baseball game; it was a powerful celebration of inclusion and mental health awareness. However, this feeling spanned the entirety of the summer.

 

The vision for Inclusion Night was inspired by Gulls Vice President Chris Patsos, his wife Denise—President and Founder of the Rhode Island Social Skills Academy (RISSA)—and their son Derek, who is a participant in the program. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment resonates deeply in the community. In addition to serving on the Board of the Newport Gulls, Chris Patsos helps spearhead the local Challenger Baseball Program, coaches Special Olympics with his wife, and is an advocate for the special needs population.  

 

John and Sarah Toracinto, co-founders of the inspiring NOSOLO brand—meaning "nobody is alone"— donate proceeds from their sales to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Their message is that mental illness does not discriminate, no matter your age, your gender, your ethnicity, your bank account, nobody is immune. As locals themselves, who have ton a tremendous job connecting with the youth through their athletic wear, utilizing many professional athletes as ambassadors, it was only natural that heading into the 2024 season, NOSOLO and the Gulls team up to accomplish their shared mission of benefitting Newport County and beyond.  

 

When it came time for the Gulls to get apparel for their incoming roster, NOSOLO collaborated on a few pieces that would be given to the players. Next, in partnership with another longtime sponsor of the Gulls, Navigant Credit Union, NOSOLO teamed up for Mental Health Awareness Night on June 21. The night’s theme was that nobody is alone in their struggles and there are many resources for help. John and Sarah spoke to the Gulls players prior to the game with this theme in mind and NCU invited many local mental health organizations to receive the spotlight for their great work. NOSOLO presented each of the players with hats and custom t-shirts to always remember that they’re never alone, which coincides with the Gulls motto “Gulls Fly Together”.

 

However, the partnership and benefits did not stop there. 

 

For five seasons, TD Bank has supported Inclusion Night. This night has quickly become one of the most impactful evenings of the season as the Gulls partner with the many non-profits and individuals to benefit those with intellectual and mental disabilities. Over the history of the program, the game night has expanded to a daytime event at Cardines Field for this population to have a field day with Gulls players. Members of RISSA, James L. Maher Center, Looking Upwards, Newport County Special Olympics Sharks, Challenger Baseball League, and others do yoga, play wiffle ball, kickball, and other activities alongside the Gulls players.

 

“The players get as much out of this day as the participants; it really is special to watch” says Denise Patsos. 

 

Generous sponsorships make the event possible, with TD Bank stepping in as the Presenting Sponsor and Hasbro donating toys for the inclusive community. Community leaders Teresa and Joe Locasio crafted an inviting atmosphere in The Clubhouse, allowing participants and their families to enjoy a VIP experience that made them feel cherished and celebrated with complimentary food, photo booth, and more. 

 

As the night unfolded, the Gulls donned their custom Inclusion Night jerseys which were sponsored by Gulls Hall of Famer Bill Graiser’s company Going Yard Baseball. In an effort to raise money for the inclusive population, these jerseys were placed in a silent auction that transpired throughout the game. Graiser aptly stated during an in-game interview, “Baseball is for everyone, and it was a no-brainer to want to get involved in such a special night for the benefit of these amazing individuals.”

 

Ultimately, over $2,000 was raised for RISSA through the jersey auction and private donations. 

 

The sense of purpose and unity felt by attendees was palpable. General Manager Chuck Paiva shared the overwhelming gratitude he received from fans, who expressed how profoundly touched they were by the Gulls’ commitment to this cause. “I was stopped multiple times by people thanking the Gulls for putting on this evening. It really hit how important this night is,” he reflected.

 

The summer season concluded with the Gulls clinching a second-consecutive championship. But the memories and impact of Inclusion Night continue to shine bright. This day, these partnerships, and this message of love and support will stay with the players and fans forever. In a time when kindness and compassion are needed more than ever, this event served as a poignant reminder of the importance of loving one another and being there for each other always.

 

Chris Patsos noted, “The kids absolutely loved their NOSOLO shirts! I saw them wearing them around town, spreading the special message John and Sarah delivered. People continue to ask where they can get their NOSOLO shirts to help spread the message and join in the cause.”

 

The famous saying goes, “It takes a village.” This was evident by the magical summer at Cardines Field and throughout the community. John and Sarah, the Patsos Family, and sponsors such as TD Bank, Going Yard, Navigant Credit, Jersey Mikes, Titanium Yoga, and so many more made a difference on more individuals than can be accounted for. 

 

NOSOLO recently held their annual fundraiser, celebrating its third year of spreading good. Contributions to the mental health community have amassed $100,000 and they have obtained non-profit status, setting up their own NOSOLO Foundation. 

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