PHOTOS: Royals fans turn out for EMU Night with the Turks

EMU Night with the Turks returned to Veterans Memorial Park in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on Friday, June 7, 2024.

The special night featured a Valley Baseball League matchup between the 2023 champion Harrisonburg Turks and the Covington Lumberjacks. Those who wore EMU gear were admitted for free.

Leading by a 5-1 score, the Lumberjacks gave up one run in the seventh inning and two runs in the eighth to bring the Turks within reach. The home team’s rally fell short, though, as the Lumberjacks prevailed 5-4.

The night featured giveaways of EMU gear and a meet-and-greet with Turks players, Turks mascot Gill and EMU mascot Herm. This is the second year EMU and the Turks have partnered for the event.

A total of 341 people attended Friday’s game, including 131 EMU fans and their friends and families.

EMU President Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman threw out the ceremonial first pitch. The pitch was right on target and bounced off home plate into the catcher’s glove!

The Turks provide college players an opportunity to enhance their baseball and life skills, said Gerald Harman, team president. “Teaming up with EMU allows us to further our success through extended outreach while promoting education within the region,” he added.

At a table near the entrance, EMU marketing and communications staff Kate Szambecki and Aric Berg handed out EMU-branded baseballs, Royals apparel and stickers, and information brochures to guests.

Thanks to everyone who showed up to the event. Hope to see you next season!