Sports in the First State are on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But, the state’s minor league teams hope to still play a major role in the community.
Delaware’s two largest healthcare providers are getting an assist from the Delaware Blue Coats and the Wilmington Blue Rocks during the crisis.
The two teams are raising money for them as part of their Delaware Together campaign.
Blue Rocks' general manager Andrew Layman says both teams want to send a positive message to the community.
We’re ingrained in the community. We’re all about the community surrounding the stadiums. Surrounding Wilmington. It’s a big part of what we do," said Layman. "With school appearances and hospital appearances and clinics and things like that, and anything we can do at this point to help support the people that need it the most we’re trying to do that.
Layman says the campaign kicked off with selling “Delaware Together” t-shirts.
Blue Coats president Larry Meli says he understands not everyone will be able to particpate in this effort.
I know it’s a difficult time. And there’s probably fans that may not be able to participate." sais Meli. "But, those that can, can go on and purchase one of these Delaware Together t-shirts that we created.
Meli says the t-shirt's design was inspired by the two teams’ blue color schemes.
Over 200 were sold this week. The initial sale period is expected to last through May 3rd.
Proceeds from the campaign will go to ChristianaCare and Nemours Children’s Health System.