Monday January 9, 2006

            For the Atlanta Silverbacks, training during the off-season isn’t the only way to keep busy.  Whether in-season or not, the Silverbacks squad and their mascot Socrates stay involved in the community.  In 2005, Silverbacks players and Socrates appeared around the city for different events, from grand openings to parades to charity events.  In 2006, the Silverbacks haven’t wasted any time getting out and about.   
            Last weekend, on Saturday, January 7, the Silverbacks joined the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Sports Medicine Program for the grand opening of the seventh CHOA Sports Medicine facility.  The Silverbacks went to the event in Snellville to visit with young athletes and sign autographs.  The event featured tours of the new facility, live entertainment, and lots of food.  Visit www.choa.org/sportsmed for more information about the newest location in Snellville.  
            Socrates will help kick-off the Special Olympics Georgia State Winter Games at the Opening Ceremonies on January 20.  Socrates will spend time with the special athletes and sign autographs.  Check back to the Silverbacks website for photos from the event, or for more information visit www.specialolympicsga.org.  
            And on January 26, the Silverbacks will participate in the Georgia Transplant Foundation’s Spring Training.  No, they won’t be trying out for baseball teams, but they will be helping raise money for the Georgia Transplant Foundation. The annual Spring Training event allows people to take on professional athletes in assorted games while raising money for residents impacted by the need for an organ transplant.  For more information on how you can take on Silverbacks players visit www.gatransplant.org.  
            Last month, the Silverbacks and Socrates appeared in various parades in downtown Atlanta .  On December 3, the Silverbacks teamed up again with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to take part in the CHOA Annual Christmas Parade.  Rodrigo Rios and Sharolta Nonen rode through the streets of Atlanta in a classic car.  On December 30, Socrates made it out to the annual Peach Bowl Parade, enjoying the sites and sounds of Atlanta as he marched down the streets.  And on December 9, some of the Silverbacks staff lent a helping hand at the Christmas Store, a charity that helps single mothers with gifts during the holidays.  The Silverbacks also went out to visit the Macy's Pink Pig.
       Click on the appearances link on www.atlantasilverbacks.com/pro to see the upcoming appearances or to invite the Silverbacks to your next event!!