It has been a long fourteen months. Sacrifices have been made and precautions taken, and finally, now, we’re starting to see significant progress towards expanding vaccinations. Thanks to this unified effort, life is gradually making its way back slowly towards a sense of normalcy. I know we’re all grateful to see that. It hasn’t been easy; however, businesses have adapted, including the entire Winston-Salem Dash organization. Everyone, from the players to the staff and front office, is excited and looking forward to seeing those smiling faces again in the stands at the newly renamed Truist Stadium.
They’ve missed their fans tremendously and wish to show their gratitude, as always, by providing a safe, secure, and entertaining ballpark experience for everyone to enjoy, especially appreciated during these historic times. Along with important safety measures, the marketing and promotions group has worked hard to provide many of the time-honored favorites loyal fans have enjoyed over the years, including the delicious aroma of hotdogs, burgers, and the ever-popular stadium snacks of popcorn, peanuts, and ice-cold beverages that delight your senses upon entering the stadium. That’s only the beginning, as fans will be excited to know this season will once again include Lowes Foods Family Sunday, Lowes Foods Thirsty Thursday, Tito’s Pups in the Park, Free Hot Dog Nights (available while supplies last), and postgame fireworks after select home games. The Rayados series is back, transforming Truist Stadium at select games this season while celebrating the culture and values of the Hispanic/Latino community. These are just some of the entertaining and enjoyable items in store for fans this season. More surprises await.
Of course, the main draw is all the incredible game action that takes place on the field. This season the Dash are part of the new High-A East League. Officially in the Southern Division, it includes the Asheville Tourists (Houston Astros), Bowling Green Hot Rods (Tampa Bay Rays), Greensboro Grasshoppers (Pittsburgh Pirates), Greenville Drive (Boston Red Sox), Hickory Crawdads (Texas Rangers), and Rome Braves (Atlanta Braves). Most notable this season will be the Dash’s first opportunity since 1968 to face their cross-town friendly foe, Greensboro. This should provide some very exciting rivalry games the Twin City has not seen in over 50 years. Their first matchup will be on Tuesday, June 15, for the start of a six-game home stretch. Note, all matchups this season will be in the six-game stretch format, Tuesday through Sunday (home and away). Their 60-game home schedule, including 30 weekend games this season, provides plenty of opportunities for fans to come out to the ballpark and enjoy the warm weather, friendly camaraderie, good times, and great action that is Dash baseball!
Originally introduced during the 2020 season in their continuing commitment to improving fan safety, the Dash organization had an additional 40-foot-high netting installed that protects all fixed seats along the first- and third-base lines. Furthermore, they installed a 15-foot-high netting to protect those seated in the lawn section. Paying close attention to detail, not only does this netting protect with a strength 15% stronger than steel, its special green protective coating provides fans with 95% visibility. Safety and security are high priorities in the organization to offer their fans the best experience possible. A valued allegiance to their fans as recognized in three of the last five seasons (2020 season excluded): being nominated for the John H. Johnson President’s Award (top honor in Minor League baseball) recognizing their commitment to their fans, the community, the league, and baseball in general.
In their first decade at the downtown facility, the Dash led all 30 High-A teams in attendance. That’s an impressive accomplishment that acknowledges our community recognizes the value of a family-friendly atmosphere, in a fun and safe environment. The Dash organization relishes your confidence in their hard work and dedication to this cause. Everyone, from the front office to the stadium staff, is adhering to CDC, state, and local guidelines for the utmost safety of their beloved fans. Wherever necessary, be it with stadium capacity restrictions, concessions, fan activities, wearing masks, social distancing, and so forth, proper accommodations have been made to provide an environment fans can enjoy with confidence. Visit their website at wsdash.com for the latest stadium guidelines in place for fans, updated regularly as the season progresses and CDC, state, and local guidelines are revised.
It’s been a long time coming, but baseball is back! And we cannot wait to get back to Truist Stadium this season with family and friends. In other exciting news, the Dash will welcome their three-millionth fan to Truist Stadium this season. Will that be you? The first pitch of the year will be their home opener on Tuesday, May 4th, at 7:00 p.m., versus the Rome Braves.
With the capacity restrictions that are in place, most games will sell out. Reserve tickets in advance to guarantee you don’t miss out. Visit wsdash.com or call (336) 714-2287 to learn about season tickets, special 336 Club memberships, group packages, game-day promotions, birthday party celebrations, and more.
Winston-Salem, it’s time to PLAY BALL!
The Winston-Salem Dash are the High-A Minor League affiliate of the Chicago White Sox.
