David Daker Named First-Ever Russell Award Recipient

The Battle Jacks are proud to announce that David Daker has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Russell Award, a new annual honor recognizing individuals whose passion, loyalty, positivity, and support embody the spirit of Battle Creek baseball.

Named after Russell, the beloved Battle Jacks mascot presented by BlueOval Battery Michigan, the Russell Award celebrates the people who make baseball in Battle Creek special. Each year, the award will recognize a member of the Battle Creek baseball community whose dedication and love for the game leave a lasting impact on the organization, its fans, and the community.

When it came time to select the first recipient, there was one name that immediately stood out.

For years, David has been a constant presence at MCCU Field. Whether cheering on players, supporting the front office, greeting fellow fans, or simply bringing his enthusiasm and energy to the ballpark, David has become one of the most recognizable and appreciated members of the Battle Jacks family.

His passion for Battle Creek sports and Battle Jacks baseball has remained unwavering through the years, making him the perfect choice to receive the first Russell Award.

“We wanted the Russell Award to recognize the people who remind us what sports are really about,” said Battle Jacks Owner Scott Miles. “When we thought about who should receive the very first award, David’s name immediately came to mind. His love for this team, his support of our players and staff, and the joy he brings to the ballpark represent everything we hope the Battle Jacks can be. David embodies the spirit of this community, and we’re honored to celebrate him and establish a tradition that will continue for years to come.”

David will be honored during a special pre-game ceremony this Sunday as part of the Battle Jacks’ first Family Day of the season.

“David is the kind of person who makes a community stronger simply by showing up and being himself,” said Ashley Iovieno, Chief of Staff for the Battle Creek Battle Jacks. “His excitement is contagious, his support is genuine, and he reminds all of us why baseball matters. The Russell Award is about celebrating people who bring others together, and there could not be a more deserving first recipient than David.”

Join Us for Family Day

Family Day begins Sunday at MCCU Field with gates opening at 4:05 p.m. and first pitch scheduled for 5:05 p.m.

In addition to celebrating David and presenting the inaugural Russell Award, fans can enjoy:

Player autographs
Kids running the bases after the game
Post-game catch in the outfield
Family-friendly entertainment throughout the afternoon

Fans are also encouraged to visit the Battle Creek Baseball Museum, curated in partnership with the Battle Creek Regional History Museum and the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame. The museum celebrates more than a century of local baseball history and showcases artifacts, stories, and memories from the golden era of baseball in Battle Creek.

Beginning this season, the museum will also serve as the permanent home of the Russell Award, recognizing each year’s recipient and preserving their place in Battle Creek baseball history.

Get Your Tickets

Tickets for Family Day start at just $12 and are available now ONLINE or calling 269-962-0735 and following the prompts for tickets.

Join us this Sunday as we celebrate David Daker, launch a new Battle Jacks tradition, and honor the people who make Battle Creek the Home of Southwest Michigan Baseball.