As we wrap up our 7th season, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I extend my thanks to every one of you, in particular our Flock Members, for your unwavering support and dedication to our players, organization, and mission of using FUN to make a difference in people’s lives. It is you, the fans, who make this journey and all the hard work so memorable and worthwhile.

This season has brought so many exciting firsts and it is because of you we’ve been able to reach new heights. We are thrilled to share some of the most unforgettable moments that made this season stand out.

One of the defining moments of our 7th season was winning the first ever Dakota Dust-Up Rivalry trophy against our friends to the North, the Minot Hot Tots. This rivalry will only grow and I’m thrilled these games created a new atmosphere and intensity at the ballpark that fueled our team to victory.

Hosting the 2023 All-Star Game was an immense honor for us, and it would not have been possible without your incredible support. We are so proud to be able to show off our incredible ballpark and amazing fan base to the rest of the Northwoods League and country with the game having been televised on ESPNU. This event along with the Home Run Challenge in addition to our near sold out nightly attendances has made the 2023 season the most attended in Larks history.

Speaking of on-field talent, five of our Larks players were named to the All-Star Team team after one of the best offensive season performances in our team’s history. This season also saw three former players being drafted into Major League Baseball. Additionally, four more players were signed after the draft proving that our organization is a breeding ground for some of the best young talent in the sport. While it may not always translate in wins and losses (and believe me – I’m very focused on making strategic changes to improve in this department) I’m so grateful our fans take pride in being a developmental stepping stone for these players’ dreams to come true and support them through and through.

Off the field, we aimed to enhance the overall experience for our fans. We achieved this by debuting the largest video board in the Northwoods League and displaying local art as our program covers. The Missouri River Motorboaters rebrand was a massive hit that went viral, garnering national attention on social media and even Sportscenter. Similarly, our Dakota Rattlers Night allowed fans to celebrate our rich baseball history that the Larks now carry on.

Amidst all the new, what remains the same and most significant to us is the sense of community the Larks have fostered throughout seven seasons. We are humbled to be the summer gathering place where families, friends, co-workers, and our community can come for a safe night out where everyone can have FUN. Our fans continue to support dozens of promotions and community events that give back to local nonprofits and small businesses. Baseball has brought people together and those bonds are what makes our community so strong. That is something special.

In conclusion, I cannot thank you enough for being the heartbeat of our organization. Larks Nation and Flock Members’ continued support has been the driving force behind the success of the Bismarck Larks and what keeps us hungry to keep reaching for new heights. There is a LOT to look forward to for Season 8 and beyond, including exciting developments we can’t wait to announce this Fall.

Until then, always know with your continued renewal and support we promise to uphold our commitment to excellence, innovation, community, and above all, using FUN to make a difference in people’s lives. Together, we will continue to create more unforgettable memories, both on and off the field.

Thank you for another great summer and we already can’t wait for Season 8!

 

Sincerely,

John Bollinger

Majority Owner/CEO

Bismarck Larks