It is a privilege traditionally reserved for politicians, celebrities and auction winners. However, over the past five years at the Duck Pond the Mallards have frequently turned the first pitch into the first five pitches and allowed pretty much anyone who asks participate in the pre-game ceremonial first pitch.

In the Mallards constant effort to please the fans, on Sunday, August 14, 2005 the Madison Mallards and American Family Insurance invite everyone… well, at least the first 3,000 people? to throw out the first pitch as part of American Family Insurance Fan Appreciation Weekend.

The event will commence when the gates open at noon until 4:30 p.m. The Mallards encourage fans to show up early to enjoy the entire event which will include live music, 2-for-1 domestic taps, sodas, and hot dogs until 4:00 p.m. and other ballpark entertainment. Prior to the Mallards 6:05 p.m. game with the Wisconsin Woodchucks the Mallards will allow everyone in attendance to get their chance to walk onto the field and throw out a ceremonial first pitch as part of the World?s Largest First Pitch Presented by American Family Insurance.

Over the years the Mallards have welcomed local celebrities such as, Governor Jim Doyle and Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and former major leaguers Gaylord Perry, Fergie Jenkins, Cecil Cooper, and Jim Gantner to the Duck Pond to throw out ceremonial first pitches.

The Mallards believe that the honor of throwing out the first pitch should be an opportunity that every loyal fan gets to experience. The Mallards will be extending a formal invitation to local celebrities to come out and participate in the World?s Largest First Pitch. In our book, all Mallards fans are celebrities, so we look forward to seeing you at the Duck Pond on August 14.