The Chatham-Kent Barnstormers are swinging into their inaugural season with the unveiling of their jerseys, just a few weeks before the team takes the field for the first time.
The public got its first look at the full uniforms Thursday during an event at Sons of Kent Brewing Company in Chatham.
Through the cream-coloured fabric and traditional pin-striping, the jerseys pay homage to the game's storied history and significance to the community.
"I wanted to keep [the uniform] historical and get back to the Chatham Coloured All-Stars," said Dom Dinelle, the owner, president, and CEO of Chatham-Kent’s new Intercounty Baseball League team. "At home, the players will also have high-cut pants."
The team will open the 2024 season on the road against the Brantford Red Sox on May 17, wearing their black pin-striped uniform.
The cream-coloured uniform will make its debut for the Barnstormer's home opener against the Kitchener Panthers on May 18 at 7:05 p.m. at Fergie Jenkins Field in Chatham.
Players have been preparing indoors for the upcoming season, but according to Dinelle, spring training will start on May 6th.
"We are going to practice every day and probably have one exhibition game," said Dinelle.
Each game at home will include a live band that performs before the game starts. According to Dinelle, there will also be a theme for every game that takes place in Chatham.
"In between innings, there will be contests, we have some sponsors giving away prizes," said Dinelle.
Residents looking to purchase merch before the home opener can do so at the Chatham Pro Shop.