MIAMI – As part of the organization’s on-going efforts to celebrate the life and legacy of Hall of Famer and civil rights activist Jackie Robinson, the Miami Marlins will host numerous activities and events next week centered around Jackie.

The celebration begins with the second annual Jackie Robinson Classic presented by NIKE, which will see two local high school baseball teams – Piper High and South Broward High – take the field at loanDepot park on Wednesday, April 12. The student-athletes will receive customized Marlins shirts with the number 42 on the back along with one of Jackie’s nine values. The South Florida community is invited to cheer on the teams at the complimentary event and jam along with the high school bands! Courtesy of JP Morgan, the students and bands from each school will enjoy a ballpark hot dog, chips and soda or water.

The Marlins will then host Jackie Robinson Day and South Florida Black Legacy Celebration on Saturday, April 15 at loanDepot park, commemorating the impact that Jackie and local community leaders have had on our society as advocates for civil rights and equality. In conjunction with the Miami Marlins Foundation, the Marlins have organized the following events in celebration of Jackie Robinson Day:

• The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project recognition presented by Morgan Stanley
  • The Marlins and Morgan Stanley Global Sports Entertainment will welcome The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project mentors/mentees from two of the Miami Marlins Foundation Slugger Schoolhouses presented by PNC Bank: Lenora B. Smith Elementary and Poinciana Park Elementary.
  • The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project students will greet fans at the gates holding signs with Jackie’s 9 Values To Live By
  • The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project students will take the field with the Marlins starting lineup
• 2022 Miami Marlins Jackie Robinson Award (Employees of the Year) Presentation
• FIU Marlins/5000 Role Model First Gen Scholars Recognition
  • A special pre-game recognition for the two alumni of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence program who were the recipients of the FIU Marlins/5000 Role Models of Excellence Scholarship.
• Bryce Pendleton, a student at the University of Miami and Jackie Robinson Foundation Legacy Scholar, will throw out the Ceremonial First Pitch

  • Bryce Pendleton is a third year JRF Scholar at the University of Miami where he is studying Chemistry and Ecosystem Science and Policy. With his degree, he aims to help solve the climate crisis through research and potential political endeavors. On campus, Bryce is involved in the Multicultural Student Affairs Club, where he advocates on issues for multicultural students and creates programming and events to celebrate the backgrounds of his peers. 

    In addition to celebrating Jackie Robinson on April 15, the Marlins will host South Florida Black Legacy Celebration presented by JP Morgan to honor local legacy makers who are not only pillars in the African American community, but also inspiring leaders who make South Florida vibrant and strong for future generations. The South Florida community is invited to join us for the celebration, with each ticket package featuring a commemorative Marlins South Florida Black Legacy Celebration jersey and a portion of the proceeds to benefit multiple local African American non-profit organizations. Tickets are available now at Marlins.com/Heritage.

    Prior to the game, the 2023 honorees will be recognized during a pre-game ceremony for their leadership, service, and many contributions to our community. Each honoree is committed to education and mentorship of young black people, economic development, and black culture. Additionally, the baseball team and band from Piper High will return to loanDepot park, with transportation provided by JP Morgan.