Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel Lobby
The Memphis Redbirds are planning to draw even larger crowds than last year with an exciting 2007 season. Although fans aren't expected to hit up all of the 72 games of the year, they do fill seats better than the Montreal Expos or the Florida Marlins. Specialty games throughout the year also go towards helping the Memphis community.
Non Profit
Not too many people are aware of the fact that the Memphis Redbirds are actually the only professional team to act as a non-profit organization and be considered a charity by the Internal Revenue Service. In their first eight seasons alone, the St. Louis Cardinals affiliate donated more than $5 million dollars to local charities. They are currently beginning their 10th season, and plan on continuing their charitable nature with things like Sports Teams Returning In the Public Education System (STRIPES) and Returning Baseball to the Inner-city (RBI). Both of these programs are designed to teach children about the values of teamwork and provide alternative methods to occupy time outside of school.
Looking Forward to a Great Year
The Redbirds seem to be really excited about starting off their 10th year, with plans for specific 10 game plans for fans and other festivities. Their spring training schedule comes to a close on March 30th with an exhibition game with the St. Louis Cardinals, however the real season picks up beginning the 5th of April with a match up against the Oklahoma Redhawks. Their early success in the practice season has many hopes high, especially after the Redbirds beat out the Zephyrs for their fourth straight win.
AutoZone Park
The AutoZone Park is located right in the heart of downtown Memphis, and has quickly cemented its reputation as the best stadium below the major league level. The park combines the classical and traditional style of famous ballparks like Wrigley Field and Fenway Park into a state-of-the-art facility that draws countless visitors with every game. Possibly the best feature is the open concourse that wraps around the park, which means that fans will never miss a moment of the game as they get up to stretch their legs.
Nearby Hotels
Taking in a game or two is a great activity for any Memphis traveler; you can really feel the excitement throughout the city every time there is a game. Thanks to its downtown location, the ballpark sets itself next to a few popular hotels. Here's a brief list:
