Syosset Baseball Association players who attended the New York Mets Baseball Academy camp at Syosset Woodbury Park in late August were invited to join the New York Mets Baseball Academy at Shea Stadium to see the New York Mets battle the Colorado Rockies on New York Mets Baseball Academy Night.

Although the New York Mets weren't in the playoff hunt, the attendance from this group filled the picnic area, reserved exclusively for the group this night. Of the approximately 1,200 picnic area attendees, the Syosset Baseball Association group represented approximately 100 players and families enjoying the evening's events and game.

Gates opened up at 5:45 p.m., with all players receiving a free promotional item, courtesy of the New York Mets. There was an autograph session for the kids to receive complimentary autographs from many of their favorite, current New York Mets. On hand to accommodate these requests in three different autograph stations were pitchers Aaron Heilman, Juan Padilla, Heath Bell, coaches Sandy Alamor, Jerry Manuel and Manny Acta and player Victor Diaz. After the players accommodated all the kids' requests, they returned to the dugout for the evening's game.

All campers were instructed to wear their New York Mets Baseball Academy shirt and hat. At 6:55 p.m., they were assembled in center field behind the fence. The gates opened and the campers paraded out onto the warning track on "The Big Shea" field comprising both sides of left field, stretching over to right field. The group was accompanied by 1986 New York Met George Foster, who was on hand to sign autographs and take pictures throughout the night and mingle with the crowd, answering any questions, telling stories and enjoying the evening with fans. New York Mets Baseball Academy Director Kevin Surdi and Coordinator Tom Hopke, as well as many staff members from the summer who attended the game, joined the group on the field for the National Anthem and a PA announcement acknowledging the group's attendance at the game.

Upon completion of the national anthem, the group paraded back to the center field to return to their seats to watch the game. The kids enjoyed watching an exciting two-hit Tom Glavine shutout of the Colorado Rockies, 11 to 0.

Syosset Baseball Association and The New York Mets Baseball Academy are already planning next year's dates and events to ensure the success and enjoyment that this year's second year provided to Syosset Baseball Association players, families and the community.

All Syosset Baseball Association events and information can be found on its website, www.syossetbaseball.org.