How does the Altoona Curve’s Allegheny Yinzers promotion celebrate local culture. What inspired the creation of this alternate identity. When will fans be able to see the Allegheny Yinzers in action. How is the promotion connected to the Pittsburgh community.
The Birth of the Allegheny Yinzers: A Unique Minor League Baseball Promotion
In an exciting development for baseball fans in Western Pennsylvania, the Altoona Curve, the Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, has announced a special promotion for the 2019 season. The team will play select home games under the moniker “Allegheny Yinzers,” paying homage to the region’s distinctive dialect and culture.
This creative rebranding effort stands out among recent minor league baseball promotions. While many teams have opted for food-themed alternate identities, the Curve’s decision to embrace the term “Yinzer” demonstrates a deep connection to their local fanbase and the broader Pittsburgh area.
Understanding the Term “Yinzer”: A Linguistic and Cultural Icon
For those unfamiliar with the term, “Yinzer” is derived from the distinctive second-person plural pronoun “yinz” commonly used in Western and Central Pennsylvania. This linguistic quirk has become a proud marker of regional identity, much like “y’all” in the Southern United States.
The use of “yinz” goes beyond mere vocabulary; it represents a shared cultural experience and a sense of community among residents of the greater Pittsburgh area. By adopting this term for their alternate identity, the Altoona Curve is tapping into a deep well of local pride and camaraderie.
Origins and Usage of “Yinz”
- Derived from the Scots-Irish “you ones”
- Primarily used in Western Pennsylvania
- Considered a hallmark of “Pittsburghese” dialect
- Often associated with working-class culture and strong community ties
The Inspiration Behind the Allegheny Yinzers
The idea for the Allegheny Yinzers came from an unexpected source. Curve General Manager Derek Martin was watching a Pittsburgh Steelers game shortly after the tragic shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. During the broadcast, former Steelers coach Bill Cowher repeatedly referred to the resilience of “Yinzer Nation” in the face of adversity.
This powerful moment resonated with Martin, who recognized an opportunity to create a promotion that would not only entertain fans but also celebrate the strength and unity of the Western Pennsylvania community. The Allegheny Yinzers concept was born from this desire to honor the region’s spirit and character.
Unveiling the Allegheny Yinzers: Dates and Details
Baseball fans eager to see the Allegheny Yinzers in action will have several opportunities throughout the 2019 season. The team has scheduled seven home games at Peoples Natural Gas Field where they will don the special Yinzers uniforms:
- April 13
- May 31
- June 13
- June 29
- July 6
- July 26
- August 8
These dates represent approximately 10% of the Curve’s home games for the season, giving fans ample opportunity to experience this unique promotion. The first appearance of the Allegheny Yinzers will coincide with the team’s first Saturday home game of the season on April 13, 2019.
The Allegheny Yinzers Uniform: A Sneak Peek
While full details of the Allegheny Yinzers uniform have not been released, baseball enthusiasts will get their first glimpse of the alternate jerseys on Saturday, January 26, 2019, during PiratesFest at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. This unveiling at the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates underscores the strong connection between the Curve and their major league affiliate.
The jerseys, presented by Keller Engineers for the 2019 campaign, promise to be a unique and eye-catching representation of Western Pennsylvania culture. Fans can look forward to seeing how the design incorporates elements of the “Yinzer” identity while maintaining the professional look expected of a minor league baseball team.
Community Impact and Charitable Contributions
The Allegheny Yinzers promotion goes beyond mere entertainment value; it also serves a charitable purpose. After the final Yinzers game on August 8, 2019, the team will auction off the game-worn jerseys. A portion of the proceeds from this auction will benefit the Roberto Clemente Foundation, further strengthening the connection between the Curve, the Pirates organization, and the Pittsburgh community.
This charitable aspect of the promotion aligns with the spirit of unity and support that inspired the Allegheny Yinzers concept. By contributing to a foundation named after one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved sports figures, the Curve is demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the community that supports them.
Roberto Clemente Foundation
- Named after Hall of Fame Pirates outfielder Roberto Clemente
- Focuses on youth development and disaster relief
- Continues Clemente’s legacy of humanitarian work
- Aligns with the community-focused spirit of the Yinzers promotion
Local Support and Enthusiasm for the Allegheny Yinzers
The Allegheny Yinzers promotion has already generated excitement among the team’s staff and players. Curve field manager Michael Ryan, a Western Pennsylvania native and Pittsburgh resident, expressed particular enthusiasm for the concept. His reaction to the idea – “That is amazing. You know I’m a Yinzer!” – encapsulates the pride and connection many locals feel towards their Yinzer identity.
This local support extends beyond the team itself. The Curve plans to host various Pittsburgh celebrities during the Yinzers promotional nights, further enhancing the connection between the team and the broader Western Pennsylvania community. While specific details about these celebrity appearances have not been announced, they promise to add an extra layer of excitement to the Allegheny Yinzers games.
The Allegheny Yinzers in Context: Minor League Baseball Promotions
The Allegheny Yinzers promotion is part of a broader trend in Minor League Baseball, where teams temporarily rebrand or change their names to create unique fan experiences. However, the Curve’s approach stands out for its focus on local culture rather than food-related themes, which have been popular in recent years.
This cultural approach to alternate identities offers several advantages:
- Strengthens the bond between the team and local fans
- Celebrates regional identity and pride
- Creates a unique merchandising opportunity
- Generates media attention and social media buzz
- Offers a fresh experience for regular attendees
By tapping into the rich cultural heritage of Western Pennsylvania, the Altoona Curve has created a promotion that resonates on multiple levels, from local pride to charitable giving.
The Future of the Allegheny Yinzers: Potential Long-Term Impact
While the Allegheny Yinzers promotion is currently slated for seven games in the 2019 season, its success could lead to expanded opportunities in the future. If fan reception is positive, the Curve might consider:
- Increasing the number of Yinzers games in future seasons
- Developing additional Yinzer-themed merchandise
- Creating special events or theme nights around the Yinzer identity
- Expanding charitable partnerships related to the promotion
The Allegheny Yinzers concept has the potential to become a beloved tradition for Altoona Curve fans, strengthening the team’s connection to its community and creating lasting memories for baseball enthusiasts in Western Pennsylvania.
As the 2019 season approaches, anticipation builds for the debut of the Allegheny Yinzers. This creative promotion not only promises exciting baseball action but also celebrates the unique culture and resilient spirit of Western Pennsylvania. Whether you’re a die-hard Curve fan, a Pittsburgh native, or simply a lover of innovative sports marketing, the Allegheny Yinzers offer something special to look forward to in the coming baseball season.
Curve to Play as Allegheny Yinzers For Select Games
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By Ballpark Digest Editors on January 22, 2019 in Minor-League Baseball
As part of a new promotion, the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League) will play as the Allegheny Yinzers for seven home games during the 2019 season.
On select weekend home games at Peoples Natural Gas Field, the Curve will take the field as the Allegheny Yinzers. The new identity is a tribute to the familiar second-person plural pronoun “yinz” that is commonly used by people of Western and Central Pennsylvania.
These one-of-a-kind alternate uniforms will be on display for the first time on Saturday, January 26 during PiratesFest at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.
“One of the trends in Minor League Baseball over the last few years have been changing team names or rebranding for a period of time that ties into the market,” said Curve General Manager Derek Martin.
“Most teams have changed their names to food items and I wanted to be different.
“When I was watching the Steelers game the day after the tragic shooting in Pittsburgh, Bill Cowher talked on the CBS broadcast about how Pittsburgh is a tough community and everyone would come together because we are “Yinzer Nation”. After about the tenth time that Cowher said ‘Yinzer’, I knew we needed to do something revolving around Yinzers.”
Martin expects third-year field manager Michael Ryan to be particularly invested in the uniforms that will be worn for 10 percent of the team’s home games in 2019.
“When I first threw out the idea to Michael,” Martin said, “he said, ‘That is amazing. You know I’m a Yinzer!’
“With Michael coming back this year as a Western Pa. native and a Pittsburgh resident, our longstanding relationship with the Pirates, I thought this is the perfect time to launch this promotion.”
The first time the Curve take the field as the Yinzers will be Saturday, April 13, the first Saturday home game of the season.
The unique Yinzers jerseys, presented by Keller Engineers for the 2019 campaign, will be auctioned off after the final night of the promotion on Thursday, August 8. A portion of the proceeds from the jersey auction will benefit the Roberto Clemente Foundation.
All seven dates for the Allegheny Yinzers uniforms include: April 13, May 31, June 13, June 29, July 6, July 26 and August 8. To bring those promotional nights to life, the Curve will also host various Pittsburgh celebrities that will be announced with the full promotional calendar at a later date.
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2019 Altoona Curve Media & Information Guide
2019 Final Notes & Season Recap
September 2 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
September 1 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 31 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 30 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 29 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
August 28 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
August 27 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
August 26 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
August 25 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
August 24 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
August 23 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
August 22 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
August 21 – Altoona Curve vs. Hartford Yard Goats
August 20 – Altoona Curve vs. Hartford Yard Goats
August 19 – Altoona Curve vs. Hartford Yard Goats
August 18 – Altoona Curve vs. Bowie Baysox
August 17 – Altoona Curve vs.
Bowie Baysox
August 16 – Altoona Curve vs. Bowie Baysox
August 15 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 14 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 13 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
August 11 – Altoona Curve vs. Reading Fightin Phils
August 10 – Altoona Curve vs. Reading Fightin Phils
August 9 – Altoona Curve vs. Reading Fightin Phils
August 8 – Allegheny Yinzers vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
August 7 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
August 6 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
August 5 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
August 4 – Altoona Curve at Reading Fightin Phils
August 3 – Altoona Curve at Reading Fightin Phils
August 2 – Altoona Curve at Reading Fightin Phils
August 1 – Altoona Curve at Trenton Thunder (DH)
July 31 – Altoona Curve at Trenton Thunder
July 30 – Altoona Curve at Trenton Thunder
July 28 – Altoona Curve vs.
Richmond Flying Squirrels
July 27 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
July 26 – Allegheny Yinzers vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
July 25 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
July 24 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
July 23 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves (DH)
July 22 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
July 21 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
July 20 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
July 19 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
July 18 – Altoona Curve at Bowie Baysox
July 17 – Altoona Curve vs. Trenton Thunder
July 16 – Altoona Curve vs. Trenton Thunder
July 15 – Altoona Curve vs. Trenton Thunder
July 14 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
July 13 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
July 12 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
July 11 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
July 7 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
July 5 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
July 4 – Altoona Curve vs.
Erie SeaWolves
July 3 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
July 2 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
July 1 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
June 30 – Altoona Curve vs. Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 29 – Altoona Curve/Allegheny Yinzers vs. Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 28 – Altoona Curve vs. Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 27 – Altoona Curve vs. Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 26 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
June 25 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
June 24 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
June 23 – Altoona Curve at Hartford Yard Goats
June 22 – Altoona Curve at Hartford Yard Goats
June 21 – Altoona Curve at Hartford Yard Goats
June 19 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
June 18 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
June 17 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
June 15 – Altoona Curve at Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 14 – Altoona Curve at Binghamton Rumble Ponies
June 13 – Allegheny Yinzers vs.
Portland Sea Dogs
June 12 – Altoona Curve vs. Portland Sea Dogs
June 11 – Altoona Curve vs. Portland Sea Dogs
June 9 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
June 8 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks (DH)
June 7 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
June 5 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
June 4 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
June 3 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
June 2 – Altoona Curve vs. New Hampshire Fisher Cats
June 1 – Altoona Curve vs. New Hampshire Fisher Cats
May 31 – Allegheny Yinzers vs. New Hampshire Fisher Cats
May 30 – Altoona Curve at Trenton Thunder (DH)
May 28 – Altoona Curve at Trenton Thunder
May 27 – Altoona Curve at Portland Sea Dogs
May 26 – Altoona Curve at Portland Sea Dogs
May 25 – Altoona Curve at Portland Sea Dogs
May 24 – Altoona Curve at Portland Sea Dogs
May 23 – Altoona Curve at New Hampshire Fisher Cats
May 22 – Altoona Curve at New Hampshire Fisher Cats
May 21 – Altoona Curve at New Hampshire Fisher Cats
May 19 – Altoona Curve vs.
Harrisburg Senators
May 18 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
May 17 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
May 16 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
May 15 – Altoona Curve at Binghamton Rumble Ponies
May 14 – Altoona Curve at Binghamton Rumble Ponies (DH)
May 12 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
May 11 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
May 10 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
May 8 – Altoona Curve vs. Bowie Baysox
May 7 – Altoona Curve vs. Bowie Baysox
May 6 – Altoona Curve vs. Bowie Baysox
May 5 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
May 4 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
May 3 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
May 2 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
May 1 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
April 30 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
April 29 – Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves
April 28 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
April 27 – Altoona Curve vs.
Richmond Flying Squirrels
April 26 – Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels
April 24 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
April 23 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
April 22 – Altoona Curve at Harrisburg Senators
April 20 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels (DH)
April 18 – Altoona Curve at Richmond Flying Squirrels
April 17 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
April 16 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
April 15 – Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators
April 13 – Altoona Curve/Allegheny Yinzers vs. Akron RubberDucks (DH)
April 11 – Altoona Curve vs. Akron RubberDucks
April 10 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
April 9 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
April 8 – Altoona Curve at Erie SeaWolves
April 7 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
April 6 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
April 5 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
April 4 – Altoona Curve at Akron RubberDucks
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