Voices of The Coop
May 3, 2007 - International League (IL1)
Columbus Clippers News Release
The Columbus Clippers are celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of The Coop by sharing with you "The 75 Voices of Cooper Stadium". We hope to capture some of its voices through the unique insights of 75 people representing various ages and perspectives.
Randy Mobley
President, International League
What time period is your affiliation with Cooper Stadium?
It began in summer of 1980 when I was a part-time intern stocking the Cooper Stadium souvenir stands. During the next four years, I was there on a daily basis serving various roles such as public relations, group sales and stadium operations. When I went to work for Harold Cooper in the league office in the fall of 1985, my affiliation shifted from a daily basis to a less frequent but ongoing basis.
What is your fondest memory of Cooper Stadium?
My fondest memory is watching my oldest son's high school team win the state baseball championship at Cooper Stadium in 2001.
What is your favorite physical aspect of Cooper Stadium?
My favorite aspect is the trees that were incorporated into the 1977 renovation. I've enjoyed watching them grow during the years.
If the seats at Cooper Stadium could talk, what do you think they would say?
The seats would say, "Wow, have things changed over the years. The players we have seen are stronger and more powerful today."
Describe something about Cooper Stadium you think other people should (or would want to) know about the ballpark.
I don't know if most people have an appreciation for just how important the ballpark is in their lives and the love that those who have spent so many years there have for the place. As it should be, this is sacred ground for men such as Harold Cooper, Dick Fitzpatrick and many loyal fans.
If you could take one thing (tangible or intangible) from Cooper Stadium to the new Huntington Park, what would it be? I'd take the Character. While showing her age, Cooper Stadium is rich in character with many unique aspects. I hope Huntington Park will have unique elements in its design both on and off the field that from day one will be looked at as giving character to the new ballpark.
Please describe a Clippers game at Cooper Stadium through your eyes. Tell us what you see, what you hear and what you think.
I see players in pinstripes trying to get to the big leagues. I see the Clippers' manager exchanging greetings with fans along the third base line. I see members of the Biegler family working on the grounds crew and Jeff Knouff catching balls off of the netting and re-supplying the umpire with baseballs. I hear victory bells and fireworks. It's a struggle to get through the tight concourse and it takes a few extra minutes in the parking lot on the best nights.
"Best of all, I see dads with children teaching and learning the game, and it reminds me of the joys of being in each of those positions at a previous point in time." -Randy Mobley
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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
