Back in 2000 when it was announced that Long Island would be trying to field a new baseball team there were many naysayers who believed minor league baseball couldn't work on the Island. Then, when it was known that the Ducks would be an independent league team, as a major league baseball partner, the detractors got louder. Those who doubted the Ducks were quickly proven wrong as the Island embraced the boys in orange right away. But, there is no greater feat to show they belong than what happened this week.
The Long Island Ducks welcomed their 9 millionth fan, setting a league record. When five-year-old Ethan Oldham from Islip stepped through the gates at Fairfield Properties Ballpark on Tuesday history was made. He entered through the West Gate at 5:56 p.m. with his Mom, Katie; Dad, Craig; and baby brother, Nolan. When he set the mark Long Island became the first club in Atlantic League history to reach the milestone attendance figure despite having begun play in the league’s third year of existence. The Ducks have always drawn well as the Island have embraced their hometown team even more so than anyone could have imagined. The Ducks are also currently the Atlantic League’s all-time leader in sold out crowds with 707, have led the Atlantic League in attendance 17 times and currently lead the league in 2024 attendance as well.
“This is another special day in the history of this great franchise,” said Ducks General Manager Sean Smith. “Reaching 9 million fans is a testament to the incredible support from our fan base since we first opened the gates in 2000 and to the fun and excitement Ducks baseball continues to provide Long Islanders every year.”
Prior to the game between the Ducks and FerryHawks, Ethan Oldham was recognized during a VIP on-field ceremony. Sheldon Ellison, General Manager of the Levittown P.C. Richard & Son location, presented the lucky fan with a $1,000 gift card to use at any of the Ducks charter sponsor’s locations. In addition, the Ducks presented Ethan with a jersey featuring “9 Million” as the name on the back and the number “24”, representing the 2024 season. Ethan threw out a ceremonial first pitch, received a 2024 Ducks team-signed baseball, and he and his family were upgraded to VIP tickets for the game.
The Ducks are still fighting to get to .500 on the season, but their offense has been explosive and have given the fans a show every night. The Ducks will take on the Flying Boxcars this weekend and then head to the road and try to put together a winning streak.