The Long Island Ducks hosted “Frank Boulton Appreciation Night” this past Saturday at Fairfield Properties Ballpark, celebrating the franchise’s founder in front of a sellout crowd of 6,146 fans.
The evening featured a special pregame ceremony honoring Boulton, who created the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball 28 years ago and founded the Ducks in 2000. Several distinguished guests took part in the ceremony, including Atlantic League President Rick White, REV Entertainment President Sean Decker, Ducks President and Chief Business Officer Michael Pfaff, and Kim Battaglia, who represented the Harrelson family.
During the ceremony, White announced that the Atlantic League Championship Trophy will now be known as the Frank Boulton Championship Trophy, a fitting tribute to the league’s founder. He also presented Boulton with a custom portrait on behalf of the league.
Decker added to the celebration by presenting Boulton with a $10,000 donation to The Boulton Center for the Performing Arts in Bay Shore, recognizing his continued contributions to the community. Pfaff also honored Boulton with a gold ring commemorating his induction into the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame.
Boulton, joined by his wife Karen, daughter Morgan, and son-in-law Matt, addressed the crowd and received a standing ovation at the conclusion of the ceremony. Several local officials were also in attendance to present proclamations in recognition of the special night, including Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter, and Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez.
Earlier this year, Boulton transitioned ownership of the Ducks to REV Entertainment, marking the end of an era for the organization he built from the ground up. In addition to founding the Ducks, Boulton also served as chairman of the Atlantic League from its inaugural 1998 season through January 2026, when he passed the role to Bill Shipley.
Under Boulton’s leadership, the Atlantic League has sent more than 1,450 players to Major League Baseball organizations and attracted over 49 million fans. The Ducks alone have welcomed more than 9.5 million fans, hosted 723 sellout crowds, and won over 1,800 games, all league records, while also capturing four championships.
It was a night filled with gratitude, recognition, and celebration of a legacy that has left a lasting impact on Long Island baseball.