Nationals Park reposted this
Owner of Savannah Bananas, Creator of Banana Ball, Author of Fans First & Find Your Yellow Tux, Keynote Speaker
Beyond words for the love and support Banana Nation gave us in DC. With over 42,000 fans it was the largest crowd in Banana Ball history. But it's the special moments that I’ll never forget. From an epic fly over to start the game, to the emotions with RobertAnthony Cruz and his Dad topped off with a storybook home run, to Val Perez and Ashton Lansdell facing off and the amazing response from the fans, to the firefighters and military honored, to the helicopter entrance for Danny Hosley to the final stand by me with the whole stadium singing, it was one of the greatest shows we’ve ever put on as a team. So proud of Zachary Frongillo for leading the effort with our tremendously hard working entertainment team and our entire cast and players for continuing to go all-in on fans first and entertaining always. Banana Nation truly brings out the best in all of us. We could feel the energy and love more than ever in DC. With everything that is going on in the world, we remain dedicated to spreading joy and bringing people together for the years to come.
I knew a few people who attended and everyone raved about the experience. One day I will get to a game, really love what you are doing for the sport. Just the rule about fans catching a foul ball on the fly resulting in an out was a stroke of genius to increase attention on the game and fan involvement. One of many that Banana Ball has going for it, your book is on my list for this year 100%.
Our family was there and we had an absolute blast. You and your entire organization are a class act. I’m not exaggerating when I say that every interaction we had with a member of your team was outstanding. The merch team, the team taking tickets at the gate, and especially the players, super friendly, professional and genuine. And my 10 y/o son, who got a hat signed by a bunch of the players during the meet and greet, said it was the most fun he’s ever had. Thank you!
It’s amazing what you’ve tapped into, Jesse. I don’t watch baseball on tv and rarely go to MLB games anymore, though we will support our local minor league team a few games a year. When I see highlights of MLB games, I’m not surprised at the vast number of unsold seats. Empty stadiums basically. Compare that to the MILLIONS who want to support Banana Ball!! Geez, you’d think these teams would want to make the sport fun and not boring! I may be in the minority that most professional sports went in the wrong direction over the years. They forgot/ignored their base - the fans. Thank you for making Fans First!!! See you in Cleveland….
Well as a huge baseball fan…I can say this night in Washington was pure magic!!!! Anyone who enjoys baseball…or simply wants to enjoy pure family entertainment at its finest…definitely make catching a Savannah Bananas game a bucket list priority. It was a BLAST 🚀 Thank you for a magical evening Jesse Cole For any disciples of “Blue Ocean Strategy”…you have nailed it by defining an entirely new business model. Well done!!!!👏👏👏
My family had wanted to see the Bananas for years, and we were so excited that our county's little league won the opportunity to purchase tickets for this game through the lottery! Unfortunately, our seats were under the scoreboard so we were unable to see the video screen and our seats were too far away to catch a lot of the festivities. While we still had fun, we missed out on a lot of the "tricks" and the back stories of some of the players. I completely missed the whole story about the baseball player and his dad. It was so hard to tell what was happening. I'm not gonna lie, I was disappointed. Not in the quality of the team or the entertainment, just in the fact that we couldn't see most of it. I think the venue was just way too large for this type of event. I probably would not go back unless I had better seats or it was in a smaller ballpark.
Jesse Cole I have followed you for years and you are everything that is right about this country right now. Bringing people together to enjoy some baseball and entertainment. I can feel the love and excitement from the videos. Thank you for being a shining light in an otherwise pretty dim situation.
It was an amazing event Saturday night! 🍌
I was one of the fortunate ones to get in at the last minute when the Standing Room Only tickets were released. As an avid baseball fan, this took it to the next level. From the parade to post game festivities we and everyone around us had the best night! And so glad we stuck around because we were able to get a picture with you, Jesse, plus the Dad Bod Cheer Squad and the Banana Nanas. Thank You for staying true to your mission of Fans First! Can’t wait to be able to catch another game!
My friend and I had an absolute blast. We weren't sitting close to what you'd normally call 'the action' but you cannot possibly feel uninvolved at Banana Ball. The pep band went up to our 400 level section and played music while everyone of the 42,000 in attendance sang along. When I got home I told my husband we have to retire to Savannah so I can become a Banana Nana! Banana Ball is what the world could use a dose of about now. Jesse, you are an absolute inspiration.
I help solve complex climate and sustainability challenges facing communities, businesses, and organizations.
3moSuch an amazing show! I loved every minute of Saturday night. No matter where you looked around the stadium, there was joy to be had. I’ve lived in DC and near Nats stadium for a very long time, and the flyover was the best I’ve seen! So cool even for those of us who it is almost regular occurrence. I commented to those who came with me, I was filled with so much joy and wonder and fun from parade to Stand By Me. A really special experience for everyone.