What better way to prepare for Red October than to recognize the Neumann stars who helped make MLB’s midsummer classic function smoothly? Makiyah Blackwood, Jessica Miller, Alura Troilo, and Faith Weaver all had parts to play in baseball’s All-Star week, and they have photos to prove it.
Troilo, who worked on the marketing and promotions team for the Philadelphia Phillies, often found herself in the middle of on-field action to entertain fans.
“During the game, I was able to take on a variety of roles,” she recalls, “from pumping up the crowd and tossing T-shirts to helping coordinate the MLB mascots performing on top of the dugout and, of course, hot dog shooting. I also played an active role in coordinating and executing one of the league's most iconic traditions, the Washington Nationals’ Presidents Race, which was especially meaningful this year in honor of America 250.”
Alura Troilo shot hot dogs to the crowd during the All-Star Game.
Blackwood managed the Home Run Robber attraction at All-Star Village, an activity that stayed consistently busy throughout the week, serving approximately 1,000 guests daily.
“The highlight of my experience was being able to see the All-Star events from both a professional and fan perspective,” she says. “I really enjoyed working alongside my team, meeting so many people, and getting to attend the Home Run Derby and All-Star Game.”
Makiyah Blackwood met Buster, the Jersey Shore BlueClaws mascot, at the All-Star Village.
Miller worked in the Philadelphia Insurance Club at the stadium as an intern and in-seat runner. During the All-Star Game and events, she helped connect with fans and make sure the club’s service ran smoothly.
Jess Miller was an in-seat runner during the game at Citizens Bank Park.
“Getting to watch the event in person was such a surreal experience,” she remembers, “and seeing all of the different fan bases together in one building was so much fun. The memories I made during that weekend are truly ones that I will always remember.”
Weaver was in her second year with the hometown club, once again serving as a Phillies Ballgirl.