Sports

Windy City ThunderBolts Plan 2021 Season As Pandemic Wanes

Windy City ThunderBolts will follow COVID-19 protocols when they return to Ozinga Field in Crestwood for the 2021 season opener May 27.

Windy City ThunderBolts plan full 96-game season at Ozinga Field in Crestwood as pandemic wanes.
Windy City ThunderBolts plan full 96-game season at Ozinga Field in Crestwood as pandemic wanes. (Windy City ThunderBolts)

CRESTWOOD, IL — After the pandemic shut down their season last year, the Windy City ThunderBolts are planning on a full 96-game season in 2021. Social distancing and stadium capacity limits are likely early in the season.

“Everything is still up in the air right now,” said Terry Bonadonna, the ThunderBolts’ announcer. “Since the season is still six and a half weeks away, we're not yet sure what the exact capacity is going to be when we get there.”

The ‘Bolts open at home May 27 against the Joliet Slammers at Ozinga Field, 14011 Kenton Ave., Crestwood. The 2021 season will include the usual crazy theme nights, fireworks and promotions as well as veterans discounts, food and drink specials, family specials and group reservations. Organizations are also invited to host fundraisers on game nights.

Find out what's happening in Alsip-Crestwoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

‘Bolts fans can expect the following COVID-19 guidelines adopted around the Frontier League:

  • Limited stadium capacity
  • Socially distanced sets of sets
  • Masks required when not eating or drinking
  • Enhanced cleaning protocols
  • Digital tickets
  • Full food and beverage options available by in-seat deliver app
  • First three rows not available to ensure distancing protocols with players
  • Fans to use the gate closest to their seating
  • Protocol reminders to be emailed to guests 24 hours prior to games

The ThunderBolts open at home May 27 against the Joliet Slammers at Ozinga Field, 14011 Kenton Ave., Crestwood. The 2021 season will include the usual crazy theme nights, fireworks and promotions as well as veterans discounts, food and drink specials, family specials and group reservations. Ozinga Field can also host fundraisers for games,

Find out what's happening in Alsip-Crestwoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The Frontier League is an independent professional baseball league comprised of 16 teams, including the Windy City ThunderBolts. This year, the league will be split into conferences after expanding into Canada during the 2020 season.

Single game tickets for the 2021 season go on sale May 7; season tickets are on sale, with 48 games for $375. Due to COVID-19 protocol, season ticket holders must select seats in sections D and E. Flex plans are also available. To purchase season tickets, visit the ballpark; call the ballpark box office at 708-489-BALL (2255); or fill out the season ticket form.

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